No one wants to be shot in the face when they’re playing airsoft. That may sound obvious, but there’s not a lot of great solution to preventing it from happening. Getting a larger mask provides better protection at the cost of making it harder to aim down your rifle. Going with a smaller mask leads to less coverage around your cheeks and nose, but they’re more comfortable. I believe the OneTigris face mask serves as a nice “Goldilocks” of comfort and protection.
Many companies make mesh masks for airsoft because they’re cheap, breathable, and provide good protection. What sets the OneTigris mask apart is its foldable design. The center part of the mask features the familiar mesh material, while the sides are made of flexible fabric. This unique feature offers numerous benefits compared to conventional masks.
The crucial area for protection – your nose and teeth – has great protection, preventing a shot to the teeth and bridge of your nose. The mesh used here is standard, much like what you’d find in other masks. The sides of the mask use padded nylon, which helps absorb the impact of incoming BBs. You won’t feel it unless you get shot from very close, but it does create an audible “thwap” noise when you get hit.
The importance of the fabric sides of this mask is its ability to move with your body, enabling a proper cheek weld when aiming down your rifle. Unlike rigid mesh masks that interfere with your gun’s stock, this mask conforms to your rifle, providing an ideal cheek weld. I’ve used this with all types of rifles and have not had any issues aiming down my sights.
This mask is compatible with helmets because the harness that goes around your head is very low profile. It’s adjustable for size and is head-tight due to stretch material on the straps. I would suggest loosening your helmet’s chin strap by about an inch to make sure the mask is comfortable and doesn’t get pushed up into your eyes.
The cut of the top of the mask works with a wide variety of airsoft goggles, preventing a large gap in protection. There’s better coverage with larger goggles like the ESS TurboFans, but the gap is small with shooting glasses-style eye protection. The built-in stretch material in the mask’s straps helps keep this gap small as well.
It’s worth mentioning some versions of this mask doesn’t cover your ears. One Tigris also offers a version with mesh ear protection if your field requires them, but I prefer the version without.
Now, let’s address a couple of drawbacks. First, the elastic straps, while ensuring a secure fit, can be challenging to adjust due to their elasticity. Second, the mesh material tends to absorb moisture, leading to sweat accumulation. It’s advisable to air out the mask after use, especially on scorching summer days. It wouldn’t hurt to wash it as well, or else it may develop an odor.
In conclusion, despite these minor shortcomings, the OneTigris Foldable Face Mask is, in my opinion, the best airsoft face mask on the market. It protects your face and teeth while allowing for a comfortable cheek weld on your rifle. Simply put, it’s a game-changer. Investing in this mask is a small price to pay compared to the cost and pain of a dental visit.
The One Tigris line of face masks are available on Amazon by clicking here!
