Softball isn’t generally seen as a violent or dangerous sport. However, you still have to protect yourself properly. One of the most important softball gear is a face mask, which protects your face from impacts. Not to mention, it can boost the confidence of first-timers! By wearing a high-quality one, you’ll be able to focus on the game and worry less about having a direct hit to the face. Today, we’re going to show you some of the best options! From steel to plastic softball face masks, countless people have bought and used the following. While they may offer different features, all of them offer great protection and are comfortable. Check out our recommendations below and see which one is your favorite!
Table of contents
- Markwort Game Face Softball Safety Mask
- Rawlings Face First Softball Fielder’s Mask
- Franklin Sports Softball Face Mask
- Dinictis Softball Face Mask
- Rawlings High Visibility PWMX Softball Umpire Mask
- Mizuno Softball Fielders Face Mask
- Schutt Sports Titanium Softball Fielders Guard
- SKLZ Field Shield
- Rawlings Coolflo Highlighter Battling Helmet
- CHAMPRO Rampage Face Mask
- Schutt Fielder’s Guard Softball Face Mask
- Champion Sports Softball Face Mask
- RIP-IT Defense Softball Fielder’s Mask
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Face Masks for Softball Pitchers
- Why do softball players wear faceguards?
- What is a softball mask made of?
- What is the lightest softball mask?
Markwort Game Face Softball Safety Mask
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Kicking off this list is the Markwort Game Face Softball Safety Mask, one of the most reliable options on the market. First of all, let’s highlight its durability. With solid steel construction, this face mask isn’t only comfortable but also protects your face and mouth from impacts. That way, you’ll be able to play the game confidently.
Apart from that, the open design of this face mask also promises unobstructed views of the field. Of course, this is done without sacrificing protection. Not to mention, female players will adore this mask as it comes with a ponytail-friendly harness! Plus, the chin pad can be adjusted easily.
Pros
- Since it’s extremely lightweight, you can wear this face mask for a long time without losing focus on the game.
- It has high visibility without sacrificing protection.
- It’s also adjustable, offering maximum comfort.
Cons
- Unfortunately, it’s only available in one color.
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Rawlings Face First Softball Fielder’s Mask
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Up next is the Rawlings Face First Softball Fielder’s Mask, one of the best options available on the market. One of the biggest selling points of this gear is its wider line of sight, which means players will be able to have a better field of vision. This is a great feature considering many low-quality models obstruct your views.
As one of the top plastic softball face masks, it’s also incredibly lightweight. Plus, the frosted bars are surprisingly great at blocking the glares. We also find this face mask to be extremely versatile. It allows you to wear your sunglasses, and you can also wear the helmet with a ponytail.
Pros
- Offering maximum protection, this face mask allows you to focus on the game properly!
- The cushioned chin cup enhances comfort.
- It’s comfortable and doesn’t obstruct your field of vision.
Cons
- It’s a bit bulkier than expected.
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Franklin Sports Softball Face Mask
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Specifically designed for youths, the Franklin Sports Softball Face Mask is a must-have accessory when they’re on the field. This face mask isn’t only lightweight but also designed to increase the field of vision without minimizing impact resistance. Better yet, this face mask is also compatible with sport sunglasses, which is great for players who want also to protect their eyes from the glaring sun.
Another thing that we love about the design of this helmet is the fact that there’s a slot for ponytails! Plus, the flexible strap, padded memory foam, and adjustable chin pad allow your kid to wear this product comfortably. With everything it offers, kids will have a blast on the field! For full information about this mask, check out its website!
Pros
- This face mask offers maximum protection for youths.
- The thoughtful design allows players to wear their sunglasses.
- It’s both lightweight and durable.
Cons
- It’s only available in one color option.
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Dinictis Softball Face Mask
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Best Budget. If you’re tight on budget, consider the Dinictis Softball Face Mask! This is one of the cheapest softball face masks for infielders available out there. Don’t worry, though; it offers everything you need from a reliable softball face mask. For instance, it offers great protection without sacrificing the field of vision.
Furthermore, the face mask’s detachable pads are eco-friendly. Once removed, you can easily wash the mask. Meanwhile, the triangle safety straps are a breeze to adjust, allowing you to have a comfortable fit. Available in several different colors, this product is designed for children, youths, and adults.
Pros
- It’s a lightweight face mask that doesn’t negotiate on protection.
- The detachable pads are both eco-friendly and skin-friendly.
- The steel frame is extremely durable.
Cons
- Some people found this face mask a bit heavy than expected.
