15 Best Paintball Masks – Review And Buying

Best Paintball Masks

All paintball players need the best paintball masks while on the paintball field. The mask is the final line of defense between paintballs whizzing past your head and your eyes taking a shot.

Therefore the importance of a paintball mask cannot be overstated; it’s a lifesaver. A good paintball mask will cover most of your face. Preferably it should have a visor that covers your eyes and a mouth guard. 

Finding the right paintball mask can be difficult, but this guide will get you on the right path. It discusses everything you need to know to buy the most ideal.

What Is The Best Paintball Mask?

The Empire E-Flex Paintball mask is the best and most affordable. The Empire E-Flex is not the cheapest paintball mask available, but it is one of the most affordable. 

This makes it a great option for beginners who are on a budget. Plus, it’s great for professional players that need advanced features without breaking the bank. 

The Empire E-Flex paintball mask has a very large field of view. This makes it easier to see your surroundings and target enemies from a distance. 

Comparison Table

Preview
OUR BEST PICK
Empire Paintball E-Flex Goggle, White
ANOTHER GOOD PICK
Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Goggles with Dual Pane Smoke Lens - Black
OUR BUDGET PICK
Empire EVS Goggle Black/Black - Thermal Clear/Thermal (21675)
Products
Empire Paintball E-Flex Goggle, White
Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Goggles with Dual Pane Smoke Lens - Black
Empire EVS Goggle Black/Black - Thermal Clear/Thermal (21675)
Brand
Empire Paintball
Virtue Paintball
Empire Paintball
Color
White
Black
Black
Item Weight
0.82 Pounds
0.52 Pounds
1.09 Kilograms
Size
One Size
One Size
One Size
OUR BEST PICK
Preview
Empire Paintball E-Flex Goggle, White
Products
Empire Paintball E-Flex Goggle, White
Brand
Empire Paintball
Color
White
Item Weight
0.82 Pounds
Size
One Size
ANOTHER GOOD PICK
Preview
Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Goggles with Dual Pane Smoke Lens - Black
Products
Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Goggles with Dual Pane Smoke Lens - Black
Brand
Virtue Paintball
Color
Black
Item Weight
0.52 Pounds
Size
One Size
OUR BUDGET PICK
Preview
Empire EVS Goggle Black/Black - Thermal Clear/Thermal (21675)
Products
Empire EVS Goggle Black/Black - Thermal Clear/Thermal (21675)
Brand
Empire Paintball
Color
Black
Item Weight
1.09 Kilograms
Size
One Size

Empire E-Flex offers full face protection with its heavy-duty ABS housing and anti-fog lens coating technology. 

These features help protect your face from paintballs and debris when playing in rainy or humid conditions.

The Best Paintball Masks You Can Buy Today

1. Empire E-Flex Paintball Goggle System

Empire E-Flex Paintball Goggle System

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(Best Paintball Mask under $100)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Empire Paintball
  • Color: White
  • Item Weight: 0.82 Pounds
  • Size: One Size
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Easy to communicate 
  • Comfortable
  • Easy to remove the lens 
  • Affordable
  • Easy to breathe 
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Limited colors

The magnificent Empire E-Flex paintball mask is affordable but features everything you’d need. 

Let’s start with the lens; they are high quality; have thermal and anti-fog features. The lens is surely quite resistant to fog in cold and hot temperatures; thus, you can use them anytime. 

You can easily remove them to clean or make a replacement. Lastly, they do offer super clean and great peripheral vision. You’ll see everything around you. 

The earpiece is another work of art on this mask. The Empire E-Flex paintball goggle earpiece is comfortable. They won’t hinder your hearing while on the paintball field; thus, you’ll have easy and great communication with your teammate. 

The Empire E-Flex is very comfortable; its foam is extremely soft. It is so comfortable that you might forget the mask is one while wearing it. Its flexible rubber face plate makes it good for bounces and will help you aim well with your marker. 

Unfortunately, the paintball mask is available in limited colors, and there are talks about the discontinuation of this product. So you should get it soon while you still can. Or you may buy a used one but at a markup. 

2. Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball Goggles/Masks

Virtue VIO Ascend Thermal Paintball GogglesMasks

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(Best Mid-range Paintball Mask with High-end Performance)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Virtue Paintball
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 0.52 Pounds
  • Size: One Size
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Easy to hear 
  • Comfortable
  • Great peripheral vision 
  • Easy to remove the lens 
  • Easy to breathe  
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Its single-piece body isn’t flexible

Do you believe in value for money? If so, the Virtue VIO Ascend is everything you need for a paintball mask. With this model, you’ll get high-quality performance at a mid-range price.

The Virtue VIO Ascend paintball mask is the latest addition to the VIO industry lineup. The paintball mask is built and designed as a single-piece google.

It has dual materials that offer a great combination of comfort, rigidity, protection, and flexibility. However, note that the Virtue VIO Ascend doesn’t have everything in higher-end VIO goggles. 

But it still has the same technology that’s in the VIO platform. They include replaceable foam, an upgradeable strap, a fog-resistant thermal lens, and a fan and stealth visor. 

In addition, Virtue VIO Ascend lacks the foam earpiece, which gives your ears enough room to breathe. This also allows you to hear clearly.

3. Dye i5 Paintball Goggle

Dye i5 Paintball Goggle

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(Best Technologically Advanced Paintball Mask)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Dye
  • Color: Emerald 
  • Item Weight: 0.36 Kilograms
  • Size: One Size
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Available in various colors
  • Extremely comfortable
  • Rapid  lens change
  • Easy to breathe
  • Great clarity 
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Expensive

The Dye brand is popular for its always-evolving technology. But any evolution in the Dye goggle line is the next evolution in all other brands. 

The Dye i5 has groundbreaking features such as e.VOKE communication system and GSR pro-strap. These features make it one of the most advanced paintball masks on the market today.  

The Dye i5 paintball mask design and engineering are to inspire and perform. The Dye i5 paintball mask is an aggressive mask that offers better venting, comfort, sound processing, and more. 

It has an anti-fog lens (290 degrees) which offers great optical clarity. The paintball mask has the new soft touch multi-layer foam that gives the most comfortable and secure fit. 

However, the Dye i5 paintball mask is quite expensive, but this is okay considering its several massive features. 

4. Empire EVS Paintball Mask

Empire EVS Paintball Mask

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(Best Paintball Mask for Players with Glasses)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Empire Paintball
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 1.09 Kilograms
  • Material: Foam, PVC, Polycarbonate, Rubber, Nylon
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Replaceable foam
  • Comfortable
  • Easy and quick lens changing
  • Huge field view 
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Echoes when a player speaks

The Empire EVS paintball mask has an amazing lens that offers more peripheral than others in the market. 

The lens is dual pane, thermal and bright, and thus kills fog and protects you from UV A/B rays. You can also easily and quickly replace the lens without needing extra tools. 

The Empire EVS paintball mask also has more space behind its lens, making it great for players who use glasses. It has triple-density foam that’s in two pieces.

The Empire EVS paintball mask is among the most advanced masks when it comes to style and technology. Its ventilation and breathability are good and efficiently allow air circulation. 

Unfortunately, the Empire EVS produces an echo when someone speaks, which can be very disturbing. The echo results from the paintball protector having little venting on its side.

5. Bunkerkings CMD Paintball Goggles/Masks

Bunkerkings CMD Paintball Goggles.

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(Best Anti-fog Paintball Mask)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Bnkr Kings
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 0.54 Kilograms
  • Size: CMD
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Great voice projection
  • Extremely comfortable
  • Micro-visor
  • Highly breathable
  • Huge field view 
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Fairly expensive

The Bunker Kings CMD paintball mask is among the best anti-fog masks. This is because of its superior VIO thermal technology, multi-directional air exhaust zones, and high-flow ventilation. 

The interchangeable plush form makes this paintball mask very comfortable. The other features that add to comfort are wider pressure and super soft microfiber. 

Bunker Kings CMD has an integrated micro-visor that enhances its optical performance. The feature also adds extra protection to the mask. 

Like other high-performance paintball masks, the Bunkerkings CMD has amazing lens-change systems. 

The other amazing thing about this paintball mask is its “We Kill Suckers” branded chin strap. Plus, the paintball is well-ventilated and will help you breathe. 

The Bunker Kings paintball mask is a killer in performance, but its price is quite high for players on a budget. 

