Airsoft has become an incredibly popular hobby and sport over the past few decades. When getting into airsoft, a quality mesh mask is one of the most important pieces of protective gear. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting, using, and maintaining airsoft mesh masks.
An airsoft mask is a must-have piece of protective gear with benefits like face protection, breathability, visibility, communication, and affordability. When selecting a mesh mask, look for full coverage, impact-resistant paneling, moisture-wicking interior, adjustability, certified eye protection, and low-profile design.
What is an Airsoft Mesh Mask?
An airsoft mesh mask is a protective face mask made of breathable mesh and an impact-resistant material frame. Airsoft mesh masks shield the face from BB strikes while allowing air circulation to prevent fogging and overheating.
Mesh masks feature half or full front facial coverage with gaps in the mesh small enough to block incoming BBs. The lightweight mesh material also provides visibility and communication capabilities. Sturdy plates across the front serve as additional facial protection.
Benefits of Using an Airsoft Mesh Mask
There are several key benefits to using an airsoft mesh mask:
- Face Protection – Mesh masks protect sensitive facial areas like teeth, nose, cheeks, mouth, and eyes from painful BB strikes. This is essential for safe airsoft play.
- Breathability – The mesh material allows air to freely flow to prevent fogging of goggles and overheating. This provides comfort during active play.
- Visibility – Airsoft mesh masks allow you to maintain your field of vision and see incoming BBs, unlike solid masks.
- Communication – Mesh masks make it easy to communicate with teammates since your voice isn’t muffled.
- Lightweight – Mesh mask materials are lightweight compared to other masks, reducing fatigue from wearing them.
- Affordability – Quality airsoft mesh masks can be purchased at reasonable prices. They offer protection without a high cost.
Mesh Masks vs. Non-Mesh Masks
Airsoft masks come in two main varieties – mesh masks and non-mesh masks. What are the differences and which one is better for airsoft?
Mesh Masks
- Made of breathable mesh material with impact-resistant plates
- Allows air circulation to prevent fogging and overheating
- Provides good visibility and communication capabilities
- Lightweight and comfortable for prolonged wear
- More affordable than non-mesh masks
Non-Mesh Masks
- Made of solid materials like plastic, fiberglass, or metal
- Provides maximum facial protection from BBs
- Can get hot and impair breathing over time
- Vision and communication is limited
- More expensive than mesh masks
For most airsoft players, a mesh mask is the preferred option for face protection. Solid non-mesh masks can feel suffocating during active games and make it difficult to see and communicate.
Mesh masks provide sufficient protection while maintaining breathability and visibility. The mesh material blocks BBs but doesn’t completely obstruct vision or airflow.
Non-mesh masks are best suited for specialty scenarios like snipers who prioritize maximum facial protection and concealment over ventilation and visibility. For standard airsoft games, mesh masks are the ideal balance of safety and performance.
What Are Airsoft Mesh Masks Made Of?
Airsoft mesh masks can be constructed using various materials, each with its own properties. The material impacts the mask’s durability, breathability, weight, and protective capabilities.
Nylon
- Lightweight and comfortable synthetic material
- Provides decent strength against BBs
- More breathable than other fabrics
- Dries quickly when wet
- Relatively affordable option
ABS Plastic
- Strong yet lightweight thermoplastic polymer
- Creates a rigid frame for good facial protection
- Handles impacts well without cracking
- Can feel warm due to restricted airflow
Polycarbonate
- Extremely durable but lightweight plastic
- Excellent impact resistance qualities
- Resists shattering better than lower-grade plastics
- Scratch-resistant
- Doesn’t fog up easily
Carbon Fiber
- Very strong and rigid but exceptionally lightweight
- Highly impact-resistant material
- Improves protection while reducing strain
- More expensive than other materials
Consider the playing environment and your needs regarding breathability, visibility, weight, protection, and budget when selecting a mesh mask material. Test different material masks to find your ideal option.
Key Features to Look for in an Airsoft Mesh Mask
When selecting an airsoft mesh mask, keep an eye out for these key features:
- Full Face Coverage – The mask should protect the entire front face including cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Partial coverage masks leave certain areas exposed.
- Impact-Resistant Paneling – Solid protective panels over the nose, forehead, cheeks, and chin provide enhanced protection compared to mesh-only masks.
- Moisture-Wicking Interior – A moisture-wicking fabric lining absorbs sweat during play for improved comfort. Avoid masks with a basic mesh interior.
- Adjustability – Look for adjustable straps to customize the mask’s fit. One size does not fit all for proper protection and comfort.
- Certified Eye Protection – Many masks come with integrated, safety-rated goggles and eye shield components to fully protect the eyes.
- Low Profile – The mask should sit close to the face without bulky protrusions that could snag or block your vision.
Finding the Right Airsoft Mask Size
Getting a properly fitted mesh mask is important for maximum protection and comfort. Airsoft mesh masks come in sizes like small, medium, large, and XL. Here are some tips on finding your ideal size:
- Measure Your Face – Use a soft measuring tape to measure the width across your cheeks, length from nose to chin, and width across your forehead. Compare these measurements to sizing charts.
- Prioritize Protection – When in doubt between two sizes, choose the larger size to ensure full facial coverage without gaps. Some masks can be adjusted smaller.
- Consider Face Shape – Those with wider faces may need a large or XL. Narrower faces can fit well in small or medium sizes. Oval faces are often medium.
- Check for Overlap – Properly fitted masks will overlap goggles, fully covering them and sealing them against the face. Ensure enough overlap with the goggles you plan to use.
