Mask Thoughts

[Here There be Lobsters]

I was thinking of trying a different mask out since mine leaks more often than not. However, I was first wondering if it was common for a random stray hair to break a mask seal? My hair is really fine and I’m having a hard time telling if the leakage is from fit or hair.

 

[Zef]

Its possible but typically a random stray hair or 2 won't matter, but a bunch of hair will.

Be sure to to take a 2nd stage or a snorkel with you when you shop for a mask....some folks will find that a great fit in the shop is problematic underwater as the reg mouthpiece causes the face to distort enough to cause a leak....by checking mask fit at the shop with a 2nd stage or snorkel mouth piece in your mouth, you will be checking more in line with how your facial anatomy will be when in the water.

-Z

 

[Here There be Lobsters]

Brought my snorkel with me and tried making different faces with the mask on. Ended up getting a Tusa Zensee!

 

[davecampbell]

my wife was having issues with stray hair, (especially with a drysuit silicone neck seal, and a thick K01 hood.) this was all solved with a simple swim cap. makes flyaway hair a non issue when gearing up. It's worth the couple dollars to give it a shot...

 

[Subcooled]

I was thinking of trying a different mask out since mine leaks more often than not. However, I was first wondering if it was common for a random stray hair to break a mask seal? My hair is really fine and I’m having a hard time telling if the leakage is from fit or hair.

Our barber shop / hair dresser solves 90% of this issue, and then we swipe our hair back, and we do test our mask under water prior to the dive. Problem solved.

Leaking masks are almost always tightened too much. This makes the mask skirt to wrinkle and you'll know the result.

The last possibility is that the mask simply does not fit. It is actually a real possibility. Check the above points, though.