Snorkel Gear Question - I have a new snorkel and the mask has a chamber at the nose.?

Question

It lets water in and I do not know how to use it properly. Can someone please explain? Thanks

Answer 1

First, make sure your mask is tight enough.

And then you know the band or strap that goes around your head, make sure that isn't too low. You want the strap to go around the highest part of the back of your head.

Answer 2

First off , that mask needs to be a good fit. If it isn't. then nothing you try to do will stop it from flooding. There's a simple test. Put it against your face making sure that there is no hair under the mask skirt (seal) and  without putting the strap on your head. Inhale once slightly through your nose with your mouth shut and take your hands off the mask. If the mask falls off almost instantly, then don't waste your time. The mask doesn't fit your face and there's nothing you can do. If it stays put for longer than 15 seconds then there's hope. There are two possible causes for your mask flooding in this case.

1/ Hair caught under the mask skirt.

2/ You've adjusted the mask strap too tight. It should fit comfortably on your face with hardly any pressure. Too tight will make the mask skirt ineffective.

That "chamber" you're talking about is called the nose pocket and is there to allow you to help equalize your sinus cavities as you dive. You do that by pinching your nose with two fingers and gently blowing as soon as you feel a little discomfort as you descend. That's why the pocket is there, to let your fingers get to your nose. That technique of equalizing is called the Valsalva and is used by most divers to prevent ear and sinus pain (also damage) as we dive deeper. You usually need to do this if you plan on being deeper than 8 feet or so.