Scuba (Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) diving and its various equipment have gone a long way. It began in 360 B.C. when divers first used the air underneath a crude diving bell as their source of air when submerged in the water. Guglielmo de Lorena then developed this “technology” into a real diving bell that was fastened by slings on top of the shoulders. In the past, it took hundreds of years to develop the equipment that enabled man to explore the wonders of the underwater world.

In purchasing equipment, the most important advice to remember is to ask experts on what to buy and why. Diving gears can be expensive, so, a few tips from other licensed divers and instructors would make the task of choosing less of a burden. But, on the other hand, the risks of the sport are often fatal and would depend on the quality of one’s equipment. Take the breathing regulator for example. The machine is attached to the scuba tank. It decreases the pressure of the oxygen stored in the tank, making safe for the divers to breathe in the air. Another example is the wet suit. The durability and the strength of material ensure the body’s protection from intense temperatures, specifically the coldness under the depths of the ocean.

Finding a mask that fits your face well is a simple matter and can be tested with the following three-step procedure:

1. Place the mask on your face but with the strap placed out of the way. 2. Inhale slightly through the nose so that the slight vacuum holds the mask on your face. 3. Test the fit by gently moving your head and it should remain in place if you gently try and pull it away from your face.

At the end of this test you will have determined whether a scuba mask fits your face well or not, so now it is time to examine other features.

Style : The style of mask is now usual and features a pocket for the nose that protrudes forward of the lenses and as well as low volume the large lenses allow for a wider field of view, but models to look for include Cressi Big-Eyes, although it is not suitable for all face shapes.

Colour : This is purely a matter of personal preference and you may not have any preference at all. The traditional colour for masks, and all dive equipment in fact, was black due to the use of neoprene. These days silicone is used instead for masks, which is more flexible and less susceptible to sun damage. Silicone can be supplied transparent or in a multitude of shades due to the use of colouring agents, but many people still choose black. However, some people claim masks made with transparent silicone give better visibility due to the greater amount of light allowed to enter.

Skirt : High quality scuba masks feature a silicone skirt that thins towards the edge, allowing for a better and more comfortable fit against the skin of the face. Often you’ll see a second skirt inside the upper edge of the skirt that allows a better seal. Its absence at the bottom is to allow water to drain more easily from inside the mask.

Strap : There are many occasions when you’ll need to adjust your mask strap and so ensure that you find the mask easy to adjust. If you wear gloves when diving then make sure you can adjust it quickly and easily with gloves on. And while on the subject of mask straps, remember to always carry a spare – it is one of the more common equipment failures and the lack of a spare may mean you have to remain on the boat when everyone else is enjoying the submarine world.

Those are the most important factors to consider both when buying a new scuba mask or using rental equipment from a dive centre. By ensuring a good fit you ensure your own comfort and safety while a combination of the other factors will mean you get many happy years of service from your scuba mask.