In our last post, we shared with you the one thing that will continue to make your mask fog every. single. dive. (if not taken care of) If you missed it, go back and read about how to remove the silicone film left on your mask during its manufacturing process. Following this should take care of the overlying issue of your mask fogging; however, there are still a few tips and tricks you should know about to ensure that your mask never fogs on a dive again.
Tip #1: USE DEFOG!!!
Yes, you need to use defog, and yes, it does help. You can use your spit (it's better than nothing at all), but it does not work as good. Defog needs to be used before every dive, not just your first dive of the day. This simple 10-second step in your dive prep can cause a world of difference to the enjoyment of your dive. Just do it... simple as that.
Tip #2: Acclimate Your Dive Mask
You probably remember learning in your 4th grade science class that fog is formed when cool air passes over a warm body of water or moist land, or vice versa. Now apply that to your day of diving. If you're diving in cooler water, like quarries, springs, or the Pacific Northwest and you leave your mask sitting out in the sun on the boat deck, you're going to be introducing your toasty warm mask to the cooler water you'll be diving into. What do you think's going to happen?? No matter how much defog you've used, your mask is going to fog up!
Pro Tip: keep your mask submerged in the rinse bucket before and between dives. It will keep your mask close to the same temperature as the water in which you are diving.
Tip #3: Ensure A Leak-Free Seal
Water slowly leaking into your mask during a dive is not only super annoying but is another thing that can cause your mask to fog during your dive. You can prevent mask leakage by doing a couple of things:
- Buy a properly fitting mask. A mask that doesn't fit your face is going to leak no matter what.
- Do not over tighten your mask. That's right. You can wear your mask too tight. Over tightening causes leakage.
- Properly fit your mask strap and seal. Make sure no hair is stuck between your face and the mask seal or else water will leak through. Also, ensure the mask strap is placed across the crown of your head; wearing it too low will pull the mask downward and cause it to leak.
Who knew there was so much information just concerning your mask? Don't be overwhelmed, all of these tips only take a couple of seconds to check and then you're on to the next thing. However, every diver knows how important having a clear mask is to having a happy dive.
