UNDERSTANDING
MASKOPTIX READING POWERS
UNDERWATER
Learn how underwater optics, water magnification, and lens styles work together to give divers crisp, clear vision below the surface.
HOW READING POWER WORKS UNDERWATER
DOES WATER MAGNIFICATION AFFECT READING POWER?
How it works: Water naturally adds approximately ~33% magnification due to light refraction. However, because dive computers, gauges, and slates are held closer to the face underwater than a book on land, most divers find that their standard land-based reading power—or slightly lower—provides the crispest view underwater.
WHY EXECUTIVE BIFOCALS MATTER UNDERWATER
Our Executive Bifocal design places the reading segment wide across the lower frame. Unlike small, round reading inserts, this edge-to-edge lower vision band lets divers quickly glance down at their wrist computer or console without tilting their head back, breaking their trim, or disturbing their mask seal.
DIOPTER POWER SELECTION MATRIX
Use this reference table to match a diver's everyday reading glasses strength to their ideal MaskOptix power.
| EVERYDAY GLASSES POWER | RECOMMENDED MASKOPTIX POWER | UNDERWATER APPLICATION |
|---|---|---|
| +1.25 to +1.50 | +1.50 | Mild near-vision correction; ideal for easy reading of primary dive gauges. |
| +1.75 to +2.00 | +2.00 | Standard reading power; provides balanced clarity for wrist computers and slates. |
| +2.25 to +2.50 | +2.50 | Stronger near vision; brings small digital text and camera settings into sharp focus. |
| +2.75 to +3.00 | +3.00 | High-power correction; optimal for close-up macro details and photo review screens. |
| +3.25+ | +3.25 | Maximum magnification power offered in standard stock packages. |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What if my eyes have two different prescription strengths?
If your everyday reading glasses require different strengths for each eye, we generally recommend selecting the lower power for both lenses or contacting our team for assistance with custom configurations.
Are MaskOptix glasses worn under a mask or glued into the lens?
MaskOptix provides standalone glasses that can be worn under your mask as well as everyday, eliminating the need for messy stick-on lenses or permanent glue inserts.
How do I know if I need reading diopters or distance correction?
If you struggle primarily with reading your dive computer, gauges, or camera settings close up, our reading diopters are all you need. If you require far-distance correction underwater, you may require custom prescription lenses.
Will water magnification make my reading power feel too strong?
Although water adds natural magnification (~33%), dive gauges and wrist computers are held closer to the face than a book on land. Most divers find their standard land-based reading power provides a balanced, crisp view.
ARE YOU A DIVE SHOP OR RESORT MANAGER?
Help your rental customers pick the right fit with our turn-key frame packages (Starfish, Anemone, and Octopus).