Why are Wetsuits Black?

Do you like rocking the “all black everything” style? Well then, you might like how most scuba diving gear looks, particularly when it comes to wetsuits. It’s hard to knock on black. It goes well with everything, it makes you look slimmer, and it gives you a serious look. But are these really the reasons why most wetsuits are black? Or are there practical, beneficial reasons for this choice?

In this article, we’re going to answer the question: why are most wetsuits black? You’ll discover that black wetsuits have many advantages, from its early manufacturing process, to its durability, to its UV protection and insulating properties and much more. Plus, black just looks really good. Let’s dive into this dark mystery.

Black wetsuits – the beginnings

Since wetsuits were first publicly available in the 50s, wetsuits have been a staple piece of equipment in many water sports because of the insulation and comfort they provide. Water is extremely good at drawing heat from the body, and people wanted to participate in their respective activity for much longer and in different environments. Wetsuits were the solution to that.

Originally designed with surfers in mind, wetsuits turned out to be so versatile they could be used in a variety of different applications, another notable one being scuba diving. Ever since it was first released in the 50s until now, wetsuits have always been black.

The original reasons were mostly due to economics, but now there are some practical and cosmetic reasons why it stayed black, and we each section below will explain this in further detail.

Early manufacturing

As we mentioned, the original reason for wetsuits being black is due to how expensive it is to dye it.

The earliest wetsuits were constructed from natural rubber. Nowadays, wetsuits are made using closed-cell neoprene, which is a synthetic waterproof material.

Neoprene is such a great material for wetsuits thanks to its insulating and buoyant properties. The neoprene sheet has gas-bubbles (closed-cells) sealed into its material during manufacturing, and a finished neoprene sheet is naturally black due to its manufacturing process.

Certainly, these wetsuits can be colored and come in interesting patterns and designs. However, adding color is an added cost and provides little to no benefit in many of the applications where a neoprene wetsuit can be used. Believe us, they really tried to make colorful wetsuits a thing, but it didn’t pan out (more details in the next section).

In modern wetsuits, the primary neoprene material is actually sandwiched between two more protective layers – the external layer adds extra tear resistance, and the internal layer makes it easier and more comfortable to don and doff. Just remember to put on the wetsuit when you (and the wetsuit) are both dry, otherwise the friction will be too high.

The external layer will typically be a durable material such as silicone rubber or nylon, whereas the internal layer will be a soft synthetic lining.

Since the wetsuit is naturally black after all of these layers are applied, a significant amount of coloring would be required to make the color show. Would you really want to spend even more money on a wetsuit than you already do? The public didn’t think so either, and that’s why it didn’t catch on.

The failure of colored wetsuits

On paper, colored wetsuits seemed like a sound idea. In the same way that one’s clothes could come in a variety of colors, and intricate designs could increase the value of a piece of clothing, why doesn’t this logic apply to wetsuits?

In fact, one could make the argument that colorful wetsuits have the benefit of increasing one’s visibility making it easier to track a diver or regroup/rescue them if they get separated/lost. Yet, black wetsuits are still the overwhelmingly dominant choice.

A basic economic principle is that if there were demand for vibrantly colored wetsuits, manufacturers would increase their production of them to cash in on that market. However, it just never took off for some reason.

Way back in the 60s, after wetsuits had been in the market for about a decade, a yellow wetsuit called the Aquafort was manufactured. It touted its high visibility as one of its major selling points. It failed to generate enough profits, so that was soon discontinued.

Pictures from the 80s show that there were indeed scuba divers wearing bright, fluorescent colors. As you’ll remember, this was the fashion for the time, and fashion is fickle. It proved nothing more than a fad, and once again, black wetsuits were the norm.

As long as the demand for colored wetsuits is low, it simply isn’t cost-efficient for manufacturers to mass produce them. Thus, they will stick to what is tried-and-true, which is just a conservative black wetsuit.

Why do black wetsuits have so much longevity? Perhaps people simply prefer the color black. We can come up with a few reasons why black is such a good color for wetsuits.

Why are black wetsuits so popular?

The color black is special, kind of like white. They are neutral colors that go with any other color. For instance, you could have a black wetsuit and a yellow regulator. The black goes perfectly fine with it. But if you had a pink wetsuit and a yellow regulator, it’d look kind of strange, don’t you think?

Black is also just a good looking color. In the fashion world, which we admit is fickle, for a time there was a style known as “all black everything” because people felt black on black just looked good. You can deviate from this by wearing mostly black but having a statement piece such as a bright colored piece of footwear or watch to make it stand out. The same can be done for scuba diving gear with a dive watch or regulator that contrasts against the black wetsuit for a cool style.

Another consideration is that wearing black makes you look taller, slimmer, and serious. For whatever reason, wearing all black gives off the impression that one is thinner, which also helps one look taller. The color black is also associated with clothing worn to solemn or formal events and gives one a more mature, refined look.

In comparison, a bright colored wetsuit can make one look like a clown or a raver or something. Whatever the case, style is highly subjective and the execution of the overall outfit also matters in fashion. There are no rules. Plus, this is scuba diving we’re talking about. Function should take precedence over form, and in the end, it’s all up to the individual. But the public has spoken, and black stays winning.

Are all wetsuits black?

No, there are still colored wetsuits available, but black is the most common color by far.

If you want to have some sort of design on your wetsuit, manufacturers also make suits with colored panels to add a little bit of pizzazz to a black wetsuit’s appearance.

There are also camouflage wetsuits that are popular with spearfishers to hide their presence from the fish they are hunting.

There are some gimmicky wetsuit designs that are designed to look like a superhero costume, an underwater tuxedo, or all manner of fun appearances.

Keep in mind that if you get a bright colored wetsuit, that its appearance may not be the same as on the surface due to the color loss that occurs at deeper depths.

First the color red is lost, then orange, yellow, and so on, until everything just looks dark blue. So if your wetsuit has a lot of reds on it and you’re diving past the point that reds are lost, then you may not look as good underwater as you might think.

What are the benefits of a black wetsuit?

In addition to being a popular choice that can go well with any other color or designs, black wetsuits actually provide some practical benefits that you might not have considered.

For instance, did you know that the color black absorbs the most energy from the sun than any other color? Conversely, white repels the most energy. The outcome is that black wetsuits provide the most warmth. They also dry faster between dives compared to one that is lightly colored.

Black wetsuits also have the same benefit as any black clothing where stains or any kind of wear and fading aren’t as noticeable. The materials wetsuits are constructed out of are generally very durable anyways, however black can mask many imperfections which gives it some longevity before you need to buy a new one.

Also, as we mentioned, a colored wetsuit might not even look like what you think it does underwater. In the case of a black wetsuit, it will still look black.

Are sharks attracted to colored wetsuits?

There are a lot of theories floating around online and also being verbally passed down by veteran scuba divers who have had their own unique experiences with sharks.

Currently, there is no clear link regarding a specific wetsuit color attracting sharks. There is intense debate about the color yellow standing out in particular to sharks, to the point that it’s even jokingly referred to as “yum yum yellow”, but it has not been shown to be demonstrably true by researchers.

We know that sharks can see color, however the theory is that sharks are noticing the contrast in colors. So if you don’t want a curious shark getting uncomfortably close to you, perhaps keep your scuba equipment all in one color.

To alleviate concerns about color, keep in mind that sharks have other senses they rely on, particularly smell. Surely you’ve heard that a shark can smell blood from around a quarter of a mile away, so perhaps your concern should be whether you’re bleeding or not. But as this video shows, even that might not be a problem.

Sharks are mostly attracted to fish blood. Humans are not their usual prey, which is why shark attacks are so rare. The belief is that whenever a shark attacks a human, it’s because they confused us for a fish. Once they realize their mistake, they swim away. Unfortunately, even a single bite can be fatal, but the point is it’s extremely unlikely to occur.

Are there advantages to wearing colored wetsuits?

Definitely, yes. The primary benefit of a colorful wetsuit is increased visibility, both at the surface and underwater.

If you get lost or separated from your group, you are more likely to be spotted if you’re wearing a colorful wetsuit. This also applies to rescuers who are trying to find you, or boats if you’re in an area with boat traffic or a boat is trying to pick you up.

Keep in mind that your wetsuit will lose colors depending on how deep you’re at, so remind your dive buddy that you might not look the same 100 ft underwater.

That aside, there aren’t any cons to wearing a colored wetsuit, unless you consider making a fashion blunder a huge mistake depending on how garish the design is. There is also the minor downside of colored wetsuits getting dirtier faster. Overall, it’s almost entirely upside.

Parting words

Now you know why most wetsuits are black. No, there isn’t any conspiracy, nor is everybody in on a joke. Black wetsuits are just the most practical from an economic standpoint, and it gets the job done. The color black also pairs well with any other color, so you can perhaps make your regulator or dive watch a statement piece by getting one that has a vibrant color.

Instead of worrying about a wetsuit’s color, why not focus instead on whether it’s able to keep you warm and comfortable in the cold water? Consider the wetsuit thickness and how easy it is to don and doff rather than if it has a cool color design.

Whatever color your wetsuit is, as long as you can stay safe and enjoy your dive, that’s the most important consideration. Plus, at deep depths you’re likely to lose most of the color anyways, so why bother? Black wetsuits are fine just the way they are, and have been around for over 70 years and counting. Black has proven itself to be iconic and it will be hard to change that.

