ResMed Mirage Activa LT Nasal CPAP Mask

Subject: Took about a year to break
I bought this mask about a year ago when my sleep doctor recommended it. Yesterday, it broke. The lightweight plastic piece that is used in the fastener tab is what caused it to break. Perhaps if the fastener tab were made of a more durable material, I would give this 5 stars.

I have tried this mask for one year though so I must say I did try this mask for quite the time. I'd say its best point is how it's made to be flexible so it prevents air leaks. I use a size medium and sleep on my side but I have never had problems with leaks in the middle of the night. The mask's flexibility also reduces the amount of red markings on my face when I woke up. As for comfort, it isn't bad at all for how effective it is. It is pretty bulky and fits securely, but everything can be adjusted.

Overall my only complaint is that I wish this mask would last longer. Its other qualities are excellent and I would recommend this mask to everyone just for how well it prevents air leaks. It definitely does the job well.

Subject: Activa Mask
The Activa isn't the most well known mask out there but it has great reviews, and for good reason. It's relatively bulky compared to some nasal masks out there, but it has some excellent features baked in.

Cushion is a dual walled design that compresses and expands as you shift around, keeping the seal excellent. It's been working very well for me. Also, the fitting dial is something I use all the time. The micro-adjustment values are great for finding a great fit.

Subject: Foolproof
I would count myself as someone whose effectively a “dumb”� user of items. The more simple and intuitive something is to use, the better for me. With my previous mask models, I always had trouble tightening the mask to the right amount. I would overtighten it and have marks on my face, or it would be too loose and my mask would slip and leak. That’s why I was looking for something that was “idiot-proof”� and the Mirage’s description seemed to fulfill that.

The headgear comes with a dial that you can turn to adjust the strap in set intervals. This has been an excellent feature for me since it means I’m not using the tyranny of human hands to adjust it. Instead, now I can first adjust the straps roughly by hand and use the dial to make minute adjustments. With this I’ve been able to find consistently good fits.

The other foolproof feature is in the cushion. It uses some kind of technique so that the membrane compresses, meaning it’s hard to overtighten your mask. It also pivots so even if your hose gets caught on something or you move around, the cushion itself stays sealed up against your face. I find that I have had no issues with leaking, something that wasn’t possible with my old mask.

Other than the selling points, the mask is just very excellent. It’s comfortable and stable, while also feeling durable. Easy to clean too, and headgear clips make it easy to remove. Overall, I think this is my perfect mask. I really don’t have any complaints to speak of and I expect it to last me for many years.

Subject: Nice
Admittedly, I had not heard of the Mirage Activa mask before so I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, the design intrigued me as the “ActiveCell”� and “MicroFit Dial”� aspects were things I’ve rarely seen on other masks. Both seemed useful to me, as I’ve had a notoriously hard time in the past finding a mask that fit me with a proper seal, while also not shifting during the night.

Good: Cushion is well designed and well made. It’s flexible in the sense that it has two layers, one of which is nestled in the other. The interior layer always stays against your skin and holds its seal. The exterior layer is the one which “absorbs”� any shifts that would otherwise break the seal. What this means is excellent performance, with negligible leaks and consistent performance. It’s also pretty comfortable.
The dial is also very nice. Just turn it to get consistent micro-adjustments that allow you to tune the tightness of the headgear precisely. I’ve been able to get consistently comfortable fits. As for the rest of the headgear, it’s fine. Nothing really different from what you’ve likely used before, but the dial does help it fit better.

Bad: There really isn’t much bad other than that the mask is fairly bulk for a nasal mask. That is due in part to the inclusion of those extra features, so I can’t knock it too much. Otherwise it’s a great mask.

I have used this mask system for 22 years now.
It has met all my needs throughout these 2 decades and I have only missed using the equipment for 2 nights over that time.
I have also used the gel mask and found it only good for a short time due to gel leakage.
This is easy to clean - only the straps understandably wear out over time.
I am now on my 3rd CPAP machine - they have progressed well.
Never had a need for a humidifier but extra long hoses are useful as in sub zero temperatures the air can be preheated through the bed - it also covers those power outlets that can be that little bit far away.
Cleaning with disposable wipes is also a great plan.
Dusty areas do clog up the filters - annoying.
Today I have removed the filters and all works fine - just breathing the same air as everyone else...

My current machine is a ResMed S8 lightweight - never misses a beat over the last 6 years, maintains pressure perfectly.
It is a small quiet piece of well made equipment.
As I travel extensively around the world 3-4 months of the year I must have reliability - I have never experienced "machine down".

Still the biggest issue that most patients seem to experience (from many discussions) is "accepting" their machine new very best friend and the mask going on is the mind to accept that it is time to sleep.

Peaceful nights and great sleep to you all!
VBR
Mark.
Arizona.

I have used this mask for well over a year. It took a short while to get used to but is now the best I have ever used.
Two things I have learned -

1. I run the 6 ft extension hose from the machine under my T-shirt when I sleep. It connects to the mask with an 18" short tubing section via a swivel joint and stays under control. The mask does not get pulled loose when i turn in my sleep. This seems like a small thing but is truly a huge factor. Prior to learning this I would often get woke up several times a night by the mask pulling free. NOTE - The short hose section must be purchased separately with a swivel joint.

2. The tension on the straps is critical. A very slight adjustment, even 1/8", in the velcro engagement area where the strap length is adjusted, can make all the difference between a goods night rest and misery. Also as the strap is used the elasticity is stretched and I have to adjust the tension every 60 to 90 days.

Good luck and don't give up hope. I have used a CPAP machine since 2001. It has helped me greatly.

Subject: ResMed Mirage Activa LT
I have been using this face mask for years. Yes it puts a mark across the bridge of my nose and yes the gel pads for the nose bridge marks create leaks. This is the only face mask that really works for me. The new minimal face masks don’t have the seal and I find the new minimal under the nostril face mask tends to create my mouth wanting to open while I sleep.
I understand this face mask is no longer being made. Will have to buy several and stock up.

Fantastic. Can barely wear my old mask, which I liked pretty well, for the whole night because the leaks woke me up as I shifted around. Also, it made my nose itch.??? This mask; no leaks. The head gear is a little big on the back of my head, will take some getting used to. I don't really understand the adjustment thingy on the top piece, but there you go. Also very light for its size. Looks big but sleeps small.

Subject: Review Retraction
I can not with a way to correct my previous review. So I will leave this as a retraction. Ashley addressed my problem and went WAY ABOVE AND BEYOND to correct my problem. I over reacted and just left a bad review instead of checking in to see what could be done, I'm a bone head. I have had to use CPAP since 1998. I will be placing all future purchases and needs with Respshop.

Subject: NOT HAPPY AT ALL!!
This mask is ok, but these folks are apparently using kids strapping on the masks. Absolutely no adjustment. Mask is enrirely to tight, wake up with a red ring around my nose. I bought another mask, same thing. Now I am out $200 for unuseable junk!!

I am sorry that happened! Please contact us so we can help get this fixed for you.
Your Respshop Team