Advice

Let’s go snorkeling!


Choosing your Mask and Lenses

What is a Optical Dive or Snorkeling Mask?

Your optical mask is a mask fitted with prescription lenses, this allows you to see clearly underwater

Left SPH CYL AXIS
+2 .3.25 107
ADD +1
Right SPH CYL AXIS
+3.0 2.00 67
ADD +1.0

 Left : Will indicate if the prescription is for the left or right eye.CYL and AXIS: Both these values tell the optician where the centre of your vision is. These values are needed when making Bifocal or Vari focal lenses. These values are not required for selecting your mask lens.

  • ADD: If you wear Bifocal or Vari focal lenses your optician will use this value to make the reading part of your glasses. When choosing Bifocal lenses for your optical dive mask then you need to add the SPH and ADD values from your prescription together to get the correct lens power i.e.
  • SPH +2.5
    ADD +1
    Reading prescription is +3.5
  • SPH: This is your prescription and the number you need to choose for your prescription lens in your optical dive mask. This will have either a + or – sign above or by the side of the number i.e. -4

Most prescriptions you receive from your optician will be in a similar format to the example below:

Step 1: Understanding your prescription

  • Do you wear glasses or contact lenses? Is the world looking a bit fuzzy? If you do then an optical dive mask maybe the solution for you. Follow our 4 easy steps to finding the perfect prescription dive mask for you.
  • If you only have a SPH value for your prescription then use this.

Step 2: Choosing Your Lenses

We can supply lenses for your optical dive mask in a range of strengths to suit most people. We offer positive and negative single-strength prescription lenses.

Negative or – Lens are usually selected by people who need to correct distance vision (shortsighted).
Full Positive or + Lens can be for correcting distance / general vision but are not as common.

Bifocal Lenses have clear glass in the top portion with the corrective lens in the bottom portion, these are usually for people who wear reading glasses (longsighted) and need to be able to read gauges, diving computers and camera buttons etc underwater. Unfortunately we no longer offer these in our range of stock.

If your exact prescription is not shown don’t worry as a ¼ dioptre (0.25) makes very little difference to your general vision. Most people round down to the next available lens as full distance viewing is not a factor under water. However, quite a few round up as their vision is generally going get worse.

All our lenses are already corrected for use in water and therefore you don’t need to adjust your prescription for water magnification.

You should now have a single value for you left and right eyes that is either negative or positive. If you only need one corrective lens then this is not a problem, just buy a mask that takes prescription lenses and select a single prescription lens for either or right or left eye.

Step: 3 Choosing Your Mask

Each of the masks below are listed with their complete lens choice, just check which mask covers your lens selection. All our masks are first class quality with crystal silicone seals and are suitable for scuba diving or snorkeling.

Barracuda:

Negative – Lens from -1.0 to -10.0
Positive + Lens from +1.0 to +4.0

Midi View: Negative – Lens -1 to -9

Orca: Negative –Lens -1 to -7

What if my prescription is not available?

We cannot supply stronger lenses than the ones listed above because the lens becomes too thick to fit into the mask frame. Some customers have found for example that +4 lens is not perfect if they need a +5 or +6 prescription but it is vast improvement on just plain glass. So if your prescription is not covered by our range of lenses you could consider trying a mask with lenses in the nearest strength to your prescription.

We offer a 28 day returns policy so it will only cost you the postage if the correction is not adequate for you.

Step 4: How to buy

Each mask has drop down list of the lenses available simply select the correct value for your left and right eye. There is also a drop down menu which shows the colors available for the mask frame. Remember that you may want to find your mask without your glasses on so a brighter more unusual color may stand out better if your vision without glasses is poor.

Back to our selection of Optical Dive Masks

Finally

Still not sure? Then ring us on 01342 347277, Monday to Friday, between 9am and 7pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 4pm, and one of our advisors will be more than happy to help. Just remember to have a copy of you latest prescription with you.

Why Prescription Swimming Googles are not suitable for Snorkeling or Diving

There are 3 simple reasons for this and they have to do with underwater pressure, ease of breathing and snorkel attachment.

Pressure: the further you are below the surface of the water, the higher the pressure on the mask or goggles. This increase in pressure can cause severe discomfort as the goggles are pushed into the eye sockets. However, a mask has a nose covering which allows the diver to exhale into the mask to even out the pressure and relieve the discomfort.

