Scuba Diving With Prescription Glasses or Contacts

If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, there are many options available to you when scuba diving. However, it is necessary to take the time and learn about each of these options before deciding which one will work best for you. When you choose the right product for scuba diving with a prescription, you will be amazed at the difference that it can make in the underwater world.

Leaving Contacts in While Diving

Although it is possible to leave your contacts in while diving, it is not always a good idea. Gas permeable contacts are a particularly bad for scuba diving. The organisms under the water can get into the contact itself, which would cause infection or irritation. Disposable contacts work best for diving, as they can be thrown away when you are done.

If you must wear your contacts while diving, be sure to close your eyes immediately if there is a break in the seal of your diving mask. Keep your eyes closed until the mask is sealed again and the water has been emptied. Always remember to bring an extra pair of contacts in case the ones you’re wearing become lost or damaged while diving.

Don’t Use a Prescription

Sometimes it is possible to get away with not wearing your prescription glasses or contacts while scuba diving. If you have a very low prescription, then it is possible that the natural magnification of the water and mask will be enough to correct your vision. Your sight still may not be perfect underwater, but it might be acceptable enough to justify not wearing your corrective eyewear.

Prescription Masks

Purchasing a prescription mask is one of the best options available for those with glasses and contacts. At many scuba supply stores, they have ready-made lenses in common prescriptions that can be inserted into the masks instead of a standard lens. This way you will be able to see the objects in the water the same way as you would with your glasses or contacts. If you have a higher prescription or astigmatism, you will need to place an order through a supply store or your ophthalmologist.

Another option when it comes to scuba diving with prescription glasses or contacts is to purchase a mask that has a built in space for inserts. This allows you to purchase prescription lenses from your Optician, and insert them into the mask as needed. Masks with inserts are especially good for those who like to where contacts at times, but want the option to insert the lenses and go without their contacts as well.

Just because prescription glasses cannot be worn with a scuba mask, does not mean that there are not other available options to help you see clearly in the water. Scuba diving with prescription glasses or contacts can be an enjoyable experience, when you choose an alternative method that works best for you. Whether you choose to wear your contacts, go without your lenses, or purchase a prescription mask, you will be sure to enjoy seeing clearly underwater.