mask & snorkel

[bglaeser]

My mask/snorkels sort of disintigrated over the course of last summer. I do mostly shallow water panfish spearfishing ( < 30' of water). I'm looking to buy a new mask and snorkel for this spring and was wondering if spending a little more (like I see on some dive websites) would be worthwhile or do you really only get the benifits of a premium mask if you dive to greater depths.

Pros/cons of various masks and associated costs?
Thanks!

 

[Erik]

In 10 metres water, or even down to 20 metres, I prefer a bigger mask that has more peripheral vision. I don't think the low-volume masks are needed until you start doing 30 metres.
However, buy yourself a good one, whatever the size. Junk is junk.

 

[Whopperhead]

If you can come to one of the "outings" and try some of ours- I have 4 different masks myself. I think that is the best way to find which one will work the best- My favorite one right now happen to cost $100. I like it because of the fit and the seal around my face.

 

[ILDiver]

#1 thing with a mask is fit. It can cost $100 and not fit, it's not worth a $1. All the masks you'll find should have tempered glass. Exceptions of course, like the sphera. But a $30 mask that fits can be just as good as any other. You have to try the mask on.

Differences in masks are vloume and materials. A silicon mask will last a long time. The older rubber ones get brittle and sunscreen will eat the rubber. I like my Omer Alien because it low volume and I have great vision out of it. It it floods, it is very easy to clear. Also consider if you need perscription lenses (I don't know if you do, just hit me as we send a lot of masks off to be fitted with them).

I always start with the one I think looks the best, then try it on, if it fits, good, if not try the next most attractive one. When trying a mask, do the sniff test. Put it on your face without the strap and sniff in and hold your breath. If the mask stays on your face and seals (you don't feel air coming in) then it fits as far as it shouldn't leak. Look for pressure points. Some masks dig into the bridge of my nose or between my eye. The frame just digs in for some reason.

I can not stress it enough. Fit and comfort! If the mask bugs you with a leak or a pressure point, it's junk (to you, but maybe great to another person).

Those are my thoughts, good luck in the search. If I'm around, you can try my mask, Whopperhead has one like it too.

 

[WreckRunner]

I found an Omer Alien and Bandit at a great price (about $50 each). I use the Alien when I want a bigger field and the Bandit for deeper depths. I've had them both about 8 months, and am thrilled with them.

Just try a few and see what you like. I've been through dozens of masks over the years and don't like spending a huge amount when there are some less expensive ones that perform just as well........

Just be sure the skirt is high grade silicone or it won't stay comfortable very long.

 

[bglaeser]

thanks all of you. i think i'll look into the omer alien then. i wonder if the dive shops around here carry one. they really don't have anything for spearfishing... whenever i stop in I get the impression that they consider my spearfishing rather amusing.
~Brian

 

[ILDiver]

I'm about to place an OMER order. If you know what you want. We have one Ocean Mimemetic Alien with the mirror lens in stock (Do Dive In in Peoria IL). I can order any other. I can bring it to Freeze-A-Palooza, ship it. Just offering, I know there are other options, but I gotta try ya know.

 

[WreckRunner]

I highly recommend going through ILDiver.........
good to have a connection you know.