Although Airsoft involves non-lethal weapons and plastic BBs, the risk of injury is still present, making protective gear an indispensable part of the game.
In this article, we’ll explore the various types of airsoft protection available, including eye, face, and body protection, to help you make informed choices for a safe and enjoyable time on the battlefield. Safety is paramount, so let’s gear up and dive into the world of airsoft protection.
Eye Protection For Airsoft
Eye protection is the most crucial aspect of safety gear in airsoft, as the eyes are extremely vulnerable to injury from high-speed airsoft BBs. A BB traveling at high velocities can cause severe eye damage, including corneal abrasions, retinal detachment, and even blindness.
Therefore, it is vital to wear proper eye protection at all times during airsoft gameplay. Let’s delve deeper into the three main types of eye protection available:
- Full-seal goggles
- Shooting glasses
- Full face masks.
Full-Seal Goggles
Full-seal goggles are designed to completely enclose and protect the eyes from all angles, providing the most comprehensive protection against BB impacts. They form a tight seal around the eyes, preventing BBs from entering from any direction.
Full-seal goggles are the most recommended type of eye protection for airsoft players due to their superior coverage.
Shooting Glasses
Shooting glasses are another option for eye protection in airsoft. They resemble regular glasses but are made with impact-resistant lenses and durable frames designed to withstand BB impacts. There are some glasses made out of mesh but they offer the least protection and while it’s your eyes we’re talking about, I’ll stick to the best.
While they provide a certain level of protection, shooting glasses do not offer a full seal around the eyes, leaving the potential for BBs to enter from the sides or underneath.
Full Face Masks
Full face masks combine eye and face protection in one unit, covering the eyes, nose, mouth, and sometimes the ears. These masks offer a full-seal protection for the eyes and additional coverage for the rest of the face.
Full face masks are a popular choice for airsoft players, especially beginners, as they provide comprehensive protection in one piece of gear.
When selecting eye protection for airsoft, it is essential to prioritize safety and comfort. Full-seal goggles and full face masks are generally recommended for their excellent coverage.
However, the type of eye protection you choose will depend on your personal preferences, playing style, and the specific airsoft scenarios you participate in. Always ensure that the eye protection you select is ANSI Z87.1-rated or equivalent, as this standard certifies the product’s ability to withstand high-velocity impacts.
Face Protection For Airsoft
Face protection is an essential aspect of safety gear in airsoft, as BB impacts can cause painful injuries, bruises, or even broken teeth. While eye protection is crucial, it’s also vital to protect the rest of your face from high-speed BBs.
There are several types of face protection available, including:
- Lower face masks
- Full face masks
- Balaclavas.
Lower Face Masks
Lower face masks are specifically designed to protect the lower half of your face, covering the mouth, nose, and sometimes the cheeks. These masks are typically made of metal mesh or hard plastic and can be combined with full-seal goggles for complete face protection. Lower face masks are popular among airsoft players due to their lightweight design and breathability.
Full Face Masks
As mentioned earlier, full face masks combine eye and face protection in one unit, offering complete protection for the face. They cover the eyes, nose, mouth, and sometimes the ears. Full face masks are ideal for beginners or players who prefer an all-in-one solution for face protection.
Balaclavas
Balaclavas are a versatile option for face protection, as they cover the entire head, including the face, ears, and neck. Made from lightweight, breathable materials like polyester, spandex, or cotton, balaclavas provide a basic level of protection against BB impacts.
While they won’t prevent bruising or injuries as effectively as hard face masks, they can offer added comfort and convenience.
It’s essential to prioritize safety and comfort while ensuring that your face protection is compatible with your chosen eye protection. Combining the right gear will help you stay protected and enjoy airsoft to its fullest.
Ear Protection For Airsoft
While ear protection is not as crucial as eye and face protection in airsoft, it can still play a vital role in preventing injuries to your ears from stray BBs, as well as protecting your hearing from loud noises during gameplay.
Ear protection is available in various forms, including:
- Earmuffs
- Earplugs
- Tactical headsets
Earmuffs
Earmuffs are designed to cover the entire ear, providing a physical barrier against BB impacts and noise. They are available in both passive and electronic varieties.
Passive earmuffs simply block out noise, while electronic earmuffs are equipped with noise-cancellation technology that allows you to hear ambient sounds while blocking out harmful noise levels.
Earplugs
Earplugs are a compact and discreet option for ear protection in airsoft. They are inserted directly into the ear canal to block out noise and provide a basic level of protection against BB impacts. Earplugs are available in disposable foam, reusable silicone, or custom-moulded varieties.
Tactical Headsets
Tactical headsets are designed for use in airsoft and other tactical scenarios, offering a combination of ear protection, noise reduction, and communication capabilities.