How to Break In a Wetsuit

The first time you don your wetsuit, it may feel a little too stiff for your liking. You may feel that your movements are restricted and you struggle to perform the same motions you used to do. This is because new wetsuits conform to a standard fit; they are not going to fit you like a bespoke suit will. However, the more you wear it, the more it will start to get broken in and conform to your body shape better.

To break in a wetsuit refers to loosening up the wetsuit enough so that it allows you to move with little to no restrictions while still having a snug fit on your body. Many people disagree on whether a “break-in” process is even necessary. Wetsuits don’t work like jeans; the argument is that a wetsuit that has been broken in is thin and loose which decreases its insulating capabilities. In this article, we’ll discuss ways that you can get that “broken in” feeling in a wetsuit so that you can stay warm and move without restrictions.

How to loosen up a tight wetsuit

Wetsuits nowadays have a very short break-in period because the neoprene material it is constructed from is already quite stretchy. The first time you wear your wetsuit, it should already be a decent balance of being tight, but not so tight that you struggle to breathe or move around in it. If the wetsuit fits you well enough, then you can count on it to adapt to your body shape over time.

There isn’t much of a trick to breaking in a wetsuit. You just need to wear it often and move around in it a lot. Just putting on the wetsuit will stretch it out just a bit each time. The areas that will get stretched the most from donning the wetsuit will be the shoulder region of the suit. The legs get stretched to a lesser degree when you reach down to pull it up through your legs..

Once you’re in the wetsuit, you can do some light stretches or movements. Consider doing some lunges, squats, arm swings, and the like. In short, you are basically doing a standard warm up routine. It’s not a bad idea because you’re about to do some physical activity anyways, but you can also break-in your wetsuit at the same time.

To speed up the breaking in process, you can even wear the wetsuit out of the water for as long as you can bear the heat/cold. This is the only acceptable way to speed up the wetsuit breaking in process.

If you think that you can break-in the wetsuit faster by pulling or stretching it when you’re not even wearing the wetsuit, you run the risk of tearing the neoprene or unevenly stretching it out. In short, it’s not a good idea to stretch your wetsuit other than to wear it and use it normally.

Wearing your new wetsuit for the first time

So you finally have your own wetsuit. Maybe you were tired of using rental wetsuits or maybe you just wanted one of your own. Here’s how you can make it truly yours.

After you’ve donned your wetsuit, first pull on the neck opening a bit to open up some space for air to vent from the suit. Next, position your upper legs at a 90 degree angle to your torso; it should look like you are sitting in a chair. Move your knees apart and together kind of like you’re flapping them. This vents the air trapped in the crotch area.

If no air is able to enter your suit, it is an indication that your wetsuit may be too tight. If little to no air is entering, then neither is much water. Wetsuits aren’t designed to keep you dry, but they are supposed to keep you warm. You also want water circulating in your crotch area for when you pee in your wetsuit. You can also consider that part of the christening process if you’d like.

Keep in mind that the thicker a wetsuit is, the more restrictive it will feel. You may never be able to reach full range of motion if your wetsuit is too thick. With that said, most of the time, a standard 3mm wetsuit is more than adequate for most scenarios, and that is thin enough for you to break-in quickly.

How tight should a wetsuit fit?

With other watersports clothing, you have the option of wearing them tight or loose such as a rashguard, but with wetsuits the only option is tight. Wetsuits are designed to insulate your body heat, and it can only do that if it’s close to your skin. The wetsuit must trap the heat your body produces while keeping the thin layer of warm water in your suit from leaking out too quickly.

If your wetsuit is too loose, the cold water will circulate the suit too quickly and take heat away from your body, defeating the point of even wearing a wetsuit in the first place. On the other hand, a wetsuit cannot be too tight otherwise you won’t even be able to move properly in it. You should still be able to easily breath and move freely, but there may be an adjustment period.

A wetsuit should feel like a second skin. It may not feel like that at first until you break it in. When wearing your wetsuit, it should not have any wrinkles, creases, or folds. If the wetsuit is a full suit, its arms should reach the wrists, and legs should reach the ankles, and a portion of your neck will also be covered.

Don’t be alarmed if some water enters your wetsuit; that is perfectly normal. However, it’s not normal if water can freely enter and exit the suit. That is a sign that the wetsuit is perhaps a bit too loose. It’s easy to tell when a wetsuit is loose, but the tricky part is determining how tight a wetsuit should fit without being too tight.

Here are some factors to consider when shopping for a wetsuit:

If your neck is getting squeezed and it’s hard to breathe, it’s too tight.
If normal blood flow is being restricted, it’s definitely too tight.
If the wetsuit doesn’t conform to the shape of your body (i.e. there are lots of creases and empty space), it’s not a good fit or too loose.
If certain parts of the wetsuits are stretched heavily (e.g. you have broad shoulders or a large chest, etc.), then the wetsuit is not a good shape for you or it’s too tight.
If the wetsuit keeps chafing against you, consider wearing something under your wetsuit. Otherwise, it may be too tight.
If you can’t wear a base layer, it’s too tight.
Some people on purposely buy one size too small than the recommended size because they want a snug fit or intend to break it in. This may or may not work for you depending on your body shape.

How to find a well-fitted wetsuit

Maybe this whole “breaking in” process is something you want to avoid in the first place. Even a new wetsuit that is the optimal size will feel somewhat stiff and tight at first. Is there a wetsuit that fits just right off the rack?

For the highest chance of a wetsuit fitting you comfortably immediately, you’ll want to look for a wetsuit that offers more stretch. Look for wetsuits made of higher-grade materials, such as the super stretch neoprene that is 300% stretchable than regular neoprene. This material won’t necessarily get “broken in”, however it will give you that snug and comfortable feeling right away.

If a wetsuit is too small, don’t try to stretch it so it fits you. It probably never will and you run the risk of tearing the neoprene. A small wetsuit will cause chafing in the armpit and neck areas. Furthermore, it will fatigue you quickly since you’ll be forcing your muscles to fight against the tightness of the wetsuit. You may also experience poor circulation which can make it difficult for you to stay warm in the water.

Wetsuits that are too large will not keep you warm because the water will be able to flush out whatever warmth is trapped in your suit. It will also provide limited improvements when it comes to buoyancy. A large wetsuit will also cause you to fatigue more quickly because of the extra drag that comes with wearing it.

If it’s possible, you should try on a wetsuit before buying it. It’s possible to buy online if you already have wetsuit experience to draw from, and measurements to compare with. However, even if a wetsuit fits, that doesn’t mean it’s comfortable. And even if a wetsuit isn’t comfortable right away, there’s a possibility that you just need to break it in.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if a wetsuit is acceptably comfortable off the rack or if you are willing to break it in. If the wetsuit is comfortable because it is too tight or doesn’t fit your body shape, then don’t even try to break it in and just try on a different wetsuit.

What’s the difference between a new wetsuit and a broken-in one?

A brand new wetsuit will be thicker, tighter, and warmer compared to an older one. Breaking it in is especially important for activities like surfing and swimming where the extra flexibility makes a big difference.

When you enter the water with a new wetsuit, you’ll find that you’re more buoyant by 1-2 pounds compared to an older wetsuit of the same thickness. The reason for this is that the older wetsuit has been worn down and is literally thinner now, making it less buoyant as well.

Broken-in wetsuits will give you more freedom of movement because the material is not only stretched out, but thinner as we mentioned. This can be a double-edged sword: if the wetsuit has become too loose or thin, then more water will come in and flush out the warm water inside. The thin neoprene will also not be as effective at insulating heat. In other words, the broken-in wetsuit will not be as warm.

If you’re interested in buying some wetsuit products, consider checking out our review of the following:

Best Low Volume Mask for Freedivers and Spearos

In recent years, the obscure sport of freediving has gone from a niche sport to something that is quite common. Many snorkelers have started practicing skin diving, which is a form of freediving, so that they can get up close and personal with the aquatic life. Many people are also starting to learn freediving properly thanks to the power of internet communities sharing tips and PADI offering an eLearning course.

All of this has resulted in low volume freediving masks to surge in demand commensurate with how popular freediving has started to become. Now dive shops have started offering entire product lines of freediving equipment. This is not without controversy, as many people aren’t even sure if there is a big enough difference between a freediving mask vs. scuba mask.

Is a freediving mask just another fad that is hyped up by a marketing ploy to wrest your hard-earned cash from your hands? Or are freediving masks truly worth the money and something that not only freedivers or spearos, but even scuba divers and snorkelers can benefit from? There really is a noticeable difference between a low volume freediving mask and a regular scuba mask. Freediving masks are more compact, lightweight, and hold less volume. The benefit of this is that it’s significantly easier to clear and equalize, helping you save precious oxygen.

If you are serious about freediving, you need to get yourself a freediving mask. Read on to learn about our recommendations for the best freediving masks, as well as learn more about how freediving masks differ from scuba masks.

Our Top Picks:

Cressi Adult 2-window Low Volume Diving Mask |...

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Cressi Nano Crystal, Black/Black (DS365050)

Aqua Lung MicroMask Double Lens Dive Mask

Best Low Volume Freediving Mask Recommendations

Cressi Nano

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Cressi Nano Crystal, Black/Black (DS365050)

Innovative mask for scuba diving and advanced freediving, designed to offer an extremely hydrodynamic and compact shape. Cressi has developed this...
It is the mask on the market with the lowest internal volume (12.86 in2 | 83 cm2), an ideal requirement for freediving lovers. Completely flexible,...
The Patented Integrated Dual Frame Technology consists of the joining of two rigid frames producing a drastic reduction in the internal volume....