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Rawlings High Visibility PWMX Softball Umpire Mask
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Offering great protection and comfort is the Rawlings High Visibility PWMX Softball Umpire Mask. Specifically designed for baseball and softball umpires, this face mask is actually more lightweight than it looks. Plus, the wireframe allows you to move easily without worrying about visibility.
What about adjustability? Luckily, this face mask comes with an adjustable harness, which allows you to have a customized fit. In addition to that, we also love the leather pads that offer not only additional comfort but also amazing impact absorption.
Pros
- Aside from protecting the face, it also offers throat and ear protection.
- The leather pads enhance overall comfort.
- It has a reasonable price tag.
Cons
- It’s still not as lightweight as other face masks.
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Mizuno Softball Fielders Face Mask
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Another highly recommended option that offers great protection is the Mizuno Softball Fielders Face Mask. Available at a pretty reasonable price, this face mask is made of polycarbonate that’s surprisingly durable, strong, and lightweight. It checks all the right boxes without making you dig deep into your pocket!
This face mask is available in Black and White and has an impressive strapping system. As you can guess, it helps secure the face mask on your head so it won’t come loose easily, no matter how active you are on the field. What’s more, the addition of the chin pad enhances comfort and protection, too!
Pros
- This beautiful face mask is both durable and lightweight.
- With a wide opening, it doesn’t impede your view.
- It’s available in two different sizes and color options.
Cons
- It’s a bit hard to adjust the chin pad.
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Schutt Sports Titanium Softball Fielders Guard
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Best Premium. If you don’t mind spending over a hundred dollars for a world-class face mask, take a look at the Schutt Sports Titanium Softball Fielders Guard! So, what makes this well-built face mask more costly than the rest? One of the biggest reasons behind its hefty price tag is its titanium material, which makes the face mask extra lightweight but enhances comfort.
What about the protection? Fret not, as this amazing face mask also offers full facial and dental protection. And in case you’re wondering, it doesn’t obscure your views! On top of that, the adjustable straps and padded chin cup allow you to have a customized fit.
Pros
- The forehead pad is removable and washable.
- The titanium material is 60% lighter than regular steel face masks.
- You don’t have to question this face mask’s durability.
Cons
- It’s way more expensive than many of its competitors.
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SKLZ Field Shield
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Best Protection. Don’t let your potential haunt you! Protect your face with the SKLZ Field Shield and play without any regrets! Since it’s one of the best plastic softball face masks on the market, this face mask offers impressive full-face protection. The hard plastic material offers top-notch impact resistance without making you feel like you’re wearing a motorcycle helmet.
Thanks to the adjustable pads, you’ll be able to customize the fit of this face mask according to your preferences. And according to SKLZ Field Shield’s product page, it’s specifically designed for youths who usually wear a Small or Medium face mask. So, what are you waiting for? Wear this mask to boost your confidence and conquer the game!
Pros
- It’s extremely lightweight but at the same time also shatterproof.
- You can use its adjustable straps to have a customized fit.
- There’s an additional center bar that offers extra protection.
Cons
- It might be too small for some kids.
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Rawlings Coolflo Highlighter Battling Helmet
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Best With Helmet. You’ll never know what can happen on the field. So, if you want to protect your face and your entire head, you should go for the Rawlings Coolflo Highlighter Battling Helmet. This product offers a durable mask that’s equipped with a sturdy helmet. A one-size-fits-all, it’s available in a bright selection of different shades.
The highlight of this gear is none other than the Coolflo Technology. So, what exactly is it? With this futuristic technology, you’ll be able to focus on the game without excessive sweating since it enhances breathability. Additionally, it’s also designed to sit firmly and comfortably on your head.
Pros
- This face mask is available in a wide variety of sizes.
- It’s designed for both adults and youths alike.
- The helmet offers extra protection for your head.
Cons
- It’s only available in one size, so there’s a chance it’s too big or small for you.
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CHAMPRO Rampage Face Mask
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Comfortable and affordable, who can say no to the CHAMPRO Rampage Face Mask? With this amazing face mask, you’ll finally be able to step up your game without sacrificing anything. The durable steel wire construction means you can protect your face even when there are direct impacts. Apart from that, it’s also not bulky!
Like some softball face masks for infielders available on the market, this face mask is available in two sizes for adults and youths. And if you want something more lightweight, you can choose the one that uses a magnesium frame. Though more expensive than the steel frame variant, it allows you to wear the face mask longer comfortably.
Pros
- The removable padding makes this face mask super comfortable.
