Tony’s Tips: Why the Beuchat Maxlux Is Our Most Popular Mask
If I had to pick one mask that suits the widest range of divers, the Beuchat Maxlux would be close to the top of the list. It is comfortable, versatile, available in a ridiculous number of colours, and works well for both scuba diving and spearfishing. But fit still comes first.
Why is the Maxlux so popular?
The Maxlux hits a really useful middle ground. It does not feel like a big traditional scuba mask, but it is not as stripped-back as some very low-volume spearfishing masks either. For a lot of divers, that balance makes it an easy mask to use across different types of diving.
It is our most popular mask by far, and I think a big part of that is how many people can put one on and immediately feel comfortable in it.
The silicone is very soft, so the skirt sits nicely against the face without feeling stiff or bulky. It also comes in an almost silly number of colours. Our current Dive360 listing has 18 colour variants, so if you want black and sensible, you can do that. If you want something considerably brighter, Beuchat has you covered there too.
Is the Maxlux a scuba mask or a spearfishing mask?
I would happily recommend the Maxlux for either. It sits in a useful space between the very low-volume masks commonly favoured for spearfishing and the larger-volume masks many people associate with recreational scuba. That makes it a particularly good option if you do a bit of both and do not want separate masks.
For scuba, it gives you a compact mask without feeling overly minimal. For spearfishing, it keeps things reasonably streamlined while still feeling like a comfortable everyday mask.
That versatility is one of the main reasons I like recommending it.
Does the Maxlux fit everyone?
No, and this is the most important thing to understand about any dive mask. The Maxlux fits a lot of faces very well, which is one reason it sells so strongly for us, but no mask shape is universal. A brilliant mask that does not seal properly on your face is still the wrong mask.
The slightly amusing part is that the Maxlux does not actually fit me.
I can recommend it because I know how well it works for a lot of people, but my face and the skirt shape simply do not get along. That is a useful reminder that mask fit matters more than brand, colour, popularity or what your mate wears.
When you check a mask, you want the skirt to sit evenly against your face and make a comfortable seal without needing to crank the strap tight.
What is the silicone like?
The soft silicone is one of the Maxlux’s standout features for me. It gives the mask a comfortable feel around the face and is one of the reasons I think so many people get on well with it.
That does not mean softer automatically equals better for every face. The shape still has to suit you.
If you find yourself tightening the strap harder and harder to stop leaks, I would be questioning the fit rather than blaming the strap. A mask should seal because it fits your face, not because you have strapped it on like you are preparing for re-entry.
Can I match it with a snorkel?
Yes. If coordinated dive gear is your thing, the Maxlux gives you plenty to work with. Beuchat offers it in a large range of colours, and the Spy snorkel is designed with matching colour options, so you can build a coordinated mask-and-snorkel setup rather than relying on whatever happens to be available.
Is colour the most important feature in a mask? Definitely not.
Is there anything wrong with looking good while you are underwater? Also definitely not.
Fit comes first, then you can worry about whether your mask and snorkel are speaking the same fashion language.
FAQs
Is the Beuchat Maxlux good for beginners?
Yes. Its comfortable feel and versatility make it a sensible option for a new diver, provided it fits properly.
Can I use the Maxlux for spearfishing?
Yes. I think it works particularly well for divers who want one mask that can cover both spearfishing and scuba.
Is the Maxlux a low-volume mask?
I would describe it as sitting in the middle for practical use. It feels more compact than many traditional scuba masks without being as minimal as some dedicated spearfishing masks.
How do I know if a dive mask fits?
Put the mask against your face without using the strap and breathe in gently through your nose. If it stays stuck to your face, you have a good seal. Go one step further and gently pull the mask away while still breathing in. You should get a pop when the seal breaks. The louder the pop, the better the seal.
Can I match the Maxlux with a snorkel?
Yes. Beuchat offers Spy snorkels in coordinating colours, so once you know the mask fits, you can choose a matching setup.
If you are unsure whether the Maxlux, or any other mask, is right for you, get in touch with Dive360. We are always happy to help you work out what suits the type of diving you do and, most importantly, what is likely to fit your face properly.