Best Paintball Helmets 2023 – Top 6 Picks
As a paintball player, I would say security and safety must be the first priority for everyone, irrespective of their skill set. While many people undermine the helmets, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that they are necessary while dealing with a serious impact and fierce enemy. But the real question is, what makes the best paintball helmets?
For that, you need to look for some important things, such as construction quality, structure, padding, lens options, adjustable fit, and weight. Still don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry; I am here with this detailed buying and review guide that can help you make an informed decision.
Top 6 Best Paintball Helmets
1. iMeshbean Full Face Mask Tactical Helmet
If you want full-face and head coverage for tough and challenging paintball matches, do give this iMeshbean a try. A friend recommended this one to me a long time ago, and ever since, this has been my go-to option for rough games. I really like the fact that it allows you to add other useful accessories.
The thing that attracted me to this helmet is its construction quality. Here, the manufacturers have used polymer and 900 nylon which is durable and coated with carbon powder. For the longest time, I experienced no issues with the scratches. Also, it feels quite light and comfortable on the head while running.
In addition, you also get integrated goggles with this helmet. This incorporates an anti-fog thermal dual-pane lens that keeps you dry and sweat-free the entire time. It helped me a lot in getting a clear view of the field. Here, this tactical helmet further has small vent holes to keep the air flowing through.
In the end, when it comes to fit, you can easily adjust the neck and chin straps to your liking. As a player who wears glasses, this function was a plus. Finally, you also have a rail connector that allows you to add accessories like a visor, camera, earpieces, and so on to maximize its utility.
Pros
- Looks quite attractive
- Maintains airflow ideally
- Feels really comfortable
- Resist moisture ideally
Cons
- The fan might make a noise
Wrapping up, this iMeshbean full-face tactical paintball mask is my go-to alternative for any challenging and competitive match, all credit to its rugged and intelligent design. My favorites here are the anti-fog lens and vent holes, as they helped me maintain a clear view on the field, irrespective of fog, glares, or sweat. The great thing about this helmet is that you feel comfortable and light, even while running.
2. JFFCESTORE MH Fast Tactical Helmet
The runner-up on my list of the best paintball helmets is this MH tactical, all thanks to the fact that it offers full-head coverage. As a player who always wears glasses, its integrated goggle function was a true blessing. Another good thing about this model is that it can easily be folded and carried in your bag.
The first thing to note about this model is its construction. This helmet is made up of low-carbon metal, and ABS plastic that feels light yet is highly durable and prevents any scratches. It is further underlined by mesh with which you feel fresh and dry all day long. So you don’t have to worry about sweat production.
Similarly, the manufacturers have added an integrated goggle function with an anti-fog thermal lens setup that makes sure you can adjust the glasses in there. It prevents glasses and UV reflection quite ideally. Here, the TPU rubber also protects the eyes from any sort of damage on the field caused by pellet guns.
Another benefit of using this helmet is its attachments. So, whenever you are on the field, this allows you to use removable pads or earpieces. I also really like that the manufacturers have added exhaust vents that make sure the sweat and moisture during long and hectic matches are in control.
Pros
- Keeps you dry
- Offers full-face protection
- Light and comfortable
- High visual appeal
Cons
- It might feel a bit loose
Final thoughts, this JffceStore tactical mask is a great choice for anyone who wants extra comfort and protection on the field. It is equipped with an integrated goggle function and anti-fog lens that makes sure you feel dry and have a clear view while playing. The nylon panels and low-carbon metal not only feel light but offer incredible impact absorption against heavy and powerful hits from enemies.
3. PJ Type Fast Molle Airsoft/ Paintball Helmet
If you are a budget enthusiast yet don’t want to compromise on the protection of a helmet, this one is a must-have. After using it for a long time, I would say it feels comfortable and light on the head, despite the full-head coverage design. Likewise, the all-black shiny look of this helmet adds to its visual appeal.
Speaking of its design, this one is made up of ABS plastic and low-carbon steel that feels quite sturdy. It is coated with powder, so you don’t have to worry about any scratches. Here, the manufacturers have added adjustable chin padding and the neck fit, making it easy to set it to your liking and comfort level.
In addition, you also get a polycarbonate integrated google+ in this helmet. This makes sure you are free from sweat or UV glares, even in extreme weather. I would say that it offers a large field vision the entire time. Even if you wear glasses, these goggles can facilitate them within the helmet, which is a plus.
Finally, another thing to appreciate here is the rail connector, as it makes the PJ Type helmet quite versatile. Hence, you can use any extra gear with this, such as visors, torches, cameras, or removable padding. Overall, I would say this function works best for competitive players and tough matches.
