USVI-On-Line

I wear glasses and can't see a thing without them. I want to learn to snorkel in May when we come to St. John. Am I better off getting contacts, or a prescription mask?
Thanks for your help!

Both Hubby and I have prescription masks. They work well but contacts under a regualr mask work also if you are comfortable with contacts, wind, sun and water tend to dry contacts out.

I wear contacts and I have to say that I think I see better with them when I'm in St John!! Have never had a problem with them snorkeling.

I can't deal with contacts, have a prescription mask, and love it.

One thing to check on that folks don't always think of - these are just a different pair of "glasses". Any prescription insurance and health care reimbursement are applicable. The mask is the frame. I got some insurance/reimbursement assistance on this mask as well as a pair of prescription goggles for playing racquetball several years ago.

My cost for the custom mask with my prescription was less than just getting a mask which would have no coverage.

Also, being of a certain age and wearing bifocals, I didn't bother with the reading add. Was talking to a friend who is also chronologically challenged and he told me he got his lenses for his mask done as bifocals for diving so he could read watch, gauges, etc.

irbgolfin

I ordered Tusa corrective lenses for my mask. I got them from www.diver-supply.com. Here are the details of the costs:

Payment Info:

PayPal

Shipping Method:

FedEx 3 Business Days Express Saver

Order Details:

Code Item Qty Price Total
TUS5133 TUSA CORRECTIVE OPTICAL LENS TMCL-5700 L/R
[Optical Lens:Left -1.5] 1 $26.95 $26.95
TUS5133 TUSA CORRECTIVE OPTICAL LENS TMCL-5700 L/R
[Optical Lens:Right -2.0] 1 $26.95 $26.95

Sub Total: $53.90
Tax: $0.00
Shipping: $14.19
Grand Total: $68.09

The only time I use my contacts these days is when I am swimming or snorkeling. Being able to see when you are in the water, whether or not you're snorkeling, is a great feeling when you are really nearsighted. Never had a problem w/ them in salt water or with wind. On land I become a glasses wearer, but in the water, go with the contacts.

You guys are so wonderfully helpful! Thanks! I'm going to buy a mask, because I'm pretty sure I'll be doing this again. And the tip about them being covered by insurance was priceless (or worth about $60)! Thanks!