Masks / Goggles
Although this type of equipment seems unimportant for overall game play, it is entirely underrated. Games are won and lost by players who take time to make sure they are fully prepared for what lies ahead.
Goggles: All of the fields in play require you wear a set of goggles while engaging in paintball combat. The freedom you might experience while not wearing goggles is minor in comparison with the potential for a lost eye. There is a legend out there that states back in the early days of paintball, players used whatever form of eye protection they had - whether it was safety goggles, welder's goggles or possibly even sunglasses. The story goes on to say that this person had never seen so many one-eyed paintballers in his life.
Today, while eye-protection is mandatory, so is the use of 'paintball approved' eyewear. You can be escorted off the field of play if you are using unapproved eyewear.
So, what makes a good pair of goggles? Obviously, how well you can see out of them, comfort, and overall eye-protection. There are many different types of protection out there, and we can only offer a few tips to make sure the goggles you choose work as well as possible.
Try and get thermal glasses. This means they have two panes to view through, rather than one. With two panes, obviously it offers better protection and because there is an airspace between the two panes, the air acts as a buffer between the outside air temperature and the temperature of your body. We all know there is nothing worse for your aim and success than a pair of fogged up goggles. The thermal lenses offer a reduction in the build up of condensation on the inside of the goggles.
Make sure you have anti-fogging spray. This will add that extra layer of prevention when you are out on the battlefield. It is also a good idea to make sure your goggles are cleaned thoroughly when they are struck with a paint pellet. When cleaning, pat the surface of the lens dry, do not wipe. The paint in the pellets is water-soluble, but you have no idea what type of debris has made its way to the inside of your goggles, and you want to make sure you do not scratch the surface of the lens.
Do not buy used goggles. You don't know where they have been for one thing, but you also don't know if there are any defects. The band could be stretched resulting in a loss of goggles on the playing field, the lens could have scratches and it might even have a crack. You are dealing with the protection of your eyes, and that is not something to be taken lightly.
Another piece of equipment that can mean the difference between pleasure and pain is a proper face shield. The best face shield will cover your entire face, except eyes, your forehead, your temples and your ears. Trust me when I say a shot to any of these places hurts like you wouldn't believe. Temple shots are dangerous because of the velocity of the pellet. Protection here is essential for any face shield because of the potential for a serious head injury.
Today, many of the players wear a goggle system. This comes with a set of goggles and the entire face shield working together as one unit.
Ghille Suit
What would a jaunt in the forest be without a set of camouflage outerwear? You can find a variety of patterns for just about any outdoor setting, but the most common one used by paintballers is called the Ghille Suit - which is a three-dimensional camouflage outfit. These outfits are the real deal. Try picking a player out of the brush with one of these suits on -- no chance!
For some who don't like the feeling of paint pellets leaving welts on the chest or back, body armor is available, however most armor is slightly bulky and can affect maneuverability.
When dressing for paintball, it is best to dress in light layers. The layers can provide an element of protection, but also lighter layers make it easier to shed layers as you grow warmer during game play.
Many players play with gloves or other hand protection, although it can get cumbersome when trigger feel is important.
It is suggested to wear loose fitting clothes because of the mobility element, comfortable shoes because you will likely be on your feet for extended periods of time and for the guys it's always nice to keep the family heirlooms intact with an athletic support.
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