Force3 Defender Umpire Mask with Tan

After 100 high school games, this innovative design really works to cushion impact. The cage is thin and provides a really good window of vision. It’s a good mask but I think it’s a generation from being a great, industry-standard mask. Would like to see a lighter version utilizing a lighter material. The pads need improvement, while comfortable, they are not durable, and the nylon wrap degrades very easily. The forehead pad needs to be augmented to aid in protection for cap-wearing umpires. Would also like to see better hardware at the spring/cage interface that prevents the cage from sliding/shifting within the bracket. All said, 4 stars with room to grow. This is a protective mask that can get even better.

I have been using a hockey style helmet, but never liked the weight. I switched back to a mask and coupled it with the skull cap. I love my mask! I am yet to take one in the kisser, so I'll let you know how the impact absorbers perform at a later date.

Haven't taken a shot yet with my V2 umpire mask (tan/black), but it's replacing my original V1, which has taken so many "hardly felt it" shots, the powder coating has rubbed off a lot of the bars and rust spots all over. Absolutely love the V2, and it's dramatically better than the V1. Noticeably lighter, and the harness has a lot more flex so the mask can be worn much looser than the original, while still maintaining that snug fit for protection designed into the shock absorption system. Very comfortable (much more comfortable than the V1). I also like the strip of leather on the chin strap. I swear I got a better view with this new mask than with the original, and I have no idea why. Side by side, they seem to have the same dimensions, but I swear I can see better out of the V2 than the V1. Two major big thumbs up from me. I would not and will not wear any other umpire mask.

All I have to say is wow! I didn’t think it was going to be so light! I came from a Diamond Titanium mask that I had for years and that weighs like nothing! But I went with the Force 3 and that’s a game-changer! It’s so light and I feel way safer behind the plate. I got black with the tan pads and the sun visor! It looks amazing highly recommend this mask!

Great umpire mask. Lightweight. Seen the videos on the protection behind it was referred by Mike Fichter, a 10 year MLB umpire, and Jim Evans, a hall of fame umpire who loves the product. No complaints at all.

Absolutely love the Force3 V2 umpire mask, the hype was right. I've only worn it for 2 games and it fits perfectly haven't taken a shot yet. Force3 is the best. Another great product from a great company.

This umpire mask has been very good for protection purposes. Force3 does a great job with their field equipment. You may need to keep the Force3 harness on the mask however because the mask won't perform as well with a different harness. The Force3 harness doesn't always lay flat depending on your head size but Force3 recommends their harness only.

I love the look and feel of my Force3 Defender umpire mask. The black cage with tan pads is a great look. The memory foam pads conform to my face for a snug fit. It is heavier than my Wilson Titanium Mask, but the safety features for reduced impact is a strong selling point. The mask bag is top of the line. Force3 gear is top of the line.

Although the weight of the mask is greater than some other high-end masks, it is not a big deal in my opinion. I took a fastball in the low 90s off this and did not feel a thing. I don't know why everyone is not wearing this mask.

Love the feel and view of of this Force3 Umpire Mask. Took a hopper over catcher third time wearing it and didn't feel a thing. Heard the shock system work though. Still have a nice lump on elbow 3 days later from same pitcher later that game. Would definitely recommend.

The mask itself is as good as any of my past umpire masks. However, the padding quality is a huge disappointment. Vinyl all over the place with the exception of chin and cheek contact points. Makes the mask look cheap. Makes it feel cheap with it on. Honestly, if that much work is going to go into the frame, why didn't they do a better job of designing the padding? Was it simply to keep costs under $175? I'll shop for replacement pads or replace with anything with doe skin.

While slightly heavier than my existing Champro umpire mask, more than makes up for it with added protection. My first game with this mask I took two solid shots right off the bat, about 80 mph...I couldn't believe the difference this mask made! As the video demonstrates, I can attest the felt impact is significantly reduced. My only hit on this mask (and 4.5 rating) is the harness, as others have mentioned. One, the side-straps are not centered on the main strap...just made it impossible to adjust it comfortably. Two, the velcro tabs that hold the masks on leave part of the hook material exposed...the harness kept snagging, making it tough to put back on, as well as causing pulls on the harness. Installed some velcro tabs over the existing ones and replaced with a Wilson harness...made all the difference.

I love the feel of the mask and I don't notice the difference in weight from my regular mask. I have been hit in the mask twice so far and I hardly felt it. I have wanted a mask like this forever. I have recommended this mask to all of the umpires in my association. The harness occasionally gets caught on itself, but I am getting used to it. That's why it gets a 4.5 rating.

I used the Force3 umpire mask for the 1st time last Friday. I love the overall protection of it. Although it is heavier that the Champro mask that I have used up until now. The only thing that I do not like is the harness. Even after adjusting it to fit my head it felt very loose up top, which is why I am giving this 4 1/2 instead of 5. Other than that, I love this mask and I wouldn't think to use any other ever again!

Great umpire mask, top of the line protection. Good look with the black cage and tan pads. Stays very cool in the hot sun. Mask is a little on the heavier side, but protection is completely worth it. Took a few fastballs to the face the first time I wore it and did not feel a thing. Wear it snug to your face like they suggest.