Diving With Glasses or Diving with Contact Lenses, Which One Is The Best Option?

Have you ever wondered whether diving with glasses or diving with contact lenses? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Both options have their charms, and depending on your style, they can make every dive much more enjoyable. But, like everything in life, they also have their drawbacks.

Some divers love the freedom of wearing contact lenses underwater; others wouldn’t trade their prescription goggles for anything, ready for action (and the best part, nobody even knows they’re wearing them because the lenses are inside their mask).

In this article, we’re going to explore the advantages of each option, share a few tricks, and give you tips to make your underwater experience comfortable, clear, and fun.

I’ll talk to you as if we were having a coffee, chatting about diving with glasses, lenses, and underwater adventures after the last dive of the day.

1. Pros and Cons of Diving with Glasses

Now, let’s talk about the other gear: the diving with glasses fans.
Yep, those who prefer diving with glasses. The ones who don’t fuss with contacts or solutions.

Pros

The big advantage is clear: you don’t lose your vision or your style.

Diving with glasses means wearing a prescription mask; in this way, everything is right where it should be. No drama. No more post-dive rituals than cleaning the mask and putting your surface glasses back on.

Plus, scuba diving with glasses has that practical vibe many loves.
Less maintenance, fewer worries, more time to enjoy the endless blue.

And speaking of tech, prescription snorkeling glasses are getting seriously impressive.
There are integrated prescription masks that look like they’re straight out of a sci-fi movie. Only instead of saving the world, they help you spot that clownfish cruising by.

Cons

But of course, there’s always a “but.”
Sometimes diving with glasses isn’t as comfy as it seems. Sometimes they pinch, sometimes they fog up, and more than once you find yourself adjusting mid-dive.

Some prescription masks are a bit… let’s say, “classic.”
The lenses might be thicker or shaped in a way that slightly limits your field of vision.
It’s not the end of the world, but you will notice that diving with glasses you have to move your head more to see everything.
A little more swan neck action, but hey, whatever it takes to see clearly.

And not all prescriptions are compatible. If your vision needs something very specific, finding the perfect mask might be a challenge.

If it breaks, it hurts (and not just the heart)
A prescription mask is not just any mask.
If it gets damaged or scratched, you can’t just walk into a store and grab an identical one on the spot.
The lenses carry your prescription, and replacing them can cost more than a couple of dives.

So yes, diving with glasses is practical and simple, but not always the most comfortable choice for everyone.

2. Pros and Cons of Diving with Contact Lenses

Let’s be real. Diving with contact lenses has its perks… and its drawbacks. But hey, what really matters is whether it works for you.

Pros

First, the good stuff.

Diving with contacts is like seeing the ocean in HD. Suddenly, corals look more vivid. Fish seem to pose for you. Everything looks sharp and natural, without that “my mask is an aquarium” effect.

Plus, scuba diving with contact lenses means freedom.
Just you, the water, and that feeling of being completely part of the seascape.

And the best part?
You can use the prescription that fits you best. Soft, rigid, daily, whatever works. Diving with contact lenses gives you that personalized touch that makes every dive uniquely yours.

Cons

Of course, it’s not all bubbles and bliss.

Diving with contacts has its less glamorous side too. For starters, they can be a bit temperamental. One day they behave. The next, you blink and, boom, you’re seeing double.

They also need extra care after diving: rinsing, cleaning, the whole routine you already know.

And yes, they can be a little annoying if your eyes are sensitive. But let’s be honest, divers are used to handling way weirder stuff underwater, right?

In short, if you’re after comfort, crystal-clear vision, and zero drama with glasses, diving with contact lenses might just be your best underwater buddy. 

3. Types of Diving Masks for Diving with Glasses

If you want to dive and see everything clearly, one option is to turn your mask into prescription dive goggles.
There are several ways to do it, depending on your needs and budget.

