Just like anything else, not all paintball masks are created equal.. Every paintball mask we carry offers enough protection to do the job, but some goggles are built with more features than others… We suggest you choose a mask you’ll want to wear again and again! - After all, face protection is required at all times, so you’re gonna have to! Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right mask for you..
Paintball masks are the most important piece of equipment in your gear bag! Not only in terms of protection, but really, a better mask can make you a better paintballer! The mask you choose plays a big part in your performance - you have to be able to see out there and you have to be comfortable.
Let’s face it.. The Pro’s aren’t playing in rental gear.
Most paintball fields offer an industry-standard single-pane anti fog paintball mask. These are the cheapest paintball mask available and for some entry-level players, it’s enough.. They offer a single pane lens system, basic full-face protection, minimal foam padding, and are built with hard plastics to withstand direct hits. If you’ve played in one of these before, you know depending on how hot it is outside, these masks may fog easily and do not offer much in the way of comfort.. Maybe great for a day at the field, not so much if you’re planning on playing every weekend, etc.
As you move up the ranks, you’re gonna want a higher quality paintball mask. The most important part of the paintball mask and first thing that is upgraded as you move up in quality is the lens system. Spending a little extra on a dual-pane thermal lens paintball mask upfront rather than saving a few bucks on an entry-level single-pane mask makes all the difference. Single-pane lens systems are typically clear, yellow, or smoke in color and use 1 piece of material as a basic face shield built to withstand impacts. Entry-level single pane paintball masks are a great cheap option for eye protection but are more prone to fog and do not do much in the way of comfort. Again, you’re going to be wearing your mask all-day at the field. The reason single pane paintball masks fog more often is the same as how your home or car windows fog up when it’s cold outside.. Cold air on one side of the single pane and hot air on the other creates condensation which then turns into fog. In paintball, when you’re out on the field sweating in the heat of the battle, the temperature on the inside of your paintball mask gets hotter than the outside temperature. So with the difference in temperature on both sides of the single pane lens, condensation is created and ends up fogging up your mask..
The only way to counteract the fog effectively is to use a Dual-Pane Lens system. Dual pane lens systems use two single lenses bound together with a pocket of air separating the two lenses in between. The air pocket between the two lenses of the dual pane system creates a separation that allows each side of the inside and outside lenses to be different temperatures reducing condensation and eliminating the chances of a fogged lens. Another benefit of using a dual-pane lens system is they tend to wrap significantly farther around the head than your basic entry-level mask. So not only are you reducing the chances of your mask fogging, but you’re also increasing your field of vision enabling better use of your peripherals to sight the opposition.
Since we’re breaking down the fog issues often experienced when using cheaper paintball masks, another thing to consider to help keep your mask from fogging is the seal around your nose and cheek area. Higher quality masks use better materials in their construction. The internal foam of the mask not only provides comfort, but also helps create a proper seal and snug fit. Basic entry-level masks come with denser foam so if the “one-size fits most” mask does not fit or seal properly there is a higher chance the mask will fog as you huff and puff out there.
Another note regarding the lens of your mask is most paintball masks offer easy interchangeable replacement lenses. Whether you’re using a cheap paintball mask with a single-pane lens or an upgraded dual-pane thermal goggle, the mask lens may get scratched, scuffed, or just covered in paint during gameplay so having a couple extra replacement lenses on hand isn’t a bad idea. Better quality masks usually have more replacement lens options to choose from so you can not only match the rest of your gear but also take control over the color of the lens you're looking through. This is not just a cool feature, it also helps with glare and lighting conditions. Some paintball masks lenses are easier to swap out than others with tool-less lens replacement etc. However you need to do it - Remove the lens, pop-in a freshy and it’s game on.
Bottomline, ask any paintball player out there and they’ll tell you - For comfort, field of vision, keeping that fog off your lens, and overall experience, a dual-pane lens paintball mask is the way to go!
