Welcome to Water Tip Wednesday. I’m Jackie Troller with Oceantroller snorkeling and freediving, helping you find the right mask. 

Numerous mask options are available, but if you want to dive on your own supply, get depth with your own breath, you need a low volume mask that fits your face comfortably. Why low volume? Low volume masks allow you to be selfish with your air. It’s a smaller space that you’re giving away air to. Large volume masks take a lot more effort to equalize, cause discomfort and can increase your risk of getting a mask squeeze. So unless you want to look like you’re straight out of a horror film for a couple weeks stick to low volume. How do you find a mask that’s the right fit for you? I’ve seen way too many snorkelers and freedivers use their mask strap, as a ratchet strap. Residual lines on your face after a dive are not sexy nor comfortable. When trying out a mask, do not put on the mask strap. Hold the mask to your face. Clear any hair so it cannot get in the way of a seal. Inhale through your nose and you should be able to gently pull away and the mask will remain suction to your face this is how you know you have a good fit. I recommend trying on many makes and models to ensure that your nose has a comfortable nose pocket and that no hard parts of the mask are hitting your skin. Lastly, if you’re tempted to get a neoprene mask strap cover…DON’T DO IT! Your mask strap will slide off your head if you’re snorkeling or freediving. Ladies, be careful about putting conditioner in your hair; it may also cause your mask strap to slip off your head. Gentleman with mustaches… use silicone compatible gels not products like Vaseline as the petroleum-based products do not go well with the silicone mask skirts. Well, that’s your water tip for today. See you guys next week. Never dive alone. 

Oceantroller out.