- With a wide opening, you’ll be able to see the field clearly.
- It’s available in a wide array of colorways.
Cons
- Choosing the right size can be tricky.
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Schutt Fielder’s Guard Softball Face Mask
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What we have here is Schutt Fielder’s Guard Softball Face Mask, a sleek and modern option that won’t disappoint. This face mask is more than just a visually appealing option. One of the things we like the most is its sturdy steel frame construction. It does an extremely good job of keeping your face safe from strong impacts. Even better, it does that without sacrificing your visibility.
Moreover, you can adjust the fit of this face mask effortlessly. This is possible because of the straps and harness. Another thing worth mentioning is the removable forehead pad. Simply remove it when you want to clean the face mask! With everything it brings to the table, this face mask surely is worth investing in.
Pros
- With removable and washable pads, you can keep this face mask clean easily.
- It offers full facial and dental protection.
- It’s a sturdy and durable option that’s also lightweight.
Cons
- Sometimes the chin pad can fall off easily.
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Champion Sports Softball Face Mask
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The Champion Sports Softball Face Mask should be your go-to option if you’re looking for a high-quality softball face mask. This promising mask offers amazing protection thanks to the tempered steel frame. It’s more than capable of protecting your head! Additionally, it’s also available in Ultralight Magnesium variants, which are more lightweight than the Classic Steel models.
Apart from that, we also love how easy it is to do some fit adjustments using the harness and chin cup. And if you want it to fit more snugly, you can just remove the liner. Furthermore, this face mask comes with a ponytail opening! This is such a thoughtful feature, which allows those with long hair to have a more comfortable experience. Check out its full features on its official website!
Pros
- There are multiple colorways to choose from.
- Sturdy and lightweight, you can wear this face mask for a long time without compromising comfort.
- It offers you a wide field of vision.
Cons
- It’s a little too big for some people.
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RIP-IT Defense Softball Fielder’s Mask
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Best Overall. Offering top-notch protection and durable construction, the RIP-IT Defense Softball Fielder’s Mask is the best overall option. One of the biggest highlights of this must-have accessory is its weight. At just 0.69 lbs, it’s one of the more lightweight options while still offering reliable protection.
Additionally, this mask is available for both adults and youths alike. Also, it comes with a solid range of colorways, allowing you to choose the color that best matches your look. But what’s most amazing about this face mask is probably its Blackout Technology. It eliminates glare and lets you see the ball clearly.
Pros
- You can easily adjust the fit as this face mask comes with a head strap and an adjustable chin cup.
- The steel frame does an amazing job of protecting your head.
- It’s well-padded, so you’ll never feel uncomfortable wearing it.
Cons
- The quality of the chin pad can be improved.
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Our Verdict!
All of the face masks above offer impressive protection and comfort for softball players. While we think the RIP-IT Defense Softball Fielder’s Mask is the best all-rounder, we understand that not everyone thinks the same. That’s why we have selected some of the options above and categorized them according to the following criteria!
- Best With Helmet: Rawlings Coolflo Highlighter Battling Helmet
- Best Protection: SKLZ Field Shield
- Best Premium: Schutt Sports Titanium Softball Fielders Guard
- Best Budget: Dinictis Softball Face Mask
How To Choose The Best Face Masks for Softball Pitchers
Before you make your final decision, there are some important features you should consider, which include:
Material
Generally, there are two types of softball face masks: metal and plastic. Metal face masks are obviously more durable and can last for many seasons to come. However, for first-timers or youths, starting with a plastic face mask may be a good idea, as there’s a chance they may not want to commit to playing for a long time. But most importantly, like the best wakeboard and rollerblading helmets, your face mask should offer great protection.
Size
Another important thing you should consider is the size of the face mask. Most options on the market are available in two sizes, which are youths and adults. Those who are 13 and above can try wearing the adult variant. We also recommend getting a face mask that comes with adjustable features so you can have a comfortable and customized fit.
Price
Different face masks are available at different prices. Plastic and steel face masks are generally affordable. However, a more premium option like titanium face masks, which are way lighter, is also way more expensive.
Why do softball players wear faceguards?
The main purpose of wearing a face guard is to protect your face from impact. Knowing that your face is fully protected can also boost your confidence.
What is a softball mask made of?
Generally, softball face masks are made of steel or plastic.
What is the lightest softball mask?
The CHAMPRO Rampage Face Mask is arguably the most lightweight. At 0.5 lbs, it’s 30% lighter than similar wire face masks.
