Last Updated on April 2, 2025 by Andy
Even though there are some debates if high school players should or shouldn’t wear face masks, the fact, that the safety of the players should be the number one concern, stands. Also, International Hockey Federation (FIH) in 2025 released a requirement to wear face masks when defending penalty corners when playing field hockey.
Field hockey is a fast-paced contact sport, meaning injuries are an unfortunate reality. While minor bruises and scrapes are common, more severe injuries—such as concussions, broken bones, and facial fractures—can and do occur. The risk is especially high during high-impact plays, such as drag-flicks and penalty corners, where the ball can reach speeds exceeding 90 km/h. A direct hit to the face can result in broken jaws, cheekbones, teeth, and even eye injuries.
Penalty corners are some of the most intense and strategically important moments in field hockey. The attacking team has a well-rehearsed play, often involving a drag-flick—a technique that, when executed correctly, can send the ball rocketing towards the goal at blistering speeds.
For defenders, this presents an enormous challenge. Standing inside the goal area, they have mere fractions of a second to react. The potential for injury is significant, which is why many players opt to wear face masks for added protection. While some leagues require defenders to remove their masks after the penalty corner, others allow them to wear protective gear throughout the game.
Check out this video to see how fast-paced and powerful drag-flicks can be:
Field Hockey Full Masks
Unlike protective goggles, full masks, as their name suggests, offer protection for the entire face and not just the eyes. And, unlike protective face cages, masks don’t interfere with the field of view, meaning that they are more effective.
However, field hockey full masks are not popular among players and aren’t worn all of the time. Usually, only the defenders wear them during the penalty corner, and then take them off and throw them behind the goal. The reason for their unpopularity is the fact that field hockey is considered to be a tough sport, and wearing a mask makes the player look less tough. But, since this sport is evolving by the day, and field hockey sticks become lighter, and on the other hand allow more powerful shots, balls are achieving greater speeds nowadays. Having this in mind, and the injuries that can occur during a game, players have started changing their opinion about masks, and more and more of them can be seen wearing masks during the game.
How Does the Fit Factor Affect the Field Hockey Mask?
If you are wondering if there are any sizes when it comes to field hockey face masks, and if you can order one online or you have to go to the store and try one out in order to see if it fits you, we have great news! Protective face masks for field hockey are made one-size-fit-all! This means that it doesn’t matter what size your head and face are, or what shape your face has, it will fit the mask without a problem, and the straps that go around your head are adjustable so that you can adjust the mask and feel comfortable wearing it.
Benefits of Mask’s Over Goggles?
Well, it is kind of obvious, isn’t it? While the goggles protect only your eyes, face masks protect the entire face, plus, the googles have a cage-like construction, meaning that the bars go over your eyes, further meaning your eyesight will not be as good as without them. On the other hand, face masks offer a clean field of view, meaning that there is nothing in front of your eyes and you can see better.
Best Field Hockey Masks 2025
Here are some of the best models of field hockey face masks that could save your face from getting injured. They are not the best just because we think they are, but bets because the players that use them on the field claim that they are comfortable, don’t fog up, offer great protection, and don’t interfere with their field of view:
Mylec Pro Goalie Mask – Best for Street Hockey Goalies
Designed for street hockey goalies, the MyLec Pro Goalie Mask offers solid protection without sacrificing comfort. Its lightweight, high-impact plastic construction shields your face while ensuring clear vision and breathability.
Built for Protection – Made from durable, high-impact plastic, this mask absorbs impact while keeping goalies safe in fast-paced games.
Adjustable & Secure Fit – Quick-snap elastic straps provide a customizable fit, ensuring the mask stays put no matter how intense the action gets.
Ventilated for Comfort – Strategically placed ventilation holes reduce fogging and sweating, keeping you cool even in warm weather.
Sleek, Modern Design – A streamlined look that lets goalies play with confidence while staying fully protected.
