Kategorie: News
A mask is a mask or isn't it?
I have tested and owned many, many masks. I still mourn the loss of one of my first masks because it was really tight and I didn't have to blow it out all the time. Unfortunately, it was stolen and I never got another one of the same quality...
Test report by Gerald Nowak
Somehow I think that my nasolabial folds are simply too pronounced to give a mask the chance to seal them properly. No matter which manufacturer I tried masks from. There were better ones, but also many that couldn't be sealed at all. It is only possible to have a reasonably relaxed dive without a beard. With a three-day beard, it's just tedious.
The topic came up again at Interdive 2024 in Friedrichshafen. After the trade fair closed, my wrinkle problem caused a lot of laughter over a beer, because hardly anyone is constantly blowing out their mask during a dive. For me, this has now become standard practice and I hardly notice it any more. But anyone who watches me diving wonders why I constantly have my hand on my mask.
The conversation took place at the Mares stand and Michael Hiller listened to me attentively and took me aside shortly after I laughed. ‘I think we have something for you,’ were his words. ‘We'll soon be launching a new mask on the market that's made for just such cases’. I pricked up my ears, because I had been looking for a mask like this for a long time. ‘Unfortunately, I only have a prototype to show you. It will be launched at the Boot trade fair and you can buy one’.
Well, of course I didn't want to wait that long and so I persuaded Michael to lend me the good piece for a few days to test it. Of course, I had to promise not to publish the test until after the mask had been launched. No sooner said than done.
The mask body is made from two different silicones
On a diving trip, I had the opportunity to put the mask through its paces. At first, it seemed relatively heavy to me. The frame of the two-lens mask consists of several components. The plastic frame is made from two different materials and encloses the two tempered lenses with a stainless steel frame. This not only gives the mask a high-quality look, but also makes it even more stable and durable.
Another special feature is the mask body, which is made from two different silicones. The ultra-soft silicone (which is supposed to ensure a special fit) is directly next to the skin and thus also seals out large facial wrinkles. To prevent the silicone frame from becoming too soft and the mask no longer fitting properly, the part of the silicone that sits in the frame and holds the lenses is made of very dimensionally stable silicone. It's a great innovation to assemble the mask body from two silicones.
Even though I had the feeling that the mask was heavy when I first put it on, this feeling was immediately gone under water. It fits well and comfortably. To be able to directly compare the difference underwater, I took my old mask with me and swapped it back and forth several times during the dive. It's really amazing, but the Force-X LS only needs to be blown out once after the change, after which it is tight. I am thrilled and dive with the mask all week. To make sure I'm not mistaken, I ask my wife if she can try the mask and tell me how it feels. Her first impression is similar to mine, but she also realises that the mask feels very good under water. The mask strap fits well and the visibility is also perfect. Although she also thinks that she prefers masks with a clear mask body. It's probably a matter of getting used to it. As a photographer, I prefer dark mask bodies so that there is less light around my eyes when I'm taking photos.
What I personally like about the new mask is the two colours. Not everyone may like it, but there are three versions and the Tekkies get their all-black mask too. I like the orange and black mask and will probably finally have a mask again in the future that is tight and I don't have to reach for the mask all the time.
The main features are:
The LiquidSkin technology: this is where the bi-silicone frame combines stability and flexibility for a perfect fit and maximum comfort.
The panoramic view: The stainless steel frame allows the mask body to maintain a flat profile and ensures exceptional durability and an extended field of vision.
The quick-release metal clips: For those who want to use corrected lenses, this makes it easy to insert the right visual aids.
The FORCE-X-Fit system: The ‘Y’-shaped buckles and the LiquidSkin frame distribute the pressure of the strap evenly across the mask, ensuring an optimal fit.
The slim, adjustable buckles: This allows precise adjustment of the strap in seconds for maximum comfort.
The anatomical silicone strap: The strap is available in different colours and combines pleasant comfort and modern design.
The environmentally friendly EVA box: Not only is it made from environmentally friendly materials, it is also particularly robust for safe protection of your favourite mask.
The mask is available in 6 colours at a price of 179.00 euros.
Info: mares.com/de_CH/force-x-ls-411082
The test was carried out at Amalfitana in Marina del Cantone. We dived with the dive centre ‘Barracuda Diving’ in Villaggio Nattuno Camp.