Tourist season is fast approaching as the siren call of Pacific Ocean brings people out of hiding and into the Manzanillo resort of their choice. The cooling temperatures up North may have something to do with it as well. Many are looking forward to snorkeling or diving the reefs of Manzanillo. There truly is much to discover here in the oceans. It's important that you bring the right equipment to maximize the experience.

According to Susan Dearing of Scuba Shack, a mask is the single most important piece of equipment in snorkeling or diving. “If a mask fits correctly and comfortably, you will enjoy snorkeling,” she states. “However, an ill-fitting, leaking mask can make one of the most rewarding and beautiful experiences miserable and unsafe." It is worth spending time when choosing a mask.

Features to look for

Masks are made from different types of material ranging from plastic to rubber to silicone. Silicone masks tend to be more expensive but give improved comfort and durability. Silicone also has much less tendency to cause reaction to sensitive skin, and does not readily break down after constant exposure to the sun’s UV rays.

The lenses of a good mask should be tempered glass to properly protect our eyes while ensuring a scratch-resistant window to the underwater world.

The glass faceplate may be in one piece or divided into two lenses. Which you choose is largely a matter of preference. It is worth noting that some twin lens masks may rub against the bridge of more prominent noses and cause soreness.

The skirt or body of the mask provides the seal to the wearer's face and should offer a comfortable fit and an effective double seal, where second skirt of material is shaped into the mask provides an extra seal. It is, however, most important not to over-tighten the mask strap. The strap is designed to hold the mask in place against the face comfortably, and over-tightening may distort the seal, causing the mask to leak.

The strap is usually of the same material as the mask's body and is designed with a split section at the back to hold it firmly at the crown of the head. Wearing your mask strap too low can cause the mask to slip down and allow water to seep in.

Mask frames come in a wide range of colors. Color coordination has become a key feature of dive equipment and you can choose a mask which matches other equipment. However, ensure that it has a sturdy structure and that any metal fittings are of stainless steel. Also examine the strap attachment and adjustment mechanism. This should be secure and easy to adjust, offering you the ability to easily alter the length of the strap or to fit a snorkel.

Beginners advice

Beginners should look for a low-volume mask, but one with a wide area of vision. A mask with a large volume can be difficult to clear of water and the wearer may experience some resistance when moving the head under water. The volume of a mask is measured by the air space inside between the mask and face.

“Sometimes, I have customers who feel slightly claustrophobic with a mask on their face. In this case, it is important to have a mask that has a large glass faceplate, as well as a low volume to bring the eye closer to the lens. One particular mask that almost everyone enjoys is the ‘Panoramic,’ which comes in several different styles and colors. This mask increases the view dramatically, to 180 degrees. It comes in single and double lenses, and with and without a purge valve." Susan says.

What to look out for when buying a mask?

Look at the shape of your face, and in particular the width across your eyes and the depth from hairline to upper lip. These are the dimensions which your mask will have to fit. At Scuba Shack, the owners are more than happy to help you find a mask right for your face, and each mask purchased comes with a money-back guarantee. If you go snorkeling and are not completely happy with the fit, Scuba Shack will exchange it for another or refund your money.

How to test a mask

When you try on a mask, make sure the top of the skirt sits below the hairline, otherwise it will constantly leak, and comfortably above the upper lip without constricting the nose. You should also ensure an all-round seal, especially beside the eyes. The simplest test is to fit the mask on your face without the strap, and get all your hair out from under the skirt. Breathe in through your nose and suction the mask to your face. It should stay firmly in place on your face, without any air leaks. In the case of a mustache, it is best to trim the hair at the top of the ‘stache near your nose before trying on masks. Look for a mask with a straight bottom seal, not a flared one. Another option for a mustached man is to buy a mask with a purge. With this type of mask, even if you get water in it, just a simple exhale out your noise will clear the mask of any water.

Where to make your purchase

For the most part, the mask and snorkel sets sold at the local Soriana, Comercial Mexicana, and Wal-Mart are of the cheap plastic variety. The lenses are made of plastic, not glass, and will continue to fog up when snorkeling, the skirt is also a stiff plastic and most of the time leaves a red ring around your face once the mask is removed. By purchasing a mask from a trained professional, you will have a one-time investment in enjoyment and safety, and have a chance to enjoy Manzanillo’s reefs and rocky shores with comfort and ease.

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