Help Choosing Prescription Dive Mask

Do you wear glasses and worry about missing the magic of the underwater world? You’re not alone — many divers struggle with blurry vision below the surface. Fortunately, prescription dive masks make it easy to see clearly and comfortably while exploring the deep. Whether you need basic correction or more specialised lenses, the right mask can completely transform your diving or snorkelling experience. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to choose the best prescription mask, so you’re fully prepared to enjoy every moment beneath the waves.

How to read your dive mask prescription

Let me help you get started. Prescription lenses have three key measurements: Sphere, Cylinder, and Axis. The Sphere value indicates whether you’re nearsighted or farsighted. Cylinder and Axis readings relate to astigmatism—telling you if you have it, how strong it is, and exactly where it affects your eye. If your astigmatism is mild (between 0.75 and 2.00), premade or stock lenses will usually correct your vision perfectly. You might also see an ADD value on your prescription—that’s for additional correction, often used for reading your dive computer up close. With these details in hand, you’re ready to find the perfect prescription dive mask!

Lens corrections are based on your spherical reading and can be found on the glasses prescription obtained from your optician. Typically it will look something like this:

Do I qualify for premade or stock prescription lenses?

Prescription masks allow you to see clearly underwater, eliminating the need for contact lenses. Our masks support spherical corrections from ‑8.0 to +4.5 diopters, and bifocal options are available between +1.0 to +4.5 

If your eyesight requires eyeglasses with a cylinder or axis correction above 2.00 (moderate to strong astigmatism), then under the sea may require special attention: Custom Made Prescription Mask Lenses are specialist corrective lenses custom-made to fit any dive mask. In this case, contact our Customer Service Team for the best advice support@mikesdivestore.com

Choosing the correct prescription mask

The key to finding a suitable Prescription Dive Mask is to look for masks with high-quality silicone skirt seals. High-grade silicone is more durable, comfortable when pressed against the skin, and will last much longer than other materials. Prescription mask skirts are available in either clear or black silicone finishes. Ensure your Prescription Dive Mask also fits comfortably on your face for a better seal and less leakage. To ensure maximum comfort, check that the straps don't irritate your skin or cause discomfort by digging into your hair or scalp.

Our mask builder now offers multiple prescription mask models, each designed to meet different diving styles and face shapes:

• TUSA Freedom CEOS Mask This mask features TUSA’s Freedom Fit silicone skirt, known for its soft, flexible feel that adapts to most face shapes for a comfortable, secure seal. It has a large, single lens that provides a wide, unobstructed field of view and a low internal volume for easy clearing. Whether you’re diving deep or just snorkelling near the surface, the Freedom CEOS is a versatile and reliable choice.
• TUSA Intega stands out with its wide-angle lens that maximises your underwater vision. It combines a flexible silicone skirt with an ergonomic, low-volume design that fits snugly and comfortably. The mask is lightweight, making it ideal for long dives or travel, and its secure seal ensures minimal leakage, even in rough conditions.
• Scubapro D-Mask is designed for divers who appreciate a sleek, modern look, the Scubapro D-Mask has a low-profile silhouette that reduces drag underwater. Its generous field of view lets you take in more of your surroundings, and the adjustable, user-friendly buckles make fit adjustments quick and easy. This mask strikes a great balance between style, comfort, and performance.
• TUSA Paragon Mask features a classic twin-lens design with an ergonomic fit that works well on a variety of face shapes. It’s crafted with high-quality silicone for durability and comfort, and enhanced lens technology improves clarity and scratch resistance. This mask is a dependable option for both recreational and technical divers seeking reliable performance.

