best general-purpose mask for big nose

[wolfie]

Hi,

First I want to say, it's been a pleasure reading back-posts, many of you really know your stuff.

I am not really a freediver in the spearfishing/deep freediving sense, rather I generally just go snorkelling and free-dive to very shallow depths (~30 feet at most, typically less) as well openwater swimming/screwing around.

Anyway, my mask recently broke (an old Cressi-sub Galileo) and I'm looking to get something much better. I'm looking at Cressi-subs at the moment, but welcome any advice.

My main concerns in the past have been:

Fogging, Scratches, Flooding, Poor peripheral vision, Eyestrain/glare

I think scratches can be solved with the non-acrylic lenses that I think the Big Eyes and Matrix have. I think they also solve peripheral vision and eyestrain issues. Fogging.. I think this has something to do with scratches, but I welcome input here.

That really leaves flooding which is a big problem for me historically. I've never had a mask or goggles that fit me properly with consistent results. I think it has something to do with the fact that I have quite deep-set eyes and a fairly high nose bridge, which means I think I usually get leaks towards the sides of the mask near the outside of the eyes. If I do have a tight fit, it usually results in lots of pressure on my nose bridge. I really would love a mask that doesn't leak and can be comfortably worn.

According to what I've read the Big Eyes may be the solution for me, has anyone used them or would be so kind as to recommend anything else?

Mahalo,
- Brian

 

[shaneshac]

I would try the Technisub Look.

I have same problems and these fit beautifully.

 

[Alison]

Hi Wolfie
As far as fit goes, it really is best to get yourself to a shop and try them on, as all our faces are different and what fits someone with a similar face to you wont nessecerally fit you. It should stay on your face when you just put it there without the strap and create a little suction but not having to keep breathing in through your nose to keep it therer.
The fogging and scratching thing can be answered by getting a mask with a "Glass" lens or lenses, not acrylic. When the mask is new the lenses have a layer of greasey stuff on them, clean this off with toothpaste (glass only) and then before use spit on your lenses, rub it all over the lens and then rinse with water before wearing. This should solve all your problems.
Hope this is of some help
Ali

 

[Alison]

OOH!! Forgot
when trying it on try with a snorkel in place too as this may affect the fit and check finger access to your nose :hmm Im not suggesting that you may want a pick by the way rofl just for equalising

 

[cebaztian]

If the noose is the problem I have a mask which has irritatingly big space for the noose.

Seeman sub - bandit

Sebastian

 

[Bill]

I have the same problem with the bridge of my nose. Take a look at the Beuchat mask. Glass lense and good compromise between visibility and low volume too.
Aloha
Bill

 

[cdavis]

Since you are not going deep, a very low volume mask isn't necessary. I would go for mid volume, real good field of vision, and a good fit. Alison is right on, try'em in the shop. One specific suggestion. Sea vision uses a frame/skirt that fits a big nose (like mine) and has excellent vis. If it fits your face, it is good. Other mask makers use the same frame with a glass lense for a lot cheaper than sea vision. Glass will be better for you.

Good luck

Connor