Pros
- Durable and light
- Great value for money
- Includes adjustable fit
- Large, clear field view
Cons
- Not for small skull structures
In essence, this PJ paintball helmet is a great choice for anyone who wants a protective helmet and saving up on money. It has a full-coverage, low-carbon steel design with integrated polycarbonate goggles and an adjustable fit that certainly is a great deal at such a price. It also comes in sixteen different colors, so you can choose the one you like. I usually prefer using the shiny black color option.
4. Tapsnake Tactical Airsoft Paintball Helmet
Similarly, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that it is the most comfortable and dense helmet option you can find out there. After using it for a long time, I would say it serves in every aspect, be it the snug fit, comfortable padding, or rail connectors. Its rugged structure makes it the right match for outdoor activities.
It uses ABS plastic and 900D nylon that is quite sturdy and lasts you for a long time. It is further accompanied by nine panels of EVA padding, which makes sure even the most powerful impact is absorbed from the opponent’s side. The manufacturers have also added seismic foam to prevent shock.
Likewise, it feels really light, which means no fatigue or tiredness, even after long and hectic matches. When it comes to fit, this one has an adjustable chin strap and headband that allows you to set it as per your skull structure. The circumference ranges between 22 and 26 inches, which facilitates the majority of players.
Finally, when it comes to accessories, this helmet supports a rail connector. This works for almost all the elements, including cameras, visors, laser lights, and illuminators. Hence, it immediately adds to its utility and makes it versatile. Overall, I experienced no issues in removing or putting this on.
Pros
- Includes adjustable fit
- Light and comfortable
- It has a rail connector
- Resist shock ideally
Cons
- It doesn’t have a goggle
In conclusion, this tactical paintball helmet is an appropriate situation for outdoor activities to resist high and powerful impact from opponents. This is all thanks to the nine EVA-padded panels and rugged plastic structure. It has a wide circumference size and an adjustable chin strap that helps you customize it to your skull structure. Similarly, the rail connector helps you use useful accessories for ease.
5. YBJMSFA Tactical Fast Paintball Helmet
Here comes yet another quality choice for a protective paintball helmet with different color options. I picked this one because of its intelligent design and the fact that it has a fair deal of accessories. Similarly, it also has a customizable fit and integrated goggle design at this price, which is certainly a plus.
First of all, speaking of the design, the helmet shell is made up of thermoplastic polymer and low-carbon steel mesh. This further has an anti-scratch coating that prevents any damage and lasts you for a long time. Here, I also really like the foldable face shield, as this makes it easy for you to carry this helmet around.
When it comes to fit, this one has an adjustable headband that allows players to set them as per their head size. The helmet covers the entire face and head, which is an impressive option for competitive matches. All in all, putting this helmet on and removing it is quite straightforward, even for newbies.
Lastly, this helmet comes with an integrated goggle setup. It incorporates three different interchangeable lenses, each of which is used for different situations. I prefer using the anti-fog thermal lens, as it prevents mist production and glares, providing you with a clear field view, even in harsh weather conditions.
Pros
- Easy to carry around
- Durable and comfortable
- Easy to put on
- Offers adjustable fit
Cons
- Not the lightest option out there
Final thoughts, this Tactical paintball helmet is an appropriate option for professional players. I have been using it for the longest time and would say it offers incredible protection and comfort on the field. It further has a total of three interchangeable lenses and an adjustable headband that allows you to customize it to your liking. It is equally worth noting that you won’t experience any issues removing and putting this on.
7. ACTIONUNION Airsoft Fast Paintball Helmet
Last but not least on my list of the best paintball helmets is this ActionUnion fast helmet. It is specifically designed for people with large skulls who often feel suffocated and need proper ventilation. Also, I opted for this one because it had a rail connector that works with most of the accessories, like a visor or camera.
The first thing that impressed me about this helmet was its construction quality. This is made up of ABS plastic and low-carbon steel, with a 2.5mm thickness. So, it takes on the impact well and resists scratches ideally. Also, its rugged structure makes it a perfect choice for outdoor activities like paintball and airsoft.
Another highlight of this helmet is that it suits large skull structures well. This is all thanks to the two size options this one has. I opted for the 23 inches circumference, which is the Medium size. You can choose the one that suits your head well. After using it for the longest time, I would say it feels really light.
Moreover, you get an adjustable chin strap to set it to your liking and comfort level. Finally, speaking of the accessories, this one has comfortable padding and mat pads that help you in absorbing the impact ideally. Overall, I experienced no issues in removing or putting this helmet on, even in a hurry.