You can’t go wrong with Cressi, and their low-volume Nano mask continues their track record of excellence. The first thing we noticed when diving with it was a complete absence of fog without applying any anti-fog treatments on it such as burning the lens with a lighter or brushing it with toothpaste.

The Nano features inverted teardrop lenses which enhances visibility and keeps foggint to a minimum. Very rarely do masks have this level of cleanliness out of the box, and even if the Nano starts to fog up, you can apply the above treatments to remedy it.

Next, the Nano adheres very well to most faces thanks to the soft silicone skirt that provides optimal comfort with a small degree of rigidity for a tighter seal. Some users with wider faces have found the Nano to be too small for them.

Underneath the silicone material for the Nano are “veins” which help the skirt maintain its structure. Even after hours in the water wearing the Nano, there were hardly any imprints on the face.

With that said, getting adjusting the straps to the optimal position took some time. The release system used for the strap requires lifting a level which does not bode well for easy calibration of the strap length once the mask is on your face. In other masks, such as the Seac M70 and the Salvimar Noah uses a two-button solution which we found to be a superior release system.

True to its name, the Nano is very compact with a low internal volume. Based on our measurements, it has an average internal volume of 100mL. Cressi has managed to achieve such a low internal volume without sacrificing the mask’s field of view. There are hardly any blind spots, and it’s very easy to see in nearly all directions. The Cressi Nano is yet another solid product from a reliable manufacturer.

Aqua Lung Sphera X

AQUALUNG Sphera X Mask - Clear/Glacier

180° distortion-free panoramic vision thanks to the exclusive Curved Lens Technology
Plexisol lenses with special anti-fog and anti-scratch benefits. UVA/UVB protection
Advanced Fit Technology (AFT) enhancing the sealing features of the silicone skirt, improving fit, comfort and feel. Easy adjustable buckle system

The Aqua Lung Sphera X has a hydrodynamic design with excellent 180-degree visibility that makes it a solid choice for freedivers and spearfishers. The lenses come coated with anti-fog as well as scratch-resistant layers. However, these lenses are made of plastic, not tempered glass, which some divers find disappointing.

However, its extremely low volume makes it irresistible to serious freedivers. Many professional freedivers value the low volume above all else, however for newer divers, they can feel uncomfortable with how compact the mask is. If you’re used to wearing scuba masks, you may experience claustrophobia when wearing the Sphera X.

The plastic lenses on the Sphera X are durable, however it simply cannot compare to the durability of tempered glass lenses on the likes of the Mares Viper and the other masks in this list. The skirt is constructed with crystal silicone which gives it a firm, yet comfortable seal.

Aqua Lung is a reputable company and their masks last a long time. The Sphera X has many improvements over the original Sphera, such as improved strap quality and overall more resilient materials. It even comes with an EVA box for easier packing.

Mares Viper

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Mares Viper Mask , Brown

The product's latest-generation silicones deter condensation
Ergonomic buckles with double buttons on the skirt enable the strap to be adjusted precisely
Dedicated to the most demanding free divers and spear fishermen

The Mares Viper freediving mask was made possible thanks to collaboration with the world’s best freedivers and is specially made to meet the needs of the most demanding spearfishers and freedivers. The standout features of this mask are its excellent hydrodynamics for reduced resistance underwater, ergonomic design that fits most faces, comfortable strap that is easy to adjust, and highly durable and fog-free tempered glass lenses.

If you’re a spearo and you are looking for a new mask, you should seriously consider getting this before your next trip. The Mares Viper is also great for freedivers who just want to glide through the water, and the hydrodynamic design makes this possible.

Thanks to the frameless design, the Viper is exceptionally low volume The silicone used in the skirt construction is durable and seals tightly on most faces. The strap also contributes a lot towards overall comfort. It is equipped with ergonomic buckles and double-buttoned to help you get the optimal fit.

The issues that the Viper has are not unique to this mask specifically . Some divers have complained about leaking around the nose area. Unfortunately, if you have a mustache, you may need to shave the 0.5mm off to provide a smoother surface for the mask to seal on your face. Also divers with round faces find it hard to get a good seal. Unfortunately, due to the compact design of freediving masks, this is par for the course.

What most divers like about the Mares Viper is its low volume, hydrodynamic design which helps tremendously with equalizing and descending. It’s also comfortable and suited for small and narrow faces. If money is not a deciding factor, then consider purchasing the Mares Viper over the Sphera X.

Cressi Superocchio

Cressi Adult 2-window Low Volume Diving Mask | Superocchio: made in Italy Cressi Low Volume Mask...

The Superocchio is a low-volume mask ideal for scuba divers and freedivers.
The skirt is made in soft silicone that adapts easily to various face shapes ensuring a perfect seal.
The skirt is joint at the rigid frame made in durable technopolymer.

The Cressi Superocchio is a classic freediving mask that was one of the first to hit the market. As such, we know it is reliable and time-tested. To be honest, it does look a bit dated nowadays, but when you’re freediving, do you really care about looks or utility?

Here are some of the reasons why you should consider using this classic mask in modern times. First, it has a durable construction that still holds up to today’s low-volume masks. It seals comfortably and snugly on nearly every face. We already know it’s reliable considering how long ago it was released and the fact that freedivers are still using it.

With that said, it’s not perfect. For starters, it does look like a relic from the past. Furthermore, it’s not quite as low-volume as some of the other freediving masks in our list, and it’s field of view is not as good either. However, the Cressi Superocchio does cost significantly less than most low-volume masks, making it a sweet deal overall.

Let’s talk about how this mask holds up. Its skirt is made of durable silicone that forms a strong seal on your face. Many freedivers have reported using this mask for years with no leakage issues. The skirt is flexible with some extra depth so the mask can contract and expand due to the pressure changes without putting this pressure on your face. The frame feels completely solid and is durable as well.

However, since the mask skirt has some extra depth to it, it does mean that it’s not as low-volume as possible. If getting the absolute lowest volume is your priority for ease of equalization, then the Superocchio is not the optimal choice.

The skirt depth may cause another issue: distortion. Compared to other low-volume masks, especially frameless masks, you’ll notice that the lens is slightly farther away from your eyes. This distance restricts your field of view somewhat resulting in tunnel vision, while also introducing a slight distortion to the image you are seeing.

As you can see, this mask is far from perfect, yet it still makes it onto our list because it is a no-frills mask that is very affordable and should serve most recreational divers well. It loses points against modern masks such as the Mares Viper or the Aqua Lung Sphera X due to its dated looks.

However, the Cressi Superocchio has proven itself to be durable and leak-proof and it will serve you for years. Seriously, some divers claim they’ve been using their Superocchio for 20 years and they only needed to replace the strap a couple of times. Whatever downsides this mask has is more than made up for by its longevity and price.

Omer Zero Cubed

Omer Mask Zero Cubed Ultra Low Volume Spearfishing Freediving Mask

The Omer Zero Cubed is the result of a collaboration between legendary freediver Umberto Pelizzari and award-winning Italian designer Momo design. Right off the bat, we need to address its style. You’ll either love it or hate it. The Omer Zero Cubed makes you look like a superhero. Maybe it’s so good that it gives you superhuman performance? Let’s go over what it offers.

The Zero Cubed wouldn’t be on this list if it wasn’t a low-volume mask. What makes it unique is how the lenses are positioned at an acute angle which helps it achieve a lower volume without any loss of field of vision.

Also, where in most divings masks you would have to equalize at a depth of around 30 feet due to mask squeeze, with the Zero Cubed it’s different. According to Omer, due to its low volume, you will not feel the need to equalize until you have reached a depth of 60 feet. If you are using this mask for snorkeling or skin diving, that means you probably don’t need to worry about equalizing.

Next, the mask pocket is made of soft rubber that allows for one-handed equalization which is helpful for divers who have equalization issues. For improved hydrodynamics, the strap buckle is attached onto the skirt. The skirt itself has a textured matte finish which provides extra grip on your face and helps to reduce glare slightly.

As of now, the Omer Zero Cubed is a relatively new dive mask that seems to tick all of the right boxes. However, as more divers field test it, we’ll get a more accurate look at whether it can truly be considered one of the best low volume dive masks. Omer is a well-known brand and their other masks, the “Alien” and “Up” masks are similarly well-received.

Unfortunately, this mask is one of the most expensive masks on our list. Furthermore, some complaints have been made by customers regarding the buckles breaking off, but perhaps they were just isolated incidents.

Aqua Lung Technisub MicroMask

Aqua Lung MicroMask Double Lens Dive Mask

PADI Master Scuba Diving Instructor Owned and Operated.
This Product Comes Complete With A Full Manufacturer Warranty.

As the name suggests, the Aqua Lung Technisub MicroMask is very light and compact, yet somehow it manages to fit most faces. How? It has to do with its excellent skirt design. Made of high-quality silicone, the skirt is elastic and flexible and will adhere to your facial contours to give you a leak-free underwater experience.

Next, the Technisub can provide a wider and more natural field of view because of how its lenses are installed in an ocular orbit. It basically just means it has a more ergonomic design that takes into account the positioning of the diver’s eyes and the lenses are positioned to provide the maximum field of vision.

The compactness of the Technisub keeps drag to a minimum, makes equalizing a breeze, and can be packed for travel easily. The mask locks in place with the Cardanic Joint Buckles that rotate in all directions and also gives you the option to adjust its tightness to a precise degree. This mask is easily a top-tier low volume mask, and it commands a very high price as well.

