Paintball might be safer than the vast majority of sports, but that distinction only holds so long as all players are wearing the proper safety gear. Of all the gear included in a paintball game, the paintball mask or helmet is the absolutely most critical.

Paintball Masks

Playing paintball carries little risk outside of a few faint bruises from direct hits. The exception would be the soft tissue of the eyes and the temple areas on the forehead. A large paintball eye mask will cover the eyes well and extend over to the temples. Some prefer a mask as it leaves the mouth and chin bare. Others like the ultimate protection of a paintballing helmet.

Considerations for Eye Masks

When selecting an eye mask, be sure that you buy the mask that will give you the best protection while keeping you in the game.

Peripheral View – Paintball happens at all angles. If your paintball mask lets you only look forward you’ll miss a great deal of the action and likely get hit from the side frequently. Wearing a mask should still let you see out of the sides. Look for a wraparound look or a full helmet to increase visibility.

Eyeglasses – If you wear eye glasses, you’ll need to accommodate those within your mask. Look for a mask with enough depth to contain your glasses easily and comfortable. Also, your glasses will be more likely to fog inside the mask, so be sure you consider this by buying a thermal mask or one with a built-in fan to help circulate air inside the mask.

Visor – The visor on the paintball mask is your weather and sun protection. A sturdy visor will help to protect you from the elements as well as giving you another layer of protection against paintballs – especially those running down your face.