Pros
- Easy to put on
- Durable and light
- A fair deal of accessories
- Great value for money
Cons
- Not for power hits
Wrapping up, this ActionUnion paintball helmet is perfect for beginners who want a practical and affordable alternative for basic training sessions. It has thick padding that makes sure you are protected against impact yet feels really light on your head. I also really like the two-size options, as both of them suit players with large skull structures.
What to Look for While Buying the Best Paintball Helmets: Everything You Need to Know
Choosing the right helmet for your paintball games is not challenging as long as you know the right specifications that are suitable for each skill set. You also need to look for some basic things like construction quality, lens, protection mechanism, ventilation setup, and fit. To save your day, I am here with some instructions that can help you in making an informed buying decision.
Material Construction
The first thing you need to look for while buying a paintball helmet is its construction quality. Across the market, options like ABS plastic, 900D nylon, and low-carbon steel are pretty common. All these materials are sturdy and provide you with a long life. If they are coated with powder, it is a plus, given that it resists scratches quite effectively.
Likewise, it would help if you made sure the structure is efficient enough to absorb impact from power hits. For this, I would recommend at least five panels for essential protection. On the contrary, if you are an experienced player and encounter fierce enemy strikes, make sure to go for nine panels of foam (seismic preferably) to prevent extreme injuries on the field.
Fit
It is equally important to consider the fit when you are buying a helmet for paintball helmets. Here, you can find two options, one for small skulls and vice versa. However, I usually go for ones that have adjustable chin straps and headbands, as it makes it easy to customize the fit to a specific skull structure. If not, it is always preferred to go for a helmet that comes in different size options so you have a variety to choose from.
Lens
Another thing that can make a huge difference in your buying decision is its lens. Now, for the most part, you need a clear field view, irrespective of any fog or glares. For this, you need to go for the thermal lens (double-pane is preferred) as they are quite efficient in providing you with a pleasant experience without mist and UV glares. It is equally important to make sure that it offers at least 260 degrees of field vision, so you can communicate with partners ideally.
Airflow and Comfort
Given that paintball games are active and require players to run across the field, it is ideal that they go for a proper ventilation system. They are designed to keep the air moving through and prevent sweat or moisture production. Here, I would advise you to go for helmets that have small holes in the front area. This will not only prevent the lens from fogging but will provide you with better communication scope. So, your chances of winning with a ventilated helmet increase tremendously.
Weight
Another thing you need to ask yourself is whether the weight is manageable for you. Irrespective of the skill set, it is absolutely important to go for lightweight options, as they feel comfortable when you are running and jumping across the field. It becomes even more vital for beginners, as they are to survive long and hectic practice sessions. Overall, helmets weighing between 2 and 4 pounds work best.
Does It Support Attachments?
Last but not least, you also need to go for a helmet that supports attachments, as it maximizes its utility. Here, I usually prefer the rail connector. This is because they work for everything, be it visors, cameras, mounting accessories, visors, illuminators, or additional earpieces. So, whatever you choose, just make sure it is worth the money and practical to use.
Finally, I hope you will find the right paintball helmet according to your skill set.
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the best paintball helmet?
The iMeshbean tactical mask is undoubtedly one of the best for outdoor activities like paintball. This is because it has dense padding and a polymer structure that absorbs powerful impact ideally. It also has an adjustable fit and covers the entire head, making it perfect for challenging matches.
Can players wear glasses under the paintball helmets?
Yes, you can wear glasses under the paintball helmets. However, the condition is that you must buy the right product for that. It requires a longer visor and dual-pane thermal lenses, as they leave a gap between the lens and the glasses for you to feel comfortable. Also, make sure they have an adjustable fit.
Why are straps essential in paintball helmets?
Adjustable straps are crucial for paintball helmets, as they are responsible for keeping them in one place. This further allows the players to set their chin and headband area as per their skull structure. Straps come in different sizes, so it is equally important to go for the one that matches your head size.
Final Thoughts
In the end, there is no doubt that you need a quality paintball helmet to prevent injuries from the opponent’s impact. But, to find the right one, players have to research its different aspects like structure, fit, lens, weight, and much more. Finally, here are some of my favorites you might consider buying.
- iMeshbean Full Face Mask Tactical Helmet is best known for its visual appeal, full-head coverage, and rugged polymer structure.
- ACTIONUNION Airsoft Fast Paintball Helmet is one of the best for beginners, with basic protection against impact.
- PJ Type Fast Molle Airsoft/ Paintball Helmet is great for outdoor activities, all thanks to its large field view, anti-fog lens, and thickly padded panels.
Finally, I hope you will soon find the best paintball helmet that suits your budget and skill set ideally.