Ease of Breathing: this nose cover is also a great means to force you to breath through your mouth and not your nose. Trying to breath under water without using your nose takes some serious practice so it is much simpler – and safer – to simply use a mask which will block the attempt to use your nose.

Snorkel Attachment: most swimming goggles have very light-weight and flimsy straps which are unsuited to holding the snorkel in position out of the water. There’s almost nothing worse than taking a big breath only to get a mouthful of water.

Prescription mask are an essential part of your snorkeling equipment or snorkel set. If you wear glasses or contact lenses you can benefit from prescription goggles when you go snorkeling. When you buy your snorkeling equipment or snorkel set then be sure to included a prescription mask. At activeaqua.com we sell a great range snorkeling equipment and snorkel sets, they are all available with prescription goggles.

It still amazes us when we talk to customers who are buying snorkel sets and snorkeling equipment from activeaqua.com that they can also buy prescription goggles and no longer need to struggle

Customizing your snorkeling kit for the perfect fit

Snorkelling Mask


Setting up your mask is easy, you need adjust the strap so that the mask creates a good seal but make sure it’s not over tight. Next you should apply some tooth paste to the inside of the lens of your snorkeling mask and rub this around, once done, wash out, this will help to stop your snorkeling mask fogging.

Your Snorkel


You will need to attach the snorkel keeper onto the mask strap, one of our quick release snorkel keepers is the most convenient way to do this because it allows you to separate the mask and snorkel easily. The snorkel should be positioned on the outside of the mask strap on the left hand side.

Your Snorkelling Fins


Not much setting up is required with fins, just remove the pocket shape
retainer ready for when you want to put them on.


Putting On your Snorkelling Equipment

Your Snorkelling Mask


If you are using anti fog then spray the inside of the mask with a small amount of anti fog solution. Now rub the solution around the lens with your finger and let it dry. Put the mask on your face with the strap at the top of the mask, then slide the strap over your head. Adjust straps if necessary. The strap should be flat against the back of your head. If your snorkelling mask is leaking, run your fingers around the mask skirt to check for creases and make sure there is no hair caught in between the skirt and your face. Also check that your straps are tightened correctly, sometimes they can be too tight which causes the seal to become distorted on your face. A build up of sun cream on the mask seal can also cause it to not seal well.

Your Snorkel


Setting up your snorkel is simple, simply slide the snorkel in its snorkel keeper until the mouth piece fits comfortably in your mouth.

Your Snorkelling Fins


If you have full foot fins, then simply wet the foot pocket then slide them on. You are now ready to go snorkelling!


Snorkelling Tips

Entering The Water


  1. If you are entering from a boat, slide gently over side, lowering yourself into the water.
  2. If you are entering from a large boat you will have to do a giant step. Simply step off the boat and enter the water. To stop your mask coming off hold it to your face with your hand.

Caring For Your Snorkelling Equipment

Clearing Your Snorkel


When snorkelling, as you descend your snorkel will fill with water, this is normal and not a problem. If you have a dry snorkel this will prevent most of the water entering the snorkel but you will find a small amount will still get into the snorkel. Most modern snorkels are fitted with drain valve which makes clearing them easier simply breath out and the water should drain out of the snorkel.

If you do not have a drain valve fitted in your snorkel then you will have to clear the water with a short powerful breath to expel the water from the top of the snorkel.

If you don’t have enough puff left to clear your snorkel simply remove the snorkel from your mouth at the surface, take a breath, then clear.

Kicking Your Snorkelling Fins


Your snorkeling fins are designed to power you through the water. The best way to fin is in a relaxed manor, this will get you through the water just as quickly as if you are really pushing hard but you won’t get tired out so you will have more fun.

The best fining technique is to kick from the hip with your knees slightly bent but try and avoid a cycling action. Your toes should be pointed in the opposite direction from where you want to go. Ensure you keep your face in the water and keep as streamlined as possible. If you follow these tips on how to get the best out of your fins you will soon be zooming through the water with ease.

Ear Clearing


As you dive down under the water you will notice that you feel a squeeze on your ears, this is pressure building in your ears, to release this pressure simply squeeze your nose sealing your nostrils then gently blow out through your nose, this will equalize your ears, you will feel a small pop or adjustment in pressure.

