Finding the best airsoft mask can be a challenge, but if you know exactly what to look for, you'll be able to find the search process much easier. Using airsoft rifles or pistols for the purpose of recreational applications is a fun and enjoyable thing to do, but it's important to practice safety precautions so your fun won't instantly turn into a disaster.
There are many masks that have flooded the market, but of them all, nine of them stand out above the rest. We've found those nine airsoft masks and have decided to put them together on our own list of reviews.
Each of these masks is the best in one category or another, and they stick out because of an interesting characteristic or feature they have. We'll get to the list in a moment, but first, let's talk about whether all airsoft masks are the same and how you can choose one for your own use.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Airsoft Mask
Comparison of the Best Airsoft Masks
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Are All Airsoft Masks The Same?
The answer is no. Let’s explain. While the intent and purpose of airsoft masks are the same, not every airsoft mask is created equal. Some of them are more durable than others and can handle the impact of larger rounds (i.e.--paintball). At the same time, some of them might be used for different recreational activities.
Also, you’ll have masks that come in different designs and types. Some will consist of regular face masks while some others will cover the entire head.
How to Choose an Airsoft Mask
If you’re in search of an airsoft mask, it’s important to find one that will have characteristics and features that stand out the most. Especially when you’re looking for something that’s considered the best on the market. You should find one that fulfills your personal needs and preferences.
Keep in mind, this mask you choose will stick with you for quite a while. So you better choose wisely. Now, here are some characteristics you need to look out for while choosing an airsoft mask:
Price
The price tag may make quite a bit of a difference to most shoppers, but if you’re on a budget, it just might be the first thing you look for while finding a mask of your own. Do not let the price tag be the only reason why you chose the mask in the first place. Also, you should never settle for cheap. Cheap will always equal poor quality. Instead, invest in the best quality that you can afford. Even if it means spending a little more than you expect.
Which Type is Best For You?
Will you be outdoors? Indoors? Do you need a full mask? Or something that will cover your head? Either way, it’s important to find the mask that will best fit your intents and purposes of your airsoft pistol or rifle. If you’re taking part in recreational activities, your personal safety should always be your top priority.
So take a moment to consider what kind of projectiles you’ll be dealing with and how often you might be hit in certain areas of the body. The better the coverage, the better the protection.
Find the Best Optics
Most masks will include visors. This is a must since you’ll need proper protection for your eyes. At the same time, you’ll need a visor that will give you the ability to see and not obstruct your view. Protect your eyes not just from flying projectiles, but you’ll also need protection from glaring that can be caused by the sun. You need your eyes at all times. Especially when you’re in the heat of friendly competition.
Review of the Best Airsoft Masks
The following is a review of the nine best airsoft masks on the market. While looking through each one, you’ll need to make a list of the best features and qualities that make this mask stand out among the rest. Determine whether it’s a great match for you and your intended use.
Now, let’s get started by unveiling our “best overall” choice for best airsoft mask:
Best Overall:
OutdoorMaster Full Face Airsoft Mask with Metal Mesh Eye Protection
[amazon fields="B00YU30SZ0" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers were satisfied with this mask overall. One user said that he needed a mask that was much better than his previous airsoft mask that he felt didn’t provide him enough adequate protection. This one not only was a better fit for him, but he liked the added bonus of the menacing design.
Why it Stands Out To Us
Your masks will need proper protection, but they also need another thing that’s important: proper ventilation. This has a ventilation system that will allow you to breathe properly each and every time you use it. Especially when you plan on wearing it for a lengthy period of time. This mask will be best for outdoor use, especially when the weather is good enough for multiple rounds of paintball.
Who Will Use This Most
This mask will be used mostly by those who are paintballers. It will be used by people who want full-on protection during the competition. On top of that, they want something that will give them good eye protection and excellent ventilation for long-term use.
What Could Be Improved and Why
A possible improvement would be to increase the durability of the straps. This way, it can make snapping off minimal to non-existent. The last thing you need is the straps breaking off to the point where you cannot properly protect yourself. Especially from fast-flying projectiles that can cause serious injury.
Bottom Line
If you want something that will give you excellent all-over protection and ventilation, then look no further than the OutdoorMaster Airsoft Mask. Not only will you be fully protected, but the design will be something that will strike fear into the heart of your competitors.
Runner-up:
OneTigris 6" Foldable Half Face Airsoft Mesh
[amazon fields="B078MQJ6C3" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This mask has received some rave reviews from most users. They were able to use this for paintballing and other recreational purposes. They concluded that it was a great fit and was easy to adjust to their size. They were also able to wear their own eye protection of choice. The mask itself doesn’t get in the way at all with their protective goggles.
