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I use "expensive" mask from Scubapro, the frameless, and it has lasted me for over 15 years without issues other than having to replace the mask strap once. I do over 100 dives year on average. Cheap masks won't last this long, not even close.
As others have said, fit is everything, cost is secondary.
Potentially, one other consideration, if you use glasses, is the ability to fit corrective lenses. Which obviously, is a cost extra, but can improve your enjoyment, and potentially safety if it allows you to focus on your instruments.
Potentially, one other consideration, if you use glasses, is the ability to fit corrective lenses. Which obviously, is a cost extra, but can improve your enjoyment, and potentially safety if it allows you to focus on your instruments.
Please take a look at our minimum mask. It provides excellent visibility and is very easy to clear, due to the low volume of air. It will fit and be comfortable and not leak or
I will accept a refund on my dime. It fits a huge majority of our customers, or I wouldn’t be able to make this offer.
https://www.makospearguns.com/Minimus-Mini-Freedive-Mask-p/mmm.htm
I will accept a refund on my dime. It fits a huge majority of our customers, or I wouldn’t be able to make this offer.
https://www.makospearguns.com/Minimus-Mini-Freedive-Mask-p/mmm.htm
+1 for the Mako Minimus-Mini, which I bought as a backup for my Hollis M4 mask. After trying the Mako for four successive dives, the Mako is now my primary and the Hollis is my backup. The Mako fits my face as well as my wife's, who has a much narrower face. So, no need to buy an expensive mask if the less expensive mask is a great fit. For me, the decision to try the Mako, was the hassle free, money back guarantee.
Fit is paramount, but there should be no reason you can’t find the OEM that actually makes it and pay cheap prices for the cheap mask with the expensive logo.
Agreed on fit being the most important thing. The only reasons I've replaced a mask is when a strap holder broke and replacement parts were no longer available or when the mask was lost/stolen.
Some "cheap" masks are really not made well. They look good at the LDS or catalog. Their components are poor and won't last.
So to answer the question: It has to fit first, then look at the components. If they are both equal, then go for the cheaper one.
So to answer the question: It has to fit first, then look at the components. If they are both equal, then go for the cheaper one.
Olddiver1950
Registered
I found the absolute best mask for me. I bought two. it's the mask that fit well and allows me to dive without worrying about anything except enjoying the dive.
I should have learned but instead I bought a super expensive mask before my last trip to Komodo, Indonesia. Super expensive. All the hype. Great materials. Stellar reviews. Read all about "you get what you pay for." used it for two dives and sold it to a guy on the trip that loved it. For me it simply wasn't the right mask. unfortunately the dive shop I bought it from didn't let me try it out since they didn't have a pool close by. I tried it in the shop and with a mouthpiece and it seemed great. I was enamored by the high price just knowing it was going to be awesome. Didn't fit, I didn't enjoy the dive and when I went back to my old stand by I felt like I was back in a relaxing chair. Sigh of relief. So the best mask? The one that fits the best....regardless of price or hype. IMHO
JamesBon92007
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My girlfriend recently bought a Dive Rite ES124 low volume mask for about $32. She is replacing a mask she paid about $95 for. She likes the cheaper one better.
I've been using the same Cressi Occhio mask for about 35 years. I don't remember how much I paid for it but the newer version sells for about $35. In both cases the mask fits our particular faces. I like the low profile so I can also use it for free-diving plus it takes less air to clear it on the off-chance that it gets water in it (it actually happened once or twice).
It's difficult to make a recommendation based upon the mask being made by a reputable dive gear manufacturer because companies such as US Divers sells some cheap, crappy stuff that usually comes in a bag with a goofy snorkel and some fins. I doubt that Dive Rite makes any crap and Cressi has been around for many decades and has not made too many blunders.
I've been using the same Cressi Occhio mask for about 35 years. I don't remember how much I paid for it but the newer version sells for about $35. In both cases the mask fits our particular faces. I like the low profile so I can also use it for free-diving plus it takes less air to clear it on the off-chance that it gets water in it (it actually happened once or twice).
It's difficult to make a recommendation based upon the mask being made by a reputable dive gear manufacturer because companies such as US Divers sells some cheap, crappy stuff that usually comes in a bag with a goofy snorkel and some fins. I doubt that Dive Rite makes any crap and Cressi has been around for many decades and has not made too many blunders.
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