Summer is the golden season for diving, but many people don't realize that high temperatures, intense sun exposure, and pool chlorine are quietly taking a toll on your gear.

Today's summer maintenance checklist will help you extend the life of your equipment.

Part 1: Mask

1. High temperature & sun exposure

Many divers have the habit of leaving their mask in the car or tossing it casually on the beach after surfacing. The silicone skirt will age faster in environments above 60°C, becoming hard, yellowing, losing elasticity, and eventually leading to leaks.

2. Sunscreen oil film

Applying sunscreen before entering the water is a summer necessity, but the oily components of sunscreen can adhere to the lens, not only affecting visibility but also damaging the effectiveness of the anti-fog coating.

3. Sand and salt abrasion

Tossing your mask onto the beach after surfacing allows fine sand to get stuck in the gaps between the skirt and frame. The next time you use it, the sand will rub against the lens and leave scratches.

Summer Mask Maintenance Tips:

• Rinse with fresh water after surfacing, let it air dry naturally, and avoid direct sunlight

• Do not leave it in the car or on a balcony exposed to sun for long periods

• Gently clean the lens with mild soapy water (avoid alcohol-based cleaners)

• Store in a mask case

Part 2: Snorkel

The problem with snorkels is often not that they are "broken," but that they are "dirty." With high temperatures and humidity in summer, the inside of the mouthpiece and the purge valve can easily become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold.

Common issues include:

1. Black or pink mold spots appearing inside the mouthpiece

2. Foul odor inside the tube (caused by not drying it out properly)

3. The purge valve diaphragm ages and deforms, causing water to be inhaled

Summer Snorkel Maintenance Tips:

Thoroughly rinse with fresh water after use, especially the mouthpiece and purge valve

Shake out excess water from the tube after rinsing, then hang or lay flat to dry in a well-ventilated area

Periodically remove the mouthpiece and clean it with mild detergent

Replace the mouthpiece promptly if it becomes hard or cracked

Part 3: Fins

The advantages of carbon fiber fins are that they are light, elastic, and highly efficient at transmitting power. However, they are also much more delicate than fiberglass or plastic fins. Special attention is needed during summer use:

1. High temperature deformation

While pure carbon fiber material has better high-temperature resistance than traditional composites, summer car interior temperatures can reach 60-70°C. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures may still cause the blade shape to change, affecting its flex pattern and power transmission efficiency.

2. Impacts and scratches

Although carbon fiber has good toughness, its impact resistance is moderate. Tossing fins together with other gear on shore or dragging them across hard ground can lead to edge damage or surface scratches.

3. UV aging

Long-term sun exposure can cause the carbon fiber surface to whiten or become chalky, affecting both its lifespan and appearance.

Summer Carbon Fin Maintenance Tips:

• Rinse immediately with fresh water after use

• Dry in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight

• Avoid placing heavy objects on top of them during storage

• Do not leave them in the car for extended periods

• Use fin socks or fin bags during transport to prevent impacts