What makes a mask a mask??? Great question and we are happy to offer some information on the Riffe Frameless Black Mask!
When looking for a mask, the most important thing is the fit. If a mask doesn’t fit properly, your dive experience is going to suffer and no one wants that. The mask should be able to fit on your face without assistance from a head strap and there should not be a strap attached to the mask when you are looking at a scuba shop. When looking at masks, you should be able to place a mask over your eyes and nose, inhale slightly and feel if the fit is right. If it doesn’t, try another with a slightly different shape. There should not be any gaps between your face and the skirt of the mask; also make sure any stray hairs are out of the way so the seal is not affected. Typically, I will tilt my head forward to confirm there is complete seal/vacuum when looking at masks. The strap is not needed when trying on a mask because it is really not what keeps the mask on your face during your dive. Your dive mask is kept on your face due to the difference in pressure. The mask strap is there only keep the mask in the proper place in case you bump your mask and it should never be tight. A mask strap that is too tight, can lead to black eyes during a dive. Also make sure to pick up an extra mask strap for your “Oh Shit” Kit.
Beside the fit, major things to look for in different masks are number of lenses (one, two, and side windows), skirt color (white, black, or clear), and tint/lens color. When I bought my Riffe Frameless Black mask, I had already purchased my ScubaPro mask and I was purchasing this one as a back up or when I needed something a little different. The Riffe Frameless Black Mask is made for a medium sized face and has one large lens with a black silicone skirt. There is a fairly shallow volume in the mask between the skirt and the lens. This makes the mask very easy to clear when diving. According to some, a mask with a black skirt can supposed to help your eyes to focus on life while diving; I personally have not noticed a difference in my ability to focus between this mask and my other one which has a clear skirt. The thing I have noticed a difference with is one large lens verse two lenses. One major lens helps limit the distractions while diving and this is where I notice the improvement in my vision. I don’t feel distracted by the divide in my range of vision and I feel like I’m seeing a more panoramic view of the dive. I personally like diving with this mask during day dives when there is good visibility.
Riffe is a spear fishing company and their products are not necessary made for recreational scuba diving. I didn’t know this at the time, but I still really like the mask. The single lens allows for excellent visibility. This mask is also available with amber lenses, but I had purchased mine with clear lenses.
Let me know if you have any other questions about this mask or masks in general. We would love to hear from you!
<3 Meliae Quad