These headsets typically feature electronic noise-cancellation technology, enabling you to hear ambient sounds while protecting your ears from loud noises. They also often include built-in microphones for team communication.
If you primarily engage in outdoor games with minimal noise concerns, a basic level of ear protection like earplugs may suffice. However, if you play in close-quarter combat or indoor environments with loud noises, investing in electronic earmuffs or tactical headsets can provide additional protection and noise reduction.
Head Protection For Airsoft
While airsoft is generally considered a safe sport, proper head protection is essential to minimize the risk of injury from BB impacts, falls, or collisions with objects on the field. Head protection not only shields the top and sides of your head from impacts but also helps keep you comfortable during gameplay. There are several types of head protection available for airsoft players, including:
- Helmets
- Hats
- Head wraps
Helmets
Helmets provide the most robust protection for your head during airsoft games, shielding the top, sides, and sometimes the back of your head from BB impacts and other hazards.
Helmets are available in various styles, such as military-style tactical helmets, skateboarding helmets, or bicycle helmets, each offering different levels of protection and coverage.
Hats and Caps
Hats and caps are a lightweight and comfortable option for head protection in airsoft. While they don’t provide the same level of protection as helmets, they offer basic coverage for the top of your head and can help shield your face from the sun. Popular options include baseball caps, bonnie hats, and tactical caps.
Head Wraps and Bandanas
Head wraps and bandanas are another versatile and lightweight option for head protection in airsoft. They can be worn to cover the top of your head, forehead, or even wrapped around your neck for additional protection.
Made from lightweight, breathable materials like cotton or polyester, head wraps and bandanas offer basic protection against BB impacts and sun exposure.
When choosing head protection for airsoft, consider the specific needs of your playing style and the scenarios in which you participate. Helmets offer the most comprehensive protection and are ideal for close-quarter combat or indoor environments.
Hats, caps, head wraps, and bandanas provide a more lightweight and comfortable option for outdoor games and situations where minimal protection is needed.
Gloves For Airsoft
Gloves play a vital role in airsoft, providing protection for your hands from BB impacts, scrapes, and cuts, as well as enhancing grip and dexterity during gameplay. A good pair of gloves can significantly improve your comfort and performance on the field.
There are several types of gloves available for airsoft players, including:
- Tactical gloves
- Fingerless gloves
- Hard knuckle gloves
Tactical Gloves
Tactical gloves are designed specifically for use in airsoft and other tactical scenarios, offering a combination of protection, dexterity, and grip.
They are typically made of durable materials like leather, synthetic fabrics, or a combination of both and may feature reinforced palms, padding, or additional grip-enhancing materials. Tactical gloves are popular among airsoft players due to their balance of protection and functionality.
Fingerless Gloves
Fingerless gloves provide protection for the palms and knuckles while leaving the fingertips exposed for increased dexterity and tactile sensation. They are ideal for players who prioritize fine motor skills, such as adjusting gear or handling small items, over full hand protection. Fingerless gloves are available in various materials, including leather, synthetic fabrics, or a combination of both.
Hard Knuckle Gloves
Hard knuckle gloves are a type of tactical glove that features rigid, reinforced knuckle protection, often made from plastic or carbon fiber. These gloves are designed to provide maximum protection for your hands, especially during close-quarter combat or when using melee weapons. Hard knuckle gloves are a popular choice among airsoft players seeking enhanced hand protection.
Elbow and Knee Protection For Airsoft
Elbow and knee pads are essential pieces of protective gear for airsoft players, as they provide protection and support for your joints during gameplay. These pads shield your elbows and knees from impacts, falls, and abrasions, ensuring that you stay safe and comfortable on the field.
They can also help prevent long-term joint injuries that may occur from repetitive stress or impact. There are several types of elbow and knee pads available for airsoft players, including:
- Hard-shell pads
- Soft-shell pads
- Integrated pads
Hard-Shell Pads
Hard-shell pads are designed with a rigid, impact-resistant outer shell that offers maximum protection for your elbows and knees. They are constructed with durable materials, such as plastic or carbon fiber, and are designed to absorb and disperse energy upon impact.
These pads are generally lined with foam padding or a cushioned material for added comfort and shock absorption. Hard-shell pads are ideal for players who participate in aggressive or high-impact gameplay, where falls and collisions are more likely to occur.
Soft-Shell Pads
Soft-shell pads are made with flexible, impact-absorbing materials, such as neoprene, foam, or gel, which provide protection while allowing for greater freedom of movement. These pads are designed to contour to the shape of your joints and offer a more comfortable fit compared to hard-shell pads.
Soft-shell pads are suitable for players who prioritize mobility and comfort over maximum impact protection. While they may not provide the same level of protection as hard-shell pads, they offer a good balance between protection and flexibility for most airsoft scenarios.