Why it Stands Out To Us
A half-face mask is another popular type of airsoft mask that can be used in both indoor and outdoor recreational settings. Plus, you’ll have enough open space to include your favorite eye protection as well. Protecting your eyes from fast-flying projectiles like paintballs is a must, no matter what. Just because there is no eye protection, doesn’t mean you should go into a competition without it.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be excellent for both indoor and outdoor recreational use. The mask will provide enough space to give you the ability to wear the eye protection you need. If you need a mask that has you covered in terms of ventilation, this might be your best possible option.
What Could Be Improved and Why
This mask should be improved to fit all kinds of face sizes. Even if you have a bigger nose, you should be adequately protected. That’s where the idea of making the straps a little more durable comes into play. Make them more durable and more adjustable so it can fit most face shapes.
Bottom Line
If you want a mask that will cover the bottom half of your face and leave room for your favorite eyewear, the OneTigris Airsoft Mask will be the best investment you’ll ever make. Especially when you’re looking for one of the best masks in the business when it comes to airsoft recreation.
Best for the Money:
Outgeek Airsoft Half Face Mask Steel Mesh and Goggles Set
[amazon fields="B01ARHRYJA" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers were quick to call this set a convenience. Especially when they need all over protection for their entire face with the right kind of equipment. They were able to wear both and were overall satisfied with the comfortable fit. One user said that it was his favorite mask and goggle set for indoor paintballing, and he won’t rely on anything else for a while.
Why it Stands Out To Us
As if we cannot stress it enough: eye protection is so dang important. The people of Outgeek were smart to include not only a facemask with excellent coverage but eyewear that will protect your eyes during the heat of competition. Also, this mask set is more fit for adults who want to get in on the action. Who says you’re too old for airsoft competition?
Who Will Use This Most
Expect this to be used by older kids and even adults who take part in airsoft recreation. This mask and goggle set will adjust to the right sizes. It will be mostly used for either indoor or outdoor recreational activities. Either way, you’re protected and ready for battle.
What Could Be Improved and Why
One possible improvement would be to slightly reduce the size of the goggles. Some have said that giving the goggles a bit of extra size will increase the risk of fogging up. There have been some reports, but they have been few and far between, but the smaller the size, the less likely you’ll deal with fog issues.
Bottom Line
If you want a nice mask and goggle set without breaking the bank, the Outgeek Airsoft Half Face Mask and Goggles set is exactly what you might be looking for. With a set like this, you have all the bases covered and you’ll be fully protected and ready for action.
Best Airsoft Gas Mask:
VILONG M04 Airsoft Protective Mask and Tactical Helmet
[amazon fields="B01HEFW5BU" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new buyers were looking for a mask that not only provided a great deal of protection but also gave them more of an intimidating look for competitive purposes. This mask fits the bill in all categories. One user said it was easy for him to wear. Plus, when it felt loose he could easily make adjustments to keep the mask nice and fit. Protection wise, it does its job as advertised.
Why it Stands Out To Us
This mask is no ordinary gas mask, and it’s not just for competition. A lot of people will use this mask for multiple purposes (i.e.--dressing up for Halloween). So it has its uses both on and off the competition field, but regardless, the optics on this mask don’t fog up so easily, and that’s obviously a good thing.
Who Will Use This Most
This mask will be used for both on-field competition and off-field use (dressing up). Either way, it’s a mask that makes you look intimidating and stand out among the crowd. In short, it’s a multi-purpose mask that can be used for just about any necessary situation.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The straps can be improved in some ways. First, have them made from durable materials so they won’t easily fall apart. Secondly, they should be able to adjust easily so they can fit bigger sizes. It’s improvements like these where you can make the mask more useable for more users.
Bottom Line
If you like gas masks, then you’ll love the VILONG Airsoft Tactical Protective Mask, and it might be the one you’ll want to wear for whatever purpose. Recreational purposes or just to have fun, this mask definitely has its uses.
Best Full Face Mask:
Outgeek M50 Airsoft Mask Full Face Skull CS Mask With Fan
[amazon fields="B072NZHBLB" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of recent buyers were satisfied with this mask. Not only did it give them excellent protection and coverage, but it also gave them all kinds of eye protection from flying projectiles and glares from the sun. One user said that it stood out more than his previous paintballing masks. The quality is strong and durable and doesn’t break easily.
Why it Stands Out To Us
This mask has two kinds of eye lenses. One on the outside and one on the inside. You’ll have the best protection against anything that might get in the way of your vision. For this reason, it is considered to be one of the best masks you can use in any outdoor competition.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be used mostly by those who are outdoor recreational enthusiasts. So if you’re paintballing outdoors and want a mask that provides all-over protection, this might be exactly what you’re looking for. Especially when you want to get the annoying glare from the sun out of the way while you’re moving from point A to point B in a competition.
