Start of production
The first mask for spearfishing appeared many years ago, back in 1939 in Italy. The authors of this original and now popular device were the Italians Nanni and Egidio Cressi, who launched the world-famous brand called Cressi in 1946 in Genoa.
The inventors' first mask was called Sirena and was entirely handmade. This circumstance allowed the young company to gain wide popularity among amateurs and professionals of scuba diving, starting to produce the best masks for spearfishing.
Each of their products was manufactured in compliance with the strictest technical requirements and represented a reliable “tool” for the spearfishing enthusiast.
Assembly time was of secondary importance, giving first place to scrupulous high-quality fixation of all the component elements of the mask.
1952 becomes a landmark year for the company: it was then that the Cressy brothers released the first mask with a protrusion for the nose, designed to equalize pressure. The innovation is beginning to be in great demand among almost all residents of Italian coastal cities.
In 2000, Cressi develops a mask with drop-shaped lenses for a better view of the equipment worn by the underwater hunter.
2009 again brings a sensation to the diving world: the company releases a unique Big Eyes Evolution mask, extremely convenient to use for spearfishing.
Nowadays, Cressi continues to delight the professional world with the best masks for spearfishing.
The company is still owned by members of the Cressy family, who faithfully continue the traditions of their great ancestors, who changed man's relationship with the water element for the better.
Design
When you come to a diving store, you can see a wide assortment of different models - a beginner will definitely be confused. Therefore, let's start with a design to immediately remove half of the masks.
To date, all produced models can be divided into two categories: with a separate protrusion for the nose and without it.
The first cover almost the entire face - from the eyebrows to the upper lip. They look very chic and, it would seem, should provide a better panorama. But they are only suitable for small dives - at a depth of 15 meters or more, glass of such a volume simply cannot withstand. In addition, a full-face mask for spearfishing causes problems if you need to blow out your ears during pressure changes - to do this you have to pinch your nose.
For those who like to dive to significant depths, masks with a protrusion under the nose are better suited.
Therefore, for those who like to dive to significant depths, masks with a protrusion under the nose are better suited. They are convenient primarily because they allow you to pinch your nose to blow out your ears without removing the mask. In addition, having a smaller glass area, they can withstand significant loads without harm to themselves - you can dive to a depth of more than 15 meters without fear. At the same time, the glass is located closer to the diver's eyes, which provides excellent visibility - no less than that which a full-face mask for spearfishing can boast.
Now that you have more or less decided which type of mask is right for you, you can begin to select specific elements - only a mask that meets all the swimmer’s requirements will provide him with sufficient comfort when hunting.
Types of masks for underwater hunters
There are several types of masks for spearfishing enthusiasts.
They are divided into the following types:
- Single glass. They have one glass for each eye and have quite a significant space under the mask. They also have high resistance to fogging and a fairly significant field of view of the hunter’s surroundings.
- Double glass. They have two glasses and a smaller volume of under-mask space, which is extremely important for divers when spearfishing. Water that accidentally gets into the mask is easily removed from it, and the pressure is better equalized. As a result, the inside of the mask will always be dry, which means it is safe for breathing and, therefore, life.
- Mask for spearfishing with diopters. It has the unique ability to select glasses for the vision of each eye, in a sense duplicating the role of glasses, only under water. Only double-glass masks have this unique feature. You can now see well and clearly not only with ordinary glasses or contact lenses on the surface, but also under water!
- Mask with side portholes. It features a rather original design, intended for lovers of photo and video shooting under water. This feature is supported by three-glass masks and allows the underwater hunter to make the most of his surroundings.
- Mask with valve. It has a special protrusion for the nose, which provides an emergency “bleeding” of pressure in the middle ear area - a vital action under water. The nostrils of the nose are easily pinched with your fingers, and the internal pressure is equalized painlessly.
Mask with diopters
What should people with vision problems do? Manufacturers have found a solution for this category of potential hunters. It makes no sense to develop equipment that would accommodate glasses, and experts categorically do not recommend using lenses under water. Therefore, masks with diopters were developed. What is their feature?