Integrated Pads
Integrated pads are built directly into tactical clothing, such as pants or shirts, and are designed to provide a streamlined, comfortable fit. These pads are usually made from flexible, impact-absorbing materials, like foam or gel, and are strategically placed to protect your elbows and knees.
Integrated pads are an excellent option for players who want a seamless, all-in-one solution for joint protection without the need for additional gear. However, they may not offer the same level of protection or customization as standalone elbow and knee pads.
Tactical Vests For Airsoft
Tactical vests are an essential piece of gear for airsoft players, offering a combination of protection, storage, and customization options. They not only provide protection from BB impacts but also allow you to carry additional equipment, such as magazines, radios, and tools, in an organized and easily accessible manner.
There are several types of tactical vests available for airsoft players, including:
- Plate carriers
- Chest rigs
- Cross-draw vests
- Soft armor vests
Plate Carriers
Plate carriers are designed to hold ballistic plates, which provide additional protection from BB impacts during airsoft games. In airsoft, players often use foam or plastic plates to simulate the weight and feel of real ballistic plates.
Plate carriers feature MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing on the front and back, allowing you to attach various pouches and accessories to suit your needs. They are adjustable in size and offer a snug fit to ensure that your gear remains secure during gameplay.
Chest Rigs
Chest rigs are lightweight, minimalist vests that focus primarily on providing storage for your magazines and other essential gear. They typically consist of a harness system that wraps around your torso and features multiple built-in pouches or MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches.
Chest rigs are ideal for players who prefer a less bulky, more streamlined option for carrying their equipment. They can also be worn in conjunction with plate carriers or backpacks for added storage and protection.
Cross-Draw Vests
Cross-draw vests are tactical vests that feature a built-in holster for your airsoft pistol, as well as multiple pouches and pockets for your magazines, tools, and other gear. The holster is typically located on the wearer’s non-dominant side, allowing for easy access to the pistol during gameplay.
Cross-draw vests offer a convenient, all-in-one solution for players who want to carry their sidearm, magazines, and other equipment on a single platform.
Soft Armor Vests
Soft armor vests are designed to provide additional protection for your torso without the added weight of ballistic plates. These vests are typically made from flexible, impact-absorbing materials, such as foam or gel, and offer a more comfortable, lightweight option for players seeking torso protection.
Soft armor vests may feature built-in pouches or MOLLE webbing for attaching additional gear, depending on the specific model.
Essential Footwear For Airsoft
Choosing the right footwear for airsoft is crucial, as it affects your comfort, mobility, and safety on the field. Proper footwear provides support, protection, and traction, helping you navigate various terrains and avoid potential injuries.
There are several types of footwear available for airsoft players, including:
- Tactical boots
- Hiking boots
- Trail running shoes
- Ankle Boots
Tactical Boots
Tactical boots are specifically designed for use in airsoft and other tactical scenarios. They offer a combination of durability, support, and protection, making them ideal for airsoft players who need reliable footwear for extended periods on the field.
Tactical boots typically feature reinforced toe caps, ankle support, and slip-resistant soles, providing excellent traction on various surfaces. They may also have additional features such as side zippers for easy on and off, water resistance, or insulation for cold weather conditions.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are another popular option for airsoft players, as they are designed to provide support, comfort, and traction in outdoor environments. They are made from durable materials, such as leather or synthetic fabrics, and are built to withstand the rigors of rugged terrain.
Hiking boots often have high ankle support, cushioned midsoles, and aggressive tread patterns on the soles for optimal grip on uneven surfaces. While they may not have specific tactical features found in tactical boots, hiking boots can be a reliable and comfortable choice for airsoft players who prioritize support and stability.
Trail Running Shoes
Trail running shoes are a lightweight and flexible footwear option for airsoft players who prioritize speed and agility. They are designed for use on off-road trails and offer a combination of cushioning, support, and traction.
Trail running shoes typically have lower ankle support than tactical or hiking boots but provide better mobility and flexibility for quick movements. They feature aggressive tread patterns on the soles for optimal grip on various surfaces, as well as reinforced toe caps for added protection. This type of footwear is ideal for airsoft players who prefer a more athletic and agile playing style.
Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are a versatile footwear option for airsoft players who want a balance between support and mobility. These boots offer moderate ankle support and are made from durable materials, such as leather or synthetic fabrics.
Ankle boots provide protection and stability while allowing for a greater range of movement compared to higher-cut boots. They can be a suitable choice for players who want a comfortable and flexible footwear option for various airsoft scenarios.
Protective Clothing For Airsoft
Protective clothing is an essential component of airsoft gear, as it provides protection from BB impacts, scrapes, and cuts while enhancing your overall comfort and performance on the field. The right clothing can also help you blend in with your environment, giving you a tactical advantage during gameplay.