What Could Be Improved and Why
A possible improvement would be to make some fine-tuning to ensure that the mask fit isn’t too tight for most users. This way, it won’t feel like it’s pressing up too hard against your face. You want it to be comfortable but easy to move around in case you need to take it off.
Bottom Line
The Outgeek M50 Full Airsoft Mask might be the best possible choice for you if you want overall protection for your face and eyes. This mask is fully equipped with everything you need to ensure that you are well-protected and battle-ready for the next competition.
Best Skull Mask:
Skull Airsoft Wire Masks
[amazon fields="B01NCWYCSA" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the new buyers had nothing but great things to say about the mask. They said it made them look intimidating in the eyes of their competitors. The usability shines the brightest in an outdoor setting, but can still be used indoors depending on the lighting conditions.
Why it Stands Out To Us
This mask covers your entire face and provides the best in ultimate protection. The mask’s design also makes itself stand out as a menacing force to be reckoned with. So in short, it’s one of the prime examples of how a competition mask should be. It gives you excellent aesthetics without sacrificing the true intent of the mask: to give you excellent protection.
Who Will Use This Most
This mask will be best used for outdoor recreational use. It might also have its uses as a Halloween mask if you want to dress up as something scary. Either way, it’s a mask that will be useful both on the competition field and off of it.
What Could Be Improved and Why
A possible improvement would be to make the straps a little more adjustable than it already is. This way, it will make sure that the mask is not so tight of a fit for some users. That alone can actually make it more comfortable for users who have had previous issues with the comfort level.
Bottom Line
The Tactical Skull Face Mask is your best option if you’re looking for something that provides awesome protection and intimidation into the hearts of your opponents. You’ll definitely make the most out of this mask if you’re in an outdoor recreational setting.
Best Helmet Mask:
Jadedragon PJ Tactical Fast Helmet
[amazon fields="B078VZM4CL" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers were able to use this mask for their outdoor activities. They were satisfied with the overall coverage they’ve received and were able to protect themselves from flying projectiles, sun glare, and other elements that might hinder their vision. One user said that he was able to see better with the goggles since they were clear and comfortable to wear.
Why it Stands Out To Us
This might remind you of some military headgear. It’s kind of like that, except you’re not going into real combat with real firearms, but it will give you added protection like nothing else in an airsoft competition. The goggles are clear as a bell when it comes to optics and the helmet and mask are durable and impact-proof. In short, this might be one of the better quality airsoft masks out there.
Who Will Use This Most
This mask will be ideal in an outdoor-only setting. If you’re planning on doing anything indoors, find another mask. This will be a favorite among many veteran or beginner level paintballers who want nothing more than the best protection for their head and face. It’s nice to play hard, but playing it safe also pays off big time.
What Could Be Improved and Why
One of the possible improvements to consider is to make adjustments so that the goggles are not so uncomfortable for most users. Make it so the inner strap has more adjustable positions you can work with to ensure a perfect fit for almost any user.
Bottom Line
The Jadedragon PJ Tactical Fast Helmet is probably your best choice if you want to keep the excitement of airsoft recreation outdoors. This is a helmet and mask combo that will definitely give you the most protection out of all the masks on the list so far.
[amazon fields="B01N7EER76" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
New buyers were looking for something that was affordable and provided decent protection for their airsoft competition needs. Sure enough, they found it with the LAOSGE Airsoft Mask. Most users were satisfied with the overall fit and quality. One user said that despite being cheap, he was surprised the quality was better than expected.
Why it Stands Out To Us
This is a pretty decent mask and goggle set that will prepare you for battle no matter if you’re indoor or outdoors. Either way, it’s affordable and makes a great starter package for those new to the wonderful world of airsoft sports. Over time, you’ll find something that will be much better protection wise, but don’t discount this as something cheap.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be used by beginner level paintballers. Especially those who want something that is simple but also good enough to protect their face and eyes from high-flying projectiles. Every newbie knows that while it’s fun, it should also be safe to do. It all starts with the right kind of gear.
What Could Be Improved and Why
Since this is a starter kit, it should be an excellent fit for young children. Specifically, it should fit those who are ages 10 to 12 (since that’s an ideal age to start with airsoft sports). Granted, there should be sizes for older teens and adults, but fun can happen with airsoft guns at just about any age.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a mask and goggles that is affordable and is more of a starter kit, the LAOSGE Airsoft Mask. Getting this kit marks the beginning of many fun times with airsoft recreational activities. Of course, it all starts with protecting yourself in all the right places.
Best Half Mask:
SPIKELAB Foldable Airsoft Half Face Metal Mesh Mask US Flag Patch Combo
[amazon fields="B07DVY1SLL" image="1" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center" image_link="none"]
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This mask is perhaps one of the best half masks in the business. The new buyers were quick to confirm that. While it protects their face, it allows them to breathe easy as well. This also provides the best protection for your goggles as well. No pair of goggles that you use with this mask will ever fog up on you.
