Custom Prescription Single Vision Lenses 1.53 Index are made to your individual distance prescription for a suitable dive or snorkelling mask. This standard optical crown glass option is designed for people who need clearer distance vision underwater without a separate near-reading section.
How 1.53 Index Single Vision Lenses Work
Each eye receives its own prescription lens, professionally fitted to the selected mask. The lens provides one correction across its viewing area, helping you see reef details, marine life and your surroundings while scuba diving, snorkelling or freediving.
Unlike an off-the-shelf spherical corrective mask lens, a custom lens can incorporate suitable cylinder and axis values for astigmatism. We use your complete spectacle prescription to assess the correct lens rather than asking you to choose a standard power yourself.
What Does 1.53 Index Mean?
1.53 identifies the standard optical glass material; it is not a prescription strength. Your prescription is a separate set of values supplied by your optometrist. Lens thickness varies with the prescription and lens size.
Standard Glass Prescription Range
- Positive prescriptions: up to +7.00 sphere, with up to −4.00 cylinder on a positive prescription.
- Negative prescriptions: up to −10.00 for sphere and cylinder combined.
These are guide limits, not automatic confirmation of suitability. We assess your complete prescription together with the selected mask.
When Might I Need a Different Lens?
If your prescription is stronger or a thinner lens is needed for the selected mask, ask about 1.80-index single vision lenses. If you also need a reading section for your dive computer or camera, bifocal lenses may be more suitable.
Prescription and PD Measurement Required
We require a current spectacle prescription and your pupillary distance (PD) measurement for every custom prescription mask order, including single vision, bifocal and gauge reader lenses. PD is the distance between the centres of your pupils, measured in millimetres. It helps the optical laboratory position your lenses in relation to your eyes.
What to Send Us
- A complete, legible copy of your current spectacle prescription, including the right-eye and left-eye details.
- Your PD measurement from your optometrist or optical dispenser. If it is not on the prescription, please request it before sending your order details.
- Any cylinder, axis, reading addition or prism values shown on your prescription.
- Your mask brand and model, or the mask you would like to purchase.
- Your order number if you have already ordered, plus any upcoming trip date.
Email these details to [email protected]. Send the prescription as supplied by your optometrist; our team will help identify any further information needed.
How to Order Your Custom Prescription Lenses
- Get your prescription and PD. Both are required so we can arrange lenses for your individual eyesight.
- Choose a comfortable mask. Select a new mask or contact us about one you already own. The mask must fit your face and be suitable for the lenses.
- Send us your details. Email your prescription, PD, mask information and order number, if available. Tell us if you use an underwater camera.
- Confirm the lens and fitting requirements. We check suitability, explain any further measurements and confirm the available option before proceeding.
- Arrange the custom fitting. Our team will explain how to get your chosen mask to us so the lenses can be made and professionally fitted.
Mask Compatibility and What Is Included
The price covers the custom prescription lens service and the additional express shipping involved in arranging that service. The dive mask itself is sold separately unless you purchase a package.
Many new and existing masks can be fitted, but suitability depends on the mask design, its condition and your prescription. Two-lens masks are often a practical choice. We recommend a high-quality mask that seals comfortably on your face; please contact us before sending an existing mask.
How Long Do Custom Prescription Lenses Take?
Allow approximately 3–4 weeks. Timing can vary with the prescription, lens type, shipping and time of year. Order early for a planned trip and allow time to supply your prescription, PD and any fitting measurements.
Need Help Choosing Your Prescription Mask?
Read our custom prescription dive and snorkelling mask guide, email [email protected] or call our Hallam team on 03 9702 3694.