- Test Fit In-Person – Try masks on in person at a store when possible to get a feel for comfort and coverage. Proper fit is key.
Take your time finding the right-sized mask so you get a snug fit that won’t shift around easily when playing yet isn’t uncomfortably tight. Follow sizing guides and measure accurately.
| Size | Face Width | Length (nose to chin) | Forehead Width |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 4.5-5 inches | 3.5-4 inches | 5-5.5 inches |
| Medium | 5-5.5 inches | 4-4.5 inches | 5.5-6 inches |
| Large | 5.5-6 inches | 4.5-5 inches | 6-6.5 inches |
| XL | 6+ inches | 5+ inches | 6.5+ inches |
Wearing Your Mesh Mask Correctly
To get the most protection and performance out of your airsoft mesh mask, it’s important to wear and secure it properly. Follow these tips:
- Adjust the Straps – Ensure the mask straps are tightened correctly for a snug fit against your face without being uncomfortably tight. Loose masks can shift and expose facial areas.
- Position the Mask – Place the mask so it fully covers your nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. The bottom should overlap the top of your throat.
- Align with Goggles – Position your goggles to align flush with the top of the mesh mask, creating a seal against your face. Prevent gaps between the mask and goggles.
- Eliminate Pressure Points – Identify any parts of the mask that press painfully into your face. Try adjusting straps or padding pressure points for comfort.
- Control Fogging – Position the mask and goggles to allow some ventilation to minimize interior fogging. Use an anti-fog spray as needed.
- Secure Loose Areas – Use tape, padding, or a bandana to secure any looser mesh areas prone to lifting off your face when moving vigorously during games.
- Check the Fit – Have a teammate double-check your mask positioning to identify any gaps or poor alignment you may have missed.
Taking the time to properly wear your mesh mask creates a protective seal while preventing issues like fogging. With practice, you’ll be able to quickly don your properly fitted mask for safe airsoft fun.
Potential Drawbacks of Airsoft Mesh Masks
While mesh masks have many benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
- Less Protective Than Solid Masks – The mesh material cannot provide the same level of protection as a full plastic or metal face mask. Mesh may not completely stop high FPS airsoft guns.
- More Exposed Than Face Wraps – Mesh masks leave parts of the head like the back of the neck and ears open. Face wraps provide more complete head coverage.
- Not Ideal for Cold Weather – The open mesh design provides less insulation for the face than a solid mask in cold conditions.
- Paint Can Stain Mesh – Paint from paintball masks can more easily stain and cake into the mesh compared to smooth materials. Requires diligent cleaning.
- Vulnerable to Damage – Mesh is not as durable as solid mask materials. The fine mesh can snag and tear if caught on objects.
- Reduced Tactical Capabilities – Bright colors and highly visible mesh reduce camouflage capabilities for tactical and scenario play.
While mesh has limitations, following safety ratings and limits will allow you to safely enjoy your airsoft games with the proper balance of protection, visibility, and comfort. Understand the tradeoffs to pick the right mask for your needs.
Maintaining Your Airsoft Mesh Mask
To get the most out of your airsoft mesh mask, be sure to properly maintain it:
- Inspect for damage after each use and repair or replace the mask as needed. Look for tearing in the mesh and cracks in plates.
- Use anti-fog spray and a soft cloth to clean the interior mesh lining and prevent fogging. Avoid harsh cleaners.
- Hand wash the mask with mild soap and water to eliminate dirt, sweat, and oil buildup. Let the mask fully dry before storing.
- Store the mask in a ventilated place out of direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid storing in humid locations.
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your airsoft mesh mask while ensuring ideal visibility and safety.
Conclusion
Airsoft mesh masks balance safety and performance with lightweight, breathable protection. Look for full coverage, impact resistance, moisture wicking, and adjustability when selecting a quality mask. Properly fitted masks seal against the face and align with goggles to prevent fogging. Materials like nylon and polycarbonate provide varying benefits.
While less protective than solid masks, mesh masks sufficiently protect your face for airsoft games. With proper sizing, features, maintenance and usage, you can find the ideal airsoft mesh mask to dominate the airsoft field while keeping your face safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do mesh masks protect your teeth during airsoft games?
A: Yes, a quality mesh mask with impact-resistant cheek plates will protect your teeth and mouth from direct BB strikes. The mesh blocks BBs while the hard plates spread out and absorb impact.
Q: Can a mesh mask stop a hit from a high FPS airsoft sniper?
A: Mesh may not fully stop very high 500+ FPS sniper shots. Follow field limits and consider a wrap-around style mask or half-face protection to supplement the mesh mask for added coverage when facing powerful sniper rifles.
Q: How do I prevent my mesh mask from fogging up my goggles?
A: Use an anti-fog spray on both the inside of your goggles and the mesh mask surface. Position your goggles with some ventilation space from the mask and utilize fan goggles if needed.
Q: Can I reuse my mesh mask or do I need a new one every game?
A: Mesh masks are designed to be reusable. Inspect for damage after each game and replace the mask once it can no longer withstand BBs. With proper care, a quality mesh mask can last for years.
Q: Are mesh masks allowed for both airsoft and paintball?
A: Yes, mesh masks are common protective equipment for both airsoft and paintball. Some paintball fields require the mesh to meet ASTM standards for safety. Make sure your mask is up to code.
Q: What’s the best way to clean an airsoft mesh mask?
A: Use mild soap and water to gently hand wash the mask after each day of play. Remove any dirt, sweat, and oil buildup but avoid harsh scrubbing that could damage the mesh. Let the mask fully air dry before storing.
