Clear VS. Black mask skirt

[ucrtwf]

Hi all,
I was just wondering what difference does it make what color the mask skirt is? To be honest, I've got both, and can't tell the difference. I'm looking at a new mask and am wondering which way to go. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Tim

[NitroWill]

To me, the advantages a black skirt mask are these:

It keeps the light out a little better on shallower dives. It also stays looking better for longer then some clear masks do which tend to get discolored. Also, a black skirt can be nice for all your diving with if you have some loose sinuses

[WestTnDiver]

If you shoot pics UW, get the black. It cuts down on stray light entering the mask and helps you see the image and camera info better.

[comet24]

The black cuts out on sunlight entering from the side which some like because it improves vision. Never had an issue with a clear mask skirt but I guess if you do a lot of pretty shallow diving in clear water it could make a difference.

[Zenagirl]

I have both as well and don't have a preference between black and clear. One big advantage black has is that it won't discolor....if that's something important to you.

[lovesmexico615]

I had a clear skirt mask... 15 dives and it's all discolored. Sure, it's a cosmetic thing, but I just bought a black skirt mask for my backup.

[Byte Me]

I've got an atomic frameless, black, and it sits so close to my gourd that I don't think clear would make a big deal w/ ambient light coming in from the sides. Just for discoloration I'd have gone with black. Love this mask!

[ScubaGir1]

I'm probably going to get a black skirt the next time. I really hate the discoloring on the clear skirts

[divingbuddy]

I found that I had fewer headaches from the sun when I switched to a black skirted mask.

I also found that I tended to focus more on what was in front of me, and not be distracted by things I may have seen through my peripheral vision. Maybe that was just me...

Just my two cents...Cheers!

[ucrtwf]

Thanks a bunch guys, all good reasons and responses.
Take care,
Tim