Mask Strap Fix

[Downtown]

Problem: Allstar mask has small strap connecting to Velcro on either side. It falls off frequently. It was almost impossible to slip this over my large head with one hand.

Solution: I bought a pair of mitten straps. These look like tiny one inch suspenders, Two of them fit on one strap and it is now and inch or so longer. It stays put and goes on easy.
( This would also be a great instant repair for a broken mask strap.)

Where To Buy: I found these in fabric shop. ( A place to buy products for sewing and dress making.) I was there looking at all manner of Velcro, when I stubbled on these. They were $3.50 for a pair.

Hope this helps someone.

Jim

[WhipLash]

i had the problem initially but after some experience + strap lengthening with use, the problem went away. nice of you to post it up though...

[DHCJr]

A very good post. Since this is part of the safety system and without it your mask could be rejected and I have found few if any vendors normally carry replacements at tournaments, it would be wise to 'Fix' the problem of loosing them. Tack down one side (temporarily sew) so you can unhook one side.

This can have an added advantage for Whiplash and those with similar problems. You can sew the one side further out than velcro over velcro giving yourself another inch or two.

[LUDICROUS]

Is one allowed to sew the strap on at one side(so it flaps around if not done up) and would it still be competition legal?

[DHCJr]

When you bring up a mask, lame or weapon it is checked for certain things by the Armorer. The referee can fail it for other things on the strip. If you don't make use of the safety strap for the mask on the strip, the security device on the weapon or they are the wrong size.

You need to complete your question of when you do not have it secured.

[acaba]

When I bought my Prieur mask, the first thing I did was to cut off that annoying elastic strap and re-install a better one. I used some 1.5" (3.8 cm) nylon webbing and velcro. One long piece of strap, ~8" (20 cm) is attached to one side of the mask, and a short piece ~1.5"(3.8 cm) is attached to the other side. Now its like the Allstar system when one side is sewn in. And there is no way my mask will come off my head without unvelcroing the strap.

[mrbiggs]

Originally Posted by DHCJr

A very good post. Since this is part of the safety system and without it your mask could be rejected and I have found few if any vendors normally carry replacements at tournaments, it would be wise to 'Fix' the problem of loosing them. Tack down one side (temporarily sew) so you can unhook one side.

This can have an added advantage for Whiplash and those with similar problems. You can sew the one side further out than velcro over velcro giving yourself another inch or two.

My straps seem to be dying.

Are there any rules governing the way straps are reattached to the mask? Provided that they are on there solidly, are in the same place, etc.

[DHCJr]

There are only 2 places that would deal with what you are asking, the last sentence in M.25 and Appendix A where it says it is up to the Manufacturer to determine the norm. So if it has at least the same safety as new, I would see no problem.

This should actually be answered by a referee. All the Armorer has in the rules is that it exists. It is up to the referee to determine if it is doing it's job.

[mrbiggs]

Originally Posted by DHCJr

There are only 2 places that would deal with what you are asking, the last sentence in M.25 and Appendix A where it says it is up to the Manufacturer to determine the norm. So if it has at least the same safety as new, I would see no problem.

This should actually be answered by a referee. All the Armorer has in the rules is that it exists. It is up to the referee to determine if it is doing it's job.

Thanks.

I've given you rep too recently, unfortunately.

[LUDICROUS]

Originally Posted by DHCJr

When you bring up a mask, lame or weapon it is checked for certain things by the Armorer. The referee can fail it for other things on the strip. If you don't make use of the safety strap for the mask on the strip, the security device on the weapon or they are the wrong size.

You need to complete your question of when you do not have it secured.

Sorry, wasn't in a thinking mood. I meant this:

Can I sew one side of the velcro strap down, and do the other part up in the usual velcro way when I fence? The headstrap often comes loose.

[DHCJr]

If you check my first post, I actually suggest that you sew one side down. It will also be a way to add an inch or two, because you can sew it down without relying on the velcro on one side.