Best HEMA Mask for Fencing in 2019 [11 Top Sparring Masks Reviewed]

Take a look at our top picks for Best HEMA masks in 2019!

COMPARISON TABLE – Best HEMA Mask for Fencing List

Searching for the Best HEMA Mask for Fencing in 2019

In this article, you’ll find out everything about most masks for HEMA. Yes, they all may look the same, but there’s much more other information, that needs to be covered.

The most important part of the mask is obviously protection of your head. Back of the head, throat, neck, collarbone and shoulder area should be protected as well. Companies like SPES and Red Dragon offers a lot of additional product, which help you protect yourself even more. Products like the back of the head protectors and gorget (throat protector) will also be reviewed in this article.

Basically, we picked the best masks for HEMA that we could find on the web and throughout the HEMA community. You will get to know how much of protection each of them offers, how well they are made, what extra features they have and how does the price you pay compare to all of it.

April 2019 – Update

A Top 20 HEMA fencer Victor Lavialle (check an interview with him here) shared some comments about products that he’s using on tournaments.
We hope that you’ll find these comments helpful.

1. PBT Warrior Reinforced HEMA Mask 1600N

PBT Warrior HEMA Mask is currently our favorite 1600N mask. The reason for that is a unique mask’s structure and tiny tweaks from PBT that make all the difference.

Let’s start with the mesh. The mesh is reinforced by steel to provide an even more durable solution against the strong hits. This facemask actually has 2 meshes, in the front (like every mask) and on the top. Mesh that is on the top of the head is also 5 cm (2 inches) extended the further back.

Why is that a genius move?

When we spar, we usually use a back of the head protector, because normal sized (length) mask doesn’t cover the back of the head and the edge of the mask is very close to the back side of your head. Now that’s where these 5 cm (2 inches) comes in as an advantage because the back of your head is covered by few extra centimeters. Basically, you won’t feel hits as much as you would wearing a helmet without this tweak. This extra long length of the mask doesn’t affect the position of your head inside the mask.

It’s on the top of the head, where all of these masks for HEMA have a weak point. Even though PBT mask has a resistant mesh on the top of the head, this mesh alone won’t save your from pain when someone hits you there, so keep that in mind.

In tournaments, you still need to wear BoH protectors, but these extra centimeters, keep your head even more protected. Best BoH protector for this mask is “Vecitir” occipital overlay made by SPES, which can be found here for US and here for EU.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 5
• Protection rating: 5

Total: 5

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• Good mask, decent price
• I don’t know if it should be seen as a + or-, but the grid is extremely soft, in the way it will never break, but every strong hit leaves a mark and distorts it. It is good for your head, but after 2 years of use the mask is basically dead.
• The innovation is that it is deeper to protect from thrusts: your face is farther away from the grid, which avoids painful thrust-to-the-face situations.
• It requires a specific PBT overlay one, which makes the whole thing a bit too expensive, and if we compare SPES overlay with PBT overlay, the one from SPES is much better qualitywise.

2. Gajardoni Kombat Air HEMA Mask

The newest version of Gajardoni’s Kombat Air HEMA mask is a little bit different than previous versions. For example, it doesn’t have an integrated back of the head protector.

The mesh is made out of incredibly durable and flexible carbon steel. It can withstand the beating without any issues. The bib has level 2 (1600N) penetration resistance fabric and an anti-abrasion black extra cover.

The exciting part of Kombat Air HEMA mask is its inflatable internal lining (“AIR MASK” system), which is designed to adjust to your face profile. This makes it very comfortable and fitting. The inner side is made of a thick MTP foam, combined with an antibacterial lining. There’s an elastic strap on the back which is adjustable and twice the standard height, to ensure a better closure.

Comfortability and protection make this HEMA mask fencer’s favorite part of his/her HEMA equipment.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 5
• Protection rating: 5

Total: 5

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3. Absolute Force Deluxe HEMA Mask 350N

AF deluxe HEMA sparring mask (CE 350 N Certified) is composed of a facemask with a permanently fitted protective leather cover that is fixed on it, and a back head protector with a zipper. This mask is durable and safe enough to sustain the hits from all kinds of weapons, even longswords.

The inner side of the mask is comfortable, and the padding will help the mask to stay in place. On the back of the head, wide Velcro strap is used which helps to minimize the movement. The additional mask overlay is made from thick padding covered with soft, but durable leather. The long leather-encased sides of the overlay, are made of few layers of thick, bendable plastic that, helps with additional protection, and can be removed to replace if necessary.

