DIR mask suggestions

[squee!]

What masks would you reccomend for DIR?
I am not DIR but am planning on taking my DIR-F in the next year or so. I have been using the TUSA visualator mask for quite some time. I know that the requirements are for the mask to be low profile, and was wondering if there were exact dimensions or measurements that qualify as "low profile." Thanks.

[aggie99]

A low profile with a black skirt is what I was told in Intro to Tech. The reason for the black skirt is if you are in a tight environment (wreck, cave) then the likelyhood of being blinded by a HID light from the side is greater.

[squee!]

Originally Posted by aggie99

A low profile with a black skirt is what I was told in Intro to Tech. The reason for the black skirt is if you are in a tight environment (wreck, cave) then the likelyhood of being blinded by a HID light from the side is greater.

Thank you for your response. My visualator has a black skirt, but can it be considered "low profile"? The actual term seems somewhat vague to me.

[cummings66]

I'm not sure they'd be that anal in the Fundies class, unless you're going for a tech pass in which case I could see it.

[aggie99]

Originally Posted by squee!

Thank you for your response. My visualator has a black skirt, but can it be considered "low profile"? The actual term seems somewhat vague to me.

The Visulator is low profile. Low Profile just refers to the amount volume of air in the mask. Almost all new masks are low profile so I wouldn't worry. If you had an old oval glass mask that your dad gave you, that would be a non-low profile mask.

[squee!]

thanks everyone for your responses!

[texdiveguy]

Originally Posted by squee!

What masks would you reccomend for DIR?
I am not DIR but am planning on taking my DIR-F in the next year or so. I have been using the TUSA visualator mask for quite some time. I know that the requirements are for the mask to be low profile, and was wondering if there were exact dimensions or measurements that qualify as "low profile." Thanks.

I have NO clue as to what 'DIR' divers require in terms of which mask is acceptable....BUT in terms of a good pick for any mask the basics will apply regardless of its final use...FIT and COMFORT. Low profile and black skirted masks are always a positive asset in my book for a mask. Also it does not have to be the most expensive or have the fanciest frame to be good....I dive inexpensive $40 masks because they fit and do a great job for me.

[in_cavediver]

Note: I am not DIR not will I ever likely be. I do however do team based diving.

Now, for masks. I can't image anyone being that anal about masks. The requirements are simple:

1) It has to fit
2) It should be low volume (relatively speaking)
3) that's really it. Black skirts are optional and the whole 'blinded by an HID' is so overblown its not funny.

I dive a cressi mask with clear skirt. Its never been a problem, even with errant HID lights.

Concentrate more on the truly important parts - good technique and good planning. The gear is minor, more of a means to an end. (even if it is the most debated/discussed topic)

[texdiveguy]

Originally Posted by in_cavediver

Note: I am not DIR not will I ever likely be. I do however do team based diving.

Now, for masks. I can't image anyone being that anal about masks. The requirements are simple:

1) It has to fit
2) It should be low volume (relatively speaking)
3) that's really it. Black skirts are optional and the whole 'blinded by an HID' is so overblown its not funny.

I dive a cressi mask with clear skirt. Its never been a problem, even with errant HID lights.

Concentrate more on the truly important parts - good technique and good planning. The gear is minor, more of a means to an end. (even if it is the most debated/discussed topic)

.....well said!

[CompuDude]

Unless you are wearing one of those old HUGE 3-paned masks, your Fundies instructor will not care what mask you are wearing. Black (or at least opaque) skirts are preferred, and they will explain why, but they won't care beyond telling you the reasons for the preference.

The Tusa Visualator is just fine.

I would worry more about how well you do with your mask off than your mask on, however.