Scuba is an acronym for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. Scuba goggles are one of the most important pieces of equipment when preparing for scuba diving. Human eyes were not designed for underwater sight, particularly in saltwater. They allow for you as a diver to see not only the beauty of the underwater environment but to see ahead to potential perils (we're looking at you, sharks) and see the readings on your oxygen gauges. Differing from swim or snorkeling goggles, scuba goggles are built to withstand deep sea pressure and protect us from injury. The most important things to look for in Scuba goggles are comfortable fit and visibility. Read on to dive deeper.
Table of Contents
What to look for in a pair of Scuba Goggles
Frame Technology
Fitting for your scuba goggles
Lens Technology
Get Prescription Scuba Goggles at SportRx
What to Look For in a Pair of Scuba Goggles
There are many options out there for Scuba masks/goggles. However, there are certain things you want to look for that will help you narrow down your search for your next pair of scuba goggles. If you're going to spend your hard earned money (on snorkeling or diving) for underwater exploration, you want to keep the trial and error to a minimum!
Frame Technology
The frame of your scuba goggles should be flexible and form a tight seal on your face while maintaining a comfortable fit. Some manufacturers build their frames with crystal silicone. That is the highest grade silicone available for a soft, comfortable seal. This is important for two reasons: Firstly, the frame needs to fit securely on your face to prevent both leakage and Barotrauma. Barotrauma is physical damage to body tissues caused by a difference in pressure between a gas space inside, or in contact with the body, and the surrounding gas or fluid. For scuba divers, this can cause the tissue around the eyes to redden and even cause blood vessels in the eye to rupture. It's not pretty. Make sure your scuba goggles are a good fit.
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Fitting for Your Scuba Goggles
Here's how to ensure you are getting a good fit for your scuba goggles:
- Gently place the mask against your face. Make sure to clear your hair away from your face where the mask will seal. Any hair could break the airtight seal you want to create.
- Take a breath or inhale mildly through your nose. (This will create the seal.)
- Then, remove your hand.
- If the mask stayed or stuck to your face without the help of your hand then it’s a good fit! If the mask drops when you remove your hand you have a bad fit. You will feel the air rush in where the seal isn't sealing properly.
- Exhale through your nose to release the seal and you can then remove the mask.
- Check for marks on your face. If you had a red line around your face then the seal was too tight and the mask is not for you. Continue fitting other masks until you find the right one for you.
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Lens Technology
The lenses of your scuba goggles can be either tempered glass or a polycarbonate blend. There is some debate as to whether the lenses should be glass or plastic, but that is likely because originally scuba goggles and masks were home-made. The recommendation for tempered glass was borne of a concern that regular plate glass could break. If broken, sharp shards would be close to your eyes underwater where the pressure is greater. Tempered glass breaks into little beads.
However, Sea Vision has addressed this concern with their scuba goggle line. Impact resistant lenses made from the material (CR39) make them stronger and much more efficient than glass for scuba diving.
Read below to find details on the top scuba goggles.
Sea Vision Direct 2000
Sea Vision Direct 2000 Scuba goggle in Black and Green with clear lens
Shop Sea Vision Direct 2000
The Sea Vision 2000 is the first on the list for its strong frame and combination of form and function. This Sea Vision scuba mask features swivel buckles, maximized peripheral vision with high-quality lenses and a crystal silicone frame for a comfortable seal. This frame is for nearly all scuba divers' faces. If you are between (60-240 lbs) these are the scuba goggles to try. This is one of a handful of masks that fits almost all faces.
Sea Vision Direct 2100
Sea Vision Direct 2100 in Highlighter Yellow with Clear lens
Shop Sea Vision Direct 2100
The Sea Vision 2100 scuba mask also fits almost all faces. Built for the needs of technical divers, cave divers and those diving in turbid waters around the world, it provides great visibility and performance. Features include high-grade crystal silicone chassis, swivel buckles, prescription-ready.
Sea Vision Direct 2200
Sea Vision Ultra Direct 2200 in Black and Red with Clear Lens
Shop Sea Vision Direct 2200
The Sea Vision Direct 2200 Ultra mask is the perfect fit for a variety of face shapes and facial features. These Scuba diving goggles are constructed of crystal silicone, the highest grade silicone which ensures a soft, comfortable seal, while high-quality lenses are stronger and more efficient than glass.
Get Prescription Scuba Goggles at SportRx
Need prescription Scuba Goggles? Done. When you shop with us, you’ll find video guides and tooltips throughout the build process as you customize the perfect pair. An answer to all your questions is at your fingertips, and if you want to chat with an expert, Contact Us. We’ll put you in touch with one of our friendly in-house opticians who can help you build your prescription Scuba Goggles.
Ditch risky online shopping with the See Better Guarantee. Try your Scuba Goggles for 45 days. If you’re not satisfied, send them back. Get a full refund, exchange, or credit towards a better pair. And return shipping? Covered. Get your pair of prescription Scuba Goggles at SportRx today!