There are several types of such masks:
- Lenses instead of glass. This procedure is done to order; the initial configuration includes a regular porthole. For people with good financial resources, this is the best choice. The technician changes the optics designed for you right on the spot, and there are no problems with subsequent operation;
- Special optical adapter. On top of a regular transparent surface, lenses are inserted into special mounts. This is a cheaper option with a large selection of optics directly from a specialized store, but when spearfishing, problems with fogging are likely, which significantly reduces the pleasure of the process;
- Stickers on the inside of the glass, a kind of lens for a mask. The film is equipped with a special glue that provides good adhesion without affecting transparency. In the price-quality category, this way out of the situation will be optimal.
How to choose
When ordering special glasses, you need to focus on your glasses. Today, manufacturers can offer solutions for the following visual diseases:
- simple correction for reduced acuity;
- astigmatism;
- the ability to use bifocal glasses with two zones.
Optics for underwater masks usually have a gradation of one diopter (less often 0.5). It is easy to correct the perception of people with vision from -6 to +1.5. Otherwise, a custom order is required.
Professionals recommend choosing lenses for equipment that are 1.5 diopters lower than those of your glasses. This is due to the peculiarities of light refraction in water.
How to choose a mask for spearfishing?
In order to do this correctly, you need to analyze the following factors:
- Poor vision. If this health problem exists, then it is best to initially choose a mask with the possibility of vision correction by installing appropriate replacement glasses. This is extremely convenient, and, of course, increases the effectiveness of any spearfishing.
- Strained glass. This requirement for the mask is mandatory, because only it will not sweat under water, creating obstacles for effective spearfishing. In addition, tempered glass has increased strength, which is important when diving in the area of sunken ships or the rocky coast of any body of water.
- Great depths. For hunting at serious depths, consumers recommend choosing masks with tinted lenses. If the water is fresh, you need to purchase a mask with transparent or yellow glasses. This requirement has been developed by many years of practice among spearfishing enthusiasts and experienced professional divers.
- Tightness of contact with the skin of the face. This factor is decisive for ensuring the hunter’s safety under water. The silicone or rubber seal around the glasses of the mask should fit perfectly to the skin of the face, without letting in a drop of water. Moisture trapped at depth can cause many problems, including death.
- The color of the silicone material of the mask. It should be silver, green or black, so that the sun's rays penetrating through the water column do not reflect on the eyes of the underwater hunter. An important factor that allows the underwater hunter not to be distracted from the tasks set for himself and the targets chosen around him.
- Underwater hunter hairstyle. For a person with short hair, a mask with a silicone strap is recommended, but for a long-haired swimmer, it is advised to choose a neoprene one. Do not neglect these recommendations, since they are given by the owners of various masks.
These recommendations will be able to tell the spearfisher which mask is best for spearfishing.
Visibility
The glass in a spearfishing mask is perhaps the most important element. The viewing angle and refraction of light, which means the hunter’s field of vision and an objective assessment of the distance to the prey, depend on the number of glasses and their location.
Classification of masks by number of glasses: One glass. The mask with one large glass is very convenient for all-round visibility. The disadvantage of such a mask is its large internal volume, which does not allow its use at depths of more than 5 meters. Two glasses. Such masks are characterized by good visibility and a small under-mask volume, making them suitable for deep-sea diving. More than two glasses. Unusual models, with additional glasses located on the sides of the mask, following the example of faceted vision, increasing lateral visibility. The sensations in such a mask are quite strange, so before buying, you should try swimming in a similar model.
It is better to take a mask with tempered glass, as they provide greater strength to the mask and are less likely to break upon impact. If such glass breaks, its fragments will not have sharp edges and will not scratch your eyes.
Mask manufacturing companies
There are several large companies in the world that are engaged in this type of business. These include the following names: Cressi, Scubapro, Tusa, Technisub, Winmax. Each of them occupies its own niche in the specialized underwater mask market.
It can definitely be said that all these manufacturers adhere to a number of strict requirements for the quality of their products in their work.
The companies listed above follow the ocean standards for the use of masks for spearfishing.
In addition to the masks themselves, companies produce fins, wetsuits, air cylinders and many other components for safe and comfortable diving.
These names are well known all over the world.
Rules of operation and care
When using the product, you should remember the main rule: a spearfishing mask is not suitable for diving or diving to depths. Due to the fact that there is a large volume of air underneath, strong pressure arises as the depth increases. In diving, the decompression method is practiced, however, this is impossible here due to the lack of access to the nose. As a result, the eardrums suffer the most. Therefore, swimming is possible no deeper than 2 meters.