If you’re fencing with wooden swords, be careful, because plastic padded sides of the helmet could damage your weapon.

All mask overlays produce an additional heat when you’re fencing, and so does this one. But when you see how well this mask sustains all of the massive hits, you’ll immediately set your priorities straight.

For around $100 (90€) you can get everything; mask, BoH protector and a mask overlay, everything from a trustworthy manufacturer, which is an amazing deal.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 5
• Protection rating: 5

Total: 5

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4. Leon Paul Titan X-Change HEMA Mask

Leon Paul company is a well-known company specialized in Olympic fencing equipment. Titan X-Change Mask was designed and tested by actual HEMA students.

Mesh that is in that mask is around 20% stronger, than on other LP masks, mainly because HEMA fencing usually generate more force on the mask, than Olympic fencing. Mesh uses stainless steel, the bib is more extensive and thicker, and the system called “Contour Plus” keeps your facemask locked firmly onto your head.

These masks are made with a thicker mesh than standard fencing masks. Because in HEMA, people are using a lot of different techniques than in Olympic fencing, the mesh is deliberately not as hard as other FIE masks.

The reason for that is that harder steel could fracture when hit hard, and fractures can lead to severe cuts on the face or even worse injuries. With a softer mesh, the mask will dent a bit more easily, but because of that, it’ll be safer for a HEMA fencer, because it won’t fracture. These dents can be easily “fixed” with a hammer, leaving the mask perfectly fine for re-use.

The inner side of the mask is padded with replaceable clothing, and the bib can also be easily washed. We suggest that you still use a mask overlay for extra protection of your head and the mask.

Is $280 (250€) too much for this mask? It’s up to you to decide!

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 5
• Protection rating: 4.5

Total: 4.75

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5. Red Dragon Tournament HEMA Mask 1600N

This is the newest product made by RD. This is a 1600N mask, which means that you can attend any HEMA tournament you want. The mesh on this mask is durable, and it’s not easy to dent it even with heaviest steel swords. The inner side is covered with comfortable and washable clothing.

First exciting feature on this mask is a velcro strap on the back. It doubles over when you strap it with Velcro. This feature allows this mask to fit better to your head. The second one are rivets, which hold the essential parts of the mask together. Plastic buckles, which holds the strap, are fixed on the facemask with these rivets and not with stitches. This means that over time, you can always replace the strap if it doesn’t hold the mask anymore or these plastic bucklers, so basically, this makes the facemask for adjustable and easy to “fix” if some minor issues occur.

For better protection, you can buy a mask overlay and gorget.

This mask is currently the newest made by Red Dragon, and it’s also the best they’ve made so far.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 4.5
• Protection rating: 5

Total: 4.75

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6. Red Dragon HEMA Mask 350N

Red Dragon HEMA Mask 350N is one of the most popular pieces of equipment for HEMA on the market right now. It’s excellent for beginners and experienced students. This facemask was designed explicitly for HEMA students, so it uses a durable mesh, which can sustain even the hardest hits. It also has an extended throat protector. The 350N rating (CE Level 1) makes this mask suitable for sparring and competitions using synthetic swords. Once again, we suggest using the mask overlay, for better protection of your head and mask.

Red Dragon designed their own overlay which can be found here:

The inner side of the helmet is padded with red linen, which can be removed and washed.

Fencers have reported that even after few years of strikes, cuts, thrusts, punches, this mask had barely shown any signs of use.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 4.5
• Protection rating: 4

Total: 4.25

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7. Uhlmann FIE 1600N Comfort Plus Mask

Uhlmann fencing is a well-known company among Olympic fencers. They’re known for having a highly developed technology, design, and products.

Universal 1600N Mask is a CE Level 2 mask (1600N) by FIE regulations. Uhlmann’s masks aren’t initially made for HEMA, but still, some students who are using this mask, are delighted with it. It uses durable, high-quality materials on the outside and inside of the facemask. The inner side is well padded, linen can be easily wiped and even removed for washing. Visibility with this mask is perfect, and it fits your head well. This mask is one of few, which uses the insulated ‘inox’ corrosion proof mesh for extra durability.

We still suggest that you add an additional mask overlay, for a proper protection around the head.