There are several types of protective clothing available for airsoft players, including:
- Combat shirts
- Tactical pants
- Ghillie suits
- Camouflage uniforms
- Soft shell jackets
Combat Shirts
Combat shirts are designed specifically for use in airsoft and other tactical scenarios. They are made from durable, breathable materials and typically feature a moisture-wicking torso section for added comfort.
Combat shirts often have reinforced elbows, adjustable cuffs, and pockets on the sleeves for additional storage. They are available in various camouflage patterns and solid colors to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Tactical Pants
Tactical pants are an essential piece of protective clothing for airsoft players, offering durability, comfort, and storage options for your gear. They are made from rugged materials, such as ripstop fabric or a blend of synthetic fabrics, and are designed to withstand the rigors of airsoft gameplay.
Tactical pants often feature reinforced knees, multiple cargo pockets, and adjustable waistbands for a comfortable and secure fit. They are available in various camouflage patterns and solid colors to match your other gear.
Ghillie Suits
Ghillie suits are specialized camouflage clothing designed to help airsoft players blend in with their environment, making them harder to spot by opponents. They are made from lightweight, breathable materials and feature a base layer covered in strips of fabric, burlap, or synthetic fibers that resemble foliage.
Ghillie suits are ideal for players who prefer a stealthy approach or who participate in sniper roles. They are available in various camouflage patterns and colors to match the specific environment in which you play.
Camouflage Uniforms
Camouflage uniforms, also known as BDU (Battle Dress Uniform) or ACU (Army Combat Uniform), are standard-issue military-style clothing that provides a blend of protection, comfort, and concealment for airsoft players. These uniforms are made from durable materials and feature a camouflage pattern designed to help you blend in with your surroundings.
Camouflage uniforms typically consist of a button-up shirt with multiple pockets and matching pants with cargo pockets and reinforced knees. They are available in various camouflage patterns to suit different environments and personal preferences.
Soft Shell Jackets
Soft shell jackets are lightweight, breathable outerwear designed to provide protection from the elements, such as wind, rain, and cold temperatures, during airsoft games. They are made from water-resistant and windproof materials and often feature a fleece lining for added insulation.
Soft shell jackets can be worn as standalone outerwear or layered with other clothing for added warmth and protection. They are available in various camouflage patterns and solid colors to match your other airsoft gear.
Neck Protection For Airsoft
Neck protection is an important aspect of airsoft safety, as it shields the neck and throat from BB impacts and environmental elements such as sun, wind, and cold. The right neck protection can significantly improve your comfort and safety on the field.
There are several types of neck protection available for airsoft players, including:
- Neck guards
- Balaclavas
- Neck gaiters
- Shemaghs
- Tactical scarves
Neck Guards
Neck guards are specifically designed to protect the neck and throat area from BB impacts. They are typically made from padded or reinforced materials that offer a high level of protection, often incorporating flexible plastic, foam, or Kevlar.
Neck guards are usually adjustable and can be worn with other protective gear such as helmets, masks, and tactical vests. They provide targeted protection for a vulnerable area without adding too much bulk or hindering mobility.
Neck Gaiters
Neck gaiters are versatile, tubular garments that can be worn around the neck for protection and warmth. They are made from lightweight, breathable materials such as polyester, microfiber, or spandex, and can be pulled up over the lower face for additional coverage if needed.
Neck gaiters provide a comfortable and easily adjustable option for neck protection and can also serve as a face mask, headband, or beanie in various weather conditions.
Shemaghs
Shemaghs, also known as keffiyehs or Arab scarves, are traditional Middle Eastern headscarves that can be used as neck protection in airsoft. Made from lightweight cotton, they provide protection from the sun, wind, dust, and BB impacts.
Shemaghs can be wrapped around the neck and head in various ways to achieve the desired level of coverage and protection. They also add a touch of authenticity to military simulation (MilSim) scenarios and can be found in a variety of colors and patterns to match your tactical gear.
Tactical Scarves
Tactical scarves are similar to shemaghs but are typically made from more durable materials, such as ripstop nylon or polyester. They provide protection from BB impacts, sun, wind, and cold, and can be wrapped around the neck and head in various ways to achieve the desired level of coverage. Tactical scarves are a versatile and stylish option for airsoft players looking for effective neck protection that complements their tactical gear.
Conclusion
Airsoft is an exciting and engaging sport that requires players to prioritize their safety by wearing appropriate protective gear. From eye protection and face protection to ear and head protection, it’s crucial to invest in high-quality equipment to minimize the risk of injury during gameplay.
Additionally, gloves, elbow and knee pads, tactical vests, footwear, protective clothing, and neck protection all play vital roles in ensuring a comfortable and secure airsoft experience.
By understanding the different types of protection available and selecting the right gear based on your specific needs, playing style, and environment, you can fully enjoy the thrilling world of airsoft while safeguarding your well-being on the field.
