Atomic Aquatics Frameless Mask Problem

[Ptt]

I'm new to snorkeling and diving and just bought my first mask and snorkel. I bought them based on the numerous good feedbacks on them. The problem I have is with the Atomic Aquatics Frameless Mask. The mask has a large glass that goes all the way to the bottom of your nose and wrap around the nose. My nose is a normal size Asian nose so in order to equalize the pressure, I would have to pinch near the base of my nose. This mask would not allows me to do that.
Anybody else ran into this problem or heard of this issue before? I'll have to return the mask and considered getting the Mares X-Vision LiquidSkin mask. Would I run into the same problem with the X-Vision?

[Damselfish]

You really have to try masks on. Someone might be able to suggest one that will allow you to get to your nose better, but you still need to try them anyway on for fit. All the good reviews in the world don't mean anything if the mask doesn't fit you. (You might discover out the cheapest mask around is the one that happens to work best for you!)

I have a liquidskin and love it, but I have no idea if it would fit you. And no idea about pinching the nose actually, as I don't equalize that way.

[Ptt]

Is there another way to equalize? I went diving once and that was what the divemaster showed me.

[rayaa3]

Some people can simply equalize their ears, while moving their jaw (you know, making your ears 'pop'), and have satisfactory results....I can do that, but sometimes, the good old 'nose hold and blow' method works best.

I wouldn't dive with a mask that I couldn't clear the old fashioned way with...because sometimes the ear popping method just doesn't seem to work well enough for me.

As said, you have to try masks on, and since it has such a direct influence on your underwater experience - don't settle for anything less than a perfect fit.

[ccoceangirl]

I have the Liquidskin and a framed Atomic mask. In all honesty. I hate the Atomic mask. I also found trouble equalizing it when I first started using it. I was able to maneuver around that but other than the clear lenses I really cant stand it. My Liquidskin on the other hand I was in love with. I have decided to go ahead and buy another Liquidskin.

[Ptt]

Originally Posted by ccoceangirl

I have the Liquidskin and a framed Atomic mask. In all honesty. I hate the Atomic mask. I also found trouble equalizing it when I first started using it. I was able to maneuver around that but other than the clear lenses I really cant stand it. My Liquidskin on the other hand I was in love with. I have decided to go ahead and buy another Liquidskin.

That's good to hear. Do you have any trouble pinching at the base of the nose with the liquidskin?
I already received the RMA form from leisurepro and will be sending the atomic aquatic mask back. I'll be losing the shipping to me and the return shipping. Should have just went to the local scubatoys in the first place. I'll probably be visiting scubatoys today or tomorrow.

[Damselfish]

I usually clear my ears by swallowing. But it's still important to be able to reach your nose, you'll want to use that method at first. And even if other techniques work for you, you'll probably still have those times when you still need to pinch your nose.

[Tekdivr]

A good dive shop will spend a lot of time with you when making a mask purchase. For being fairly inexpensive, in the grand scheme of things, it is one item that can produce the most misery. Honestly don't purchase by testing reports and people's suggestions. Purchase according to fit and function. My LDS can look at a mask on your face and tell you if it's going to work for you or not. They can also make good suggestions based off of your facial features. I've got several masks, some which were a mistake and some that I love. I have no problem with the atomic mask, but I use it for a back up.

[ccoceangirl]

Originally Posted by Ptt

That's good to hear. Do you have any trouble pinching at the base of the nose with the liquidskin?
I already received the RMA form from leisurepro and will be sending the atomic aquatic mask back. I'll be losing the shipping to me and the return shipping. Should have just went to the local scubatoys in the first place. I'll probably be visiting scubatoys today or tomorrow.

I have no problem pinching the nose with the liquidskin. I hope it works out for you .