If you experience any difficulty or pain, do not keep trying, return to the surface. You should never get to the point where your ears hurt. You should equalize every few feet to avoid injury.

Sometimes after flying or if you have had a cold recently your ears could be a little “sticky”, be patient and they will soon clear without any pain or discomfort.

Clearing Your Snorkelling Mask


While snorkeling, your mask may allow small amounts of water to leak in, usually due to movement in your face due to smiling, this water can become annoying if left.
The most obvious way to remove this water is to pull your snorkeling mask away from your face, tilt the bottom outward and allow the water to literally drop out of the mask whilst on the surface. This method is easy and effective, but it is not always ideal as when you put the mask back on, it is difficult to do so with some water re-entering! A better method to clear your snorkeling mask is to apply gentle pressure with your hand to the top of the mask in the centre above the middle of your eyes whilst gently exhaling from your nose. This forces the water to exit your snorkeling mask underneath the nose as it is replaced with your breath and as soon as you stop exhaling, the snorkeling mask will fit back onto your face with a good seal under the nose.

A third option is to purchase a snorkeling mask that has a built-in purge valve. These are called Purge Masks. With this type of snorkeling mask a similar procedure to above needs to be used.
To clear a Purge Snorkelling mask you simply tilt the head forward so the purge valve is at the lowest point of the mask, hold the entire mask gently against your face and gently blow via your nose the air from your breath will push the water out of the purge valve. This method means that the seal of the mask to your face is not broken but water is removed from your mask.


Safety

Safety in the water is paramount, but following some simple rules you can avoid most potentially dangerous situations.


  • Never snorkel in conditions that you would not feel confident swimming in.
  • Practice in shallow water first – better still take a snorkel course
  • Check your snorkeling equipment carefully and know how it functions
  • Learn how to clear water from the snorkel
  • Learn how to take your snorkeling mask off and put it back on when you tread water.
  • Be careful not to swim, or be carried by a current too far from shore or the boat
  • Never snorkel alone
  • Check local weather conditions.
  • Make sure the water and weather conditions are safe.
  • Stay aware of changing weather conditions get out of the water if conditions become windy or storm.

Conservation

When snorkelling remember the aquatic world is a very fragile environment and is the home of the marine life you are watching. Respect this home. Avoid contact or touching anything, especially be aware of how your fining action can damage fragile coral. Avoid holding onto anything – things may look like rocks but they may be sensitive coral which your touch could kill or as many people will confirm, it could be coral such as fire coral, which will leave you with a nasty painful rash.

Watch that your snorkeling fins are not dipping too low – just because you cannot feel the tips of them doesn’t mean they cannot destroy fragile plants and animals which they are in contact with. Many marine parks now forbid snorkelers to wear gloves as you will be less likely to touch the coral with bear hands.

There are charities and organisations that run coral reef conservation expeditions where you can learn and contribute to the science of coral reef ecology. Check out if your holiday resort has any local activities that will teach you more about coral reefs.


Training

Most diving


centres offer snorkelling training and although you can go snorkelling without any instruction, you can learn many valuable safety tips and ways to improve your snorkelling technique that will add to your enjoyment of snorkelling. Some of the things you may learn by enrolling in a snorkelling course.

  • How to snorkel so you do not become out of breath or tire quickly
  • How to improve your breath holding abilities to allow you to stay submerged for longer
  • Basic procedures for how to avoid stings and what to do if you do get stung
  • Snorkeling mask and snorkel clearing so you remain comfortable in the water
  • Easy entry and exit procedures over rougher terrain so you can safely access more snorkeling sites.
  • Local marine life identification
  • How to look after your snorkeling equipment extending the life of it

More Information on Snorkelling Equipment

Snorkelling Masks


Your mask is an essential piece of snorkeling and diving equipment, creating an air space in front of your eyes and allowing you to focus underwater. Your snorkeling mask also enclose the nose in a pocket, so you can equalize your ears as you descend underwater. It is imperative to have a comfortable watertight snorkeling or diving mask to enjoy your time in the water or dive. A good quality snorkeling mask with silicone seal will mould to your face shape so it will become a very personal piece of snorkeling equipment.

