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Best Paintball Mask For Beginners – Top 4 List

Are you looking for a new paintball mask?

You’d want a mask that is cool, comfortable, adjustable, free from fog, has a good field of vision and keeps your eyes safe.

We’ve compiled a top 4 list of best paintball masks for beginners. All of these masks are designed with entry-level players in mind and come at a reasonable price point.

Here are our top picks.

<strong>OUR TOP PICKS</strong>
BEST TECHNOLOGY
V-Force Grill Thermal Paintball Mask
V-Force Grill Thermal Paintball Mask
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
JT Premise Headshield Paintball Goggle Single Pane & Clear Lens, Black
JT Premise Headshield

 

Best paintball mask for beginners

Entry-level goggles are basic in terms of design, but it does not mean they do not provide the necessary safety and comfort.

As a beginner, you must ensure your eyes and head are covered from the merciless paintball pellets. Safety comes first.

So, the question is, what is a beginner or entry-level goggle?

Typical beginner mask features:

  • Most beginner masks come with a single pane lens and they are worse because they fog up quickly
  • Entry-level masks will not provide you any comfort, but they will protect your eyes and head.
  • They are the cheapest ones
  • Beginner goggles are rigid.

But wait,

Is a beginner’s goggle not that good? Not necessarily.

We have found a list of top 4 masks that are not only comfortable, secure, awesome in design, and high-end, but they are cheap as well. If you want to learn about the best paintball mask for any type of player, then read this article.

Let us help you find the best value paintball mask for beginners. 

List of top 4 best paintball mask for beginners

Paintball MaskOur RatingPrice
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Empire x-ray v2.1 thermal mask

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JT Premise Headshield Paintball Goggle

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VForce Grill Thermal Paintball Mask

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Invert Helix Thermal Paintball Goggles/mask

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1. Empire x-ray v2.1 thermal mask Review

Empire x-ray v2.1 thermal mask

 

KEY FEATURES
  • Scratch proof lens: thermally treated.
  • Fog proof
  • Fully adjustable and changeable chin strap
  • Visor: channelling airflow to keep fogging away
  • Maximum head coverage
  • Multi-pored ventilation: excellent breathability
  • Keeps the heat away
  • Silicone beading on the strap
SPECIFICATION
  • Brand:  Empire
  • Wight:  2.4 pounds

 Review 

The improved version of Empire x-ray, Empire x-ray v2.1 has dual-pane thermal lens instead of a single pane. 

This massive upgrade boosted the product’s popularity to a new level.

A dual-pane lens thermally cured lens is fog killer, it will give you that optical clarity and improved peripheral vision which is a must need for a newbie.

Though it is not as big or wide like most premium masks are, but we are talking about beginners here you see. You will get a comfortable fit.

Empire x-ray v2.1 is very light; it will give you maximum coverage if you value safety more than looks. Its design is almost the same as the Empire x-ray.

It does stick up on the head side a little, but I would recommend this mask because it is a beginner paintball mask with comfort, and it has a quality chin strap to hold it in place.

I will be honest with you, the foam on Empire x-ray v2.1 is not what you expect, and that’s just one side of the story because it is a budget mask, not a premium one.

For a mid-range mask, the comfort and the fit are top-notch in the Empire x-ray v2.1 and it protect sensitive parts your face. The ventilation is excellent too.

You will breathe easier, and it will not distort your hearing or communication.

In the paintball sport, safety is the top priority, and do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

PROS
  • Full coverage
  • Full protection for beginner to pro
  • Awesome comfort for medium range
  • Dual-pane thermal lens
  • Lightweight
  • Budget-friendly
  • Proper ventilation with increased breathability
  • Rigid outside material
CONS
  • Complains overfitting
  • Can get hot inside

 Verdict 

If you got a big head and a lot of hair, this Empire x-ray v2.1 is perfect for you. It will stick your head like glue while giving you that medium-range comfort.

It is budget-friendly and has a very good dual-pane thermal lens, an improved ventilation system, ear protection, and field of vision.

Being a beginner, you must go for safety, and this mask provides maximum safety and comfort at the same time.

I recommend this because it is a best-value mask too.