Low-Volume Diving Mask Buying Guide

Material

Typically, the best freediving masks are made of silicone. Silicone is a flexible yet durable material that is water-resistant, stretchable, and comfortable to wear on your face. It’s also unlikely to break, get cracks, or snap under immense pressure. Silicone is also chemical-resistant, which is great if you plan on practicing apnea in pools with chlorine or may wash it with chemicals from time to time.

When looking for a mask made of silicone, you need to find one that is the right balance between strong but not too hard on your skin. It obviously must also form a tight seal against your face so that water will not leak in.

With that said, if you have long hair or facial hair that sometimes gets in the way of the mask seal, then you might consider getting a mask with harder silicone. The hard silicone will completely flatten your beard, preventing water from entering. This is not as comfortable, however you can try using a sofer silicone mask and following these tips for a tighter seal.

Color

You can get freediving masks in all kinds of colors, but what we’re really interested in is the color of the mask skirt (the silicone flap that is attached to the frame or the lens directly in a frameless mask that seals against your face). Typically, you want your mask skirt to either come in black or clear.

Black skirts will do the best job at protecting your eyes from the sun’s bright rays by blocking your peripherals better. This has obvious downsides as well. By focusing your vision to what is directly in front of you, you will have a more refined but narrow view of the underwater world. This can be useful for underwater photography.

On the other hand, black skirts will give you “tunnel vision” which means you don’t have any peripheral vision and this can feel claustrophobic for newer divers. If you want the widest, most open field of vision, look for a mask with a clear skirt.

Masks with a clear skirt lets you see through it and will provide the most well-lit diving experience. Since low-volume masks tend to have the frame really close to you, it really exacerbates the claustrophobic feeling. With a clear skirt and the wide vision it provides, it can do a lot to alleviate anxiety. Unfortunately, it also means that it can be blinding in sunny weather, and your vision won’t be as focused.

Fit

No matter what type of mask you get, it needs to have a snug yet comfortable fit on your face. There are three things you should be looking out for specifically:

Check if the mask skirt is large enough to comfortably seal around the edges of your face.
Ensure that the bottom of the mask comfortably covers your nose and seals against the upper lip area.
Determine if the mask fits the general shape of your face. Some masks are designed for narrow faces, others for wider faces, etc.

Unfortunately, it is hard to determine the right fit if you are purchasing online. You will either need to go to a physical store or be willing to return the mask for a different one. If you’re shopping from a store like Amazon with a no-questions asked return policy, this is not as much of an issue. Also, if you already know that a mask fits you but you want to reorder it, then buying online is fine in this case.

Buckle strength

Another factor to consider in your freediving mask is how durable the buckles are. You should be able to pull on the buckles and straps of your mask without them sliding around out of place. The buckles should be adjusted tightly enough so that the mask stays on your face and no water leaks in (however, the straps should NOT be digging into your skin).

If you plan on attaching a snorkel to the mask strap, then clip it tightly and the strap should be a bit tighter to compensate for the possibility of the snorkel breaking the seal on your mask.

Lens size

This depends on personal preferences. If you would rather have a much wider field of vision, then look for masks where the lens is bigger, or get masks where the lenses are closer to your face. The size of the lenses will also affect how easy it is to install prescription lenses, but you can also try wearing contact lenses if you are having difficulty seeing underwater.

Air volume

For freediving especially, you want a low-volume mask. Low-volume masks need less air to equalize to prevent mask squeeze. Furthermore, since air is positively buoyant, having less of it means you will be less positively buoyant which makes it easier to descend.

In order for masks to be low-volume, the design necessitates that the lens will be closer to one’s eyes. This increases the field of vision since there likely won’t be much of a mask frame blocking your peripheral vision.

Who benefits from using a low-volume dive mask?

Prior to low-volume freediving masks’ increase in demand, these masks were almost exclusively worn by freedivers and spearfishers. For these sports, they consider “low-volume” to be 100 mL or less. Nowadays, with manufacturers modifying the design for snorkelers and scuba divers, the definition is up for debate.

There are entire product lines of low-volume masks, and what was once simply a “low-volume” mask for freedivers is now sometimes called low-profile, ultra-low-volume, or micro-mask to distinguish them from other models for scuba divers or snorkelers. How does each sport benefit from a low-volume design?

Low volume masks are the optimal choice for anyone who wants to conserve their breath when equalizing and also wants a mask that is easy to clear. Clearly freedivers and spearfishers have the most to gain from this, however basically any diving sport can benefit from this design.

Freedivers and spearfishers

As we mentioned, low-volume masks are essential for apneic (breath-hold) sports because very little air is required to equalize the mask at depth.

Spearfishers, freedivers, and skin divers dive numerous meters while holding their breath. As the water pressure increases due to depth, the air inside the mask will compress and squeeze tightly against the face. To address this, the diver must exhale some air from their nose to equalize the air inside the mask to make up for the lost volume. Since low-volume masks have less airspace, the diver does not need to sacrifice as much air for the sake of preventing mask squeeze.

Some masks have internal air volumes as low as 75 mL. Some extreme freediving and spearfishing enthusiasts have some DIY solutions to reduce the air volume even further. They will put special inserts inside and decrease the volume to as low as 20 to 50 mL.

Since freediving masks have such a low-volume design, they tend to be sleeker and more compact than dive masks which scuba divers and snorkelers use. They are easier to pack, carry, and typically offer wider fields-of-vision that surpass large-windowed masks.

With the increasing popularity of freediving masks, scuba divers and snorkelers have started wondering if they could benefit from wearing a low-volume mask as well. Manufacturers have even started modifying their designs from the traditional “fishbowl” to a sleeker, low-volume design.

Scuba divers

Freedivers and spearfishers shouldn’t have all the fun. Scuba divers can benefit from wearing low-volume masks too! Scuba divers benefit from wearing low-volume masks because they are easy to clear and are lightweight.

Mask clearing is a skill that some divers hate with a burning passion. Divers who have to do it often, or who have difficulty doing it, should consider getting a freediving style mask. Even when flooded with water, these masks will hold 100mL or less of water. They also have very soft and comfortable skirts.

Many people find clearing low-volume masks to be significantly easier than traditional scuba masks. When masks are easy to clear, the wearer is less likely to waste air, maneuver their head awkwardly, or lose control of their buoyancy as they try to clear their mask.

Since the lens is much closer to the eyes in a low-volume mask, your field-of-vision increases. For instance, low-volume masks tend to have an inverted teardrop lens shape which lends to making it easier to look down without tilting your neck.

This is the perfect design for divers that want to glance down at their gauges without moving their head position. Even the peripheral vision offered by low-volume masks sometimes surpass scuba masks with side-panel windows.

Additionally, the low-volume design of freediving masks make them an excellent choice as a backup or spare mask. For example, frameless scuba masks are often used because they fit easily into a BC pocket or can be stuffed in a small pocket in a small gear bag.

Snorkelers and skin divers

Even snorkelers and skin divers can benefit from wearing a low-volume mask. If you have a small and narrow face, it’s much easier to find the optimal fit with a freediving mask because of their compact and lightweight design.

We mentioned previously the wide field of vision that these masks provide, which improves the snorkeling experience immensely. When snorkeling, you’re not supposed to move your head so you want a mask lens that lets you see in all directions by simply moving your eyes.

Furthermore, advanced snorkelers will also skin dive. Skin diving is similar to freediving in the sense that both are breath-hold dives. However, skin divers are not trying to dive as deep as possible like a freediver; they are diving down to leisurely explore the aquatic world and get a close-up view of something they saw while snorkeling. For the same reasons that a low-volume mask is beneficial for freedivers, it is just as beneficial for skin divers.

Lastly, if you’re uncomfortable or claustrophobic and don’t like the feeling of tunnel vision that traditional dive masks evoke, then look for a frameless mask with a clear skirt for the most “open” feeling mask you can get.

Low-volume masks vs. scuba masks – Advantages

Low-volume masks	Scuba masks
Less air required to equalize.	Widely available, more options to choose from if necessary.
Easier to clear.	More likely to fit because of their availability and sheer number of options available.
Compact design – easier to pack for travel, reduces drag underwater.	The higher volume means if water does enter your mask, it won’t reach your eyes as fast.
Tends to fit small and narrow faces better.	Less claustrophobic due to the higher volume.
The close positioning of the lens is optimal for prescription lenses.	Generally more durable and affordable.

Low-volume masks vs. scuba masks – Disadvantages

Low-volume masks	Scuba masks
Due to the close proximity of the lens to one’s eyes, it can feel restrictive or claustrophobic.	Bulky design increases drag underwater, and the extra surface area means strong currents can latch onto the mask and break the seal.
Can be difficult to fit on larger faces.	Higher volume increases buoyancy and means you need to equalize more airspace.

Do you need a freediving mask?

As you can see, there are many situations where a low-volume mask can benefit sports other than freediving. That doesn’t mean that traditional scuba masks don’t have their advantages, but for many, low-volume masks are the superior option.

With that said, you do not need a freediving mask to freedive. If you’re just starting out, you can certainly freedive with just a scuba mask if it’s more affordable for you. However, if you plan on getting serious with freediving, then you’ll realize that the easier equalization provided by a low-volume mask is crucial.

If you’re just starting out, you may be able to get by with just a scuba mask until you’ve passed 25 m (80 feet) deep. Beyond that, the water pressure will start to become a major issue and you will be better served with a low-volume mask.

With that said, if you’re just starting out, we think you should just invest in the proper freediving gear right off the bat. Not only is this safer, but in the long run you will be better off because you’ll be familiar with the gear and don’t need to transition to a different mask. Having the proper gear will also motivate you to fully immerse yourself in this sport.