From there, it’s all about price point and personal preference. While you don’t need to blow your wad on the best paintball mask pro model out there, you might want to spend a little more than the bare minimum since you’ll be wearing your mask all day on the field, not to mention every time you go out to play. If you’re a serious paintballer, you know your paintball mask is crucial. More expensive paintball masks offer a comfier fit through use of better materials, a better field of vision, and a host of other bells and whistles depending on how high-end we’re talkin’.. The best paintball masks in the business are designed by top brands in the industry. Each of these top brands offer their own version of a standard paintball goggle all the way up to a pro model used by tournament and professional paintball players. Do a little research and see what’s right for you!
As an Authorized Dealer of all the brands we carry, The following is a breakdown of all the paintball masks we have to offer directly from the manufacturers. We stand by what we sell. If you experience any issues with your mask we will repair or replace it within 45 days of your order.
Dye SE Thermal Goggle Features:
The smallest profile, lightest, and best field of vision goggle system available. The i4 is the apex of Dye's long legacy of goggle engineering. The thermal lens leads the industry in optical clarity and provides a distortion and fog free field of vision regardless of weather. Ear protection is critical, but does not need to be bulky. The i4 system also has a variety of lens options to match your lighting conditions.
Dye I4 Thermal Goggle Features:
The next evolution in the DYE goggle line is also the next evolution in paintball eye and face protection technology. New groundbreaking features like the GSR pro-strap and e.VOKE communication system make the i5 the most advanced goggle system in the industry today. Engineered to perform, designed to inspire, the i5 is the pinnacle of paintball mask development. The new i5 goggle system is an aggressive, Ultralite mask, offering more protection, more venting, better comfort, better sound processing and better safety, all combined for complete unmatched performance. The Tirodial Horizon 290 degree anti-fog thermal lens, gives you unparalleled optical clarity with both vertical and horizontal peripheral vision. The new soft touch multi-layer foam works in tandem with the all new GSR Pro-Strap, to give you the most secure and most comfortable fit ever offered in a paintball goggle system. A first for the paintball industry: upgrade with the new technology e.VOKE unit and your i5 & M2 are in instant communication, feeding you vital game time information wirelessly. The i5 goggle system lets you play the game at another level. This is the next evolution in paintball goggle system technology.
Dye I5 Thermal Goggle Features:
The Helix hardcore base model - a hardshell mask. The Helix comes with a single pane lens. All models come with a Vents "Browser" (combined Visor and Brow Shield).The Helix Single model takes player comfort and upgradability to new levels the Dual Density foam giving players the best comfort and the interchangeable lens. Get started fast with a Helix.
Empire Helix Single Lens Goggle Features:
The Empire Helix takes player comfort and upgradability to new levels. The Dual Density foam giving paintball and airsoft players the best comfort and the interchangeable lens puts an end to fogging. This is one of our most popular and best value entry level thermal mask.
Empire Helix Thermal Goggle Features:
Empire has combined cutting edge design with input from our vastly experienced players to create the unique EVS paintball mask. The Empire EVS goggle was the world's first "Smart Paintball Mask" and is at the forefront of innovative design and unlike any mask in paintball, where the wide-view spherical lens is seamlessly part of the overall goggle. EVS is the apex of technology, appearance, protection and breathability, all-in-one serious kickbutt goggle! INCLUDES BONUS CLEAR THERMAL LENS!
Empire EVS Thermal Paintball Goggle Features:
Carbon Paintball OPR Operator Thermal Paintball Mask Goggle System - The ideal integrated mask and goggle system with a balance of fit, breathability, protection, and value. Exceeds ASTM safety standards for protection from both .68 and .50 paintballs. Quick change wide-angle dual-pane thermal lens with true optical clarity. Improved facemask molding for a softer contoured profile with an integrated visor for complete coverage. Moisture-wicking open-cell modular foam inserts can be replaced tool-free in seconds.
