OP
goldentouch
Registered
no....but I know what you mean......I had to stop that
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I wish I could find the link to the blog where I found this advice but it worked for me. The problem with holding a mask to your face and sniffing is that many people unconsciously press too hard. The mask sticks in the test but still leaks in the water.
Hold the mask to your face or lay on your back and set the mask in place. If the temples hit first and spread out, the mask is not wide enough. If the forehead or lip and cheek hit first, the mask is too wide. The mask should, without pressure, hit evenly all around the edge without any gaps. If there is any gap it will leak, even if it seems to pass the sniff test.
I have deep smile lines and had difficulty finding a mask. Most would have a significant gap over the smile lines. I tried on every mask in the LDS and only 2 passed the above test. Of those, 1 would not seal over my mustache even after trimming. I got the single mask that worked for me (it's an Oceanic Ion 4) and I had absolutely zero leak problems in the pool or quarry. The only times I had to clear it was when I deliberately flooded. This mask fits me like it's part of my face and feels very comfortable. I had some minor leaks in salt water dives and that may have been due to beard stubble or sun screen.
I suggest that you ignore any specific brand suggestions and hit your LDS and try on every mask in the store. Find the ones that fit YOUR face and choose among them. If none fit properly, try another shop as they may carry different brands. There WILL be something that fits properly and you shouldn't have to settle.
I have similar problems and used chap stick fix it. One application usually enough for 2 dives.
But finally I bought "Mask Leak Sealant" from which works even better and using it now.