Best Frameless Scuba Mask Review

The frameless mask design has always been popular with spearfishers and freedivers due to their low-volume design, making them less buoyant and easier to equalize. However, these once obscure and niche sports have had a surge in popularity in the recent decades, and so have the specialized gear they use.

Thanks to its frameless design and low-volume profile, the frameless mask has become a hit, and now you can find frameless scuba masks in almost every dive shop. Many snorkelers and scuba divers are wondering what the hype is about, so in this article we’ll be covering the differences between frameless masks vs. regular masks, as well as reviewing the best ones to buy.

Essentially, the biggest difference between framed and frameless masks is that in the frameless design, the lens is one big piece that is molded directly to the mask’s skirt. Framed masks have a hard frame that holds the lenses, and the skirt is molded onto the frame, not the lens itself. There are pros and cons to the frameless design, and depending on your personal preferences, you may prefer one type to the other.

Our Top Picks:

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Cressi F1, White

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Hollis M-1 Mask | Ideal for Scuba Diving and...

ATOMIC Aquatics Venom Frameless Scuba Diving Mask...

(225)

Best Frameless Scuba Mask Recommendations

Atomic Aquatics Venom Frameless Mask

225 Reviews

ATOMIC Aquatics Venom Frameless Scuba Diving Mask with Rigid Silicone Skirt | Comfortable...

EXCLUSIVE DESIGN - The Venom Frameless Swimming Mask will change the way you think about dive masks; A treat for the eyes, and face, this Snorkel Mask...
EXCEPTIONAL COMFORT - The Atomic Aquatics Diving Mask is co-molded with two silicone materials in two levels of softness to form the mask skirt; The...
ULTRACLEAR LENSES - This Venom Frameless Mask delivers excellent vision quality and maximum viewing area; The Schott Superwite UltraClear lens allows...

The Atomic Aquatics Venom frameless mask is a blend of their SubFrame Mask and Frameless Mask designs. It combines the low-profile of the Frameless mask, but also has the internal frame molded beneath the skirt for reinforcement. The single lens window is yet another callback to the Frameless design, while also incorporating the high bridge and teardrop shape of the dual-lens SubFrame.

Where the Venom stands out from its predecessors is in its lens construction. Both the Frameless and SubFrame use Ultra Clear glass lenses, which some of the other masks in this review also use. The Venom takes this a step further with its Schott SuperWhite Glass, an even higher lens imported from German. This lens lets light penetrate more easily for better vision underwater, without increasing glare and reflection.

Since the Venom has such a low-profile, the lenses are very close to your ears. Without a frame in the way, the field of vision is broadened significantly, and the special lens enhances the clarity even more. This mask even allows a one-hand nose well to be integrated for convenient ear equalization.

Atomic has stuck to their roots by keeping their double-feathered edge silicone rubber skirt. The Venom also comes with a wide-split strap, and paired with the skirt, provides a great seal and comfortable fit. Thanks to the easy-squeeze buckles that are soft-mounted on the skirt, it’s very easy to adjust the tightness of the straps.

Overall, the Atomic Aquatics Venom frameless mask is one of the top options for a scuba diving and freediving mask. WIth its comfortable design, excellent seal, unparalleled visual clarity thanks to its Schott SuperWhite Glass lens, and wide field-of-vision, it’s hard to go wrong with this mask. Additionally, Atomic offers a limited lifetime warranty on the hidden internal frame, as well as a limited 12-month warranty on the skirt and strap.

The only downsides to this mask are that the lens tends to fog up due to its close proximity to your ears. However, with proper cleaning methods such as removing the manufacturer’s coating and applying anti-fog to it, you’ll find it won’t fog as much or at all.

Pros:

Low profile, wide field-of-vision.
Retains a frameless design with a hidden internal frame to provide support.
Wide-split strap design.
Lens is the Schott SuperWhite Glass optical lens imported from Germany.
Seals comfortably and tightly on the face.
Limited lifetime warranty on the frame, 12-month warranty on skirt and strap.
Very easy to equalize with.

Cons:

Can fog easily because of how close it is to the face.
Expensive.

Cressi F1 Frameless Mask

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Cressi F1, White

frameless masks are loved by many divers for their low-profile and ability to fold flat for easy carrying, even in a bc pocket.
cressi’s frameless design bonds a high-grade silicone skirt directly to a single lens for the ultimate in simplicity.
the lens is made of tempered glass and certified by the ce (communauté européenne).

The Cressi F1 frameless mask is a highly affordable mask that has features which are appealing to both new and experienced divers alike. Thanks to its flexible silicone skirt, the F1 can flex and bend to fit all kinds of unique facial shapes which makes getting the right fit very easy.

The F1 comes in various colors, including a clear version for those with claustrophobia. You can match the colors to current or future dive gear if you want! You can also go in the opposite direction and get a bright color that stands out so your dive buddy can spot you more easily in low-viz conditions.

Since this is a frameless mask, it has a low-volume profile that provides a wider view, is lightweight, and is easy to clear and equalize. It’s easy to adjust the fit of the F1 with the adjustable strap that loosens up with just the press of a button. No more fighting against the strap! The mask strap is also replaceable with a single flexible elastic band.

Some downsides to the Cressi F1 are general issues which affect most other frameless masks as well. Its durability is not as great due to its frameless design. The lens cannot be replaced for prescription lenses, and if it breaks the entire mask must be replaced. Furthermore, the soft silicone is also susceptible to mask mold if you do not dry it out before stowing it.

After purchasing the Cressi F1, there are some preparations we highly recommend you do. First, you should burn your new mask to get rid of the clear adhesive coating that the manufacturer added to prevent scratching and damage to the lens. This coasting just makes the mask fog up. After burning it, quickly wash and scrub any black residue before it becomes permanent. Then apply the mask spray or anti-fog treatment of your choice to keep it from fogging up.

Pros:

Flexible silicone skirt makes for a soft and comfortable mask, and can even seal against facial hair.
Extra room in the nose pocket.
Numerous color options, including a clear option for claustrophobics.
Single-lens design provides an unobstructed view.
Lightweight.
Can replace the mask strap with an elastic band.
Very affordable.

Cons:

Not as long-lasting due to its frameless design.
The strap is not very strong, however it can be replaced.

Hollis M1 Frameless Mask

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Hollis M-1 Mask | Ideal for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling | Ultra Clear Glass | Comfortable, Frameless...

GREAT VISIBILITY FOR SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING: Ultra clear glass provides incredible optical quality - high light transmittance and reduced green...
COMFORTABLE FIT: The mask is frameless with a 100% pure silcon skirt that is soft and comfortable on the face
STRONG SEAL TO PREVENT WATER LEAKS: The silocone skirt wraps all the way around the nose and forehead to form a stong seal, even with facial hair

The Hollis M1 frameless mask has been regarded as everything a diver could want in a mask. While this sentiment from its supporters is clearly a little optimistic, we can agree that it’s a very high-quality mask.

First, the single-lens design provides a panoramic field of vision. The lens is Saint-Gobain Diamant Crystal Clear glass. This special lens has lowered iron content which provides superior light filtering by eliminating the green tint that lower-quality models have, overall increasing the visibility. This lens also has decreased color distortion, so the colors that you see are much closer to their original hue.

Furthermore, the double silicone skirt seals tightly and comfortably on your face. Some customers with wider faces have said that they did not have to tighten the straps very much to prevent water leakage. Some other customers also report that they were able to dive without any fogging issues despite not applying any anti-fog. Just make sure to thoroughly rinse the mask before a dive to prevent mask fog.

With that said, the Hollis M1 appears to be slightly larger than most frameless masks, though it is as lightweight as the others. The low internal volume allows divers to spend less time equalizing the pressure to prevent mask squeeze.

Whether you’re looking for a new mask or not, the Hollis M1 Frameless Mask is one you cannot go wrong with. It has become a must-have for many recreational and technical divers alike, especially those with larger faces.

Pros:

Panoramic field of vision.
Saint Gobain Diamant Crystal Clear Glass reduces color distortion to provide views that are close to the original hue.
Not strictly necessary to defog, but should give it a quick rinse before use.
Comfortable double silicone skirt.
Very lightweight.
Fits wide faces.

Cons:

Mask is somewhat bigger than other frameless masks, which is why it fits wider faces but it makes it harder to pack for travel.
May not seal as well on smaller faces.
Expensive.

Oceanic Shadow Frameless Mask

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Oceanic Shadow Frameless Dive Mask, (Great for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling) (Shadow, All Black)

Low volume frameless mask withmolded silicone color accents
Extremely low volume design, Swiveling, easy adjusting buckles
Ultra Clear Safety Tempered Dual Lens Design

The Oceanic Shadow frameless mask features a sleek silicone skirt that fits most face shapes, including wider faces. In fact, the skirt can adapt to most people’s faces over time for maximum comfort and a tight seal. The single lens provides a wide field of vision, and due to its low-volume design, the Shadow provides excellent visibility.

However, the downside of having lenses so close to the eyes is that it increases the chances of it fogging up. However, if you remove the manufacturer’s coating and apply anti-fog before each dive, you can easily prevent this.

Thanks to the frameless design, the Shadow is extremely lightweight. Furthermore, the slap-strap designs allows wearers to make micro-adjustments for a better fit. The skirt is made from crystal silicone which is even more durable and comfortable than regular silicone. The single-lens on the Oceanic Shadow is designed to decrease glare and reflection, making it the optimal mask for spearfishers and underwater photographers.

