What You Need to Know About the Cressi Penta+
Let’s take a look at some of this mask’s notable features:
Four-Window Design
While one and two-window (or lens) masks are common, four window masks are something of an anomaly. The idea behind this unusual design is to increase peripheral vision, therefore offering a superior range of vision.
One benefit that we can see (forgive the pun) is that the mask should make it easier to give your buddy the side-eye if he or she is deviating from the dive plan.
On a more serious note though, the four-window mask design has been around for a while, it’s most often seen on snorkeling masks though. It can be polarizing with some divers championing the benefits while others wouldn’t buy one for love nor money.
Downward-Sloping Lenses
The Penta+ features quite a dramatic downward slope from the top of the lenses to the bottom. Cressi masks quite often include this technical design and it serves two purposes. Firstly, it means the mask has a lower internal volume, more on that later. Secondly, Cressi states the sloping lens design means divers will find it easier to see their equipment while in the water.
While the first point is valid, the second warrants some examination as being unable to see one’s equipment is not a common complaint. Theoretically, having the lenses closer to the eyes should make looking down easier, but it’s not an issue we’ve encountered.
Ultra Low-Volume
With a very small internal volume, the mask minimizes the artificial air space masks create. For apnea enthusiasts, this is always a good bonus as equalizing a mask space takes up precious air the diver needs to equalize their ears.
Scuba divers who struggle with mask clearing may also welcome the Penta+, a lower air volume also means less water can flood into the mask.
Quality Snorkeling Mask
While the Cressi Penta+ seems to be more geared towards divers, its predecessor, the Penta was marketed primarily to snorkelers. If you’ve ever seen the Penta in stores, you might have noticed it was often sold as part of the Penta mask and Alpha Ultra Dry Snorkel set.
With this in mind, we think the Penta+ will make a quality snorkeling gear investment. Cressi has always had a great reputation for snorkeling and diving masks, so the Penta+ will be no different.
Cressi’s After Sales and Servicing Support
Cressi’s reputation for after-sales support is solid. In the unlikely event something goes awry with your new Penta+ mask, you can get in touch with the company here. After each dive or snorkel, you should rinse your mask in fresh water and store it in the shade.
Summary
What we like about the Cressi Penta+ and what we’re on the fence over:
Buy This Mask If:
You’re a dedicated four-window fan who loved Cressi’s Penta mask. We also think this model could be great for snorkeling trips. Children will like the comfortable silicone skirt and take to the water like, well, little fish. So, it’s a family-friendly choice that most snorkelers will like.
We’re not so sure about this mask in an apnea context, while Cressi notes it’s good for freediving, pro divers might disagree.
Get prices for the Cressi Penta+
Do you dive with a four-window mask? If so, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a comment below and let us know your thoughts!
Specs & Features
| Window design | Four-window design |
|---|---|
| Volume | Ultra-low volume |
| Skirt & strap | Hypoallergic silicone skirt and strap |
| Lens | Tempered glass front lenses |
| Weight | 6.2 ounces (175 grams) |
| Buckles | Pressure activated buckles |
| Color options | Black and white silicone models available |
| Side windows | Side windows made of scratch-resistant material |
| Highlight colors | Several highlight colors available |
| Best for | Snorkeling and scuba diving |
Take a moment to look at this.