 

2. JT Premise Headshield Paintball Goggle Review

JT Premise Headshield Paintball Goggle-Black

 

KEY FEATURES
  • Removable head without tools
  • Quick foam changing
  • Interchangeable lens
  • Anti-fog
  • Single pane clear lens
  • 260-degree field of vision
  • Full face ventilation
  • Glasses compatibility
  • Adjustable chin strap
  • Super comfy with max protection
SPECIFICATION
  • Brand:  JT
  • Wight:  1.4 pounds

 Review 

Clear vision and breathing are important aspects of a paintball game.

With spectra lens, JT premise Headshield provides the wearer with ultra 260 degrees field of vision, optical clarity, and anti fog properties.

The full-face vents enable the wearer to breathe easily without creating fog on the lens.

The holes are balanced in size so your hearing and communication will not be disturbed.

The adjustable chin strap strengthens the security. Your goggles will not fall off during the intense paintball battle.

Above all,

The full head protection system has 5 adjustments for big and small heads. It provides a comfortable fit for both.

Adjusting the head strap, chin strap, and head plates allow maximum safety and ultra-comfort for the user.

Do not worry about newbies, it is glasses friendly too. You can wear glasses underneath without any tension.

Speaking of glasses, check out these glasses-friendly masks.

Put this one in Your top 5 goggles list if you are a beginner because the JT premise headshield provides the rare ultra-safety. 

Trust me you do not want to get shot in your face, head, or even neck. It is so painful. Go for the max coverage one and consider this as a best beginner paintball mask.

Also make sure to take a look at our article about anti fog paintball masks too.

PROS
  • Quick lens and foam change without tools
  • 260 degrees field of vision
  • Built-in visor
  • Adjustable chin and head strap for comfort fit
  • Comfy face foam
  • Full head protection
  • Excellent ventilation
  • Glasses friendly
CONS
  • Gets a little hot inside

 Verdict 

With its full head coverage, glasses compatibility, adjustable head and chin strap, anti-fog lens, amazing peripheral vision, awesome ventilation, comfortable face foam, and overall design.

I believe JT premise Headshield is the best value paintball for beginners. Even pros can use it, but since we are talking about newbies, this is one is remarkable.

We do not have to worry about face shots, fog, breathing, or strap adjustment anymore.

This mask covers everything for you, and do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

The improved safety in its design is the highlight. I suggest you purchase this one.


3. V-Force Grill Thermal Paintball Mask Review

VForce Grill Thermal Paintball Mask

 

KEY FEATURES
  • Quick changing of foam
  • Anti-fog properties
  • Extremely lightweight
  • Comfortable chin strap
  • Very stable
  • Built-in forehead V-Flector
  • Bounce panel for face and lens protection
  • Clear thermal lens
  • Distortion-free optics
  • Fully customizable lens
SPECIFICATION
  • Brand:  V-Force
  • Wight:  1.65 pounds

 Review 

VForce Grill has that badass and intense look with a pure attitude. It is an expensive premium category paintball goggle for those who are comfort and quality freaks.

This extremely lightweight product comes with supreme comfort with a quick change click dry foam system.

In other words, the foam swap system enables one to switch the existing with a fresh one because foams get wet and stinky after absorbing your sweat and heat.

Most masks do not have that luxury, it is a simple, yet revolutionary feature.

The dual-panel thermal anti-fog lens is interchangeable so that you do not waste any time during timeouts.

And the good news is,

The lens is fully customizable and is low profile and sunglass-inspired 3D shaped for extreme peripheral vision.

VForce Grill Thermal Paintball mask is lightweight so that your movements are not restricted during the play.

It has a close-contact posi-clip strap. The chin strap is comfortable and allows tight fit and stability.

The lens is anti-scratch, so you do not need to worry about changing your lens. It also a cutting-edge optical clarity.

The built-in V-Flector in the shape of the bounce-panel increases the face and lens protection.

Above all, it protects from impacts and provides maximum bounce due to the Full-Flex Pro grill center face soft rubber. Built Povisor is there too.

This mask seems like it is for pros, but I assure you that it can be as useful if not more for beginners too.

Consider it as one of the best starter paintball masks.

PROS
  • Fantastic stability for beginners
  • Anti-fog thermal lens: 3D shaped
  • Badass look
  • Max coverage with glasses compatibly
  • Ultra-comfy facial foam
  • Improved bounce-flex zones
  • Next-level optical clarity
  • Proper ventilation and breathability
  • No communication barrier
  • Protects every sensitive part of the face
  • Can take massive abuse
CONS
  • A bit expensive.