Whether you’re a recreational or technical diver, the Oceanic Shadow frameless mask has lots to offer you. With its low-volume profile, equalizing is a breeze, and packing it for travel or stowing it in your BC pocket as a backup mask is much easier. If you’re dealing with fogging, try rubbing baby shampoo on the lens to clean it.

Pros:

Crystal silicone skirt.
Wide field of vision.
Low volume, reduced weight.
The skirt will fit your face better over time. Perfect for wider faces.
Easy to store in luggage or in a BC pocket.
Reduced glare and reflection.
Slap-strap design lets you make quick micro-adjustments.

Cons:

The mask strap is not very durable.
Can have fogging issues if not properly treated.

Seadive by XS Scuba RayBlocker Monarch HD Mask

SeaDive Monarch RayBlocker-HD Mask

TruVue Color, RayBlocker-HD Lens
Premium Silicon
Skirt design fits most faces

The Seadive RayBlocker Monarch HD mask features an anti-reflective coating (ARC) that lets almost 100% of light pass through the lens while simultaneously reflecting scattered light. In other words, your eyes are seeing the truest, most undistorted underwater vision that a dive mask can provide.

Whether you are snorkeling, freediving, or scuba diving, your experience will only be improved by the ARC lens. This lens can also reduce harmful UV glare, surface grit in eyes and give you an overall clearer view of the underwater world. When you return to the surface, the Rayblocker Monarch offers quick vision-return from surfacing making it the optimal mask for scuba instructors.

If you’re a beginner, you’ll be happy to learn that the Rayblocker’s low-volume design makes equalizing and clearing it a breeze. Furthermore, the buckles of the Seadive are located on the skirt which reduces drag and weight. Additionally, the high-quality silicone skirt and head strap helps it to accommodate a wide variety of faces, and can even easily fit under a dive hood.

To increase comfort even further, the mask skirt features a double feathered-edge design and the wide split style head strap helps it to sit comfortably and seal tightly on your face. Thanks to the large and easy-to-reach nose pocket, it’s very straightforward to do one-handed equalization. Lastly, the Rayblocker Monarch comes with a mask box to protect it from damage while traveling.

Pros:

Anti-reflective coating (ARC) allows for near 100% transmission of light for the clearest “true view” of the underwater world.
Glass tint provides anti-UV and anti-glare properties.
Lightweight and even comes with a mask box for easier storage while traveling.
Comfortable silicone skirt that fits a wide variety of facial structures.

Cons:

Fogs easily.
Strap quality is not the greatest.
Expensive.

Frameless Scuba Mask Buying Guide

Differences

Since the frameless design was created to improve freedivers’ and spearfishers’ underwater performance, it’s no surprise that it’s very advantageous for those sports.

This is especially the case for spearfishers, who can take advantage of the low-volume profile and wide field-of-vision. To provide this, the frameless mask has a special construction process. Similarly, specially engineered materials are required for its construction. This means that the biggest differences between framed and frameless masks are in their intended use, materials, and construction.

Intended Use

To be fair, even though frameless masks were made for spearfishers in mind, technically any kind of underwater diver can benefit from a frameless mask. After all, who wouldn’t want a mask with a wide FOV and low-volume?

If you’re an underwater photographer, for instance, you can get a better view of your environment to help you set up the perfect shot underwater. Imagine getting a wide-angle camera lens but for your mask. Once you use it, it’s hard to go back.

Perhaps you’re a new snorkeler or scuba diver who still gets some anxiety when you’re in the water. With the wide views provided by a frameless mask, it can reduce the feeling of anxiety and claustrophobia despite its low volume.

You may have a small or narrow face, in which case the lightweight and flexible design of a frameless mask can seal tightly against your face. Since it is so lightweight, it will barely feel like it’s there which goes a long way for comfort. If you’re looking for masks that fit narrow or small faces, you can also check out our review of the best ones here.

Construction Process

The framed mask has been the go to mask for all underwater sports, but perhaps that’s going to change in the next few years.

For a dive mask to be effective, it must prevent water from entering and getting into your ears. Thus, it needs to form a watertight seal on your face, but this also traps air inside the mask. There are large tempered glass lenses which provide you a clear view, but in order to seal against your face, the mask must be flexible and soft to conform to be comfortable and to prevent leaks.

To solve this engineering problem, framed masks use a durable frame to hold the lens, and the part that actually presses against your face is a rubber or silicone mask skirt. Sturdy clips are used to attach the mask frame and strap together. The issue with framed masks is that they hold a high-volume of air and that the frame adds extra weight to the mask.

Volume

As mentioned, frameless masks are low-volume since the design removes the framed section of the mask, thereby decreasing a significant amount of volume from the mask. When diving, the water pressure increases and causes the volume of air inside the mask to compress, causing a type of barotrauma called mask squeeze.

In order to prevent mask squeeze, divers must equalize the air in their mask by exhaling a little bit from their nose to fill up the lost volume. Since low-volume masks have so little airspace, the diver does not need to exhale very much to equalize. This is perfect for spearfishers and freedivers who need to conserve as much air as possible.

One way to decrease the volume of a mask is to reduce the size of the lenses. This is not optimal, however, because it restricts the wearer’s field of view which is terrible for spearfishers and underwater photographers. For this reason, the frameless mask design won out because it allowed the mask to retain its large lenses by removing the framed portion of the mask.

With modern construction technologies, manufacturers can easily create masks where the silicone skirt portion of the mask is molded onto the glass lenses directly instead of a frame. This process is possible thanks to injection molding. Usually the molding process is used to create the frame on a framed mask, whereas the skirt is traditionally made via compression molding. How did the engineers solve this problem?

Material Engineering

In a framed mask, the framed mask is injection molded onto the lens. In a frameless mask, if the skirt is to be molded onto the lens, it too must be suitable for injection molding. For this to be possible, advanced materials are necessary to construct a frameless mask.

Modern dive masks use thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and liquid silicone rubbers (LSRs). TPEs are a fantastic material for dive masks because they are flexible with some thermal properties. Swim goggles were the inspiration here, since they were already made of both TPEs and LSRs; they just needed to be improved to match the size and pressure exposure of dive masks.

Thus, there is a clear distinction between framed and frameless masks not just in design, but also materials. The skirts of frameless masks are necessarily composed of TPEs or LSRs so that they can be injection molded. The skirt of a framed mask is made of rubber or silicone.

In some cases, even the chemical composition of the frameless mask skirt will differ to allow for more rigidity where the skirt is sealed to the lens, and more flexibility and comfort where the skirt seals against the face.

Is a frameless mask a good choice for you?

When it comes to a framed mask vs. frameless scuba mask, what are the pros and cons of each one? In this section, we’re going to pit these two mask types against each other to help you decide on which you prefer.

Advantages

The main advantages that a frameless scuba mask provides are:

Lower volume (easier to equalize, less buoyant).
Lighter weight (easier to travel with).
Greater flexibility (comfortable, can be stowed in a BC pocket or luggage).

As you can see, the frameless mask design makes it a fantastic choice for traveling since it can fit easily in bags or pockets and it is lightweight. Frameless masks are also the optimal choice as a backup dive mask for similar reasons. The flexible material also helps the mask feel comfortable on your face and provide a tight seal.

Take a look at how the advantages of a frameless mask compares to the advantages of a framed mask:

Frameless Mask	Framed Mask
Wider field-of-vision	Durable and sturdier.
More flexible and comfortable.	More affordable.
Tighter seal (less likely to leak).	Time-tested design.
Easy to clear.	Accommodates prescription lenses.
Easy to equalize (less mask squeeze).	Sturdier strap clips.

Regardless of what watersport you’re taking part in, having a wider field-of-vision is a major benefit. Furthermore, the lens on a frameless mask is usually a single continuous piece so there’s nothing obstructing your view. Thanks to its low-volume design, the lens is closer to your eyes, providing a more panoramic view with peripheral vision that is only rivaled by framed masks if they have side lenses.

Additionally, frameless masks are lightweight and flexible. They are easy to pack and travel with, and underwater, they are more comfortable and provide a tighter seal. If the mask does leak a bit, the low-volume design makes the mask easy to clear and equalize to prevent mask squeeze. The continuous lens means there won’t be an imprint on the bridge of your nose that framed masks can cause.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantages of a frameless mask are its cost and reduced durability.

As mentioned in the “Engineering Materials” section above, the specialized material required for manufacturing frameless masks drives up their cost to be more expensive than framed masks on average. If you’re buying a mask from a leading brand like Scubapro or Atomic Aquatics, it’ll be even more expensive.

Furthermore, since there is no durable plastic frame for the glass lens to seal to, the areas where the lens and the mask skirt are molded together are vulnerable to degradation. The strap clips are attached to the frameless skirt, not a hard frame, so it too is susceptible to breaking.

With that said, as the frameless mask surges in popularity, more improvements in its design are sure to come, and future innovations in its materials and constructions can mitigate these disadvantages even further.

Take a look at how the disadvantages of a frameless mask compare to the disadvantages of a framed mask.

Frameless Mask	Framed Mask
More expensive.	Less flexible skirt seal.
Skirt can detach from the glass over time.	Heavier.
No prescription lenses.	Narrower field-of-vision.
Can feel flimsy.	Higher volume, difficult to clear and equalize.
Lower quality strap clips.	Frame can put a lot of pressure on the face.

There are some divers, particularly technical or commercial divers, who need a heavy-duty, sturdy mask to withstand the pressure at great depths. Similarly, some people just prefer a heavier and robust mask.

