Equipment Upgrades: Masks & Fins

Intern Dan with the Mares X-Vision Mask Perhaps because of their familiarity, the importance of a good mask and set of fins is often overlooked by the new diver. However, nothing can ruin the dive day faster than a mask that leaks or fins that cause blisters and cramps.

While Aquanauts supplies solid performing fins in its standard equipment packages, their flat-blade design may not be right for everyone. For those looking for fins that place less strain on their legs or knees, Aquanauts offers adjustable and full-foot blade fins from Aqua Lung and Mares that channel water more efficiently, as well as Scubapro's unique Twin Jet Max split-fin design fins and, for those who prefer a full-foot fin, the Mares Race.

For masks, A mask that fits your face well, offers large lenses and is easy to clear can make the difference between a good and bad dive. The masks supplied standard are fine for many, but others prefer masks with larger lenses or designs that do away entirely with the frame separating the lenses. Aquanauts even offers the innovative ProEar 2000, which includes cups to cover your ears for extra protection.

Fins

Blades II HF	Twin Jet Max
The Blades II fins have been the fin of choice for experienced and novice divers alike. With the perfect balance of flexibility and power, the Blades II will get you where you want to go with ease and efficiency. The HF (Hands Free) buckle system releases conveniently with a push of your heel and eliminates the need to bend down to release your fin buckles. Significantly outperforms traditional composite fins Produces maximum thrust with lateral stability Made from a combination of materials that include rubber for flexibility and polymer plastic for a stable and powerful kick	New for 2007, the Twin Jet Max Fin features a patented split-hydrofoil shape to deliver optimum power with minimum effort, plus dual-compound construction, which enables Scubapro to fine-tune performance and optimize maneuverability and diver comfort. The Max's dual-compound construction blends the best characteristics of two different yet compatible compounds to achieve the highest level of performance.

Quattro Excel	Volo Race
Mares' latest and top-end fin, the Quattro Excel features Super Channel Thrust, which makes it possible to channel the water and optimize thrust in comparison to other fins of similar size. Its elastic OPB system ensures that the blade is always at an optimal angle during both the upward and downward strokes, thus considerably increasing efficiency.The Excel is composed of three different materials and comes in three colors.	The Volo Race offers both strong performance and less stress on the legs for divers that prefer a full-foot design. The Optimized Pivoting Blade features expandable inserts for controlling and optimizing the thrust angle. Channel Thrust Technology perfects routing of the water flow and rubber covered stabilizers and ribs, provide improved performance.

Masks


X-Vision	Pure Vision	Opera
The most-popular choice among Aquanauts divers, the X-Vision offers regular or prescription lenses. By centering the eyes and featuring optimally angled windows the X-Vision provides the widest possible viewing angle in every direction. Divers also rave about how well the X-Vision fits and seals. Available in blue, yellow, black, red and clear, as well as a smaller size for women.	The Pure Vision uses the same frame as the X-Vision and offers the same great comfort and seal. The difference between the two is that the Pure Vision removes the nose bridge, leaving divers with an unobstructed field of view. However, using one piece of glass, the Pure Vision cannot accept prescription lenses. Available in blue, yellow, black, red and clear.	Simple and sturdy, the Opera features a unique, appealing and elegant look for a beautiful and exclusive mask that’s perfect for every kind of use. Symmetrical lenses simplify the option to customize the mask with corrective lenses, which are available in a complete range from -1 to -10 diopters. Available in blue, yellow, and black.

Premier	Crystal Vu	ProEar 2000
Scubapro's Premier mask allows you to comfortably glide through the water and see everything the sea, lake, or river has to offer. The Premier's two drop-shaped lenses provide a wider field of vision than standard lenses can provide. The subtle lens angle will permit you to easily scan down the length of your body to see everything around you and to keep an eye on the gear that is attached to the front of your BCD. The streamlined design and universal fit offer you a mask that will hardly seem to exist on your face.	The Crystal Vu offers all features found on a single-lens mask : a large unobstructed field of vision, and a low volume. • Patented single lens with seamless side window design Results in a panoramic field of vision. • Crystal-clear and graphite, double sealed silicone skirt For superior fit and comfort. • Low volume styling For a snug fit and ease of clearing. • Swivel buckles for easy adjustment • Tempered glass lens • Protective plastic box included	For many divers, from beginners to the most experienced professionals, ear problems affect their ability to enjoy their sport more than any other health issue. More dives are aborted and more diving holidays shortened due to ear problems than any other cause. ProEar 2000 is the world's only practical ear protector for divers, designed and developed by diving physicians, engineers and instructors. The mask's unique design and performance, allows divers to keep their ears dry.

Equipment Upgrades: Masks & Fins

Blades II HF

Twin Jet Max

Quattro Excel

Volo Race

X-Vision

Pure Vision

Opera

Premier

Crystal Vu

ProEar 2000