Binding: Sports Brand: U.S. Divers EAN: 0053242191531 Label: U.S. Divers Manufacturer: U.S. Divers Model: 272485 Publisher: U.S. Divers Sales Rank: 11915 Studio: U.S. Divers
Features:
Snorkeling bundle with Sideview Pro Tech mask, Total Dry snorkel, and storage bag
Float mechanism in snorkel tube instantly closes when submerged to keep water out
Contoured barrel is ergonomically shaped for best positioning in the water
Sideview mask offers hypoallergenic face skirt and 4-window polycarbonate lens
Easy-adjusting swivel buckle; translucent blue highlights; 2-year limited warranty
Disappointed
While this set is not the most expensive, it certainly is not the cheapest either. And I expected quality workmanship from a product with quality (silicone) materials. I had the same problems with the snorkel that some others did but I could get used to it. It's kind of a trade-off for such a dry snorkel. But the biggest problem is that I bought two of these sets for a Caribbean vacation and one of the masks had a slow leak from the very beginning. We were on vacation for a month so no returning the darn thing. Now I'm here shopping for a replacement for an upcoming Florida Keys vacation. Not good.
GOOD BRAND, POOR DESIGN, SNORKEL USELESS
I had the same problems as as other reviewer. The valve on the snorkel closes when you don't need it and in turn, cuts off your ability to breathe air. I also found it to be heavy and feel it should be held in place by the mask.
PERFORMED AS PROMISED
My family was planning to go on a cruise in the southern Caribbean. We didn't want to have to pay for expensive snorkeling excursions for each port. So, we decided to buy our own snorkeling equipment and head out on our own. It was very painful to try to interpret all the specs on the equipment. For several of the adventurous snorkelers in our family, we bought the mask with the total dry snorkel. It performed as promised. We have various face sizes also. Mask was easy to adjust and had good peripheral visibility. We bought this equipment in conjunction with other lower-end snorkel set for less adventuresome family members.
So So
Do not buy a mask online unless you have tried the model on your face. Also I have found that the sniff test does not necessarily ensure a water seal so I would never buy another mask without first wearing it in water.
The snorkel sucks. It is supposed to prevent water from getting in but none of these gadgets really work and I think you are better off anticipating it being filled with water then the other way around.
Durability Concerns
I received the unit intact but before first use, the goggles broke by means of a peice of plastic attaching the strap to the mask. Thus, I did not even get a chance to use the goggles so they may in fact work nicely provided you carry them everywhere in a pillow.
The snorkel is extremely heavy and the unit which I had problems with the valve at the top which prevents water from entering. The valve stuck way too much, even after lubricating, causing a reverse affect where you could not breathe even when you didn't have water in the tube. The weight also causes it not to stay upright if using other goggles.
I'd recommend sticking to the Seabreeze and Cozumel set, from my experience at least.
