Some people enjoy scuba diving for the freedom of weightlessness, others like it for the excitement and exploration, but everyone gets into scuba for the scenery. Exploring the undersea world would be impossible without a dive mask--and getting the right one is crucial for your enjoyment and comfort underwater. The perfect mask should provide a good field of vision, fit well without leaking and allow you to easily adjust pressure when descending and ascending.
ScubaMax Spider Eye
Because scuba diving is all about the sights, a scuba mask is quite possibly the most important purchase a diver will make. It is essential to try several masks in order to find the right combination of vision and comfort for you. According to ScubaLab, "The Spider Eye offers many of the features found on masks more than twice its price." As of 2010, the cost was less than $40. It is a traditional dual-window mask that offers exaggerated V-shaped lenses for enhanced downward viewing, squeeze-buttons for easier strap adjustment and a respectable field of vision compared to other masks in its class.
Mares X-Vision Liquid Skin
The dual-window Mares X-Vision Liquid Skin mask was a ScubaLab Best Buy back in 2007 and continued to get rave reviews from customers at Scuba.com in 2010. The odd-shaped windows on the X-vision provide outstanding horizontal and vertical views. Mares combines two liquid silicone compounds in the skirt to maximize sealing and comfort. As of 2010, the average price for the X-Vision Liquid Skin was just less than $100.
Sherwood Rona
The single-lens Sherwood Rona earned a 2009 ScubaLab Testers' Choice award for its combination of excellent field of view, ease of clearing and comfort. The skirt-mounted buckles can be adjusted to any angle for ease of packing as well. In 2010 the manufacturers' suggested retail price for the Rona was $70.
Cressi Big Eyes Evolution Crystal
According to ScubaLab reviewers, "The Big Eyes Evolution Crystal is so clear and airy it almost feels like you're not wearing a mask at all." Cressi's exclusive "Crystal" silicone prevents discoloration and makes the mask skirt nearly invisible, allowing extra light in to expand the already above-average field of vision. In 2010, the Big Eyes Evolution Crystal sold for just less than $100.
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