Water is removed from the mask using a valve built into the bottom. You can do this without using your hands - if you blow, exhale strongly. This model also removes water in the form of condensate through the side grooves.
Avoid getting sand into the structure, especially the swim snorkel. This risks blocking the float, which means you may choke. Sand also damages the lenses and scratches them. After swimming, it is recommended to rinse the structure with running clean water. To clean the ventilation holes, use a thin knitting needle.
It doesn't make much sense to chase the most expensive model. The main thing is that the mask fits comfortably on the face and ensures a tight seal. And the period of use for all products is approximately the same. Over time, silicone loses its elasticity and a tight fit is no longer possible. So it's time to buy a new one.
This type of product is not recommended for men with a beard. The beard prevents the seal from fitting tightly to the skin, which can cause water to get inside the structure.
Swimming is possible at a depth of no more than 2 meters
Avoid getting sand into the structure
Water is removed from the mask using a valve built into the bottom
Mask Tusa Paragon M-2001
It occupies a leading place in the national rating of the best masks for spearfishing.
Designed by leading Japanese engineers, it provides a wide viewing angle and high contrast. It has a metal frame and stabilizing ribs, which together ensure a perfect fit of the product to the face of almost any shape.
Advantages of the model:
- Does not leave any marks on the skin of the face.
- The friction coefficient is extremely low.
- Has Anti Reflective coating for good protection against glare.
The only drawback of this wonderful mask, judging by the reviews, is its price - about 15 thousand rubles, which, of course, corresponds to the quality of its manufacture.
Safety and reliability underwater are priceless and, of course, at least pay for this amount. The build quality of the mask is at the highest level; when developing this model, engineers used the latest advances in the production of masks for spearfishing.
Best models
The rating of popular models allows us to highlight the best masks for spearfishing:
Omer Abyss is an excellent mask with good visibility, a small under-mask space, a comfortable silicone seal and an adjustable fastening. Omer provides an option for glass replacement. Claims to this product can only arise if the wrong size is selected.- Marlin Look is ideal for beginners. Pros: large tempered single glass, seal made of high-quality silicone, comfortable strap and fasteners, affordable price, as well as the included plastic box, which allows you to safely store and transport this equipment.
- Tusa Platina is a mask that confirms Japanese quality. The catches praise it for its excellent visibility, sophisticated shapes, anatomical design, low weight and the ability to be used in any water, both fresh and salt. However, they note one drawback: special glue is required to replace the glasses, otherwise the mask will quickly leak.
Scubapro Pro Ear 2000 mask
It has silicone earmuffs that cover your ears during a dive. This allows us to safely recommend it for beginners who are just starting to explore the world of spearfishing.
The mask has the following advantages:
- Improves audibility under water.
- Has a neoprene strap.
- Provides perfect fit to the facial skin.
The price of this model is also rather large and fluctuates around 11 thousand rubles.
The cost is easily offset by the technical qualities of the mask, as well as the improved pressure regulation system in the middle ear, as mentioned in the reviews.
This often becomes a vital feature, especially for novice spearfishers who have recently become interested in the practice of underwater swimming.
Required characteristics of underwater masks
Depending on the depth at which hunting is carried out, masks can be divided into three groups (taking into account visibility):
- Masks for shallow hunting. The hunter must see both what is in front of him and what is under him and partially behind him.
- When hunting at medium depths, you don’t need to see what’s happening below. The hunter's attention is focused on the situation ahead of him and at the bottom. After all, there, among the reliefs, among the shells, fish are hiding.
- The mask, suitable for deep hunting, is particularly resistant to water pressure. With a small volume, it should have excellent visibility. Thanks to the matte shutter, the hunter's vision does not become tired. A well-made and fastened strap will deform less and pull the mask upward. As a result, the hunter will feel even more comfortable, because the skin under the nose will not rub.
Finally, it is worth noting that choosing a mask for spearfishing is a very individual matter. You should not listen too much to sellers; only careful fitting and knowledge of the necessary requirements will allow you to make a successful purchase. Without a properly selected mask, the hunter finds himself without his main weapon - good vision.
Tusa Imprex 3D Hyperdry mask
Equipped with a special drainage valve that allows you to remove water from the submask space with just one exhalation.