Contents:

  • Fitting Your Snorkeling Mask
  • Snorkeling Mask with Silicone Skirts
  • Low Volume Snorkeling Masks
  • Framed & Frameless
  • Lens Layout
  • Purge Valve Snorkeling Masks
  • Snorkeling Mask Strap Wrapper
  • Prescription Snorkeling and Diving Masks
  • What to Avoid

Fitting Your Snorkeling Mask

To check that a mask is watertight, simply place it on your face (move the strap out of the way) and inhale through your nose, the snorkeling mask should stay on without the aid of the strap.

If possible try to get your mask to seal snorkel in your mouth this will ensure you get a good seal when snorkeling. Next check that you can pinch your nose and gently blow to clear or pop your ears. This is called equalizing. If you are wearing snorkeling gloves on, check that you can still equalize with snorkeling gloves on.

If the mask you have purchased from Activeaqua.com is not the perfect fit then remember you can always exchange it as long as it not been used in water.

Silicone Skirt

You have a choice of a clear skirt or a black skirt for your snorkeling mask. Clear skirts increase your field of vision, and are generally preferred by new snorkelers. Black skirts can help you focus so are preferred by underwater photographers.

There are also different designs of skirt to consider on snorkeling masks.

Feathered skirt edges – On the better quality masks the silicone skirt gets thinner towards the edge of the seal, this makes the portion touching your face much more flexible for a better fit.

Double skirt – All Activeaqua snorkel masks have a second inner skirt that runs around the inside of the mask which provides a double seal making the mask less prone to leaking.

Low Volume Masks

Low volume masks make clearing of water easy, the less space inside the mask so less water to clear.

Framed & Frameless
There are 2 styles of frame currently available, framed or frameless. A framed mask generally has a plastic frame that the lenses clip into.
The frameless mask is constructed completely of silicone which is wrapped around the lens.

Lens Layout

Single Lens Snorkeling Masks

A snorkeling mask with only one single lens feels more open and can give you a better “view”. However these single lens masks are not suitable corrective lenses.

Twin Lens Snorkeling Masks
Most snorkeling masks come with twin lens this for easy removal of the lenses for cleaning and fitting of corrective lenses if available.

 

Multi Lens Snorkeling Masks

Some snorkeling mask have additional lenses, often to the side of the mask to offer extra peripheral vision. This is purely a matter of personal taste.

 

Purge Valve Snorkeling Mask
Some masks have a purge valve to make clearing water from the mask easier. This is especially useful if you have moustache or smile a lot underwater as both these factors can cause leaking.
All you have to do is ensure that the valve is at the lowest point and exhale through your nose whilst holding the mask against your face to force the water out.

 

Snorkeling Mask Strap Wrapper

If you have long hair, then get a Mask Strap Wrapper to reduce the risk of your snorkeling mask strap getting tangled in your hair.

 

Snorkeling Mask with Prescription Lense

One of our best selling products are our range of snorkeling mask with prescription lenses. We hold all lenses in stock and can fit your snorkeling mask with minus, plus and bifocal lenses. If we receive the order before mid day you will normally receive your mask by the next day.

The lenses we supply for our snorkeling and diving masks are in half increments.
These lenses replace the glass lens in the mask and are not just bonded to the mask, making the mask much lighter than traditional bonded solutions (and better looking as there is no glue). If you purchase a mask and lenses from us, these come pre-fitted.

 

What To Avoid?

Generally avoid plastic skirted snorkeling masks (similar to those you can purchase in Swim shops or beach shops) These may look similar but they often cause face rashes and as the seal is made from hard plastic rather than silicone it is difficult to get them to seal to your face.

Once you are happy with your choice of mask, to help avoid fogging you should consider purchasing some anti fog solution, when the snorkeling mask is new rub normal toothpaste on the inside of the lenses and rinse off (only do this if your mask has glass lenses). This removes the protective film over the inside of the lenses that can cause fogging.

To protect your investment of purchasing a good quality mask we will supply you Free of charge with a mask box which will help protect and extend the life of your mask.

To find your perfect mask please look at our Mask Department. If you have any questions on how to fit then call or email us, we will be happy to help you make your choice.

Snorkels


The snorkel is simply a curved tube that lets you breath while floating face-down on the surface of the water. When diving, it can be used to conserve air in your tank while on the surface. They also offer hours of enjoyment for snorkeling in the shallow waters allowing you to keep your head underwater so you can observe the marine life below.

