when to get a new mask

[mackillian]

The mask I have is from the Triplette starter kit. When should I be looking/planning on replacing the mask?

[telkanuru]

When you stop liking the way it feels/decide to move up to 1600N/the mask fails a punch test.

[Mergs]

When you can only get your nose within 2" of it while putting it on. Either that, or when it fails the punch test or looks like it will!

[OneBadFencer]

I say whenever you want to...I pesonally really liky having good gearand having it in good shape. BUT, perhaps I am a bit picky that way. But seriously...when it is dented up it should probably be replaced. I would argue for getting a really nice one if you can afford it. I wear a Leon Paul FIE contour fit and I LOVE it!!!

[mackillian]

I sooo want the LP FIE with contour fit.

A sweat wicking inside.

No more sweat dripping into my eyes and messing up my contacts!!!

[glowstix]

The mask I have is from the Triplette starter kit. When should I be looking/planning on replacing the mask?

No. 1 reason should be failure of the punch test but if you just want change and can pay for one right now then get a new one RIGHT NOW. the fact that you ask this means you're not happy at least to some extent, with you current one. if possible, i do agree with the leon paul contour fit and its only $163 from this site, you can't beat that.

[OneBadFencer]

It's dope yo. Fershizzle!!!

OR...in English. It's a lovely mask. I have been very happy with it.

[ls14evar]

countour fit is teh win!
If feel like someone has a hand on the back of your head holding your mask on.

[esskreemr]

The mask I have is from the Triplette starter kit. When should I be looking/planning on replacing the mask?

You can get a new mask whenever you want. You SHOULD get a new mask if there is noticeable wear on the current mask that you are using.

Things to consider:

1) Fit. If you mask is uncomfortable and you have adjusted it over and over, look into getting a new mask. If you sweat alot, there are a plethora of masks that will make your old mask feel and act like a yugo in comparison to a Mercedes

2) Visible rust on the rivets that hold the mask to the lining. Rust stains on the lining. Rust on the mesh.

3) Torn bib, loose seams, the band that goes around the mask is loose.

4) You taste rust whenever your mask gets hit. Could mean that there is rust behind the lining of the chin and bib area.

5) Dented or scraped mesh. Don't wait for a punch test failure! How many times during club has your mask been punch tested? Probably none.

In addition, if your old mask is still in good shape, you can use it as a a backup.

With sweat-wicking properties, removeable linings, and comfort fit systems, you'll be more than happy to mount your old mask to a wall somewhere. If you're serious about fencing and/or compete regularly, a little extra for a high-quality mask is definitely worth it.

[mackillian]

Cool.

My mask mesh DOES have a few dents in it, which makes me worry about punch tests at tournaments.

[SouthPaw]

Hammer to the inside of the mask fixes any dents that would make it fail a punch test =D

[davtsung]

good rule of thumb I use in buying safety related equiptment is when you have to wonder about replacing it, you should have done it last week. I too want the contour fit, but I heard that the visibility is slightly decreased because of the meshing pattern of the mask being more dense.

[beeyeelelwhy]

Question relating to masks. When do you need an FIE approved mask, if ever? Might seem like a dumb question but remember, there is no such thing.

[mrbiggs]

When it gets a good sized hole in it. Once the hole is one to two inches in diameter, it's definately time to get a new one.

[mrbiggs]

Question relating to masks. When do you need an FIE approved mask, if ever? Might seem like a dumb question but remember, there is no such thing.

In all seriousness, an FIE mask is worth getting whenever you can afford it.

You need it for high-level competitions, and for all competitions in some countries. (Not the US)

[OneBadFencer]

I realize that FIE maks aren't REQUIRED for most folks, BUT it seems to me worthwhile to buy the best you can afford when it comes to safety gear. I am funny about protecting my face and eyes though, so maybe it's just me. I haven't noticed that the mesh is more dense with my contour fit. It makes sense that it MIGHT be more dense than a non-FIE mask, but why would it be more dense than the FIE non-countour fit mask??? Like I say, I really like mine and find it very comfortable.

[DJ Apostrophe]

When I was contemplating replacing my first mask, I mentioned it to someone and their response was: "It's your face man! Don't mess around with your face!"
My interpretation to this was, if you think it might be time for a new mask, get a new mask immediately, and might as well get an FIE mask, yeah it costs more... but how much do you think your eyesight is worth? I'd rather invest the $60 (average price difference between a base uhlmann mask and an fie uhlmann mask) than lose my eyesight thanks to an inferior mask.

-w

[mackillian]

I bit the bullet and ordered the contour fit FIE mask from LP. Gunmetal

[Zilverzmurfen]

Gunmetal

Cool!
Good luck with your new mask!

[ls14evar]

Somehow I doubt the mesh is different FIE vs non FIE. ITs the 1600N bib that ads the cost.
-B