 Verdict 

VForce Grill Thermal Paintball Mask does qualify as one of the best paintball masks/goggles for beginners to pros.

I love the comfort, safety, bounce-flex zones, 3D-shaped anti-fog dual-pane thermal lens, and tight fit of this mask.

You do not need to be intimidated by the aura of this mask if you are a beginner. It is completely newbie friendly; it will protect your face from pellet impacts.

If I were you, I would have chosen this mask due to its sheer quality, futuristic features, strong frame, and that cool look. Quality over quantity.

It is a bit expensive compared to other beginner-friendly paintball goggles on this list, but trust me you will not find any better in this price range.


4. Invert Helix Thermal Paintball Goggles/mask Review

Invert Helix Thermal Paintball Goggles_mask

 

KEY FEATURES
  • Anti-fog thermal lens
  • Dual-density foam
  • Smoke-tinted lens
  • Removable visor
  • 270 degrees peripheral vision
  • Silicon grip strap
  • Quick change lens
  • Plastic lens clip
  • Rigid external frame
  • Loud vents
SPECIFICATION
  • Brand:  Empire
  • Wight:  0.88 pounds

 Review 

Invert Helix Thermal Paintball Goggles/mask is a low budget beginner mask with great features and comfort.

Normal beginner masks have a single pane lens, but like most goggles in our list, this one too has a dual-pane anti-fog thermal lens.

An anti-fog lens is a necessity nowadays, especially for beginners.

Most of the newbies ignore the fact that flat and single pane lenses are not that good with the fog, and you need to take you to mask off repeatedly to get rid of the fog

Ventilation is also better in this low budget mask. It allows normal hearing and good communication without affecting your breathing.

As a budget-friendly Google, this one is comfortable.

Very good facial foam integrated with the adjustable silicone grip ensures a tight fit without stress.

The built-in visor protects us from UV rays, and glare which can be a real pain in the ass in the longer run. That is why it is one of the best beginner masks.

It can take up a lot of abuse, so do not worry about the damage because its external frame is rigid. In short, you can slide and dive all day long.

270 degrees field of vision allows you to see even through the edges of the lens which is an advantage, especially during speedball.

PROS
  • Very good thermal lens
  • Durable and protective
  • Removable visor
  • Glasses friendly
  • Adjustable chin strap
  • Budget-friendly
  • Quick lens and foam change system
  • Lightweight
CONS
  • Less comfortable compared to premium masks

 Verdict 

If you are looking for a budget-friendly mask with a cool look and safety features, Invert Helix Thermal Paintball Goggles is your guy.

Like other premium masks, Invert Helix provides a dual-panel thermal lens with anti-fog properties.

Multilayer padding foam will not only provide comfort, but it will absorb your sweat and heat, and it will protect you from pellet impacts.

Adjustable silicone grip & chin strap will give you that extra stability. As a newbie, it is crucial.

I have never heard any complaints about its ventilation or breathability. Communication and hearing are also top-notch

The following article will help you understand paintball masks in detail.


 FAQs 

What is the difference between the thermal lens and antifog lens?
Following are the best paintball masks for beginners

  • Empire x-ray v2.1 thermal mask
  • JT Premise Headshield Paintball Goggle
  • VForce Grill Thermal Paintball Mask
  • Invert Helix Thermal Paintball Goggles/mask
What is the best mask for beginners?
Starting from $30 to $80 are budget-friendly masks from pros to beginners like VForce Grill Goggles, and Invert Helix Thermal Paintball Goggles/mask. These are some of the best budget-friendly paintball goggles.
what to look for a beginner mask?
Full head coverage, dual-pane anti-fog thermal lens, comfortable foam, and strong external structure that can take some serious abuse.
Which one is better, JT Premise Headshield or VForce Grill for a paintball beginner?
Both are fantastic, but JT Premise Headshield is the popular one and it provides more head coverage, and optical clarity.
Can a beginner use streamlined paintball goggles?
Yes. But we do not recommend it. It is highly risky, and mostly a newbie is not trained to dive and slide, so he/she might get hit on the forehead or chin.
How do I keep my paintball goggles from fogging up?
Use an anti-fog mask cleaner but get a dual-pane thermal lens if possible. It will not fog much often as ordinary single pane lens does.

 Final Verdict 

If you are a beginner or a pro who plans on playing paintball sport, then you must purchase a quality mask for your own sake.