Even though it isn’t made explicitly for HEMA, it offers a great combination of durability and protection.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 4.5
• Protection rating: 4

Total: 4.25

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8. Faits D’Armes Fencing HEMA Mask 1600N

Faits D’Armes Fencing HEMA Mask was approved by the FIE, and it’s suitable for all HEMA tournaments. The profiled shape of the reinforced mesh allows to deflect blows and reduce the impact on the mask. Behind the facemask, metallic tongue and a Velcro strip ensure perfect adjustment to your head, and it allows to add the BoH protector or a mask overlay for better protection. We don’t suggest that you use this mask without an overlay, in high-intensity fencing with heavier swords, because it lacks the protection on the back and on the sides.

Inside of the mask is padded with comfortable linen, which can be removed and washed.

This mask can be suitable for all kinds of weapons, as long as you add an additional mask overlay. Overall it’s a good buy from a trustworthy company.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 4
• Protection rating: 4

Total: 4

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9. Faits D’Armes Fencing HEMA Mask 350N

Faits D’Armes Fencing mask 350N is a great pick if you’re on a limited budget.

The outer side of the helmet is protected by strengthened mesh, which is CE Level 1 certified. This facemask alone, without any add-ons, is safe enough for controlled training with nylon swords. If you want to use this mask on more serious sparrings with steel swords, you need to add a mask overlay (see our SPES Trinity Mask Overlay PRO review below). The good thing is that the throat is already well protected by the mask. On the back side of the mask, metallic tongue and a Velcro stripe ensure perfect adjustment to your head.

Inside of the mask is padded with a comfortable, but durable linen, which can be removed and washed.
The structure of the mask doesn’t affect the visibility.

We immediately liked the fact, that if you’ve order the mask, which doesn’t fit properly, you can simply return the product in good condition and Faits D’Armes will send you a replacement for free. Props to you Faits D’Armes. This is something really worth mentioning.

If we could put more than 1 mask on each position, we would position this mask much higher on the list.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 4
• Protection rating: 4

Total: 4

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10. Absolute Force Basic Fencing HEMA Mask 350N

Absolute Force’s Basic Fencing Mask is a CE Level 1 (350N) Certified mask. It’s suitable for epees and rapiers, and if you buy the AF cover, you can use this mask for smaller swords and sabers. It has a throat protector, which should be upgraded with a proper throat protector. Mask alone is without a BoH protector. That’s why students suggest that you get the AF cover, which gives you protection all around the head.

The inner side of the mask is padded with comfortable foam, which don’t affect the visibility.

AF fencing masks are known for being well made. You won’t throw your money away if you decide to buy this mask. You just need to be aware of the limitations of it.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 3.5
• Protection rating: 3

Total: 3.25

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11. PBT Fencing HEMA Mask 350N

PBT HEMA Fencing mask 350N is a CEN Level 1 certified mask. This is a basic fencing mask, suitable for beginners, training with nylon swords. It doesn’t have the proper throat protector, so it’s essential that you buy one, even if you’re only training with this mask. The mesh sadly isn’t reinforced, so we don’t suggest that you wear this mask in heavier sparring. It’s possible that add a mask overlay which will give you some extra protection and make this mask more durable.

The inner side is padded with a comfortable foam, and the structure doesn’t affect the visibility with this mask.

It’s not the best mask for beginners, but if you decide and get one for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

Wise Peasants Grade

• Mesh quality: 3.5
• Protection rating: 3

Total: 3.25

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X. SPES Trinity Integrated Mask Overlay PRO

The SPES mask overlay in combination with high-quality Leon Paul, RD, or AF masks, isn’t just another piece of armor for HEMA, but it’s a great long-term investment.

Why an investment?
Every time a sword hits a mask, the mask could (and probably will) sustain some damage. By putting a padded overlay on top, it will become more durable and safer.

SPES Trinity Integrated Mask Overlay PRO has integrated protection for the back of the head and neck/throat, excellent protection to the side of the neck which very few do and the hard plate over the larynx (added plastic insertion) to protect the larynx from heavy thrusts. On top of this, it provides some protection for the collarbone and shoulder area. The quality and durability of this overlay are simply put, fantastic.
Heavy pieces for protection on the inner side of this mask overlay, don’t affect the overall mobility.