Contents:

  • Purge Valve or Drain Valve Snorkel
  • Wave Chamber or Splash Guard
  • Flexi Tube

Purge Valve Snorkel


This is a one-way valve that allows water to be cleared from the snorkel easily it is fitted at the bottom of the snorkel and makes clearing a snorkel easy.

Dry Snorkel


Dry snorkels have a small chamber around the purge valve to collect water before its purged, helping to prevent water from going into your mouth.

Wave Chamber


Many modern snorkels incorporate a system that reduces the amount of water entering the open end, for example if a wave washes over your head known as a wave chamber or splash guard

Years ago a ping pong ball on the top of a snorkel to stop any water entering the tube, this system is no longer available. However newer versions of this are available that have a valve system to stop water flooding in.

Snorkels with Flexi Tubes


A flexi-tube on the snorkel mouthpiece keeps the snorkel out of the way while underwater, and allows the snorkel to be moved around to the most comfortable position for you.

Better snorkels such as our Aquadrain Snorkel have a corrugated flexi-tube but the inside is smooth so the air flow is not disturbed making each breath much easier.
Internal corrugation can increase breathing resistance that can make it more difficult to completely clear the water out of the snorkel

Snorkeling Fins


Fins make it possible for snorkelers and divers to move through the water with efficiency and ease.

Contents:

  • Foot Types
  • Channels
  • Colour
  • SizingFoot Types

There are two types of fins, full foot and strap fins. Full foot fins are designed to be worn with bare feet (or thin fin socks) and are ideal for warm water snorkeling and diving (especially diving from boats where footwear is often not allowed).

Adjustable heel fins are worn with boots and are ideal for diving in colder waters where thermal protection is needed.

 

Channels

Channels along the length of the snorkeling fin blade prevent water spilling off the sides of the blade, displacing more water and therefore improving efficiency.

Colour

Snorkeling Fins are available in a variety of colors. Brightly colored will make it easy for you to be seen under the water and on top of the water. It will be easier for your buddy to see you.
Contrary to popular myths, there are no colors that are guaranteed to attract sea life species!

Sizing

Full foot snorkeling fins are sized according to your normal shoe size. Your feet should fit the fins snugly, not too tight or too loose. On some models where sizing of the fin is across several sizes this means that your toes may or may not stick out from the end of the foot pocket.
Remember that you will not be “walking” in these fins so will not need to fit the same as your shoes. However if the fins are to tight you may get cramp.

Snorkel Set


Why buy a Snorkel Set?

We have put together a range of snorkel sets. When you buy a snorkel set from
activeaqua you automatically save money instead of buying the mask and snorkel separately.

Each snorkel set is selected to give customers a wide variations of snorkel set to choose from. We have also looked to match up suitable mask and snorkels in each set to suit individual snorkel set customer needs.

We have based our combinations in each snorkel set to include

  • Budget snorkel set
  • Sizing in the snorkel set i.e. a small volume mask with suitable snorkel
  • Specialist Snorkel Set.

We aim to help make your choice of mask and snorkel easier by creating a range of suitable snorkel set.

Snorkeling Accessories


  • Do You Need Snorkeling Accessories?

We recommend that you do consider buying the following snorkeling accessories as it will make your snorkeling experience more enjoyable.

Anti Fog

There are a number of anti fog products available, simply apply anti fog to the inside of the mask and it will stop your mask fogging.

Mask Strap Wrapper

This is a must have for women with long hair, a mask strap wrapper is simply a section of neoprene that covers the mask strap and stops the strap snagging in your hair.

Fish ID Slates

These slates contain images of fish and can be bought for specific areas (e.g. Red Sea), if you are interested in knowing what you are looking at these are well worth having.
They are made of plastic so can be taken into the water.

Free diving Advice

Contents:


  • What is Free diving?
  • Spear Fishing
  • Governing Bodies
  • Free diving Disciplines
  • Free diving Equipment
  • What Is Free diving?

Free diving has been practiced for hundreds of years; it’s believed it originated in Greece where it was used to allow divers to dive to around 20-30 meters in the search of sea sponges and other sea creatures. Many civilizations around the world use free diving to gather food. No small feat without a mask!

Over the years free divers push the limits that they dive to and currently the world record is over 170 meters on one breath in the discipline of No-Limits Free diving.