6. Dye Precision I4 Thermal Paintball Mask

Dye Precision I4 Thermal Paintball Mask

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(Best for Gamers with Small Heads)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Dye
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 0.54 Kilograms
  • Size: Small
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Great voice projection
  • Changeable lens
  • Excellent ventilation system
  • Has comfortable foam
  • Built-in anti-fog thermal layer
REASONS TO AVOID
  • No POV mount

The Dye Precision i4 is among the most sold goggles because it’s scratch-proof and has a thermally treated lens. 

The lens will effectively protect you against UV light. It’ll also ensure you maintain excellent visibility throughout the game. 

The Dye Precision i4 is comfortable to wear even in extreme conditions. It has dual-stage foam on the inside that absorbs any impact from hits. 

The foam also absorbs sweat and moisture. The best part is that you can easily change the foam between games. In an event where your opponents are disoriented, stressed, and sweating, you’ll be alert, cool, and calm. 

Its overall functionality is also amazing; you can easily change the lens. The Dye Precision i4 might be tight for larger-sized individuals, but it offers better protection. It covers all the sensitive places well. 

7. Virtue VIO Contour 2 Dual Pane Thermal Paintball Mask

Virtue VIO Contour 2 Dual Pane Thermal Paintball Mask

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(Best Paintball Mask for Players with Glasses)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Virtue Paintball
  • Color: Contour Li-Reality Brush Camo
  • Item Weight: 0.54 Kilograms
  • Size: VIO Contour II
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Fully customizable
  • Crystal clear vision
  • Excellent ventilation 
  • Reinforced ear pads
  • Glass-friendly
REASONS TO AVOID
  • A bit pricey

The Virtue VIO Contour 2 is popular for its safety, clear vision, flexibility, reliability, anti-fog properties, and more. 

It’s pricey and one of the best-selling paintball masks because of these great features. The paintball ball has enough space that player can comfortably wear their glasses. 

Its back strap is wider and has more 3D foam and padding, enhancing comfort for both small and big heads. These additions make the pad more stable and won’t move unnecessarily during the paintball game. 

The high-grade foam also makes the paintball mask more flexible, comfy, and lightweight while keeping it safe. Its earpads are technologically improved, and you’ll thus get better acoustics. 

The mirrored lens is another amazing feature; they offer an amazing peripheral field of vision. Its ventilation engineering is top-notch; it ensures better air circulation. 

You need to know that anything with amazing features comes at a price. The Virtue VIO Contour 2 is no exception. 

8. Push Unite Paintball Goggles Mask

Push Unite Paintball Goggles Mask

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(Best Paintball Mask for Both Beginners, Intermediates, and Pros)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Push Unite 
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 3 Pounds
  • Size: All Sizes
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Strong, lightweight, quad-lens
  • Multi-layer padding foam
  • Ultra-durable material
  • Super fit
  • Echo-proof
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Not budget-friendly

Are you looking to spend your money on something durable? If yes, then Push Unite is the ideal paintball mask for you. You can tell this mask is high quality by simply looking, not touching. 

Push Unite paintball mask is one of the best-selling because of its availability in different types and sizes. It has a wide adjustable strap and nose bridge that enhances its comfort. 

Its 16 vents ensure maximum airflow and make it ultra-comfortable. The quad-pane lens has anti-fog and anti-reflection properties, plus a wide-angle view. 

Overall, the Push Unite paintball has many amazing features but is expensive. 

9. VForce Grill Thermal Special Edition Goggles Mask

VForce Grill Thermal Special Edition Goggles Mask

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(Best for Beginner Level Paintball Player)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: V-Force
  • Color: Extreme Sand
  • Item Weight: 1.65 Pounds
  • Size: All Sizes
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Budget-friendly
  • High-definition refractive lens
  • Ultra-lightweight construction
  • Ultra-low profile
  • Pro-visor
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Difficult to remove the visor

The V-Force paintball mask did hit the market with a bang. It has a sleek look that no other paintball mask matches. 

From its inception, it has become one of the most popular paintball masks among pros and other paintball enthusiasts. The mask is low-profile with sleek spherical lenses and a 3D lens that offer unrestricted peripheral vision. 