Perfect for young goalies looking to improve their skills while staying safe and comfortable on the street or the rink.
F HS Force Field Hockey Face Mask – Protection for Penalty Corners
The F HS Force Face Mask is designed to provide maximum facial protection during penalty corners, ensuring safety without compromising visibility. Stay protected during penalty corners without sacrificing visibility. The Force mask is made from strong polycarbonate, shielding your face from high-speed impacts while keeping your vision clear.
Full Visibility – The transparent visor design ensures zero blind spots, so you stay fully aware on the field.
Comfortable & Secure – Foam padding and adjustable elastic straps provide a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place during play.
Lightweight & Durable – Tough enough to handle powerful shots, yet lightweight so you can move freely.
Sizes & Colors – Available in Junior (8″ x 8.5″) and Senior (9.5″ x 9″) sizes, with Black, White, and Blue options.
A solid choice for players who take safety seriously but don’t want to compromise on performance.
Field Hockey Clear Face Mask – Essential Protection for Players
The TK Field Hockey Mask is designed for corner defense, providing reliable face protection during high-speed plays. Built with durable polycarbonate, it offers a balance of safety, comfort, and breathability for extended wear.
Built for Safety – High-impact resistant material shields the face from fast shots and accidental collisions.
Perfect for Penalty Corners – Designed to keep defenders protected when facing powerful shots during set plays.
Comfortable & Adjustable – Contoured fit with an adjustable strap ensures a secure and comfortable feel for players of all sizes.
Indoor & Outdoor Use – Ideal for both turf and grass, offering reliable protection across different playing conditions.
A must-have for youth and adult players looking to stay safe without compromising performance.
Gryphon Field Hockey Goalie Mask – Trusted Protection for Goalkeepers
The Gryphon Field Hockey Goalie Mask delivers solid face protection for beginner-level goalkeepers, offering a lightweight yet durable design for optimal performance.
High-Impact Defense – Made from shock-resistant materials, built to withstand fast-moving shots.
Comfortable & Secure Fit – Adjustable harness and padded interior provide a snug, custom fit for all players.
Clear Vision & Breathability – Ventilated design prevents fogging and ensures unobstructed visibility for quick reactions.
Designed for Beginners – Ideal for youth goalies looking for reliable protection as they develop their skills.
A great entry-level mask for goalkeepers seeking confidence and safety in the net.
What Makes a Food Field Hockey Mask
Besides the myth, of the mask making you less of a tough player, some of the reasons why players avoid wearing masks is that some of them can fog up, some can narrow the field of view, and some can cut off your voice when shouting, and team communication is extremely important in this sport. So, in order for a mask to be among the best, it has to be made of high-quality materials that will be able to withstand high pressure during a hit, it musn’t fog up during the game, and it should have great ventilation that allows air to circulate and allow players to breath normally. Furthermore, most muffle the voice, so that other players can hear you when you shout out something important, and your field of view has to stay unaltered. Also, it has to form a perfect grip with your face, and it has to be comfortable.
Another Useful Case: Penalty Corners
One other key thing to keep in mind is that these masks can be specifically used for a corner shot when a penalty is given. Even the professionals wear these due to the possibility of injury from standing still while taking a full-speed hit. Since all the defenders during this penalty will need to be in the goal or within 5 meters of the goal, there isn’t a lot of room to defend yourself let alone the ball. Considering there are 5 people of you defending different parts of the goal based on estimating the attack path of the opposing team. The key thing to keep in mind here is that the attacking team can use a variety of methods like a flick, scoop, hit, push, or deflection to shoot the ball until the penalty play is over. These plays can severely result in high-velocity balls (Not beyond dangerous speed play) that can easily injure any part of your face. Having the proper mask to adjust and be able to take this impact is key for protection against this type of goal and is highly recommended when you play at the lower levels as well. Please keep in mind that field hockey corners are just as dangerous as normal play and should be guarded against with the same protection.
