Rwhiting
Contributor
I've seen and posted some opinions on the Hydrooptix mask, and wanted to give a report on my experience on my first actual dives (I previously only had done 2 pool sessions). The underwater view is, without question, spectacular. I am fortunate to be a naked eye match for this mask (nearsighted, -5.25). I found I didn't need the monocle or cover lenses to get into or out of the water. I have never seen more clearly, or had anywhere near the field of vision underwater. The downside is the fogging and leaking that this mask is prone to.
The fogging (and the mask itself) were the subject of much discussion on the dive boat. I finally arrived at a solution that works for me. First, you need to start with a clean mask for each dive, i.e. use a little Dawn or other dishwashing liquid. Let it air dry, then apply either a liquid defogger (I tried both Sea Gold and 500psi gels, with no success) or just spit immediately before the dive, and I had no fogging.
The leaking issue is harder. My face is a good fit for the mask, and I was able to strap it fairly tight without getting squeezed. I'm not sure if it's the material that the skirt is made of, but I could not stop the mask from leaking when I was oriented downward. It is easy enough to clear using the purge valves, but annoying when either you want to go lower, head first, or hover over something below you with your feet higher than your head.
I'm so happy with the 180 degree view and crystal clear optics that I'll keep using the mask, but any advice on the leaking would be helpful.
Thanks
Rich
The fogging (and the mask itself) were the subject of much discussion on the dive boat. I finally arrived at a solution that works for me. First, you need to start with a clean mask for each dive, i.e. use a little Dawn or other dishwashing liquid. Let it air dry, then apply either a liquid defogger (I tried both Sea Gold and 500psi gels, with no success) or just spit immediately before the dive, and I had no fogging.
The leaking issue is harder. My face is a good fit for the mask, and I was able to strap it fairly tight without getting squeezed. I'm not sure if it's the material that the skirt is made of, but I could not stop the mask from leaking when I was oriented downward. It is easy enough to clear using the purge valves, but annoying when either you want to go lower, head first, or hover over something below you with your feet higher than your head.
I'm so happy with the 180 degree view and crystal clear optics that I'll keep using the mask, but any advice on the leaking would be helpful.
Thanks
Rich