So what actually is Free diving? Well a simple definition is anyone who dives under the water from 2 meters onwards and holds their breath. Anyone who is happy holding their breath under water is a Free diver.

Free diving is about finding your limits and then exceeding them. However it can be a very dangerous pastime if you have not received proper instruction.

Spear Fishing


Spear fishing one of the main sports associated with Free diving, it’s the most sustainable form of fishing due its selective nature. With spear fishing the only fish that are targeted are those that are the correct species and are large enough to eat.

This is unlike any other fishing method such as net fishing, which are not as selective.

Governing Bodies

There are a few governing bodies for Free diving but the largest is AIDA which has members all over the world.

The British Free diving Association which is the largest Free diving association in the UK is part of AIDA.

Free diving Disciplines


Constant Weight – Constant weight is essentially Free diving using weight to control your buoyancy, this can be done with or without fins. This is the most common form of Free diving.

Static Apnea – This is essentially a breath hold exercise. You lie face down in a pool and see how long you can stay there; this is a pure mind game.

Dynamic Apnea – Dynamic Apnea is a competition discipline, its how much distance you can travel horizontally in one breathe, normally in swimming pools. This can be done with or without fins.

Free Immersion – This discipline is pulling yourself up and down a line without fins. This is a great discipline for beginners as it allows them to accurately time their equalizations.

Variable Weight – This is descending with a weight or sled. This is for the more hardcore breed of Free divers and allows you to reach serious depth. This sport requires a full support crew to ensure nothing goes wrong.

No Limits – This is the most extreme form of Free diving, essentially you descend on a weighted sled and ascend using an air filled bag. This discipline is the one most people know of as it grabs headlines however isn’t considered the purest form of Free diving.

 

Freediving Equipment


Freedive Mask – There are some things to be considered when buying a mask for Free diving. A Free dive mask should be lower volume than a scuba mask making it easier to equalize. Lenses should be clear to allow your buddy to easily see your eyes and the nose section must be loose enough to easily allow you to equalize.

It is always advisable to carry an extra mask when Free diving to any depth over 10m to ensure you can swap if a mask breaks Activeaqua can supply the Midi View Mask either with plain glass or prescription lenses this is an excellent mask for Free diving.

Fins – Free diving fins are significantly longer than Snorkeling fins which gives you much more power than with a scuba fin, however does limit your ability to turn easily. The reason for the extra length is to produce the most efficient kick to conserve your energy levels whilst moving as quickly as possible.

Snorkel – Snorkels for Free diving are generally of a simple tube design normally left at the surface to reduce drag.

Accessories – There are a number of accessories which can be used for Free diving but they are not necessarily required.

Knife / Line Cutter – You never know when you are going to get into trouble, especially in open water. So carrying a knife is recommended to reduce the dangers from fishing lines which are often seen.

 

 

Whistle – A recommended accessory as it allows you to contact your buddy when you are in the water.


Diving Accessories


With many airlines cutting luggage allowances and increasing the cost of taking extra baggage on holiday, taking you diving equipment with you on holiday can be extremely expensive and sometimes not even possible!. If you buy a range of Diving Accessories you can easily customise rental equipment with your own Diving Accessories.

Although we love using our own Diving Equipment, to get to some of the most beautiful snorkelling and diving destinations means cutting your luggage allowance, we have always found it a sacrifice worth making. Personally I like to take the following essentials, my own mask, snorkel and fins, plus a range of Diving Accessories, you can use this basic equipment and Diving Accessories for snorkelling and diving.

Other Diving Accessories I always take with me as they are generally not available in resort are, a small LED torch which is powerful enough to use on night dives and during the days for looking into nooks and crannies. The other essential Diving Accessory is a small knife made of either stainless steel or lightweight titanium. Most diving resorts keep a check on discarded fishing line and regularly check their favourite dive site for old fishing line, but I like to have a small knife or line cutter with me just in case.

Lastly I would recommend that whatever Diving Accessories or equipment you take on holiday with you, that you take a bag to put all you Diving Accessories and equipment in. We sell several bags for Diving Accessories and equipment, they are all lightweight and compact and are easy to pack in your luggage.


