How long does a diving mask last

Introduction
We frequently get these questions from our customers.
I'm sure there are many people who use one mask until it starts to deteriorate and then replace it.
In order to use UMMY diving masks for as long as possible and safely,
1. How often and when to change your mask
2. What you can do to make your mask last longer
I will tell you about these two points.
1. How often and when to change your mask
First of all, there are two main reasons for changing your mask:
① Plastic lens mask or glass lens mask?
②Frequency of mask use
These two points make a big difference.
At UMMY, the following masks use plastic and glass lenses.
Plastic lenses
Glass lenses
In conclusion, plastic lenses are more susceptible to scratches and have a shorter lifespan, while glass lenses have a longer lifespan. So, are glass lenses better? There are advantages and disadvantages to both, so if you are interested in the characteristics and differences of each lens, please see the FAQ at the bottom. *1
On that basis, the guidelines for changing masks are as follows:
○In the case of plastic lenses
- Those who use the product more than once every two weeks during the season→ Replace once a season as a guideline
- Those who use it about once every 3-4 weeks during the season →Replace once every 2-3 seasons
Glass lenses
- Those who use the equipment more than once every two weeks during the season →Replace once every 2-3 seasons
- Those who use it about once every 3-4 weeks during the season →Replace once every 1-2 years
We recommend that you use these intervals as a guide. Even if you don't notice any deterioration at first glance, once you are out in the ocean, unexpected situations can occur, such as poor visibility, clouding, water getting into the mask, or the belt breaking. In order to enjoy diving safely, please replace your mask at the above intervals as a guide.
Regardless of the frequency of the above, if you experience any of the following symptoms, please change your mask as soon as possible.
- The lens is scratched and the visibility is poor
- Even if I apply anti-fog, the lenses fog up again quickly.
- The silicone skirt sags and water easily gets into the mask.
- The silicone skirt and belt parts have deteriorated and may tear if pulled.
- It has been more than two years since you last used a mask
2. What you can do to make your mask last longer
To make your mask last longer, keep the following in mind:
・Use at least two masks in rotation (this will help prevent the mask from deteriorating, especially for those who use them frequently)
- Do not dry in direct sunlight (this will accelerate deterioration of the silicone skirt and belt)
・Try to remove dirt from plastic lenses with running water as much as possible. If it doesn't come off with running water, use a glasses cloth or alcohol wipes for lenses.
・Do not use a mask with plastic lenses in very shallow water with pebbles flying around.
- Do not place the mask directly on the beach (pebbles may get caught in the lens and silicone skirt and scratch the lens when you remove it)
・ Always store and transport masks in a mask case
・For plastic lens masks, do not use stick-type anti-fog products as they may scratch the lenses.
Please also refer to the blog article at the bottom for information on how to handle masks.
Just by keeping these things in mind, I think the lifespan of your mask will be significantly extended.
We hope you enjoy using UMMY masks for a long time!
reference
*1 FAQIs there a difference between glass and plastic lenses in masks?
*2 Must-read: How to handle mask lenses (cloudiness and scratches)