It has side lenses to provide a wide view when hunting underwater, as well as a rounded seal that fits tightly to the forehead.
Advantages:
- Does not leave marks on the face.
- Provides excellent panoramic visibility.
- It has an affordable price in the range of four thousand rubles.
The only disadvantage, based on reviews, is that this mask does not have an anti-reflective coating.
The best masks, choice for spearfishing:
Scubapro: •Ghost- black, matte, small volume, one glass •Devil- matte, black, small volume, one glass •Steel Pro- black, small volume, one glass Bare: •Frameless- black, medium volume, one glass, budget •Predator- black, small volume, two glasses, darkened lenses Beuchat: •Lynx- blue, black, green, brown, small volume, two glasses •Micro Max- camouflage, black, small volume, two glasses •Mundial- black, medium volume, two glasses •Maxlux- matte, black, small volume, one glass Cressi Sub: •Focus- black, medium view, two glasses, can be changed to diopters •Calibro- black with mirror lenses, blue, small volume, two glasses •Zeus- black, small volume, two glasses, does not sweat •Nano- black, small volume, two glasses •Perla- black, small volume, two glasses, budget •Marea- two glasses, budget, black, two glasses
The best manufacturers, proven over the years. This is not the entire selection of masks for spearfishing. All masks for spearfishing are made of silicone, have a double seal, and tempered glass.
Underwater fishing is associated with human impact on the ecosystem; rules and ethics must be followed. During the hunt, the tricksters must show consciousness and humanity:
•Kill as many fish as you can eat or eat •During the spawning period, do not kill fish •Do not destroy fish that are listed in the Red Book •Hunt only for adult fish of a certain size, do not touch young fish •Try not to hunt in the same places same places, bodies of water. Give populations a chance to recover
Spearfishing is not just about buying the best equipment and being able to hunt. A lot of special knowledge and skills are required. You must be able to behave correctly in a given situation, know tactical hunting techniques, how fish behave, handle a gun correctly, and the breathing-hold diving technique. All this knowledge must be brought to automaticity. You must always maintain physical fitness. Hunting takes place at different depths. Some are able to hunt at depths of 25 to 50 meters and hold their breath for more than 3 minutes. Before shooting, the trickster has to look for fish, conduct reconnaissance, and sit in ambush. To put a fish on a kukan, you need to take into account all its habits, act deftly, skillfully and accurately.
Go to the website, masks for spearfishing
Safety rules for spearfishing:
•Be sure to take a special knife with you, maybe two. If you get caught in a trap or get caught in a net, a knife will help you get out of this situation. You may never need it, but it will save your life someday. The best way to mount a knife on your chest. So that you can reach it with any hand •Do not load the gun on land, only under water. When going out onto land, keep your gun unloaded. Do not point it towards people, if it is discharged, the fuse is on. Shoot only when the target is clearly visible •Do not dive in muddy water, where transparency is less than a meter. You may not see dangerous objects. Getting caught in a network or in a blockage is a difficult way out. In muddy water it will be difficult for you to understand the situation • Do not drink alcoholic beverages before and during the hunt. You are risking your life • Try not to overload. Choose the right load. The greater the depth, there should be less weight •Use a buoy for spearfishing. It is better to anchor the buoy • It is better not to tie elements of equipment, kukan, or various ropes to yourself. You can get caught on something, it’s better to cling to a boat, a buoy, a branch • Swim into the rubble from snags only against the current, it will be easier to swim out • Underwater currents at ebb/tide can be very strong • You cannot swim in a storm. It may hit the rocks • You should have an underwater flashlight • Choose the thickness of your wetsuit according to the weather • It is advisable to have a first aid kit with you • Do not push yourself to your maximum limits under water. During extremely long dives while holding your breath, you may lose consciousness. Follow safety precautions and you will be fine. Happy hunting!
We are waiting for you in Kyiv in Bathyscaphe stores!
Technisub Look mask
Professional tool for underwater hunter. It has an excellent seal shape made of plastic LSR silicone. In addition, the mask also has swivel buckles that help position the mask on your head as comfortably as possible.
All this, of course, is designed to make the process of underwater hunting at various depths as easy as possible without fear for life.
