The Best Paintball Masks
Paintball is a fun and intense sport that pits friends against each other in a high-energy battle of skill and strategy, but it can also come with its share of dangers. If you’re looking to play a game of paintball, one of the first things you’ll need is a paintball mask. It can be hard to sort through all the options yourself, so we’ve scoured the market and narrowed down the best ones available online to help you find the mask that’s right for you.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best paintball masks on the market, we considered mask durability, comfortability, protection coverage, and price. For example, if you want a well-rounded mask that covers plenty of surface area and sports a menacing look that’s sure to intimidate opponents, the ATAIRSOFT tactical skull full-face mask is a great option. If price is no object and you want the best features available, the Dye i5 paintball goggles are a top-notch premium pick. Read on to see all our top picks and find the paintball mask that’s right for you.
ATAIRSOFT Tactical Skull Full-Face Mask
A modern classic
Paintball masks are more about staying safe than they are about looking good, but this mask from ATAIRSOFT strikes a balance with both. With a savage skull aesthetic and powerful paint protection, this mask is just as safe as it is sleek. It features large ventilation holes on both sides of the mouth, making for easier breathing during intense matches. It also has shock-absorbing sponge padding to give a comfortable fit even when under enemy fire. The lenses function as built-in goggles and won’t let any debris through the mask, so they’re extremely safe for your eyes. Whether you want comfort, protection, or style, this mask does it all.
Pros:
- Shock-absorbing sponge for comfort
- Good ventilation on both sides of the mouth
- Eye-catching look
- High impact resistance
- Features built-in goggles
Cons:
- Lenses may fog easily
PuddingStation Full-Face Mask
So good it's scary
At first glance, this may look more like a costume than a paintball mask, but don’t be fooled. This skull-shaped mask comes loaded with features that make it perfect for games of paintball. It has individually adjustable straps, so you can tailor your mask’s fit to your exact specifications and make it comfortable for gameplay. It also has a full-coverage design and large ventilation holes directly in front of the mouth area, so it’s more practical for breathing than some competitors. On top of all that, you can even customize your lens color to fit your preferences. It may look scary, but this mask is designed for victory on the battlefield.
Pros:
- Individually adjustable straps
- Large ventilation holes
- Full-face coverage
- Choice of two different lens colors
Cons:
- Lenses may slightly distort vision
Dye i5 Paintball Goggles
Only the best
Paintball is more than just a hobby for some, and if you want the absolute best mask that money can buy to lead your team to victory, this one from Dye is a great place to start your search. With luxurious premium features and 12 different colors to choose from, this mask offers the best in customization and quality. It comes with a unique ratchet strap system for adjusting the mask’s tightness and evenly distributing the tension across the entire mask for a comfortable fit. It also has state-of-the-art multi-directional venting to help reduce heat and moisture in the mask for better performance on the field. It may be pricey, but it’s worth every penny for getting an edge over your opponent.
Pros:
- Comes in 12 different color options
- Includes a built-in ratchet strap system
- Even force distribution
- Included POV mount
- Multi-directional venting
Cons:
- Very pricey
HK Army HSTL Paintball Goggle With Thermal Lens
Crystal clear
Foggy lenses can be a big problem in games of paintball, especially if your mask has poor ventilation. With high temperatures, heavy breathing, and added moisture, goggles can fog up and block your vision during a paintball match, causing you to perform poorly. If you’re looking to avoid foggy goggles altogether, this may be the mask for you. With dual-pane thermal lenses, this mask works to prevent fogging and gives you clear vision at all times. It also has adjustable straps, removable foam, and separate upper and lower parts, so you can customize your fit to your exact preferences. However you choose to wear it, this mask is built to give you your best performance on the battlefield.
Pros:
- Comes with high-definition dual-pane thermal lenses
- Separate upper and lower sections
- Removable foam insert
- Chin strap with padding
- Built-in visor
Cons:
- Lenses can be difficult to clean
VPZenar Anti-Fog Paintball Mask
Don't break the bank
Buying all the necessary supplies to play paintball can get expensive, and if you’re looking to save a few bucks, this budget-friendly mask is here to help. At less than half the price of most mid-tier paintball masks, this mask still offers plenty of quality for the price. It sports a detachable design that’s compatible with helmets and glasses, making it a versatile mask for almost any scenario. It even comes with clear lenses for use during paintball matches at night. Whether you use the top half, the bottom half, or both, this mask is perfect for staying safe without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Great price
- Compatible with helmets
- Clear lenses for nighttime use
- Detachable mask
- Works with glasses
Cons:
- The bottom mask piece is more fragile than the goggles
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to wear a paintball mask to play paintball?
It’s recommended that every person who plays paintball should wear a mask at all times during the game. Even though no one is stopping you from going sans mask on your own time, if you’re playing at a public place, you will be required to wear a mask. Paintballs can travel at more than 200mph and cause serious damage if they hit your face, so wearing a mask is the bare minimum requirement for safety.
Is it hard to breathe in a paintball mask?
This can vary based on the mask, but overall, paintball masks are designed to be well-ventilated. If the mask is extremely tight or close to the mouth it can be harder to breathe, but most masks have slots in front of the mouth that allow for easier breathing. During a game, it’s common for masks to become hot inside and for breathing to become more difficult, but safety-wise it beats the alternative of going without a mask.
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