How to Size a SCUBA Mask to Face Size
Scuba and snorkeling masks enable divers and snorkelers to comfortably keep the water out of their faces to observe the marine environment. With the right care, a properly fitting scuba mask lasts for a long time, becoming an essential piece of equipment. Modern dive masks have nose pockets that allow divers to equalize the air space between their mask and face. Masks are commercially available in a range of styles, colors and designs, so trying on a mask to determine the best fit will drive your decision.
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Instructions
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1
Select a mask that has a deep enough nose pocket to fit your nose and distance between lenses (at the top section of the mask) for smaller or wider faces.
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2
Check the silicone skirt and the depth of the mask to determine whether it's low-profile or high profile, to accommodate cheekbones.
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3
Wrap the mask strap over the top front of the mask and place it on your face. Holding the mask in place, inhale through your nose and drop your hands.
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4
Check whether the mask develops a seal secure enough to remain in place with a slight vacuum, caused by inhaling. If the mask doesn't hold with a slight vacuum, repeat steps 3 and 4 with another mask.
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5
Look in the mirror to check that the bottom of the nose pocket is not touching the bottom of your nose, indicating that the mask may be slightly small. Also check whether the bottom of the mask skirt is very close to your upper lip, indicating that the mask may be long, in which case select a low-profile mask or a smaller mask.
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6
Look at how the mask fits on the sides of your face, by the cheekbones, to confirm it sits on your face rather than extends slightly past your upper cheeks. If necessary, gently hold the mask in place at the top.
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7
Grin and look in the mirror to see whether a gap forms in the lower skirt (above your upper lip).
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Tips & Warnings
Retain the mask case so that you can protect your mask during transport.
Consider purchasing an extra mask strap to keep in your dive kit or stowed in the mask case.
Check out masks with options such as side lenses to extend your peripheral vision underwater.
After you purchase your mask, test it out in a pool to make sure it functions properly and that it is comfortable--many dive shops allow gear to be returned if it has not been used in the ocean.
Avoid masks that are too small or that feel tight with a slight vacuum, because the pressure of the mask on your face at a deep depth can cause superficial bruising that is harmless, but unsightly. This is called "mask squeeze".