Despite high-quality materials and elite assembly, it is estimated at only 2,500 rubles, which allows it to be purchased not only by experienced underwater hunters, but also by ordinary amateurs.
What makes it easier to purchase, as mentioned in reviews, is the presence in the catalogs of many online stores, as well as on the shelves of spearfishing equipment stores.
Obturator
Behind this strange and difficult to pronounce word lies the rubber base of the mask. More precisely, once they were only rubber, but today silicone analogues are increasingly common. Be sure to pay attention to the seal - otherwise you will not see a good mask for spearfishing.
When choosing, always pay attention to the seal - the rubber base of the mask
As already mentioned, models with silicone seals usually appear on sale. On the one hand, they resist ultraviolet radiation better - they do not dry out over time. On the other hand, and for many this is even more important, silicone is much softer than rubber. When diving to 10 meters or more, this becomes especially important - the mask is pressed under enormous pressure into the diver’s face and a rough seal can cause many serious problems.
The next step is color. Typically, masks for spearfishing have an opaque seal in dark colors - black, gray, blue, green. But in recent years, models with a transparent silicone seal have also appeared on the market. Many diving enthusiasts prefer them - you can enjoy a magnificent panorama, and not just the section of the seabed that is visible through the glass.
However, what is good for ordinary divers is not always good for a spearfishing enthusiast. The fact is that sunlight penetrates under the mask through the transparent seal - especially in good weather and at shallow depths. It not only distracts the underwater hunter, but also turns the inner surface of the mask into a real mirror when hunting in dark water. As a result, disassembling something becomes very problematic.
Mask Tusa Sport
It has one tempered glass lens and a tube included. Has the following advantages:
1. The presence of a valve in the breathing tube that does not allow water to pass through.
2. The seal is made of soft and hypoallergenic silicone.
3. Anti-glare protection.
4. Three-dimensional strap.
In general, it is highly appreciated by the owners who have chosen it.
Rating and description of inexpensive underwater swimming masks
The simplest models are mainly made of tempered glass and are intended primarily for beginners in diving and snorkeling.
Nymph
A popular model among divers with a classic large oval porthole. A reliable and practical accessory suitable for any face type. The seal and adjustable straps are made of high-quality environmentally friendly rubber. The accessory is made using wide tempered glass, which provides a sufficient viewing angle when diving.
The mask seal is made of high-quality rubber, and the collapsible frame is made of plastic. The innovative mask is an indispensable piece of equipment for swimming, snorkeling near the surface of a body of water (from 12 years old), and a comfortable and interesting discovery of the underwater world. Average price: from 600 rubles.
Nymph diving mask
Advantages:
- optimal price;
- ease of use;
- quality materials.
Flaws:
- impossibility of diving with a mask to a depth of more than one and a half meters.
JOSS M168-64
A model with an optimal ratio of cost and quality. It has one lens and a nice streamlined design. It is lightweight and fits well to the face due to high-quality elastic silicone. The size of the mask is well adjusted directly on the head, and there is absolutely no discomfort when using it. The equipment does not leak, so you can swim in it for quite a long time without a snorkel. Average price: from 900 rubles.
JOSS M168-64 diving mask
Advantages:
- convenience;
- tight fit;
- budget price.
Flaws:
- no tube.
AQWA-LARS Gamo
A universal model with binoculars for diving and spearfishing at the best price. Advanced technology is used to manufacture the equipment. Thanks to it, a single piece of glass with increased visibility is integrated directly into the silicone, and not into a plastic frame, as in standard masks. This allows you to significantly reduce the under-mask space and maximize visibility in the vertical and horizontal planes. The equipment not only protects your eyes from exposure to water. Using an optical device, images of objects under water are magnified several times. It has an adjustable strap, which ensures a tight fit and water resistance. Average price: from 1150 rubles.
AQWA-LARS Gamo diving mask
Advantages:
- convenience;
- waterproof;
- Magnifying objects underwater using binoculars.
Flaws:
- no tube.
Free Breath
A swimming accessory for the whole face, with which you can not only explore the underwater world. But it is also comfortable and natural to breathe through your nose and mouth. The panoramic view of the equipment is one hundred and eighty degrees, so an underwater walk in it will be unforgettable. The mask has a top DRY-TOP mechanism that prevents water from getting inside. The valve mechanism of this full-size equipment contains a float that closes the air channel. Therefore, if water blocks the upper end of the tube, not a drop gets into the mask. Average price: from 1500 rubles.