Stick-on magnifying lenses
These work like small magnifiers that stick inside your mask.
Perfect if you only need help seeing up close, like reading your buddy’s slate or admiring coral details.
They’re not suitable for strong vision problems, only for presbyopia.
They come in powers from +1 to +3 diopters.
One small catch: humidity can sometimes make them come loose, but a quick adjustment usually fixes it.

Factory-made prescription dive masks
These are ready to use straight away.
You just choose the prescription closest to yours and dive in.
The downside: they only come in standard prescriptions.
If you have a more complex one, like a mix of myopia and astigmatism or very high prescriptions, you might not find the exact match.

Custom-made prescription dive masks
This is the most advanced option.
The lenses are made specifically for your mask.
No matter your prescription or mask brand, they’ll fit perfectly, giving you clear vision at all distances.
Obviously, it’s the most expensive choice, but if you want comfort and flawless vision with no compromises, this is the top pick.

4. Types of Contact Lenses for Diving and Snorkeling

If you love the freedom of being underwater, contact lenses are your best friend.
Yes, we’re talking about diving with contacts, that liberating feeling of having perfect vision without depending on your mask.

Soft Lenses – Comfort and Ease Underwater

They’re soft, flexible, and fit your eyes like a glove.
Perfect if you’re a beginner or just want a hassle-free dive.
They feel natural, almost like you’re not wearing anything at all.
And yes, they allow quick movements without too much irritation.

Rigid Lenses – Sharper Vision, Extra Care Needed

If you’re after extreme sharpness, rigid lenses are the queens.
Your underwater view looks clearer and more precise.
But be careful, they’re not as forgiving as soft ones.
A strong blink or a sudden move and… oops, you’ll notice it instantly.

Disposable Daily Lenses – The “No Drama” Option

They’re the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it option.
Wear them, dive, toss them. Next day, new pair.
Perfect contact lenses for diving if you travel a lot or love spontaneous dives.
No cleaning, no stress. Just dive in and enjoy.

Practical Tips – Lubrication, Time Limit, and Post-Dive Care

A few useful tips:

• Lubricate before diving if your eyes tend to get dry.
• Dispose of single-use contact lenses; never reuse them.
• If they are long-term lenses, rinse, disinfect, and store them properly after each dive.
• Do not exceed the recommended wearing time for each type of contact lens.
• Always carry an extra pair. You never know when one might float away.

5. Comparison table: Scuba Diving with Glasses vs Diving with Contact Lenses

6. Recommendation by Diver Type

Diving with glasses

• If you dive often and want precision tailored to you, this is your pick.
• Great for high or mixed prescriptions and advanced presbyopia.
• Forget about cleaning contact lenses and carrying disinfectant liquids or an extra disposable daily pack.

Summary: precision, comfort, and zero eye issues.

Diving with contact lenses

• Diver’s Alert Network (DAN)recommends choosing soft contact lenses for those who prefer diving with contact lenses.
• If you already use contact lenses, keep on using them while diving.
• If you don’t, but you don’t have an expensive mask with a prescription lens, disposable daily contact lenses are cheaper.
• They are useful for spontaneous dives too. Just put on your contact lenses and diving.

Perfect comfort, instant readiness, and ideal for common prescriptions. In short: total freedom, no drama, suit up and dive. 

7. Tips for diving with glasses

• Adjust the mask properly: It should seal firmly without excessive pressure on your face.
• Choose the type that suits your prescription:
  Factory-made masks for common prescriptions
  Stick-on lenses for presbyopia
  Custom-made masks for special prescriptions
• Prevent fogging: Apply anti-fog gel or saliva before diving to maintain clear vision.
• Inspect the lenses: Make sure they’re free of scratches or cracks, since clarity depends on them.
• Store the mask in a rigid case: Protect it from impacts, scratches, and deformation.
• Avoid adjusting it underwater: This helps keep the seal in place and prevents lens movement.
• Test the fit before diving: Even a few seconds of testing at the surface can prevent issues below.
• Consider masks with interchangeable lenses: Handy if you share your mask or need a new prescription.
• Maintain the seals: Check that the silicone isn’t dry or cracked to avoid leaks.
• Be aware of your field of view: Some prescription masks can narrow it, turn your head, not just your eyes, to explore the underwater environment.