Its ultra-low profile makes it a hard target design, reducing the target zone. Therefore, you’ll be able to have a super-tight play. 

It has a quick change lens that is super-fast to change during timeouts. The ultra-weight design makes an unrestricted movement. 

10. HK Army Paintball KLR Thermal

HK Army Paintball KLR Thermal

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(Best Customizable)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: HK Army
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 454 Grams
  • Size: One Size
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Comfortable
  • Easy to hear 
  • Easy to communicate
  • Durable
  • Rapid lens change
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Forehead foam is slightly loose for small heads

The HK Army paintball KLR has an amazing blend of thermoplastic elastomers that protects a critical area of the player. In addition to protection, the paintball mask offers movement freedom and supreme breathability. 

You can easily customize the KLR goggle system to fit your aesthetic preferences. Simply change the PVT locks lens-retention system or the compression molded earpieces. 

It’s surely among the most popular paintball masks on the market. That’s because of its versatile design and built quality. The HK Company uses all their amazing expertise, which makes the mask very protective. 

As much as the mask ticks all the boxes and offers all the necessary features, it’s not ideal for small heads. Therefore if you have a small head, you’ll surely miss a lot that HK Army paintball offers. 

11. JT Spectra Flex 8 Thermal 

JT Spectra Flex 8 Thermal

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(Best Paintball Mask for Full Head Protection)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: JT
  • Color: Camo
  • Item Weight: 1.9 Pounds
  • Size: OSFM
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Offers full head protection
  • Affordable 
  • Easy to communicate
  • Durable
  • Smaller profile
REASONS TO AVOID
  • The back plate can be too confining

The JT Spectra Flex 8 is ideal for people that want to take their paintball to the next level. It features a great thermal anti-fog goggle and full head protection. 

The visor is another of its exceptional features; it offers a 260-degree vision field. It is much superior to other paintball masks. Its dual-layer venting system keeps you cool and ensures paint doesn’t reach your mouth. 

The JT Spectra Flex 8 is ideal for players that need full head protection. It’s more like a paintball helmet. 

The full coverage model offers protection to the back and top of your head. You can also detach it if necessary. 

The camo model also looks awesome. Additionally, it has a removable visor and is one of the most comfortable on the market. However, the back plate can be too confining to some, but you can sort this by adjusting or removing it. 

12. BASE Paintball Goggles

BASE Paintball Goggles

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(Best Cheap Paintball Mask)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Base
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 0.23 Kilograms
  • Size: OSFM
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REASONS TO BUY
  • A quick change lens system
  • Adjustable straps 
  • Dual pane thermal lens 
  • Excellent acoustic ear porting
  • Contoured profile
REASONS TO AVOID
  • It tends to squeeze the ears

The Base paintball mask is one of its kind; it offers impressive quality at a low price. It is functional and has a contoured profile that provides complete coverage. 

The straps are adjustable, meaning you can adjust the base till it’s more comfortable for you. The strap is also non-slip and has moisture-wicking properties. Therefore you’ll be as comfortable as possible. 

The lens and the sturdy molded visor offer additional protection. With the visor, you can minimize all kinds of glare. 

Base paintball polymer overall construction is comfortable and strong. It all features the quick change lens and foam system; there’ll be no time wasting between game periods. 

The anti-fog thermal lens doesn’t have distortion. Additionally, the mask’s moisture-wicking properties, modular foam, and more ensure that it offers optimal protection. 

However, there are complaints from several users that it squeezes the ears. But you can solve this by adding some padding. 

13. VForce Profiler Thermal Paintball Mask

VForce Profiler Thermal Paintball Mask

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(Best for Players with Glasses)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: VForce
  • Color: Black, Shark
  • Item Weight: 0.54 Kilograms
  • Size: OSFM
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Wide peripheral view
  • Solid frame 
  • Comfortable
  • Ultra-lightweight
REASONS TO AVOID
  • The sides are slightly short for some users

The VForce profiler is a high-quality paintball mask that you should consider. Like other masks in the list, the VForce Provider paintball mask offers great performance. 

It features a maximum of 280-degree peripheral vision that enhances the field of vision. The paintball mask is also outstanding when it comes to comfort. That’s because of its soft foam, which dries fast. 

