Airsoft BBs can chip teeth, cut skin and permanently damage eyes. Proper protection is the one piece of gear you should never cheap out on.
Here is what to wear, from the must-haves to the nice-to-haves.
Eye Protection (Required)
Use sealed goggles or a full face mask rated for impact, such as ANSI Z87.1+ in the US or EN166 in Europe. Look for a seal that goes all the way around your eyes. Regular sunglasses and shooting glasses with gaps are not enough at most fields. Avoid mesh eye protection, because fragments of shattered BBs can pass through.
Lower Face and Teeth
A mesh lower face mask is fine for your mouth and cheeks, since it does not protect your eyes. A front tooth hit is one of the most common airsoft injuries, so lower face protection is strongly recommended even when not required. A sports mouthguard adds extra protection.
Full Face Masks
Paintball-style full face masks protect everything in one piece and are often required for younger players. They are hotter and can fog, so look for thermal lenses or fans.
Stopping Fog
- Choose dual-pane thermal lenses or a goggle fan.
- Use anti-fog spray or wipes made for your lens type.
- Do not wear a fleece or buff that pushes breath up into the goggles.
Related Guides
- The 4 Best Anti-Fog Airsoft Goggles (2026)
- The 4 Best Airsoft Masks (2026)
- The 5 Best Airsoft Helmets (2026)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mesh goggles safe for airsoft?
Not for eye protection. BB fragments can pass through mesh. Use sealed, impact-rated goggles.
Do I need a face mask for airsoft?
Eye protection is required everywhere. Lower face protection is strongly recommended and required at many fields.
Are shooting glasses OK for airsoft?
Only if they are impact-rated and fully sealed. Most open shooting glasses are not allowed.
New to air guns? Start with our Air Guns for Beginners guide →