Peripheral vision is an important consideration in the selection of a dive mask. Other than mask fit, probably the most important aspect of a dive mask is a mask's field of vision, its panorama, so to speak. But while everybody has been clamoring to have the widest field of view from side to side, one company has stepped forward to recognize the importance of top to bottom as well. Big Eyes by Cressi-Sub is the first dive mask to take into consideration this factor, as well as offering excellent side to side field of vision and other great mask features.

Divers in the last decade or so have increasingly worn more gear attached to their chest. In this general vicinity we place BC inflators, octopus regulators, consoles, not to mention stuff in BC pockets, accessories attached to 'D' rings and more. You have your BC straps, weight belt buckle, etc., etc. It's a lot of things to see and handle.

Big Eyes dive mask makes all this so much easier to see and manage. The field of vision is increased by 30 percent. Cressi-sub does this by making the dual lenses on the mask unusually large, dropping down the face. Furthermore, the lenses are angled at an 18° angle downward. While there is a slight sacrifice in upward vision, the ability to see at a downward angle is great and very beneficial.

While being able to see your gear better is the primary purpose of this innovation, I found increased downward vision to also increase my diving enjoyment. I had a much larger view of the underwater world. The sight decrease in upward vision was actually an advantage. The frame acted much like a baseball cap, shading my eyes slightly from the sun above.

And for the side-to-side peripheral vision, this mask is great. The mask is designed with a very low air volume, placing the lenses as close to the eyes as possible. This makes for a maximum of peripheral vision and gives the added benefit of being streamlined and less burdensome on the face.

The crystal silicone skirt has a double feather edge for a soft tight seal. I found the skirt, however, a bit too soft. If I over-tightened the mask strap, the skirt would collapse. The problem was easily corrected by loosening the strap, however. With the proper strap adjustment, the mask sealed very well, even on my moustached face.

The strap has the nice but simple feature I always appreciate: a spreader in the back that holds the mask sections in the back apart and keeps the strap from tangling. A small feature, yes, but one that makes diving just a bit easier. Strap adjustment is with one-touch buckles on the sides of the frame. Adjustment can be accomplished with one hand.

The Cressi-sub Big Eyes Mask comes in a variety of colors. For more information, visit Cressi-sub's web site at www.cressi-sub.it. For a dealer near you, call (800) 338-9143.