A Guide To Full Face Scuba Masks

by Noreen on August 28, 2010

Full face scuba masks aren’t often used in recreational diving, unless you’re diving in very cold waters.A lot of serious cold-water/professional divers use full-face masks to help keep warm.However, these types of masks are commonly used commercial diving and by underwater videographers and TV show hosts as they can be fitted with intercom radio units or other communication devices that allow diver to speak freely and communicate with one another, they crew or audience. Here’s a closer look at Full Face Scuba Masks and what to look for in them-

featured above-The Ocean Reef Neptune Space with GSM Kit available at LeisurePro.com

What’s the difference between a Full Face Mask (FFM) and Regular Scuba Mask?
A full face scuba diving mask is a type of diving mask that completely seals the face of the diver from water and which also includes a mouthpiece is built into the mask allowing the diver to breathe. In other words Full face masks (FFMs) allow the second stage regulator to be connected directly into the mask, thus eliminating the need to hold the regulator mouthpiece with your teeth. There is a higher comfort level with breathing through a full face mask as compared to a traditional mask and regulator.

FFM’s are also bigger and heavier than conventional scuba masks and require special training prior to use, but are secured well with straps that go around the head so, there’s virtually no chance of it dislodging. To top it off the seals around the entire face are pretty airtight not leaving much less risk of water leaking into the mask during a dive. This also facilitates use of communication equipment fitted in the mask to function well. Full masks can be three to four times more expensive than half-mask models which makes it all the more important to know what you’re buying when you choose to invest in one.

featured above- The OTS Guardian Full Face Mask available at LeisurePro.com

Choosing a Full Face Mask

It’s important to consider what type of diving you intend on using the mask for. For simple cold water diving, you’re just looking for basic protection from the water coming into contact with your face. A basic full face mask like the Cressi Full Face Rubber Mask. If you’re looking to communicate underwater as they nowadays do for underwater weddings, there are full face masks in the market that come fitted with basic underwater transceiver units or more advanced communication systems. The Ocean Reef Neptune Series of full face masks specialize in such masks with the latest and most innovative underwater communication units included. They even cater for commercial divers with masks featuring shield displays and visor lights.
Try on a few different masks to see which is most comfortable on your face. It’s best if you try on the masks while wearing a hood to get the best feel of it.
Inspect the silicon around the mask to make sure there are no visible gaps. When worn, slide your finger along the outer skirt of the mask and check for gaps between the seal and your face.
To ensure the mask fits well, nod your head and shake it about a little to test that it doesn’t shift on your face. Gently push upwards on the chin of your mask to check the snugness.
Check your peripheral vision in the mask to test your range of visibility.
And lastly, check the surface air valve located on the side of the mask. Since FFMs don’t allow for snorkel usage, the valve permits surface air breathing.