On the other hand, avid spearfishers and freedivers basically are required to wear a frameless mask because of the advantages it gives them. They may even wear something called ultra-low-volume masks, or micro masks, which are a type of framed mask.

Most recreational divers and snorkelers will probably enjoy the flexibility and comfort that a frameless mask provides. However, if you need a vision-correcting mask, you will either need to get prescription lenses or wear contact lenses. For most dual-lens framed masks, you should be able to swap out the standard lenses for a corrective pair.

Tips for wearing frameless masks

As with any mask, test how well it seals against your face before you try it in deeper waters. Next, remove the manufacturer’s coating, which is a thin layer of plastic film by heating it with a candle or lighter. Once the coating is removed, apply a good anti-fog on the glass each time before you head out into the water.

When wearing your mask, it should have a snug fit without the straps digging tightly into your skin. Be warned: since frameless masks are so lightweight, you might be tempted to over-tighten the straps.

For storage, make sure that that skirt is not crumpled up so that it won’t develop any folds or separate from the glass lens. Similarly, when you are packing it for travel, try to surround it with socks or underwear to cushion it and help the skirt retain its normal shape during transit.

Photo Credit: Cressi

How to Get Rid of Blocked Ears After Diving

Sometimes after scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, or even just from taking a bath, you might feel like there is some water lingering in your ears. The water may even be blocking one or both of your ears, making your ears feel like they need to be “popped”. You may also experience temporary hearing loss or general discomfort.

Leaving this stubborn water in your ear canal will increase the likelihood of developing swimmer’s ear, which is an infection that occurs when moisture allows bacteria to enter the skin and multiply. The best way to deal with swimmer’s ear is to prevent it from happening in the first place by keeping your ears dry (and unclogging your ears).

Some people are more prone to experiencing swimmer’s ear than others. Furthermore, if you have narrow ear canals, have earwax buildup, or some other foreign object in your ears, then you are more likely to trap water in your ears and get an infection. If you’ve had swimmer’s ear in the past, be extra vigilant about keeping your ear canal dry and unclogged. In this article, we will discuss the various ways you can deal with blocked ears after diving so that you can prevent swimmer’s ear and feel comfortable after diving.

Symptoms of trapped water in the ear

Each time you do any activity in the water, even something as basic as taking a shower or bath, there is a chance that water can enter your ear and get stuck. Here are some common symptoms:

Muffled sounds, difficulty hearing.
Pressure in your ears.
Ears feel like they can “pop.”
Itching in the canal.
Water leaks from your ears.

If you experience any of these symptoms, then water is most definitely trapped in your ear. Typically these symptoms will resolve themselves after the water naturally evaporates or runs out on its own.

However, if some time has passed and you still feel the sensation of clogged ears, then the water is potentially stuck in the outer ear. Typically, brief moments of exposure to water in your ears is fine. However, problems start to occur if the water is left in there.

Best ways to get rid of blocked ears after diving

Get the stubborn water out of your ears with these tried-and-true techniques:

Let gravity do the work

The most straightforward, product-free technique to get rid of blocked ears is to tilt your head or lie down sideways so that gravity will cause the water to flow out of your ear canal. To make things comfier, you can place a towel on the pillow to absorb the water and lay down on it.

To speed things up, you can gently tug downwards on your earlobe to open up the ear canal to speed up the process. You can even try jumping up and down to try to use the force of the impact to dislodge the water droplet. Also try shaking your head as well.

Vacuum method

No, you’re not literally using a vacuum on your ears. You can produce your own vacuum sensation by first tilting your head and then cupping your palm over the ear, creating a solid, air tight seal. Keeping your ear sealed with your cupped hand, rapidly straighten out your hand to a flat position. By keeping your head tilted, it also allows gravity to assist you.

Use a blowdryer

Set the hairdryer to the lowest setting and hold it at least a foot away from the blocked ear to avoid burns. Turn the hairdryer on and gently tug on your earlobe to straighten the ear canal out and increase airflow to it. You can also try to move your earlobe side to side.

DIY ear drops

For this solution, you’ll need vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Mix equal parts of both together and put the solution into a dropper. This next step is easier with someone assisting you. Lay on your side and put three or four drops of the solution in your ear. Leave the solution for 30 seconds, then tilt your head to drain it out.

You might smell like a salad due to the vinegar, however this mix will make it harder for bacteria to multiply in your ear, and the alcohol will quickly evaporate the water, therefore it unblocks your ears and keeps it bacteria-free.

Hydrogen peroxide

Add three or four drops of hydrogen peroxide into your clogged ear. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes before draining it out. Make sure the hydrogen peroxide is less than 10% concentration. Otherwise, you can ironically cause inflammation and ear aches if left in your ears for too long.

Over-the-counter ear drops

If you opt for the over-the-counter ear drop, make sure you follow the instructions on the label. The ear drops should be stored and used at room temperature. If they’re too cold, they can make you feel strange or dizzy when put into your ear.

What you shouldn’t do for blocked ears

The techniques described above are the recommended methods for dealing with water in your ears. Any other method, particularly sticking an object into your ear such as cotton swabs or Q-tips are NOT recommended. These products can push water deeper into your ear, introduce more bacteria, or even harm your eardrum or ear canal.

Furthermore, if you recently had ear surgery or have a ruptured eardrum, do NOT use any of the ear drop solutions mentioned above.

How does a blocked ear occur in the first place?

The medical name for “blocked ears” is Middle Ear Barotrauma or MEBT for short. MEBT is when there is a buildup of fluid, such as water, in your middle ear. In extreme cases, this can result in an eardrum rupture.

There is a chamber in the middle of your ear called the tympanic cavity. Essentially, it is an empty space that should be at the same pressure as the outside environment. There is also a tube called the Eustachian tube that connects this chamber to your throat. In other words, your mouth and your ears are connected.

At the surface during everyday life, the Eustachian tube allows the tympanic cavity to have equal pressure as the outside. Regular jaw movements such as chewing, swallowing, and yawning often opens up the Eustachian tube and equalizes the pressure.

Problems can arise when the Eustachian tube is congested or blocked. This can happen in a few ways, the most common of which are: earwax buildup, inflammation of the tube, colds, or just being born with narrower tubes.

As you descend during a dive, the tympanic cavity will get compressed. It is imperative that you frequently equalize to keep the cavity from shrinking and letting water inside. If this space does not get equalized, it becomes a MEBT.

Risks of getting blocked ears

When you have blocked ears, there are several things to worry about:

Middle ear barotrauma: Water that is allowed to enter the tympanic cavity is painful and can result in swimmer’s ear.
Ruptured eardrum: Ruptured eardrums are not only painful; they can also cause permanent hearing loss and balance issues.
Infection: Infections are dangerous and painful no matter which body part it is. Any infection that occurs in the head is particularly serious since it can spread to the brain. If you think you are suffering from an ear infection, see a doctor immediately.

How long can water stay in your ear?

Ideally, you should remove the water from your ears as soon as possible. However, even if no steps are taken to do this, all of the water in your ears should naturally evaporate after 2 to 3 days. If stubborn water lingers longer than this, it increases the chance of you getting an ear infection.

How to prevent a blocked ear

There are several steps you can take to prevent getting blocked ears. Let’s start at step 0: things you should do before you even hit the water. Since the Eustachian tube is susceptible to getting clogged up due to mucus buildup, we recommend avoiding certain foods and compounds that can cause an increase in mucus production.

Do not drink milk prior to diving, since it can increase mucus production as much as 4x. Alcohol and tobacco smoke can also irritate your mucus membranes which also increases mucus production. In fact, alcohol causes a whole lot more problems than just mucus production. We recommend avoiding these substances in the days leading up to your planned dive.

During the dive, make sure you are descending slowly and gradually feet first. As the water pressure increases, you can also feel the pressure being exerted on your ears. Don’t wait until you experience pain before you equalize. If you are struggling to equalize one ear, stop your descent immediately until you successfully equalize. If you cannot equalize, then abort the dive.

There are various ways you can equalize your ears, such as the Valsalva maneuver, the Toynbee maneuver, the Frenzel maneuver, and more which you can read about in this article.

Can earplugs prevent blocked ears while diving?

Earplugs are a common recommendation for preventing blocked ears for swimming and other water sports done by the surface. However, for any type of diving (e.g. scuba diving, freediving, skin diving, etc.) you should NOT wear earplugs.

When you dive, your body is subjected to water pressure which only increases the deeper you go. With earplugs worn, there will be immense pressure in your ear due to the trapped air that cannot be equalized. Very quickly, you will experience ear pain from the water pressure and possibly a ruptured eardrum.

If you want to dive with earplugs, you need to use vented earplugs which have a valve that lets water and air escape. Unfortunately, vented earplugs do allow some water to enter the ears which can potentially lead to blocked ears after diving. If you want to learn more about scuba diving ear plugs, we recommend you read our article on this topic.

When should a doctor get involved?

Even without using any of the methods listed above, most blocked ears will typically clear out on their own within a day or two. However, if for some reason the water has not evaporated after this time, it can lead to swimmer’s ear.

When the outer ear canal is moist because of the trapped water, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply. This eventually leads to an Swimmer’s ear, or an ear infection. It is referred to as such because it often affects swimmers, but it can affect scuba divers as well.

Some symptoms of swimmer’s ear are:

Ear pain.
Redness, swelling, or flaking skin in the ear canal.
Hearing loss.
Pus leaking out from your ear.
Any abnormality affecting your ear that doesn’t go away.

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop reading articles on the internet and go see a doctor!