Fitting Prescription Goggles

Gone are the leaky prescription goggles of years gone by. Our range of prescription goggles are made with silicone seals to provide a comfortable seal and excellent fit. Here are a few tips on getting your swimming prescription goggles to fit perfectly.

Place the prescription goggles over the eyes before fitting the strap. Pressure should then be applied to the prescription goggles, if suction is achieved then the prescription goggles will provide a leak free fit.

The strap should then be fitted. The purpose of the strap is to hold the prescription goggles in position – not to provide the seal. A firm not too tight fit that does not apply any awkward pressure to the face is the perfect fit.

Adjustment of head strap may be necessary. Always remove prescription goggles first. Then adjust the head band until you get a comfortable fit. It is also essential to adjust the nose bridge for both comfort and a water tight seal. Slide lenses closer or further apart one notch at a time until you get the perfect fit. If you are looking for high performance prescription goggles that will give you the perfect fit the look no further than our Dragon prescription goggles.

If you need prescription goggles then you will find that our Dragon optical goggles will provide excellent comfort and a great fit plus they are supplied with optical lenses to your prescription.

The unique one-piece construction of Aqua swimming goggles mean no bridge adjustment is required.

Eye Safety Warning


To remove prescription goggles safely, put thumbs under the head strap at side of head. Slide thumbs to back of head and lift strap from back to front of head.
To avoid possible eye damage of discomfort when wearing prescription goggles:

  • DO NOT pull eye-cups from your face – they may spring back and hurt your face.
  • DO NOT dive into water (competitive racing starts from starting blocks, which are not considered dives).
  • DO NOT swim Underwater below 2 meters.

Look After Your Gear

  • After use, rinse prescription goggles in clear cold water and keep in a goggle pouch so as to avoid scratching the lenses.
  • Do not allow others to use your prescription goggles. A properly fitted goggle mounds itself to the face. It can also be unhygienic.

Let’s go snorkeling!


Last month we reviewed snorkeling equipment so that you would have the information to choose the best snorkeling equipment for you. If you haven’t made your choices yet then scroll down the page for advice on how to choose your snorkeling equipment.

Once you have got your snorkeling equipment you are ready to go snorkeling! Remember to apply some mask defog to your mask to stop it fogging up. Then put on the mask, adjust the snorkel and if you have fins put them on just before you get into the water.

Now you have all you snorkeling equipment on, it’s time to go snorkeling!. Once in the water float in a horizontal position and relax. Get used to the water movement, keep your arms at your sides and breathe deeply and slowly. Check that your snorkeling equipment is comfortable and make any minor adjustments. When you want to move, if are wearing fins use only your legs and kick in the water slowly from your hip. Try to keep your legs straight and avoid bending your knees, it will feel strange at first but you will soon get used to it. Try and avoid splashing your fins on the surface and remember to breathe deeply and slowly and relax. Just get used to the sensation of floating on the water and you new snorkeling equipment.

Things under the water appear 25% larger and closer than actual size. Test your ability to judge distance by moving to shallow water and try and touch the sandy bottom, you will notice it is further away than you expected. To enjoy snorkeling no matter where you are buy a submersible fish guide. This handy piece of snorkeling equipment means you can study the fish and identify them under water, every one will want to know what you saw when you return from your watery adventure.

Have you ever thought of going snorkeling at night? It’s a great experience and the only additional snorkeling equipment you will need is an inexpensive underwater torch. Nocturnal creatures are on the move while diurnal ones sleep, the water is calmer and many species including squid will be attracted to your torch and come quite close to you. Some fish change colour and patterns while others don a “pajama” made from mucous to protect themselves from predators. Use your snorkeling equipment to have snorkeling adventures both night and day.

Care of the environment

Everything you see on a coral reef is alive! Even what looks like hard rock is coral made up from trillions of animals that cover themselves with a hard protective skeleton. Some corals are soft and look like plants but these are also animals.

Remember to never touch any coral or creatures you see whilst snorkeling, follow this rule and not only will you be protecting the environment but also yourself. Some corals can sting or burn and fish and other creatures may bite or sting if frightened. Just observe. Leave beautiful shells for other snorkelers to see.

Top Tip!

It is advisable to wear a T-shirt whilst snorkeling to help prevent sunburn. Also remember to wear a water proof sun cream prevent you getting burnt in the water, remember to apply sun cream especially to the backs of the knees!!