Why it Stands Out To Us
This mask is by far one of the best half masks for recreational use. It’s used for both inside and outside recreation. Either way, the quality is second to none. Overall, the fit is comfortable and works for many different head sizes. So when you’re facing a hail of paintballs, you’ll know for sure that your face will be protected from a mask that will take on a lot of abuse.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be used by paintballers, no matter what the level of expertise. This mask is the most durable half mask on the market. So if you’re looking for something where it can take on all kinds of impact, this mask can get the job done no matter if you’re paintballing indoor or outdoors.
What Could Be Improved and Why
The major improvement that should be considered for this is sizing it down a bit. Some have complained that the mask might be a little too large for some sizes. However, it shouldn’t be reduced to a point where protection of your face is jeopardized. It should be a good enough size to fit young teens and adults alike.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a half mask that will give you excellent protection and can stand up to the impact of fast-flying paintballs, the SPIKELAB Foldable Airsoft Mask will be your best friend in the heat of the competition. It will keep your face guarded and won’t fog up your goggles. All while giving you enough of a ventilation system to breathe easy and take in the competitive drive.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Aside from the characteristics of each mask, it is important to consider some other aspects that will drive you to make the right decision. Especially when it comes to finding a mask that will work to your advantage in recreational applications. Here’s what you should mull over before making a final decision:
Half-Face or Full-Face?
This will probably be a personal preference answer. If you have a nice pair of goggles that you can trust while paintballing, you can definitely get away with a full-face mask (provided that it gives you adequate coverage and space for googles). If you want full protection with the optics intact, you’ll probably want a full-face mask.
What is my Head/Face Size?
As mentioned before, not all airsoft masks are created equal. They do come in various sizes for your face and head. Yes, they do have adjustable straps, but they won’t always fit every single size under the sun. It’s important to know the measurements so you can determine if it will be a good fit for you or not.
Indoor or Outdoor Use?
Most airsoft recreational activities can happen either outside or inside. Of course, you’ll also need a mask that you can use for any kind of weather. If you’re going to be outdoors, find a mask where ventilation is addressed properly. This way, you can enjoy the competition without feeling like you’re suffocating because of the mask you wear.
Types of Airsoft Masks
By now, you already know some of the types of airsoft masks, but we’ll re-introduce them again and go into detail as to why they should be considered the best for your own personal preferences and use. They are as follows:
Half-Face
These masks will cover the bottom half of your face. They are usually made from carbon fibers to ensure that it will resist all kinds of impact. They have a mesh ventilation system that will allow you to breathe while preventing fog from building up on your goggles.
Full-Face
This will cover your entire face. Most of them will include some kind of protection for your eyes like a pair of goggles or mesh guards. Either way, you get maximum protection while you’re mostly in an outdoor setting. Plus, most of these masks are breathable.
Helmet Masks
This is a combination of a standard helmet and a full-face mask. This will be used not only to protect your face but also your head. These will be used exclusively for outdoor use. Especially when you’re partaking in a recreational activity where rough terrain is mostly present. Sometimes, you may trip and fall, but a mask like this can definitely prevent you from suffering serious injuries.
How to Clean Airsoft Masks
Here are some great methods for cleaning your airsoft mask:
On the Field Cleaning
- What you’ll need are the following: cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth.
- If you’re out in the field and get hit in the face, a good substitute to wipe the paint off the lenses without scratching them is simply using your hands. You can wipe it off on your shirt or pants. You’re getting dirty anyway, so it’s no big deal.
- Spray the cleaning solution on the lens. Then wipe it with the microfiber cloth. Repeat if necessary until you get all the excess paint off.
- Pro-tip #1: Never use a cloth that is not microfiber. This will scratch your lenses.
- Pro-tip #2: Never wipe off the paint with the solution and the microfiber cloth first. This will defeat the entire purpose of cleaning your mask.
- Pro-tip #3: Never use Windex or any similar cleaning solution.
Off the Field Cleaning
Note: This cleaning method is more extensive. It does employ some of the similar steps listed above.
- Use hot water in a sink. Use a kitchen sink hose. It will clean off the water-soluble paint.
- Note the angles of the lens where water might be present while spraying it with cleaning solution.
- Set it on a towel and let it air dry for about 2 to 4 hours.
- Pro-tip: Never submerge your mask underwater.
Conclusion
Finding the best airsoft mask will be a must if you’re getting into airsoft recreational activities. If you’ve been a seasoned vet looking for a better mask than what you’ve got right now or if you’re starting out, one of the nine above will definitely serve you well in the field. Make sure you wear adequate protection and always have fun.