Parting Words

It is imperative that you prevent getting blocked ears because it can be both dangerous and painful. In this article, we have provided various tips on how to prevent getting blocked ears, and how to get rid of blocked ears after diving. A blocked ear can ruin a vacation because you may be losing precious diving days so that you can recover from it.

When scuba diving, it is imperative that you take things slowly. It’s never a good idea to rush things underwater, and that includes descending to depth. Remember to equalize early and often. Use any one of the most common equalization methods, such as the Valsalva maneuver (pinch your nose and exhale gently) to equalize the pressure in your ears.

If you have water blocking your ear canal after diving, use any of the methods we discussed to remove this blockage. The most simple is simply tilting your head sideways and letting gravity do the work. You can also use ear drop dryers to evaporate the water inside.

Should you start to experience ear pain that lasts more than a day, you may have possibly gotten an ear infection. Do not take this lightly. You can possibly suffer permanent hearing loss if you leave your ears untreated. See a doctor right away.

Can You Scuba Dive with Ear Pain or an Infection?

There are a few reasons why you might be reading this article. Perhaps you’re considering taking up scuba diving and are doing your due diligence about potential problems that can occur. Or perhaps you’re on vacation, sitting in the hotel and missing out on the day’s dive because of ear problems. Whether your ear has an infection or is clogged up, in this article, we provide some tips to help you deal with your ear pain.

What causes ear pain while scuba diving

Ear infection

Did you know that Otitis Externa, the medical name for Swimmer’s Ear, isn’t caused by water entering your ear? That doesn’t tell the whole story; the main issue is when water enters the ear canal and stays there for a prolonged period of time, allowing the bacteria to grow and cause an infection.

Typically, your ear has some natural protection against swimmer’s ear in the form of earwax. Earwax often gets a bad rap. People usually think of earwax as something that should be removed otherwise it’ll clog your ears. In this particular situation, earwax acts as a layer of defense to protect your ear canal from damage and makes it difficult for germs to penetrate the skin.

With that said, when water is allowed to remain in your ears, it causes the skin cells to swell and pull apart, leaving gaps for bacteria to get under your skin. Here, it is the ideal environment for them to multiply like crazing, resulting in an ear infection. This is different from the ear infections you might get after a cold.

If left untreated, you may experience itchiness, pus or fluid draining from the ear, pain, and loss of hearing. The infection can also spread to your lymph nodes, making it painful to move your jaw. Once you have an ear infection, you should refrain from diving and see a doctor who will likely prescribe you with antibiotics to treat it.

Ear barotrauma

Another cause of ear pain while scuba diving is ear barotrauma. The deeper you dive, the more the water pressure increases. This can cause discomfort and eventually pain in your ear unless you equalize the pressure.

Think back to a time when you were at a high altitude such as on a mountain or on a flight. You may remember your ear feeling a strange pressure before it eventually “popped.” After the pop, the pressure in your ears was gone, and that’s because the pop was the sound of air flowing from your throat to your middle ears through your Eustachian tubes. Equalization is all about opening the Eustachian tubes to decrease the pressure in your ears.

If you fail to equalize your ears, the mounting pressure will cause further pain and may eventually rupture your eardrums. Common scuba diving wisdom is to equalize early and often to prevent ear barotrauma.

When you encounter difficulty equalizing your ears, stop your descent immediately. Keep trying to equalize, and consider ascending a meter to decrease the water pressure and make it easier to equalize. Do not wait until you feel pain to equalize. Do not try to push past the pain. If you are having trouble equalizing, you should abort the dive.

The most common equalization technique is the Valsalva maneuver. You probably already know about this. It’s when you pinch your nose and then exhale until your ears have cleared.

There are some downsides to the Valsalva maneuver, the first of which is that it requires one hand to perform. Another problem is that this technique only presses air against the Eustachian tubes. If you dive too deep without equalizing early enough, the pressure can make it difficult to force air through the Eustachian tubes. If you keep descending while trying to forcefully equalize, you can also cause ear barotrauma this way.

When performing the Valsalva maneuver, you must remember to exhale through your nostrils very slowly and gently. You should not be forcefully exhaling. Some other techniques you can try are:

Toynbee maneuver: Hold your nose and swallow simultaneously.
Yawn and swallow: Thrust your lower jaw forward, open your mouth slightly, and swallow while keeping your lips pursed around the regulator.
Head tilt: Tilt your ear upwards to try to stretch the openings of the eustachian tubes.

You can learn more advanced equalization techniques in this article.

Tips to prevent ear barotrauma

Equalize early and often

Don’t wait until you feel pain to equalize. As soon as you feel pressure building up, equalize. The first time you equalize will be while you’re still on land. Early on during the descent, you may have to equalize as often as once every 3 ft (1 m). In fact, on every exhale, you can just use some of it to clear your ears.

Just to be safe, you should just equalize randomly sometimes even if you don’t feel any pressure in your ears. It’s just a good habit to equalize often. Drill this habit into your brain until it’s something you just subconsciously do. That way, you’ll never have to worry about if you’ve equalized or not.

Descend slowly

A general rule in scuba diving is to descend and ascend slowly. Rushing things just increases the risk of something going wrong. If you know you have trouble equalizing, for instance, let your dive buddy or instructor know before the dive so that they can accommodate your slow descent.

Descending slowly is necessary in case you have difficulties with equalizing. If you failed to equalize at your current depth, stop your descent and ascend 3 feet (1 m) to depth with slightly lower pressure and try equalizing there. If you cannot equalize, then abort your dive. Descending too quickly can cause the pressure to increase too quickly, making it difficult to equalize, so do it slowly and carefully.

Don’t dive with a cold or congestion

If you’re feeling under the weather, don’t dive. It’s common sense, but many people on vacation feel they are wasting their vacation by recuperating in the hotel. However, would you rather miss a dive or rupture your eardrums? When you are congested and subjecting yourself to the water pressure, it will be difficult if not impossible to equalize the pressure in your ears.

Furthermore, being sick can cause you to feel dizzy and weak. You may not be able to make rational decisions like you normally would, and this is just dangerous in general. You can also spread your cold to everybody on the boat. Either way, it’s just a bad idea all-around.

How to get rid of blocked ears after diving

Sometimes after a scuba dive, you may find some stubborn water just won’t exit your ear canals. It should be pretty obvious when your ears are clogged; even if you can’t feel the water droplet, you’ll certainly be able to tell that sounds from the clogged ear sound muffled or there is a “whooshing” sound when you move. To unclog your ears, follow these tips:

The first and most obvious is to take advantage of gravity. Tilt your head to the side of the clogged ear. Gently pull on the earlobe to straighten the ear canal so the water can more easily flow out. You can even jump up and down to do this; it may seem a little silly, but it works. Just be careful not to fall because you are a little off balance.

The second method you can try is to put a blowdryer on at the lowest setting, hold it at least a foot away from your clogged ear while using your free hand to gently pull down your earlobe, and try to dry the water. You can also specifically purchase an ear dryer to more easily perform this task.

Lastly, you can resort to over-the-counter ear drying drops. How it works is the solution contains isopropyl alcohol and anhydrous glycerine which are drying agents; they cause the water in your ear canal to evaporate faster which drastically reduces the chances of ear infection.

If you’d rather not purchase any products, you can try mixing your own DIY ear drying solution. What you need is an even 50/50 split of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Pour this mix into your ear, let it sit for a minute or so, then pour it out.

The alcohol will evaporate the water, and the white vinegar balances the pH of your ear canal so that bacteria and fungus struggle to grow. The downside is that your ears will smell like a salad mix, but at least they’ll be dry and clean.

Some guides recommend you to use hydrogen peroxide for your ears. It is generally safe for your ears at low concentrations, however at concentrations over 10%, can cause blistering, inflammation, and ear aches. Do not use any ear drops if you recently had ear surgery or have a damaged ear drum.

Can you wear ear plugs for scuba diving?

After learning about how ear infections occur, many well-meaning newbies come to the conclusion that they should wear ear plugs to prevent water from entering their ear canal, thereby avoiding ear infections. Unfortunately, ear plugs cause more problems than they solve.

Ear plugs may hypothetically protect you from ear infections, but they put you at increased risk of suffering ear barotrauma. As we mentioned, ear barotrauma can occur when you cannot equalize the pressure in your inner ear.

When you shove an ear plug in your ear canal, it actually traps a tiny bit of air inside between the plug and your ear drums. This air will be subject to the water pressure but will have no place to go. Since your ears are plugged up, you cannot equalize, and therefore the resulting increase in pressure can cause ear barotrauma.

To avoid this, special scuba diving ear plugs called vented ear plugs were created. The most popular ones are No products found.. Vented ear plugs have a built-in valve which allows air and water to escape so that you can successfully equalize. These ear plugs will make the increase in water pressure feel smoother and keeps water from constantly flushing in and out of the ear canal.

With that said, water will get past the vented ear plugs so you’ll need to apply some ear drying methods after a dive to prevent ear infections. Learn more about ear plugs for scuba diving by reading this article.

Does scuba diving damage your ears?

The answer is it depends. Scuba diving is an extreme sport, and therefore it has inherent risks such as suffering from ear infection or ear pain, among others. Scuba diving may seem extremely intimidating at first, however by taking the Open Water Diver course offered by PADI, NAUI, SSI, or other scuba training agencies, you will learn everything you need to know about equalization.

As long as you are cautious and conscientious about following safety guidelines, then the chances of suffering an ear infection or ear barotrauma are slim. Even if you do suffer an ear infection, it is generally not life-threatening. See your doctor and you will be prescribed antibiotics to treat it.