Review: Subgear steel comp mask pt.1

Welcome to our review of the Subgear 'Steel Comp' freediving mask. This mask has some innovative features and has been making waves in the world of freediving, so we put it to the test. Here is part one:

Part one: Out of the Box
The first thing that notice when handling this mask is just how soft and flexible it is. The 'skirt' is very thin and pliable and the mask can actually be bent in half! This is to allow for compression at depth and so to prevent excessive need to equalise the mask. Those of you familiar with the popular Aquasphere 'Sphera' mask, will understand what advantages this allows (depths of 20m without mask equalisation). However, unlike the Sphera, the Steel Comp has flat glass lenses as opposed to curved plastic lenses, meaning some visual distortion will only occur under greater pressure (i.e: deeper).

Other innovative features of this mask, include: Ridging on the silicone of the nose to provide better grip for equalisation. And extremely ergonomic mask strap attachment featuring an easy clip release button to completely free the strap from the mask, and very easy strap adjustment pull tabs (making it easier to adjust the strap while it is on the face.

The shape and fit to the face is very similar to the Technisub 'Micromask' (which is my current mask of choice). Comparing the field of vision on land these two seem about equal, if not the Steel Comp giving a slightly greater angle.

For those of you more fashion conscious the Steel Comp is also available in all white or all clear.

First impressions are extremely positive and I'm looking forward to taking it into the water!

Part two of the review coming soon......

Available NOW: €45
[email protected]