It’s ultra-light, and thus your movements won’t be restricted. VForce is a low-profile paintball mask, and this minimizes the target zone. The mask’s lower part is rubbery and soft; therefore, the mask can obtain bounces. 

The solid and sturdy frame can handle countless blows and hits, guaranteeing full safety. But note that the paintball mask sides are tight, and this might prevent it from fully covering your jaw. 

14. Valken Annex Ml-7 Paintball Goggles

Valken Annex Ml-7 Paintball Goggles

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(Best Entry-level Paintball Mask)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Valken
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 0.37 Kilograms
  • Size: OSFM
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Larger vision
  • Solid and sturdy frame 
  • Breathable and anti-fogging
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Affordable 
REASONS TO AVOID
  • It doesn’t fit big heads well

Do you need a paintball mask with all high-end features at an affordable price? The Valken Annex MI-7 is the ideal choice. 

The paintball mask features a retention system for quick lens change and an ultra-double integrated strap. 

Its optimized sculpted visor enhances shade and ball deflection. Generally, the mask has been designed player for player, and you’ll get all the features you need without breaking the bank. 

It offers great vertical and horizontal vision, meaning no more injuries. The dual-layer comfort foam base absorbs impact and has sweat-wicking properties. As a player, all these guarantees your comfort.

Its lens is also fog and scratch-resistant. Lastly, there have been complaints about the part that sits on the nose. At first, it tends to feel tight and so close to your nose, but with time you’ll get used to it. 

15. Anyoupin Airsoft Mask

Anyoupin Airsoft Mask

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(Best Paintball Full Face Mask)

SPECIFICATIONS
  • Brand: Anyoupin
  • Color: Black
  • Item Weight: 0.26 Kilograms
  • Size: One Size Fits Most
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REASONS TO BUY
  • Larger vision
  • Fashionable
  • Lightweight
  • Breathable and comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID
  • Lenses fog a little 

The Anyoupin Airsoft mask has an amazing structural design that’s breathable, natural, and comfortable. It features thick translucent lenses and high-quality nylon fiber material. 

The material is resistant to almost all environmental conditions, thus, durable. Under normal temperatures, its impact resistance is 600 FPS and more. It meets the requirement of tactical protection products. 

Other than paintball, you can use the mask for occasions such as cosplay, Halloween, costume parties, etc. 

Overall, Anyoupin Airsoft is a great mask with pretty durable lenses. However, they tend to fog if you’re playing intensely. 

Why You Need The Best Paintball Mask

You need the best paintball mask for several reasons. First, you must wear a paintball mask to comply with the game’s rules. Second, you will need a mask to protect your face from paintballs and bruises. 

The best paintball mask is comfortable, durable, and protects properly. It should be able to block out light, keep your eyes safe and help you see clearly. 

You’ll also want to make sure that it’s customizable, so you can adjust the fit to suit your head shape. Plus, it should be durable.

How To Pick The Best Paintball Mask

If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to choosing the best paintball mask, you’ve come to the right place. 

You can also check out the best paintball chest protectors review. They are one of the most crucial pieces of protective gear that you cannot afford to overlook. 

A good paintball mask will protect your face from splinters and bruises. It will also give you unrestricted and wide-ranging vision. Therefore you’ll be able to read your surroundings, see other players, and aim accurately. 

This blog section takes an in-depth look at choosing the best paintball mask available today. Whether you want to know why peak visor masks are beneficial or more – it has got you covered. So read on and prepare to become an expert in picking your next paintball mask!

Ear Protection

Ear protection is usually built right into the design of most paintball masks on the market. Hearing loss is extremely common in paintball communities due to the loud noise from firing paintball guns. 

Most high-end paintball masks will have a built-in ear guard. You’ll come across features such as padded ear protection. 

It works by absorbing shocks, and this ensures your ears are safe. Other than protecting your ears, the ear protection features make the paintball mask more comfortable. 

But there are also additional earplugs that you can purchase to add an extra layer of protection. When purchasing an extra pair of ear protection, ensure they’re for paintball games. 

Earplugs for concerts or other loud events will not provide the protection you need during a paintball game. 

Frames and Build Quality

The frame is the structure of your paintball mask. They usually consist of plastic and metal. When choosing a paintball mask, you should consider the quality of the mask’s build. 

