Mask

The mask is your window to the underwater world. It allows you to see clearly by creating an air space in front of your eyes. In order to prevent mask squeeze this space must be equalized during descent. For this reason, your nose must be enclosed in the mask so you can exhale into it and equalize the pressure. Goggles, which only cover the eyes and not the nose are not acceptable for diving. Be certain to purchase a mask specifically designed for scuba diving.

When choosing a mask, consider the following features:

1. Tempered-glass lens plate. If broken, tempered glass is less likely to shatter into hazardous shards.
2. Comfortable skirt with a close fit against your face and a good seal.
3. Nose or finger pockets. To make equalizing your ears easier, a mask should have some way of letting you conveniently block off your nose.
4. Low-profile. The lower the profile of the mask, the easier it is to equalize and the easier it is to clear if it floods.
5. Adjustable strap that can be locked in place.
6. Wide field of vision. This is accomplished through the low profile and/or through side windows.
   
   When choosing a mask, consider the six desirable features.

   To test for a proper fit, place the mask gently against your face with out using the strap and inhale through your nose. A properly fitting mask should be pulled into place by the suction and stay in place as long as you continue to inhale. If you have to push the mask on your face to make a seal, it doe not fit. Try other masks until a proper fit can be achieved. Next, be sure you can seal your nostrils (pinch your nose) easily from outside the mask.

   Choose a mask that fits properly and has the six desirable features. Other features, such as color, shape and style are a matter of personal preference. If you require vision correction there are prescription lenses available, check with your local scuba shop for information. I have worn contacts for years and never experienced a problem.

   Fins

   Fins provide a large surface area that allows you to move through the water with far less effort and far greater efficiency. By using your powerful leg muscles you free up your hands for other activities. Fins come in a wide variety of styles with all sorts of features. Regardless of what they feature all fins have two aspects in common:1)pockets for your feet and 2)blades for propulsion.

   When it comes to selecting your fins you will need to keep three things in mind: 1)your size 2)your physical ability and 3)the geographic area in which you dive. The shape of the fin is relatively unimportant compared to blade size and rigidity. The larger and stiffer the blade, the more leg strength required to use the fin. If protective wet-suit boots are commonly used in your local area, you should purchase them when you buy your fins so that the fins can be fitted with the boots on. If you live in a warm climate where wet-suit boots are not required for warmth then full-foot fins will do just fine. However if you dive in an area that is littered with sharp debris such as sea urchins, broken sea shells, etc. You will want to stick with rigid sole boot for protection, therefore you would need an adjustable fin. Fit and comfort are the most important considerations in choosing the right fins. The fin and boots should never bind, cramp or pinch. Leg cramps can occur on a regular basis without the assistance of an ill fitting boot or fin.

   Snorkel

   The snorkel is a standard piece of diving equipment that allows you to breathe at the surface without lifting your head from the water. Granted this piece of equipment is most commonly associated with skin diving. It does however come in handy when you are conserving tank air while swimming out to a descent point or resting on the surface.

   Snorkels come in all shapes and sizes. Bare in mind that a snorkel's tube diameter (bore), length and shape all affect breathing resistance. Unrestricted, easy breathing are the main objectives when purchasing a snorkel therefore look for these features when choosing your snorkel:

   1. A large bore.
   2. Be no longer than 17 inches.
   3. Be designed with smooth, rounded bends. Avoid snorkels with sharply angled curves.

   The important considerations are comfort, fit and minimal breathing resistance. To check for these, place the snorkel in your mouth with the mouthpiece flange between your lips and teeth, and the barrel of the snorkel against the front of your left ear. The mouthpiece should fit comfortably, without chaffing or causing mouth fatigue, and be straight in your mouth. Next, take deep breaths through the snorkel to test the ease of breathing.

   The snorkel should be attached to the left side of your mask strap with the snorkel keeper following the manufacturers instructions. Once attached you will need to out your mask on position the snorkel near the front of your left ear. Adjust the height and rotate it until the snorkel remains in your mouth even when your mouth is wide open. When properly positioned, the muscles of your mouth should not have to hold the snorkel in place when you use it.

   This information was obtained from the Padi Open Water Diver Manual