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Getting the most out of your Full Face Snorkel Mask and FAQ

Full Face Snorkeling Mask are still pretty new to the world of snorkeling but they have been extremely popular. We are getting a lot questions on using and caring for these mask. Here on some tips to get the most out of your mask.

General maintenance: Cleaning is simple, use a mild soap such as dish soap and a soft cloth (nothing that can scratch or scour) rinse with warm fresh water, let air dry. You should wash your mask regularly to remove any salt, sand, dirt and oils. Any debris on the inside of the mask such as Sunscreen can cause the mask to fog and can cause skin irritation. Once your mask is clean and dry then store it in a cool, dry place, out of reach of pets or direct sunlight. Do not stack anything on top of your mask for storage. 

Traveling with your mask: Remove the snorkel from the mask and stow in the mesh bag. The masks can be damage from rough handling so they should be packed carefully either in your carry on luggage or a well padded protective suit case. Use some of your clothes for padding when packing.

FAQ

My mask leaks, what do I do? 

The most common causes of leaks are easily fixed. The most likely cause is hair getting caught in the seal and allowing a trickle of water in. As soon as you put the mask on check that your hair is out of the way, you can get your snorkel buddy to help with this. Guys should make sure they are clean shaven on the areas where the mask seal makes contact with your face. 

Having an incorrect sized mask can also cause leaks. If your mask is too small the seal can sit on the corners of your eyes, the bottom of the seal will sit close to your mouth rather than on your chin. When a mask is too small the silicone seal is not able to rest on your face flush and allows water to leak in.  A mask that is too big might sit on your hairline rather than your skin and may not make contact all the way around your face allowing water to leak in. 

Make sure the mask strap is snug on your head. If the strap is too loose it may not be creating a seal against your skin. Keep in mind your do not want the strap too tight as this can cause jaw fatigue, and can compress the seal so much that it will not keep the water out. 

Check for damage or debris. Sand, dirt or salt build up can prevent the dry snorkel or purge from functioning properly and may require cleaning. A mask that was dropped or damaged in transport may leak, inspect the frame for damage or cracks. 

My mask is getting foggy, how can I stop it?

The full face snorkel masks are usually free of fog in most conditions however when using in cold water such as our nice cold Canadian lakes some fogging can occur. To prevent fog in cooler temperatures you can treat your mask with a defog solution such as Sea Drops before you enter the water. If you find that your mask is fogging in warm water you will need to clean it. Sweat, dirt and sunscreen on the inside of the mask may make the mask foggy. Wash the mask thoroughly with a mild soap such as dish soap and a soft cloth. Washing the mask on a regular basis will prevent fog.

Can I get prescription lenses for my full face mask?

Currently the best option for getting an optical correction in a full face snorkel mask is to purchase the Optical lens support frame and have lenses made up at your local optician. The cost to have lenses made up will depend on your prescription, consult with your optometrist. Another option is wearing contact lenses.

A regular snorkel mask leaks because of my mustache, will I have the same problem with a full face mask?

Mustaches are no problem with the full face mask as the seal sits on the jaw line and chin. But keep in mind beards, even stubbly ones, will cause leaking.

Can I go free-diving with a full face mask?

No. Diving down deep with a full face mask is not recommended as you will not be able to equalize either the pressure in the mask or the pressure in your ears and sinuses. A quick dive to a shallow depth may be possible, but keep in mind going deeper without equalizing the pressure in your ears may cause injury. Stick to a traditional diving mask and snorkel for free-diving.

There are so many options for Full Face Snorkel Masks. Which ones are the best?

Since the full face snorkel mask first came out we have tested several models and have settled on our favorite as the SeaShark. Most of the cheaper models tend to have low grade materials such as pvc rubber instead of silicone. Some models had uncomfortable rubber straps to hold the mask on which pull and tangle in hair or clips that broke on the first use. The SeaShark has been Superior to these other models in quality, fit, comfort and consistinsy. 

2017 Mar 30th

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