Paintball masks with high build quality can withstand the frequent use and abuse of the paintball game. A paintball mask has a high build quality if it is solid. 

Hard plastic is known to be sturdy and resistant by many. However, they are usually stiff too. Go for high-end paintball masks from genuinely long-lasting materials. The best paintball masks are those with soft yet durable material and compatible with the best paintball camera. 

Most high-end paintball masks include a skirt and facial from flexible, sturdy, and soft material. The other thing to consider under durability is the mask lens. The dual-pane lens is usually more sturdy than the single-pane.

Visors 

The visor is another important thing you should consider when purchasing a paintball mask. 

Some players prefer a full-face paintball mask with a built-in visor and no external vision. But most players prefer a visor that allows them to see their surroundings while protecting their face from paint splatters and bruises. 

There are two types of visors on paintball masks: a peak visor and an open or closed visor.

Field of View

A paintball mask’s field of view is another important factor when choosing between paintball masks. 

A paintball mask with a wide field of view will give you a better view of your surroundings. It allows you to see other players more easily. 

When comparing two paintball masks, it’s easy to tell how wide the field of view is from the outside. 

A mask with a wide field of view will have a larger gap between the mask and your face. At the same time, a mask with a narrow field of view will sit close to your face and seem like it is touching your skin.

Fit and Comfort

Always choose a paintball mask with a comfortable design. It is important if you’re planning to wear the mask for hours.  

Most paintball masks have a soft foam liner that cushions your face. The strap on the back of the mask keeps it in place by preventing it from moving. 

Overall, the paintball mask should fit well. It should be snug and protect you from splinters and paint splatter. But it shouldn’t be so tight to cut off your circulation.

Weight

The mask weight is another thing to consider, as it’ll influence your play. A lighter paintball mask is more convenient because it won’t compromise your gameplay and performance. 

A heavy paintball mask will feel burdensome once you start playing. The best paintball masks weigh between 1-2 lbs. It is lightweight enough that you won’t get tired and will increase your performance. 

Air-Flow

Many paintball masks have vents on the top and sides that allow air in and out. 

It allows your face to stay cooler during a game. It does this by decreasing the hot air trapped in the paintball mask. In addition, the vents will help you communicate effectively with your teammates. 

Lenses 

Great vision is extremely important in the paintball game. With a compromised vision, you won’t be able to survive in the paintball game long enough to enjoy it. 

Therefore you need to critically assess the paintballs lens before purchasing. Go for paintballs with a visual field up to 260 to 270 degrees wide. 

Additionally, you should keep from cheap rentals that limit or restrict peripheral vision. Cheap paintball masks have flat and narrow lenses that are less effective. 

How To Prevent Fogging On Your Paintball Mask

Paintball is fast and furious; thus, focusing on extended periods can be challenging. Keeping your concentration while shooting other players is even harder when your goggles keep fogging up. It’s because the fog obstructs your vision. 

So do you regularly struggle with fog on your paintball mask during games? While the best anti fog paintball masks can solve your problems, check out these helpful tips that can prevent fogging.  

1. Use Thermal Lens 

This lens is one of the best ways to prevent fog on your paintball mask. Thermal lens paintball masks use thermal technology to prevent condensation build-up inside the lens. It’s usually the condensation that leads to fogging. 

These thermal lenses will keep your goggles fog free even in extreme temperatures and humidity levels. A thermal lens paintball mask is a great option for players who expect to play in different climates throughout the year. 

Thermal lenses are also great for beginners who have trouble avoiding fog due to inexperience with the game. 

2. Use a Towel To Wipe off Your Mask

It’s surely old school, but it works. Using a towel to wipe the inside of your goggles every often will prevent fog from building up. 

You should wipe your goggle’s outer parts to remove any dirt or sweat that may have accumulated on the lenses. 

If you’re playing in a tournament without easy access to a towel, you can purchase anti-fog wipes. Wiping the lens will help you maintain proper visibility throughout the game.

3. Mask Fan

Another great way to prevent fog on your paintball mask is to use a mask fan. It is simply a device that attaches to the inside of your goggles. It blows air, preventing fog from forming inside the lenses. 