CRBN OPR OPERATOR Thermal Goggle System Features:
Experience is everything. The Push Unite goggle combines decades of knowledge from the most influential players in the game. The result is the most advanced goggle system on the market that refuses to be beat in fit, function, and style. The Unite goggle features total face fit customization with an adjustable nose bridge, soft earpieces, and dual-injection molded plastic parts. An unprecedented 16 ventilation zones maximize airflow to keep you cool, comfortable, and improve communication. The optically correct spherical lens is larger, stronger, and lighter than ever with a quick change system that is both easy and effective. Maximize your vision and maximize your experience with this state-of-the-art goggle system from Push.
(Push Unite Goggle Mask Features Vary Model to Model)
Unite Thermal Paintball Goggle Mask System Features:
The VForce Armor is the #1 answer for budget conscious players offering the lowest cost, superb lens life and excellent customer satisfaction goggle system. Also popular as a rental mask at your local paintball field. This rigid vision system is perfect for the newer players who want maximum protection with clear, reliable Anti-Fog, Anti-Scratch and Thermo-Cured lenses that will outlast every other brand!
VForce Armor Single Lens Goggle Features:
The GRILL sets the new trend with its intense look of pure attitude. The unmatched comfort of this lightweight masterpiece inspires total focus on your game.
VForce Grill Thermal Goggle Features:
The first paintball goggle system from VForce to attain legendary status in top levels of international competition. The Profiler vision system is a true proven winner designed for all formats of paintball play. Vision is super clean and distortion free with a Dual Pane/Thermal lens system that ensures fog-free performance. An ultra-lightweight, comfortable and unrestrictive goggle that incorporates soft full-flex panels for ultimate ‘bounce’ without sacrificing strength and durability. The Profiler is ultimately engineered for a maximum range of vision and loaded with innovative Quick-Change features make this paintball mask sought out by speedball pros, scenario enthusiasts and intermediate players everywhere.
VForce Profiler Thermal Goggle Features:
HSTL Goggle System - Composed of a robust blend of thermoplastic, the design of the HSTL face mask protects critical areas of the user, while still promoting supreme breathability and freedom of movement. The HSTL Goggle System features the quick change lens retention system which allows the player to replace their lens in seconds without the use of tools.
HSTL Single Lens Goggle Features:
HSTL Goggle System - Composed of a robust blend of thermoplastic, the design of the HSTL face mask protects critical areas of the user, while still promoting supreme breathability and freedom of movement. The HSTL Goggle System features the quick change lens retention system which allows the player to replace their lens in seconds without the use of tools.
HSTL Thermal Goggle Features:
Composed of a robust blend of thermoplastic elastomer, the design of the KLR face mask protects critical areas of the user, while still promoting supreme breathability and freedom of movement. The KLR Goggle System can be customized to fit any customer's aesthetic desires by simply changing the high-density compression molded earpieces or PVTLock lens retention system.
HK Army KLR Thermal Goggle Features:
Introducing the All-New HK Army SLR Goggle System. HK Army's Thermal SLR face mask protects critical areas of the user, while still promoting supreme breathability, audible clarity, and freedom of movement. Accepts HK Army's HD Pure Lens system for a completely customized look and clear field of vision in any lighting condition!
HK Army SLR Thermal Goggle Features:
JT Spectra Pro-Shield Paintball Goggle System, the original and the most popular paintball goggle system. The JT Spectra Proshield is the #1 selling premium paintball mask in the sport's history. The Proshield utilizes an incredibly soft and deep mask foam to fit a wide variety of faces in all day comfortable wear. The wide, 260 degree Spectra lens set the standard in goggle field of view and is a perfect choice for players who need to wear glasses under their mask. The plastic face shield provides excellent protection with easy breathing ventilation. the removable visor keeps sun and rain off the lens while protecting the forehead be deflecting incoming paintballs up and over the head. A dual Pane thermal lens offers the best defense against fogging during play. Play with confidence in a JT Spectra Pro Shield Paintball Mask!
JT Spectra Proshield Thermal Paintball Goggle Features:
Full-Face Hard Plastic Protection, Closed Cell Foam, and Adjustable Head Strap - Basic kit mask you might rent at a paintball field.
GenX Global Stealth Single Lens Goggle Features:
