Mask and Snorkel

Capnbob · 01-30-2007, 07:20 AM

Hello,

I'm new to the world of diving. I live in Oregon and I'm going to start classes to get certified in February. The dive shop I'm doing this through provides everything for the training except a mask and snorkel, which must be purchased.

I'm a college student on a budget so I'm considering buying online opposed to at the dive shop to save a few bucks but I don't want junk. I'm not sure what to look for in terms of brands, or features. Also, would it be foolish to buy a mask online because I won't be able to try it on ahead of time? I don't know if I could even do that at the dive shop.

Another concern I have is that I wear glasses/contacts. Do contacts and diving mix? That sounds potentially hazardous. Should I get prescription goggles? My vision's not terrible but I probably would need some form of correction.

Any recommendations for masks and snorkels that would be appropriate for ocean and lake diving are much appreciated!

Thanks,
Capnbob

**Scuba Mama** · 01-30-2007, 09:08 PM

Welcome to diving. I would buy from the shop. Most shops will give students a discount with classes for gear. I yet to hear of a shop that would not let someone try on the gear first. They need to know it fits too, so you won't bring it back. Most shops will work with you if you pick a mask that does not fit right and switch out with little or no cost to you. Next watch out for little things when buying on line, shipping cost, return policy, money back, returns for damaged goods, exchange policy. I like TUSA, I had a mask part break and they sent my a replacement fed-ex, no charge so I would not miss out on my dive. Since then I have been happy with them.

Contacts: you can wear your contacts underwater. I would leave your eyes closed during the mask removal skill. I wear glasses, but with being underwater with a approximately 25 to 30% magnification helps everything looks fine and I can see my console.

Have fun diving.