You will have to shell out some extra cash for a mask fan. But the mask fans can be a great investment if you struggle to prevent fog on your mask. Even though the fan is an excellent investment, they aren’t usually the best option. 

Your mask fan can overheat if you have a long and hot game. Such a condition can cause it to stop working altogether. Additionally, mask fans can be quite loud at the time.

4. Anti-fog Spray 

Applying the anti-fog spray to the inside of your goggles can help prevent fogging. There are many anti-fog sprays available that work great on paintball goggles. 

Anti-fog spray is a great option for players who don’t want to spend much money on specialized paintball gear. While the anti-fog spray is inexpensive to prevent fog, it isn’t always the most effective. 

Anti-fog sprays work by creating a thin, invisible layer that prevents condensation from forming on the inside of your goggles. The layer is usually thin, so it quickly wears off between games.

Tips On Cleaning The Paintball Mask

Cleaning the mask is easy, but getting a clean and dust-free finish can be difficult. It’s important to use the right products in the right order to get a professional result. 

Here are some tips that can help. Always clean your mask after every use. If you don’t do this, the grime and oil on your face will accumulate over time. 

Ensure that you dry your mask completely before storing it away for future use. Leaving water trapped between the mask and frame will ruin the finish of your mask. 

Clean your paintball mask with a soft brush and mild detergent. Most masks have removable facemask covers, so you can simply remove these when cleaning them. Just be careful not to damage any fragile parts with too much force or pressure.

What Are Paintball Masks/ Goggles Made Of?

The paintball mask material somehow defines how durable it is and how well it works. But what matters the most is the features and level of protection. 

However, this doesn’t mean you should disregard the material used in making the paintball. There are different types of materials, from silicon to acrylic. This section offers more detail on each; hopefully, this information will help you pick the best. 

Acrylic

Acrylic is one of the most popular paintball masks. It’s the same material that makes Perspex, which is why it’s so common in paintball masks. 

Acrylic is incredibly strong and durable. So it can take a fair amount of punishment without showing any signs of wear. 

It is a little heavier than other materials like silicone. But an acrylic paintball mask is a great choice if you need something long-lasting and reliable. 

Acrylic also doesn’t retain heat, so if you’re playing in sunny conditions, it will keep your head cooler. It’s also pretty cheap to manufacture, which is one of the reasons it’s so popular.

Leather

Leather is one of the more expensive materials used in paintball masks. That’s because it’s not just used to make the mask itself. It’s in the straps and padding of the mask too. 

Leather paintballs are popular among paintball players, and it’s easy to see why. The material is super soft and flexible. Therefore it’s comfortable to wear and won’t chafe or rub against your face. 

It’s also easy to clean and ages well so you can get plenty of use out of it over the years. One big advantage of leather is that it can be custom-fitted to your face. It means a secure and comfortable paintball. 

Nylon

Nylon is one of the common materials in paintball masks. The nylon material is common in the strap that goes over the head or the visor. 

Nylon is strong and durable so it can take plenty of wear and tear. It’s also breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping your face nice and dry. 

It may not be as strong or comfortable as leather, but some high-end masks use nylon exclusively. It’s also super cheap, one reason it’s in paintball masks. 

Nylon is also easy to clean and can be used in washing machines; therefore, it’s not too hard to maintain. It’s also a little lighter than leather, which is a nice bonus.

Silicone

Silicone is usually on the mask’s inside, but sometimes it can be put to use for the visor too. It’s a stretchy and flexible material to create a snug and comfortable fit. 

Silicone is also easy to clean and can be thrown in the washing machine with no problem. It doesn’t retain any smells or stains, so it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin. 

Silicone can be a little trickier to fit your face than nylon or acrylic. Just keep in mind that it’s also a little harder to breathe through when you’re playing, so it’s not the best choice if it’s hot.

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

ABS is another unusual material that you won’t see too often in your paintball masks. It’s common for visors, but it’s also inside the mask. 

 ABS is a common type of plastic in toys, the phone base. It’s also in helmets for cyclists and motorcyclists. 

ABS is a really hard and durable type of plastic. It’s also lightweight, so it can be a good option if you’re looking for something as light as possible. 

ABS is also really easy to clean. It’s a cheap alternative to leather if you want something light and durable.