We have seen many devasting injuries like losing eyes, welts, and bruises in this game, the best paintball mask for beginners to pros not only protects your face from such injuries, but it also provides many other features like:

  • Giving you a badass look
  • Protects your eyes from UV rays
  • Protects your head from UV rays
  • Hides your identity
  • Protects you from dust and weathering.

As a beginner, always go for a dual thermal lens for better optical vision, anti-fog properties, and UV protection.

Check if the facial foam is comfortable or not, external material is strong or not, and are holes big enough for you to breathe.

Above all, the best paintball mask for beginners must provide safety to ears, jaw, and eyes. Trust me a paintball shot to the face is nerve-racking.

We have covered some of the best beginner masks in our top 4 list for you so that you do not have to struggle to find one. I am positive that you will find your best paintball mask for beginners.

Honest Buying guide for the best paintball mask for beginners:

In this buying guide, I and my whole team have researched and compiled that researched data into things you might want to consider before setting your game up.

Let us dive into it.

  • Look for the quality
  • Anti-fog lens
  • A sturdier interior
  • Maximum coverage
  • Dual-pane lens with good ventilation
  • A chin strap for safety

Best Paintball Mask for Beginners

 Look for the quality 

Many novice paintball players invest high on flashy stuff rather than investing in a high-quality mask. You must understand one thing, safety comes first.

A newbie does not understand the severity of the situation, a clean hit on a sensitive part of the face can cause some injuries, and let me tell you something, you can even lose an eye.

Apart from that, a low-quality cheap rental will be uncomfortable, it will hinder your experience because it will fog like crazy so, you will have to take it off now and then.

Above all, it can break or wear off easily, and as far as hygiene is concerned, most of them have rubber on the inside instead of foam, you can only imagine the level of germs on it.

The best paintball mask for beginners or experts will provide fantastic comfort, good sturdiness, maximum coverage for the face and head, anti-fog dual pane lens, proper ventilation, and you can find its replacement parts easily.

Do not go after those cheap ones, look for a quality goggle. It may be expensive, but do not compromise your safety over a couple of bucks.

 Anti-fog lens  

Losing your vision due to fogging during a match is the worst-case scenario.

Here is why,

You can get your ass knocked by hundreds of pellets, or you will get some bruises and welts at least.

A single pane lens fogs up quickly, and you will need to take it off in intervals to get rid of that fog. That is why it is necessary to look for a quality lens.

A dual-pane thermal lens will not fog up easily, in fact, it will not fog at all. That lens will also give optical clarity and amazing peripheral vision.

 A sturdier interior  

As a beginner, go for the sturdy and strong model that is built of rigid material from the outside.

Here is why,

As a newbie, you will find it hard to handle paintball hits and target your opponents simultaneously.

The initial process of playing and learning is tough, you will get a lot of hits on the face, so it is a wise option to choose a studied mask.

It will protect you from pellet impacts, and it will not bear much damage.

  Maximum coverage  

Though coverage is a personal choice, it also depends on the age and level of expertise.

If you under 18, many paintball fields will not allow you without a full-coverage mask.

If you are a beginner, you can enter but we recommend full coverage instead of streamlined designs that cover facing from eyebrows to the jaw.

Full coverage paintball goggles will protect your jaw, forehead, chin, and other sensitive parts of the face.

Do not let adrenaline get the better of you, do not go for the streamlined designs because you are still an infant in this sport, you might get hurt.

Go for the best value paintball mask.

 Dual-pane lens with good ventilation 

A single pane lens is not bad at all, but if you are a newbie then choose a dual-pane thermal lens to counter fogging.

A single pane fogs quickly, you will need to clean it & and take off your mask, again and again, to get rid of the fog.

Pro players will eat you alive if your vision is distorted by the fog.

Another benefit of the dual-pane thermal lens is seamless peripheral vision.

We also recommend lenses with optical clarity, glare resistance, and UV protection. You can bear damage on the other parts of the face, but you got only eyes.

 chin strap for safety  

A fast-paced game that requires flexibility and dynamic movement requires a comfortable and stable chin strap for stability.

The best paintball goggle for beginners must have a comfortable and stable strap that restrict mask sliding and moving during a match.

I can assure you that even pros get injuries to their heads due to mask sliding (a loose chin strap). Always check the quality of the strap.

What does this mean for you?

A cheap mask will not provide much protection in that department, we have mentioned quality masks under a normal budget so that you can get maximum protection.