Once sparring becomes more competitive, you and your opponent won’t be using only linear fashion techniques to strike each other, you’ll use a lot of sidestepping and techniques such as Zwerhaw as well. Zwerhaw, for example, is a technique, which if it’s done correctly, it hits the side or the back of the head of your opponent. With a mask, without an overlay, in serious sparring, this could damage your facemask, and in the worst scenario cause brain concussion and seriously injure a fencer.

Any serious student of HEMA, even if it’s still a beginner, should buy this trinity mask overlay and use it as frequently as he/she can.

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The difference between 350N vs 1600N HEMA mask

350N or 1600N is only a measure of how penetration-resistant is the bib of the mask. The 1600N bib is more penetration-resistant than 350N, which means that in theory, they’re safer. We mentioned “in theory” because your opponent’s weapon’s safety tip can break at some point and if people don’t notice that quick enough, this jagged tip can pierce through the mask. It happened a few times in recent years, so it’s better to be safer with a 1600N bib than injured.

One more critical factor is the quality of the mesh used for masks. Some manufacturers that aren’t specialized in making the HEMA equipment could be using a thinner mesh. So if you’re serious about HEMA, we suggest that you buy HEMA specific masks, which are made of more resistant material.

CE Level 1 vs. CE Level 2

• CE level 1 (usually a 350N) mask must have a bib which needs to resist penetration with at least 350N force and mesh need to withstand 35.7 kilogram-force (78.7 pound-force).
• CE level 1 mask without the overlay lacks safety for more massive, more serious sparrings, due to lack of protection on the sides and the top of the head. If you buy yourself a mask overlay (our suggestion: SPES Trinity Mask Overlay PRO), then you can use this combination for any weapon there is.
• CE level 2 (usually a 1600N) mask must have a bib which needs to resist penetration with at least 1600 force, and mesh needs to withstand 163.1 kilogram-force (359.7 pound-force).
• CE level 2 mask with at least a back of the head (BoH) protector, is suitable for short swords, broadswords, eepes, rapiers, daggers, longswords (read below the “tricky part”), etc. Just make sure that you buy a helmet that was designed and manufactured for HEMA.

Now here’s the tricky part.

1. 1600N masks AREN’T always CE Level 2 masks. Some less experienced companies, which aren’t here on this list, produce 1600N facemasks, but the strength of the mesh they use and quality of the bib, isn’t CEN level 2 grade mesh.
2. 1600N rated mesh is designed to resist heavy thrusts, but heavier hits, especially longsword cuts/blows, can make some 1600N helmets collapse, crumble. That’s why it’s important to choose a trustworthy company when you’re buying your mask.

What we suggest:

PBT Warrior HEMA Mask is an excellent example of an awesome product. With a SPES “Vectir” occipital overlay is probably the strongest combination on the market at the moment. This “duo” is also accepted by tournament’s rules worldwide.

or

if the tournaments don’t require 1600N masks, get yourself the AF Deluxe HEMA Mask (350N)

or

buy any other made explicitly for HEMA mask, and buy a SPES Trinity Mask Overlay PRO for extra protection against massive hits

Other popular back of the head protectors

SPES “Vecitir” Occipital Overlay Back of the Head Protector

A beginner, or an experienced fencer, if you’re using the mask which doesn’t have a proper back of the head protection, we suggest that you get yourself one.

SPES back of the Head protector is a simple yet effective solution, made out of several layers of resistant fabric and 3 light plates of an extra-hard plastic. It fits most the fencing mask well, and it makes the facemask feel more like a helmet.

For only around $35 (€25) it can save you a great deal of possible pain.

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PBT HEMA Fencing Back of the Head Protector

This back of the head protector offers full coverage for the back of the head with durable leather and 6mm thick padding.
It also has padded top and sides for better protection. It has holes on the sides, which makes a big difference in hearing and ventilation.

It’s more expensive than the SPES model, but it still offers a great deal of protection, which makes this product worth it.

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Conclusion

If you have a decent budget for your HEMA gear, and if you’re a serious student, we suggest that you buy yourself a PBT Warrior Reinforced HEMA Mask. Then buy an additional SPES “Vectir” occipital overlay or any of 350N facemasks which were mentioned in this article, with add-ons like a gorget or a BoH protector or simply a SPES Trinity integrated mask overlay, which includes both.

We hope you liked our Best HEMA Mask for Fencing article, and please let us know which one you like the most in the comments below.