Masks#

If you plan on going to tournaments, you should opt for a 1600N/FIE level 2 mask. These are not required yet, but times are changing. If you are not planning on going to tournaments, your options open up a bit more.

One of the most important things in a fencing mask is a good fit. It shouldn’t bobble around independently, nor should it be overly tight. Your face also shouldn’t be so close to the mesh that it hits your nose on direct strike (also known as waffling). Unfortunately mask sizing charts are little better than a coin flip, and the only reliable way to know if something will fit is by trying one on (usually one belonging to the club, or a fellow fencer if you ask nicely).

Masks are generally stocked rather than made-to-order, so if a seller lists a mask as in stock, it will ship quickly.

Basic and Economy Masks#

If you’re not attending a tournament and just want a basic mask, these can do the trick. The only reason to opt for a basic mask is to save a couple bucks, otherwise you may as well upgrade to one of the better options. Longsword fencers may as well skip economy options, as cheaper meshes are more likely to cave from a fully cranked longsword swing.

Basic/economy recommendations:

• North Armoury Economy Mask
• Imex HEMA Mask (not recommended for longsword)
• Swordshop Basic HEMA Mask

Tournament/1600N/FIE Level 2 Masks#

If you’re going to attend tournaments, you should consider one of these masks. Some of the bigger regional tournaments require either a 1600N mask, or for your mask be paired with a rigid back-of-head protector. The distinction of rigid/non-rigid isn’t always clear, so having a 1600N mask simplifies things.

1600N masks can be up to twice as expensive as their basic counterparts, so if you won’t be attending tournaments and you spar at a lighter intensity, you might consider a basic one instead. Some 1600N masks:

• HFA 1600 mask
• North Armoury 1600N mask
• Swordshop 1600N mask

Wukusi Cobra#

This is technically a 350N mask, due to the newton rating referring only to the bib. Look closer though and it’s unique among these recommendations: it has a full hard plastic shell and an integrated rigid back of head protector. The mesh is also designed with HEMA in mind so it has a sharp ridge to deflect thrusts.

Despite tournament organizers moving towards 1600N masks, this one will absolutely pass gear check on account of being indestructible. One downside: the ventilation is not great. Also they are hard to find. Purpleheart sometimes has them if you are willing to absorb the high shipping and customs fees.