Many softball and baseball leagues are now requiring the use of faceguards for both pitchers and infielders. The reason is pretty clear and that is because of injuries that are incurred by being hit in the face with a ball.
These masks are very important and especially when you’re talking about kids and teens. Some players might think these face masks look a little silly but the pros far outweigh the cons in terms of the benefits of wearing one.
These masks are made of metal and can very sleek looking. Being made how they are these days, they are very durable and they’ll usually last multiple seasons. However, if your child is young, starting with a plastic face guard might be more your speed because the kids might grow out of the mask fast. It’s comes down to comfort and fit.
These face guards come in both adult and kids’ sizes. Youth sizes will generally work best for kids that are 12 and under. After that, you can try adult sizes. These face masks will also come with adjustable straps that will allow you to make it a perfect fit. Most of these softball face masks come with a chin cup that is padded along with padding on the forehead, but you can also find face masks with padding along the sides for additional comfort.
So, as you might guess, there are a lot of brands and options out there for these facemasks. If we can do some of the legwork for you, we’d be happy to try it. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best face masks of 2019. They are all high quality and will protect you and your child.
SKLZ Field Shield
The SKLZ Field Shield is an affordable option if you are testing some new face masks to find out what you are going to like. The great thing about this mask is while it is more affordable than many versions, it is also a quality product that will protect the face. Safety is always the main priority with a softball facemask but his one is a great one. It’s got adjustable chin pads and head straps to make it fit right and that might be the most important factor when buying a softball face mask.
The SKLZ company guarantee is that they are committed to making sure their athletes stay safe while elevating the athlete.
Features
– Keeps field of vision clear so you can play without worry
– Incredible protection with this non bending and durable face mask
– Durable build made of super lightweight polycarbonate material
– Total comfort and full visibility
Champro The Grill Defensive Fielder’s Facemask
The Champro The Grill Defensive Fielder’s Facemask is an incredible protective facemask that is available in a variety of colors that will match your team’s colors. Outside of how good it looks; this face mask offers total protection in a durable build.
This mask was made with the fielder in mind. They wide eye opening allows the player the vision needed to efficiently spot base runners, field ground balls and make the essential moves that are needed to win the game. This mask is also equipped with chin cup and forehead pads for a great fit and an adjustable harness to make a perfect fit.
Features
– No vision impediment with wide eye opening
– Durable bent wire steel frame for ultimate protection
– Forehead and chin pad as well as an adjustable harness
– Has removeable liner system
– Chin cup can be readjusted for comfort
– Low profile flat beam built to maximize vision
Mizuno Fielders Mask
The Mizuno Fielders Mask comes in at around $40 and that isn’t much to pay for a piece of mind and safety. Mizuno has long been a player in the baseball and softball realm so it isn’t a surprise that they have created one of the most well reviewed and highest rated softball face masks of the year. This is a durable mask that is made of polycarbonate material that is extremely lightweight, durable and strong and at the same time, doesn’t impede your vision on the field. The strapping system will keep the straps tight to your head for longer periods of time because the last thing you want is for your face mask to come loose during play. Get extra comfort and protection from the chin pad as well. Overall, this is a fantastic mask.
Features
– Very lightweight and durable face mask
– Wide eye opening for all around vision
– Strapping system prevents straps from coming loose while you’re playing
– Chin pad is comfortable and helps to keep the face mask in place
Schutt Sports Softball Fielders Guard
The Schutt Sports Softball Fielders Guard is available in a plethora of colors and looks great. This might be the first thing you think of when you see this mask, but don’t let the good looks fool you. This is a well-made protective mask for the field and it’s got an ultra-light and modern design for max performance. It’s got a solid steel build, great sight lines and visibility. You won’t find any obstructions to stop your field of vision. It will also fit great with the adjustable harness, form fitted padded chin cup and a machine washable forehead pad. The fit is the most important part and this mask fits great.
Features
– Modern and sleek design while being very light for max performance
– Dental and facial protection with solid steel build
– Great sight lines and visibility
– Completely adjustable harness and straps to keep this mask snug on your head
– Forehead pad can be machine washed
RIP-IT Defense Softball Fielder’s Mask
The RIP-IT Defense Softball Fielder’s Mask is one of our favorites for the 2019 season for good reason. This mask is designed to reduce and transfer the force of impact therefore, lowering the risk of injury. It’s lightweight, open and comfortable so you will stay cool and see the ball while you play. In addition, the engineers that build the Defense know that comfort is very important. For this reason, it was designed with a strap that is ponytail friendly and has an adjustable chin cup. We love this mask and it will do what it is supposed to do in protecting the face of the athlete.
Features
– Available in five colors
– Can buy an upgrade kit with detachable visor, chin cup and new padding
– Ponytail friendly strap
– Designed to allow the player to see clearly