Free Breath diving mask
Advantages:
- originality;
- quality;
- not a high price;
- DRY-TOP mechanism.
Flaws:
- inability to dive to a depth of more than two and a half meters.
GoMax GoPro
A professional accessory designed for scuba diving and taking good photographs, thanks to the integrated mount for a digital video camera, designed for shooting in hostile environments and while on the move.
The model has earned popularity among divers due to its ergonomics and high quality workmanship. The headband and fastening straps of the product are made of polycarbonate. Skin-contact mask skirt made of soft, non-toxic silicone. The accessory is made of impact-resistant glass four millimeters thick. And the mount for the video camera is designed at an angle that prevents contact with the face. Average price: from 1950 rubles.
GoMax GoPro diving mask
Advantages:
- improved functionality of the model;
- tightness;
- ergonomics.
Flaws:
- not detected.
How to care for your underwater mask?
It will be no secret that any spearfishing mask requires careful care. For example, after swimming in salty sea or fresh river water, it should be rinsed as soon as possible with running fresh water and wiped dry with a rag. All parts of the mask fastenings must be regularly checked for tightness and integrity. There should be no problems with your equipment underwater. In some cases, it is better to pay more for a higher-quality mask model than to put your life in possible danger.
The hard part
First of all, pay attention to the lenses. For beginners, models with single glass, for example, “SARGAN Praktika”, are suitable for shallow dives. This mask is recommended for those who want to master spearfishing.
For professionals working at great depths, reliability is especially important. Models with two lenses that can withstand strong water pressure are suitable for them. “SARGAN Neman” will cope with this task.
People with visual impairments are offered special masks whose glasses have diopters, for example, “Cressi FOCUS”. Such equipment is not universal; it is selected in the same way as ordinary glasses.
Let's fish together
When purchasing equipment for spearfishing, you should take the most responsible approach to choosing a mask. This is the only piece of equipment without which hunting is basically impossible. Unfortunately, in stores, sellers manage to sell bullshit not only to beginners, but also to fairly experienced hunters. At the same time, the product itself may look quite presentable and be from a renowned manufacturer. I won’t write about all the masks I’ve tried, but I’ll only describe those that I bought and swam for quite a long time. My first spearfishing mask
It was single-glass, huge and with a very wide viewing angle. I suffered for a long time with fogging; neither powder, nor toothpaste with a brush, nor spitting on the glass helped. Burning the glass from the inside with a lighter, on the advice of a tricky person (the salesperson of the relevant store), helped.
When purchased in a store, it stuck to the face very well, but on a pond, it kept letting water through. And in the cold autumn it completely stopped sticking to the face, after which it was given to a friend. The reason most likely was insufficiently high-quality silicone, which hardened at temperatures below 10 ° C. Most often, such masks are suitable for wide-faced people. I cannot recommend it for hunting in our conditions as a main mask. But if you got it for free, then you can use it when hunting in shallow water in the warm season, or when catching crayfish in the fall (where it is allowed), but with a nose clip so as not to catch a cold.
My second mask for spearfishing
became the
Look mask from Technisub
. There was also some trickery involved - they tied it with a silver seal. Despite the use of the highest quality silicone, it still leaks water in very cold water, you just have to curse for the annoying mistake. It has a fairly small volume of under-mask space with good visibility. Currently I carry it with me as a spare mask. I can recommend it for hunting at any time of the year at depths of up to 10-12 meters (I haven’t dived deeper). Suitable for different face types. But by and large its operating range is 1 - 4 meters. I hunted Chub on the Don with her more than once.
Third mask
became
Bandit from Omer
. No one was trying to sell anything here anymore; it was a conscious choice in favor of a mask for deep diving. The mask has worse visibility, but the volume of space under the mask is very small. Fits perfectly on all face types. You can swear in it, smile and turn your head - it doesn’t let water in. The only thing he doesn't like is stubble. The most comfortable of all the masks I've swam in. I sold it at half price to a friend because I couldn’t find diopter glasses for it. I can recommend it for any hunt at any time of the year, but do not forget that its main purpose is deep-sea diving. Ideal for hunting on deep river beds, lakes, as well as for sea diving. Most often, it is this mask that pike perch see shortly before death. For general development, I recommend reading the article - Spearfishing for pike perch and its features.