• Cressi Quantum Mask - incorporating thermoregulation technology, the Cressi Quantum helps prevent fogging even in variable water temperatures, making it a favourite among divers who dive in colder or changing environments. Its sturdy build and comfortable skirt make it a solid all-rounder for daily diving or extended trips.
• Cressi Focus Mask - compact and low-volume is perfect for divers who want minimal bulk without sacrificing comfort or visibility. Its soft, double-feathered silicone skirt creates an excellent seal while enhancing comfort, and the clear lenses provide sharp, undistorted views of the underwater world.
• The Mares Chroma Up is a compact twin-lens mask offering great comfort and an excellent upward field of view. Its lightweight frame and soft ‘X’ nose insert make it ideal for wider noses. With a quick-release lens system, swapping lenses is fast and easy. Perfect for snorkeling and diving at any skill level.
• The Ocean Reef Aria QR+  is a full-face snorkelling mask designed for comfort, simplicity, and a panoramic view of the underwater world. It features a quick-release system for easy removal, a dry-top snorkel to prevent water entry, and even supports a built-in communication system. Ideal for all experience levels, it’s especially great for snorkelers who feel nervous or claustrophobic using a traditional mask and snorkel setup.

There is a huge benefit to choosing a high-quality dive mask, as the mainstream dive equipment manufacturers produce spare parts, so after a few years of usage, some components perish. You may still be able to find replacement parts and still use your prescription lenses. 

Choosing prescription lenses for a dive mask

Most prescription dive masks use premade or stock lenses available in plus powers up to +4.5 dioptres, minus powers down to -8.0 dioptres, and bifocal reading lenses from +1.0 to +4.5. For example, if your eyeglass prescription has a Sphere (SPH) value of +1.50 in the right eye and +1.00 in the left, we can match those with the closest available lens powers. While more precise prescriptions exist, most off-the-shelf lenses are produced in 0.5 dioptre increments.

Not to worry — we’ll help you choose the best match. As a general rule, round down for minus (short-sighted) prescriptions and up for plus (long-sighted) prescriptions. So, if your SPH is +1.25, we recommend selecting +1.5; if it’s -1.25, go with -1.0.

Once you’ve placed your order, we’ll mount your lenses and ship your new mask via your chosen courier. If you need extra guidance, check out our How to Buy a Prescription Mask  page for help understanding your prescription and choosing the right correction.

Use our dedicated prescription mask builder

Prescription dive masks are a must for anyone seeking clear vision underwater, and now prescription mask building is super easy with our online prescription mask builder. Just choose which Prescription Mask you need, and you'll be offered a range of compatible lenses. Whether you're an experienced scuba diver or just getting started, this Prescription Mask Builder is the perfect tool to get exactly what you need. So don't worry about any hassle or confusion; select your Prescription Mask, and we'll ensure you get the right accessories and lenses to equip yourself for the best and safest dive ever!

Step-by-Step: Building Your Prescription Mask:

1. Select Your Mask Model
   Start by choosing the mask that best fits your face and diving style.

2. Choose Your Colour
   Choose between a clear silicone skirt for a brighter, more open feel or a black skirt to reduce glare and distractions underwater. You can also select your preferred frame colour, depending on availability for each model.
   

3. Enter Your Left Lens Prescription
   Choose the correct value for your left eye - minus, plus or bi-focal. Prescription lenses are available in 0.5 dioptre increments.
   

4. Enter Your Right Lens Prescription
   Select the value for your right eye.

5. Choose Your Accessories!
   Add extras like anti-fog gel, upgraded straps, or a protective case.

6. Review & Add to Basket
   Double-check your selections. Once fitted, prescription lenses are non-returnable.

SHOP PRESCRIPTION DIVE MASKS

Get in touch with us

If you are an avid scuba diver but need glasses, don't forget to get yourself a prescription dive mask. It can seriously improve your underwater experience and can be a game-changer for any diver! By wearing prescription lenses, you will no longer need to squint and strain your eyes as you try to take in the stunning beauty of the ocean. 

Need help choosing your first prescription mask? Our friendly Customer Service Team is here to help! You can email us at support@mikesdivestore.com, schedule a video consultation, or drop by our Chiswick store for expert, face-to-face advice.