prescription masks

Question
Hi.  

My wife and I are both avid divers, each with different problems with our vision. We've just finished a weeklong dive in E. Indonesia (Ambon) which is famous for its macro life, and indeed we encountered endless critters of all amazing sorts.  The problem is that to see them well, we have to stick our faces so close to the animals that it either scares them away -- or certainly blocks the view of other divers. Both of us are now considering various solutions to this problem. My wife has the choice of wearing disposable contacts lenses or getting a corrective mask. But I have astigmatism and don't know whether that can be fixed with a prescription mask. I've also just begun UW photography, so that clear vision is critical for clear images. Any advice is welcome.

Thanks, Eran
Bogor, Indonesia

Answer
Hi Eran,

I hear ya!  I have mild myopia, but the astigmatism is even worse.  I'm not quite to the point of needing a corrective mask, but after my recent trip to St. Maarten, I've been giving it stronger consideration.

If your diving enjoyment is being impacted by vision problems, you certainly should seek a solution.  While it seems kind of pricey, the investment in a quality corrective mask will be worth it in terms of increased enjoyment.  What's the point if you're not having fun?!?  :-)

First, I want to address wearing contacts while diving.  Because of the potential risk of contamination of contact lenses underwater, or possible loss during a mask flood, it抯 generally a better idea to dive and swim without them. (Another option is to wear one-day disposable soft contacts, and discard them as soon as you抮e back on dry land.)

These days, there are plenty of options for vision correction while under water.  While I do not make any specific recommendations, there are many places that can provide proper solutions.  I searched online for "prescription scuba mask" and "astigmatism scuba mask"; there are dozens of listings.  Check them out, contact some of the providers, and go with one you have confidence in.

Hope this helps,

Henry Babcock
AllExperts SCUBA Expert