8. Tips for diving with contact lenses

• Choose the right type:
  Soft lenses – comfort and freedom of movement
  Rigid lenses – superior sharpness but need extra care
  Daily disposables – perfect for travel and spontaneous dives
• Lubricate your eyes before diving: Moisturizing drops help prevent dryness and discomfort.
• Avoid direct water contact: Use a well-sealed mask and avoid opening your eyes if water enters the mask until you clear it out.
• Do not wear contact lenses for longer than recommended for each type.
• Bring spares: Always carry an extra pair in your dive kit.
• Post-dive cleaning: Rinse lenses with the recommended solution and store them in a clean case.
• Never rub your eyes while wearing contact lenses: If water gets in or irritation occurs, blink and use lubricating drops before diving to proper comfort.
• Use sunglasses out of the water: shield your eyes from sun, salt, and sand before and after diving.
• Avoid rigid lenses if you’re a beginner: They require experience to prevent shifting underwater.
• Check your vision before diving: Make sure your lenses are correctly positioned and undamaged.

9. Frequently Asked Questions about Diving with Contact Lenses or Prescription Masks

1. How can I prevent my prescription mask diving with glasses from fogging underwater?
   Apply anti-fog gel or saliva before diving, and rinse the mask with fresh water after each dive to keep the lenses clear.
2. Can I dive with glasses if my prescription is very strong?
   Yes, but a custom-made prescription mask is best. Factory models only cover standard prescriptions and may not suit extreme cases.
3. Which is more practical for dive travel: contact lenses or prescription masks?
   It depends on your diving style:
   • Diving with contact lenses: Freedom, comfort, ideal for casual divers.
   • Diving with glasses: Stable vision and no maintenance during dives, better for high prescriptions or frequent divers.
4. What happens if my prescription mask breaks diving with glasses?
   You won’t be able to replace it immediately, and the lenses are expensive. Always inspect your mask before diving and keep it stored in a hard case for protection.
5. Can you dive with contact lenses all day?
   Yes, definitely. If you tolerate contact lenses and your prescription allows it, go for it.
6. What should I do if water gets into my mask while diving with contact lenses?
   Stay calm, close your eyes to keep water out of them, and clear your mask as you normally would. If water does get into your eyes, keep them closed for a moment and then blink to lubricate them. If you lose a lens and can’t see properly, end the dive.
7. Can I dive with rigid contact lenses?
   Yes. They offer the sharpest vision but require experience and extra care. They’re suited for divers already comfortable with soft lenses who want greater visual precision.
8. How should I clean and care for my lenses after diving?
   Rinse them with a contact lens solution and store them in a clean case. Never reuse disposable lenses that have already been worn.
9. What types of masks are recommended for diving with prescription lenses?
   • Factory-made masks for standard prescriptions
   • Stick-on lenses for mild presbyopia
   • Custom-made masks for special or combined prescriptions (myopia and astigmatism)

Conclusion

Choosing between diving with contact lenses or diving with glasses depends on your diving style, frequency, and vision needs.

If you value freedom, comfort, and versatility, contact lenses are your best underwater companion, great for travel, spontaneous snorkeling, or divers who like flexibility.

If you prefer precision, stability, and zero maintenance during your dives, prescription masks are ideal, especially for high prescriptions or astigmatism combinations.

Either way, the goal is to enjoy the underwater world with clear vision, comfort, and confidence. Whether you’re diving with glasses or diving with contact lenses, just dive in and let every immersion become an unforgettable adventure.

Remember: clear underwater vision makes all the difference, so choose what suits you best, gear up, and dive into the blue.