The fourth mask was Platina M-20QB from Tusa
.
Among those available with diopter glasses were this and Delta from Sargan. Delta didn't want to stay on her face, so she took Platina. The mask has soft silicone, it sticks so tightly that you can’t tear it off! It has an extended view with minimal under-mask space due to the absence of an internal frame. The lenses are attached directly to the mask body. As a result, what should have been beneficial has become harmful: the mask allows water to pass through the outer frame. Exchange in the store for another did not give anything - the mask continued to leak. I was sorry to say goodbye to her (I really liked the way she sat), so I decided to defeat her. I was just about to glue the glass with silicone when I remembered about Turkley from the company I already mentioned, DoneDeal. Don’t take this as an advertisement, but their products are really of excellent quality, at least the glued glass no longer allows water to pass through. After gluing it, of course, I had to keep it in water for a couple of days and ventilate it for a week to remove the smell of glue, but now everything is fine. I use it as my main mask for all types of hunting. Many will say why there are diopters in water, since everything is already enlarged!? In the water, yes, but on the surface or on land at dusk and it helps a lot with my vision (even while driving I don’t take it off when moving from place to place in a suit). Among the shortcomings, I note the excessive pressure on the bridge of the nose of the outer frame (the result of the struggle between visibility and internal volume); at three to four meters it is already necessary to blow air into the space under the mask. I can recommend it for hunting at any time of the year at depths of up to 10-12 meters. How to choose a mask for spearfishing and what to look for
?
The seal should be made of opaque silicone, preferably black, but brown or green can be used. It must be soft and free of flashes (seams after casting) and a blow-off valve. The glass must have the inscription safety
or
tempered
, indicating that the glass is tempered.
For hunting in our area, you should not choose coated optics or tinted glass - they will fog up in cold water, antifog will not help (a waste of money), and you cannot burn them or treat them with a brush and paste. Masks with additional side windows are also not suitable - they glare strongly in the sun and make it difficult to see anything. The strap can be attached to the seal or to the frame - I can’t say which is better or worse, to each his own, but the mount should have a rotating buckle, which in turn should hold well and easily adjust the tension of the strap. The back of the strap is usually forked - in this case it is better to choose the option with a jumper for a better fit of the strap to the back of the head. Before you buy a diving mask
in a store, shave at home (applies only to men), look in the mirror (applies to everyone) and mentally draw a contour line for the future fit of the mask to your face - remember it. In the store, to begin with, refuse the help of a sales assistant so as not to embarrass you. Eliminate all unsuitable options. From the remaining ones, select those whose inner contour of the seal follows your contour. Now you can try on the selected options. I advise everyone not to be shy and use a nose clip when trying on. We pinch our nose with a clip, press the mask to our face and let go - whichever one stays on the face longer will provide better protection from water. You can turn your head, wince, frown, curse - this will help you understand what not to do under water. Most often, water seeps through the nasolabial folds or at the temples. Usually, after trying on, there are one or two, or at most three, suitable masks left. Here you can filter by price or invite a consultant and intelligently ask him about reviews of this or that mask. After buying a house, it is better to immediately ignite it with a lighter or a lit candle (so as not to return to this procedure later) as follows: we bring the flame from the inside to the glass and pass it along the entire plane of the glass at a speed of approximately 2-3 cm per second. Then we clean the glass with a toothbrush and toothpaste and rinse it. The mask is ready for use. The mask is put on as follows: we go into the pond, rinse it, spit on the glass from the inside, carefully rub the drool over the surface of the glass, rinse the face several times with water, put the hair under the helmet, rinse the mask again, shake off excess water from it and put it on, straightening the seal under the helmet. Under no circumstances should the strap be too tight - this will not help seal the seal; rather, on the contrary, it will cause a headache. To prevent the mask from being torn off by the snorkel in rubble or thick grass, it is better to tuck the snorkel under the strap (although spearfishing experts themselves do not follow their own advice, using all sorts of clips to secure the snorkel).
