full face mask for cold water

Question
i am using a hookah system and diving in very cold water, i currently use a rubber full mask but it it too narrow and i have leak recamend and riding up problems, cost is a very big concern but saying that what would you recommend for my system, good fit and wide

Answer
Hi James

There are a number of different brands of full face masks and it's impossible for me to tell you which one will fit you best.  As you've discovered, not all masks fit the same shape of face.  I will give you the same advice that I would give for any scuba mask...you've got to try it on and see if it fits and if it is comfortable.  You don't say where you're located but if you're diving in cold water, I assume that you're in the northern latitudes.  Some divers, especially those in arctic regions, like to use full face masks for thermal protection.  If that's the case, you may find some masks to try on in some of the local dive shops.  To save money, your Hookah regulator can probably be refit to a new full face mask but check with a local dive shop to be sure it will work in the mask you select.  You can minimize the problem of the mask riding up by securing a loose loop of hookah hose to your belt or other suitable anchoring point near your waist.

You can Google "full-face mask" and find several different models which are available.  If you decide to order a mask from the internet, be sure it's returnable if it isn't what you want.

I understand that cost is a concern and, as I'm sure you know, full face masks are considerably more expensive than the standard scuba mask.  Full face masks are more difficult to clear or remove in an emergency so I would advise against using a bargain-basement mask just to save a few dollars.  Your safety is worth far more than you'd save on a lesser quality mask so factor this into your decision.

James, I know this isn't exactly the information you wanted but I hope you understand why I cannot predict what will fit you and what won't.  I hope this discussion will guide you in finding a mask that will work for you.

Best wishes on your gold hunt!!

Mike Giles
Mike's Dive Center
mikescuba.com