Customer Support Center: Knowledge Base

Buying a scuba mask or skin diving mask online can be quite a formidable task. Size, style, nose purge, straps, etc. can all add up to an experience that may intimidate the average user.

"So," you may be asking, "what is the best mask for me?"

Generally speaking, the 2-window mask is for small to medium faces. Women generally find that they achieve the best fit with these styles. That is not to say that 1-, 3- or 4-window versions will not work. It is simply a guideline that you may want to follow.

"How do I choose a mask that will fit properly?"

Height, weight and facial features come into play. A person who has a large brow or nose will be best suited with a 3- or 4-window mask as they have more volume/clearance to accomodate.

• 1-Window Style: Single "bay view" lens no side windows. Great low volume mask with extra viewing for medium to large faces generally. One single viewing area.
• 2-Window Style: Two lenses framed for a double window view. This is the most popular style of mask. Best for small to medium faces without any facial features that may rub into the frame or not allow for a proper seal. Low volume = less water to clear out as well. Many of these style masks accept off the shelf optical inserts.
• 3-Window Style: Two side view windows for peripheral vision and one bay view pane unobstructed front view. Most are best for medium to large faces. Side windows allow for more volume and space between lenses and bridge of nose, eye brows. Wider sealing surface as well.
• 4-Window Style: Two side windows for peripheral vision and two framed windows for front view. This is a high volume mask with all the attributes of the three window style. Fits medium to large faces. Many of these styles masks accept off the shelf optical inserts.

"Nose Purge or Non-Nose Purge?"

Pros: While clearing water out of a mask is quite easy once you get the hang of it, some folks just don't like to bother with it. The nose purge style has a one way valve in the nose pocket that allows the user to simply exhale while looking down. This displaces the water that has accumulated in the mask. This is great for folks with facial hair or beards. This is discussed further in this article.

Cons: Some nose purge masks make it harder to equalize due to the nose pocket having the purge valve. While most folks work around this by using two fingers to reach in to clear, this may not allow a one hand equalization that most prefer. Look at the picures and descriptions for more info in the product area.

Just about every style of mask has a nose purge option. Just look for it in the title and/or description of the product.