Snorkel & Dive Equipment FAQs

1.   What is the difference between PVC and Silicone Diving Masks? 

The PVC diving mask is suitable for short durations or for holidays whereby it is of a standard size which we find fits most shape faces. However, PVC is thicker and less flexible than silicone so it will not be able to mould to the contours of your face as week. 

Silicone diving masks are more comfortable to wear than PVC. This means you will be able to spend longer in the water, as it is made of a higher quality material. The translucent silicone is softer and hypoallergenic with a double feather-edge skirt, providing a superior fit and clear range of vision. 

2.   What is the difference between a Standard Snorkel and a Dry Top Snorkel? 

The standard snorkels are perfect if you just want to dip your head under the water rather than going completely submerged as this snorkel will not stop the water from going into the mouthpiece.

Whereas dry top snorkels are designed to prevent the water from entering the mouthpiece when fully submerged as there is a little ball within the snorkel which rises as you go under the water blocking the opening.  

At Two Bare Feet, we have the options of both the standard and dry top snorkels. 

3.   Why does my mask fog up when I use it? 

It is very common for a diving mask to become foggy, however it is easy to prevent. 

The fogging up of a mask happens when water vapor condenses because there is a temperature difference between the inside and outside surfaces of the lens. The fog is formed from the moisture build up within the mask.

To prevent this from happening we need to make the surface smooth so the water cannot hang on it, you can follow one of the following steps. 

             1.  You can use a bit of toothpaste a cloth, or soft brush to rub around the lens and then rinse gently with fresh water until the lens is clear and no toothpaste remains. 

             2.  You can use an anti-fog solution or by creating a dilute solution of baby shampoo and water, you then simply spray your solution into your mask, rub and rinse with fresh water.

                   You’ll then want to apply the mask to a dry face to create a good seal. 

Please ensure with any of these steps you do not touch your use your fingers on the mask as the oils from your fingers will transfer. 

4.   What are the differences between Set 1,2 and 3 in the Diving Sets? What size mask will be suitable for my face shape? 

We have a range of mask, snorkel and fin sets, whereby the differences between them are the different styles and colours in each of the items and as well as this the size of the mask shape. 

• - Set/Style 1 has a mask shape of a square cut bottom which is of a suitable shape for teenagers to small/average shape adult faces. 
• - Set/Style 2 has a mask shape that is XL shape which is suited to adults with larger or wider faces. 
• - Set/Style 3 has a mask shape of a pointed bottom lens which helps give a larger range of view for Teenagers and Adults. 

5.   How to choose the right mask, snorkel and fins set for me? 

Firstly, will you be intending to use the diving gear for short durations or for a holiday every so often, and looking for a lower-end price point, then the PVC sets may be a good option for this. They come in 1 standard size, so the only next decision to make is which colour you prefer! 

But even if your reasons for use are for short durations and for holiday but you want a more comfortable and reliable set, the silicone sets are the next best choice. 

If you are considering a Silicone set, you should first choose the shape of mask that you feel would be best suited to your face shape. (Please refer to question, differences between sets) Once you have chosen the set mask you would be best suited to, you can then decide whether you want the standard snorkel or dry top, depending on your preference and intended use. 

For the TBF Silicone mask, snorkel and fin sets, pretty much all come with our bestselling F70 Diving Fins helping you to get a good speed within the water and comfort with the soft foot hold and adjustable strap. 

If you would like a different option of the other diving fins we have, then our suggestion would be to purchase a Mask and Snorkel set and then the Diving Fins separately. We have a nice range of different lengths and designs in flippers depending on your intended use and preference. 

6.   Can I wear wetsuit boots with the diving fins? 

Unfortunately, our TBF diving fins are not constructed to allow wetsuit boots to be worn with them. There foot pocket structure is specially designed for bare feet. At a push, wearing wetsuit socks can be an alternative as our diving fins are designed with adjustable heel straps so you can adjust the size of the flipper to the fit of your foot. 

7.   Why is my mask leaking? 

When trying your mask on for the first time you need to ensure that the skirt of the mask seals your face well by contouring to the shape of your face. If it does not fit correctly, then the mask will leak when submerged in water. Sometimes, even masks that you think feel so though they fit well, can still end up leaking from different places around the skirt of the mask. 

If you feel the mask was of a good fit when trying on and when you have come to use the mask, leaks are experience, then there can be a couple of other reasons as to why. 

When applying the mask to your face before use, it is good to ensure your face is clean and dry. If you have applied any lotions or oils, like suncream then this can cause the skirt of the mask to not make a good seal. The oils can cause the skirt to slip against your face allowing gaps to form causing leaks. These areas are usually from under the nose or around the eyes. 

As well as this, something as small as wrinkles in the skin in places around the eyes or from where you smile, can also cause small gaps to form as well. So, when applying the mask, it can be beneficial to smooth the skin in those wrinkled areas when applying the mask to help with the tight seal.