Excess water is removed from the mask like this:
: raise your head above the surface of the water, press the upper edge of the mask to your forehead and exhale sharply through your nose - excess water goes away. In general, during the hunting process, it is not advisable to remove the mask from the face, especially in cold weather, when the skin loses its firmness and elasticity - often after this the mask begins to leak water, which can ruin the entire hunt and lead to a cold. When diving to depths, do not forget to blow air into the mask with your nose so that it does not press or suction excessively, otherwise its imprint will last for several hours. Beginning tricksters don't always succeed in this. It’s better not to dive deep until you learn how to inflate - this is dangerous for your health if you have certain diseases of the body. When ascending, you need to draw the air back in so that there are no bubbles from under it and so that it does not get pulled off your head during an overly active ascent. After the hunt, do not forget to rinse it in clean water and hide the fins in a case or galosh. I hope what I wrote here helps someone. Health and happy hunting everyone!!!
The site administration expresses its deep gratitude to the author of the article - Vladimir Anatolyevich Trubachev - Val66
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Equipment
Cleaning valve – allows you to easily clean the under-mask space with one exhalation under water. However, a non-functioning valve, for example if sand gets in, will cause more inconvenience than benefit. This mask is better suited for snorkeling than diving.
Valves are hard , which require the help of hands to clean, and soft .
Important: a mask with a valve is a good option for men with mustaches and beards, since facial hair prevents the mask from fitting tightly, which means water can penetrate under it.
Info display – displays dive data in front of the swimmer’s eyes. A convenient device, but it seriously increases the weight and cost of the mask.
Built-in camera - allows the swimmer to take underwater photos and videos. However, the price of such a mask is quite high.
Flashlight – improves visibility underwater. This device is especially relevant for masks with a built-in camera.
Breathing tube – provides breathing underwater without the use of scuba gear. A good choice is a tube with a top (prevents water from entering) and a bottom (allows water to blow out) valve. However, the disadvantage of such a tube is its less reliability, since the valves may fail.
Important: the optimal dimensions of the tube: diameter 2.5 cm, length - 40 cm. The longer the tube, the lower the risk of water getting in, and the wider the diameter, the greater the volume of air will enter the tube, but exhaling or removing water from the tube will require more force.
The best manufacturers
Manufacturers of the best diving masks traditionally include brands that have long specialized in diving equipment and accessories, and have earned a solid reputation in this area. Review of famous companies:
- Tusa. A Japanese brand with a “narrow specialization” that produces exclusively diving masks. A distinctive feature of the products is the constant improvement of design solutions and the introduction of innovations.
- Omer. A manufacturer from Italy, also specializing in masks and producing them in a very wide range. The models are valued for their ergonomics, lightness, and small under-mask space. The vast majority of them can accommodate lenses with diopters.
- Subea. The name appeared as a result of the rebranding of the Tribord company, which has long been well known to divers. Products under the new name “inherited” excellent quality and durability from the old models.
- Dive Rite. A successful combination of affordable prices for swimming accessories with good characteristics. The products are reliable, their under-mask space is small.
- Sargan. The brand occupies one of the leading positions in the world among companies producing everything necessary for scuba diving. Most masks are suitable not only for snorkeling, but also for classic diving and underwater hunting.
Any swimming mask is purchased where they can provide a quality certificate confirming the originality of the product and its compliance with the declared parameters.
Snorkeling is snorkeling, a type of diving, but the equipment for it is quite specific. The diver is almost at the surface of the water or at a shallow depth, but this does not mean that one should neglect one’s own safety. All equipment, including a snorkeling mask, must be chosen very carefully. Cost is not an important criterion here; the main thing is that the product is suitable for a specific user.
Tusa
Omer
Subea
Dive Rite
Sargan
Full face mask
Duke Dry Cressi Sub
, made in two sizes, has a wide variety of colors. Made using the latest innovative technologies. In this mask, carbon dioxide does not accumulate inside. The tube has a valve that, when immersed, prevents water from entering the submask space. The tube consists of two parts, the first part receives the air you breathe, the second part receives carbon dioxide through a special channel, which comes to the surface. The viewing glass increases vertical visibility by about 30%, thanks to the inclined design. Made in Italy.
Beuchat Full
Face is produced in three sizes and has several colors. Panoramic large view. A tube with a valve does not allow water to pass through. The mount is removable for CoPro. You can breathe naturally, through your mouth or nose.