AF Epee Mask: Advanced (XS~XL) [Misc.]

I ordered this mask for practicing Historical European Martial Arts and it has by all accounts met my expectations. When I first got it, I put it on (it fits nice and snug) and had my brother lay into my head hard several times with a practice longsword. Barely felt a thing! The wiring on the mask didn't bend an inch. It also provides great visibility not suffering at all from giving it's wearer tunnel vision and because of the wire-mesh design it breathes very well too. The throat padding is certainly appreciated as it gives much needed protection against potentially dangerous thrusts to the wind pipe (something you don't wanna be on the business end of from a hard wooden waster lol). One should be aware, however, that there is virtually no padding on the back so don't be too reckless in your sparring (keep the opponent in front of you). Since this is my first fencing mask and since I'm not involved in a actual sport fencing I can't vouch for it's performance in that area, but I can only guess that if it will stand up to the abuse of wooden and polypropylene swords smacking it at full force then a mere sport epee should be no threat. As for sizing, I'm a slender 5' 9" with and average sized head and went with a Medium which, again, fit just about perfect. My advice to anyone who doesn't have experience wearing a fencing mask would be that if your stuck deciding between a size that sounds possibly too small and the next size up being possibly too large, go with the smaller one. After reading other reviews I almost went with a Large but am really glad I didn't.

This mask is great for practice and has a wide field of vision, sturdy construction, and is easily cleaned. The mask is great for the price and the sizing chart was right on.

This does not protect you from bees.

This product was delivered quickly, and is a perfect fit. Very happy with the product and delivery times. Thanks.