The Parts Of A Paintball Mask And How They Work

When playing paintball, your mask is one of the most important things you can have. A paintball mask will protect you from splatter or shots while also letting you see clearly. 

The paintball mask is an essential part of your gear. It separates a light game of tag in the woods from a fast-paced, high-pressure game of paintball. 

A paintball mask has many components and features that allow it to do what it needs. Let’s take a look at some of the parts and how they work.

Mask Frame

The frame is the skeleton of your mask. It holds all the components in place and keeps your goggles secure. A good paintball mask frame will be strong and durable and fit comfortably over your head. 

It should have adjustable straps to keep it in place during the game. A good frame will also have an anti-fog coating. 

It reduces the condensation that can form inside your goggles when you play. This frame is also where your paintball mask visor goes. 

Lens

The lens is what protects your eyes from paintballs, dirt, and debris. It should have a UV coating to help reduce glare from sunlight and help protect your eyes from sun damage. 

It should have an anti-fog coating, so fog doesn’t build up on the lens and make it impossible for you to see. The lens can also be replaceable parts on your paintball mask. 

There’s a chance a shot can hit the lens and crack it. You’ll need to replace the lens to keep playing and keep your goggles in good condition. 

If you have the type of mask that opens on the sides, you may be able to clean the lens with a paper towel or a cloth to keep it clean. If not, a removable lens can be removed, cleaned, and reinstalled.

Viewer

The viewer is the space between your lens and the inside of your mask. It is where you will look through the mask to see what’s happening around you. 

A good viewer will be large enough for you to see through but not so big that splatter or paintballs can get inside it. 

It should also be a flexible but sturdy material to withstand shots and hits. The viewer should also have a clear coating to help reduce glare and make it easier to see. 

A UV coating will help protect your eyes from the sun and keep them from getting tired or irritated. 

Some viewers are tinted with color to help you distinguish your teammates from your opponents. You can usually find viewers in black, clear, and orange.

Shroud

The shroud is the covering that goes over the viewer and holds it in place inside the mask. It keeps the viewer from moving around inside the mask. It also protects it from paintballs and splatter that may come toward you. 

A good shroud should be flexible enough to move as you move. A stiff shroud can make it difficult to turn your head. 

The shroud should also have an anti-fog coating to help reduce fogging and make it easier to see. Some shrouds may also have a UV coating, but it’s rare.

Ventilation ports

Ventilation ports are holes in the front of the mask that let air in to keep you cool and reduce fogging. More expensive and higher-end masks have more of these to help reduce fog more efficiently. 

A low-end mask may have only one or two small ones, which won’t do much to keep your goggles from fogging. 

The placement of the ports can vary between masks. So make sure you read the product description to see where the ports are and how effective they are at helping reduce fogging.

Gasket

The gasket is what seals your mask around your face. It keeps the paintball mask from leaking around your face and protects you from any splatter that may come toward you. 

A good gasket will be soft and flexible to move with your face and comfortable to wear. Gaskets come in different shapes. So you may have to try on a few different masks before you find one that fits your face properly. 

Foam Ear Protection

The ear protection on a paintball mask is an important part that you can’t overlook. The foam on your mask keeps the sound from being too loud or overwhelming while you play. In other words, it protects your ears from the sound of paintballs. 

In a paintball game, you’ll hear loud noises from paintball guns, teammates, and more. Paintball guns can be loud; even with ear protection, you can be overwhelmed by the noise. The foam reduces the sound you hear, helping you focus on the game. 

Bottom Line

Have you identified the best paintball masks that fit your needs? There are many types of paintball mask brands and models. 

Each brand or model paintball mask comes with its advantages and disadvantages. Those listed in this article are the most popular with the most amazing features. 

Masks will protect your face and eye while improving your aim. However, note that not all paintball masks are the same. So it is important to choose the right one for you depending on your needs and the type of paintball game you play.

John Henrick

My name is John Hendricks, and I am a passionate paintballer who loves to play and compete. I have been involved in the sport for many years and have a wealth of experience to share.
I believe that paintball is a great sport for people of all ages and skill levels and should be accessible to everyone. That’s why I created this website – to provide a one-stop shop for all things paintball.

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