What are the mask preferences out there?

[scubajb]

What you guys like? probably gonna start a huge debate here... and yep, I'll go to a dive shop to try some on. looking to replace my mask, what do you all like? Medium build, normal fitting face (except area between lip and nose is a little smaller than average). Looking for excellent peripheral views (including down), easy to clear (don't really have a preference for purge or not), good seal. like photography but not so into it that I ever really considered a dark skirted mask. If you had your choice, what make and models would you go for?

Jim

 

[mwilding]

Step 1: If it comfortably stays on your face without a strap if you use a tiny bit of nose suction, you have a winner.
Step 2: Rate the field of vision
Step 3: Choose a color (black is best but any color'll do)

Don't get a purge valve - It will eventually leak and clearing a mask is a basic skill.

I have a Mares Opera and it fits me like a glove. Took a while as I have a Roman nose (roamin all over my face...)

 

[Underwater Ogre]

Preferences will be all over the board...I prefer to think of a good mask like a woman.

I like them in black skirts...for photography purposes
No frills...like purge valves
And wont cost you a fortune.

My choices:
AQ quartz- tuff as hell and good fit for a lip caterpillar carrier...nice small mask, hangs around the neck nicely.
Mares XS - nice over sized vis....but the side latches/ buttons are very touchy...had to do some mods.
Atomic Subframe - also good with a "stache".

Good luck
O

 

[old gaffer]

I really like my Atomic Sub-Frame. Did not realize how much I liked it unitl I sent it off to have readers attached. While without it I used my old Visage mask which I used to like but no longer do! I was really glad to get my Atomic back from the optician!

Gaffer

 

[Aardvark]

Oceanic shadow (Oceanic Worldwide - Scuba Diving Masks - Shadow Series)

Fit is first priority, but I have a mask friendly face, I haven't found too many that don't give a good seal.

I bought my first one to put in my BC pocket and it ended up as my main mask, so then I had to buy another one as a spare. My other masks are collecting dust (only have about six).

 

[Walter]

I only look at low volume masks. I then find masks that fit. I then look at comfort. Of those that pass all three tests, I look at price. I paid $18 for my current mask. I usually look at masks at tent sales so I can have a spare.

 

[dkktsunami]

Dive Rite, black skirt - simple, inexpensive, effective, low volume, looks good.....

 

[Tortuga68]

Atomic aquatics frameless for me: low volume, great vis, comfortable (for me) - mine's clear but they come in black too

Not cheap though

 

[kilo_fox]

I only look at low volume masks. I then find masks that fit. I then look at comfort. Of those that pass all three tests, I look at price. I paid $18 for my current mask. I usually look at masks at tent sales so I can have a spare.

What is the great advantage of a low volume mask?

 

[El Orans]

I like the Mares LiquidSkin and the Tusa Platinum mask.