5 Things New Divers Should Know Before Choosing a Dive Mask
There is nothing worse than an ill fitting mask that leaks and irritates you each and every dive........ Dont waste money before reading this.......
When you're gearing up for your first underwater adventure, the right mask can make or break your dive. It’s not just about looking cool (though they say style counts) your mask is your window to the deep. At Blue Fin Diving, we’ve helped hundreds of new divers find their perfect fit—and we’re here to make sure you don’t make rookie mistakes.
So before you spend money on your first mask (that may not fit properly) here are five things you need to think about:
1. Fit is Everything—Seriously
If your mask leaks, fogs up, or pinches your face, you won’t be enjoying the reef—you’ll be adjusting your gear the whole time. Do a simple fit test: press the mask against your face without the strap and inhale through your nose. If it sticks without help, you’re golden.
Pro Tip from Blue Fin Instructors: Try the mask with your snorkel in your mouth to mimic real dive conditions—your face shape changes slightly!
2. Tempered Glass Only
Plastic lenses? Nope. Regular glass? Big nope. You want tempered glass—it’s shatter-resistant and built to handle the pressure (literally). It’s also clearer, so you’ll actually see those vibrant fish you came for.
3. Low Volume, High Reward
Low-volume masks sit closer to your face and are easier to clear (that means getting water out if it leaks). They also make equalizing easier—huge win for beginners learning to manage pressure underwater.
Beuchat or xdeep radical masks are very low profile.
4. Silicone Skirt > Everything Else
The “skirt” is the part that seals the mask to your face. High-quality silicone is softer, more durable, and creates a better seal than rubber or cheaper materials. Bonus: it's also less likely to irritate your skin after long dives.
Beuchat or xdeep radical mask have a super soft silicone skirt.
5. Vision Upgrades Are Worth It
If you wear glasses or contacts, consider masks that support prescription lenses or drop-in corrective panels. Seeing clearly isn’t a luxury when you’re diving—it’s essential. Trust us, that manta ray is even cooler when you can actually see it.
Tusa Integra masks are our preference when it comes to prescription mask. Fully interchangeable, should your prescription change...... so can the lenses.
We also have lots of masks to try on both in store or come join us on a pool session and try lots of masks, to find the perfect fit.