I need mask advice

[Slacker]

I am looking for a new mask, preferably one that is washable. I've been wearing the basic beginner one from BG for a long time. I tried on a number of masks at the vendor tables at the NAC and was disappointed in the fit of all of them but the entry Blade model, which is no more washable than my old one. The ones with the removable padding make me feel like I'm in a straightjacket- I cannot move my neck around. This month's fencing mag advertized a new Leon Paul with a removable bib that's intriguing. They are anticipating the rule for lame bibs, I suppose. Does anyone out there have this mask yet, and what do you think of it? And does it meet the USFA/FIE specs? I thought the rules stated that the bib must not be removable. Am I best off buying an inexpensive mask and waiting for the new lame bib rule to sort itself out, or would you invest in the new mask? And thank you, Administrator, for posting the pdf on fitting the mask!

[DangerMouse]

The LP X-change mask you are talking about is the best mask on the market right now (and is priced accordingly). Just buy one, you won't regret it.

[InFerrumVeritas]

First of all, "block of text" is difficult to read, so break it up into basic points when posting. Now to the actual post.

I have used an XChange mask for some months now, and I love it. I would never buy another type of mask (unless I had to for some strange rules reason...).

Washability: The XChange is unmatched here. The innards come out, he bib comes off. It's great. Also, because there is a rather minimal amount of fabric parts, it doesn't get the mask stank nearly as quickly.

Fit: The contour fit takes a bit of getting used to, but when you do, it is great. As long as you get the properly sized mask, there is some ability to adjust so that it fits like a glove (or in this case, mask). At first, the lower padding feels awkwardly placed, but after you adjust it and get used to it, it's fine. It's just different, which takes getting used to (like most new equipment).

Specs: It's FIE approved. That is better than needed for USFA, but worth it. You only have one face, and no matter how ugly it may be (such as in my case), it is worth protecting. The rules don't state that the bib can't be removable, but the traditional removable bib designs were done with snaps, which a blade could pass through and thus were unsafe. This design has a continual seal, so it's fine.

Rule change: The deciding factor for me was that if they change the rules, the XChange should be fine, you'd just need a new bib. Much cheaper than a new mask. I will admit that I am a little worried about some strange and awkward wording making it illegal (such as a very specific way to connect the bib to jacket, or wire, or something), but all indicators seem to point to this not being the case.

Also, the search function turns up a great deal of answers to you questions. Or use the advanced search on google and use this site as the domain.