HK Army isn’t really known for making budget-friendly paintball gear, but in the past year, they’ve started getting into the entry-level and beginner market.
The HK Army HSTL? It’s a thermal paintball goggle for newcomers, with a cool top strap, a double-pane thermal lens, quick-change foam, and an easy lens swap system. But what really sets the HSTL apart is that funky top strap; as far as I know, it’s the only paintball mask that rocks one. Paintball masks are generally made to fit regular adult noggins, but we all know heads are all shapes and sizes. Usually, an adjustable goggle strap does the trick to fit most adults. However, smaller folks or kids might find it hard to tighten the strap enough, so the mask might slip down. Tada, enter the top strap – keeping that mask locked in place.
- Robust & Protective Design: The HSTL anti-fog airsoft goggle system is crafted from a durable thermoplastic blend, providing reliable face protection for adults during intense paintball matches, ensuring maximum safety with its impact-resistant construction. These are ideal for any entry-level paintball players!
- Quick Change Lens & Anti-Fog Technology: Featuring an innovative quick-change lens retention system, these goggles allow for easy lens swaps without tools. The anti-fog, thermal, high-definition dual-pane lenses prevent fogging, ensuring clear visibility during gameplay.
- Adjustable & Comfortable Fit: Designed with an adjustable anti-slip goggle strap & a padded chin strap, adjustable top head strap which ensures goggle does not fall down while running. The lightweight mask ensures a perfect fitment with utilizing the removable face foam attachments while delivering exceptional comfort for all-day wear.
- Enhanced Breathability & Hearing: Strategic venting throughout the goggles enhances airflow and hearing, allowing for better communication with teammates on the field, while the strategic vent placements aids in breathability.
- Versatile & Safety Certified: Lightweight and safe for airsfot and ASTM safety certified for paintball, the HSTL Tactical Goggle System offers interchangeable lenses and optimal face protection against impacts while maintaining comfort and style.
With the top strap, the mask stays put, no ifs or buts.
Wearing the mask, it’s pretty comfy – nothing out of this world, just what you’d expect. In the sub-$50 range, I’d say the HSTL is a tad more comfy than other masks at the same price, like the Empire Helix or Valken MI-7. The foam’s alright. All three straps team up to keep this thing secure: the top one stops it from sliding, the chin strap keeps it from riding up, and the main goggle strap holds it snug.
If mask shifting or you having a teeny head is on your mind, the HSTL’s got your back, maybe even more than you need.
Ventilation? Top-notch, and I’m all about that. I play in California, where things get hot, so I need a mask that lets me breathe. Like, if you’re in Florida or Louisiana, where it’s crazy humid, you’re gonna dig a ventilated mask like the HSTL. Only downside? Sometimes a splat in the chin leads to a taste of paint.
Good ventilation equals cooler times and easier breaths, which means your lenses are less likely to fog up. The number one anti-fog? A thermal lens. It’s a two-layer lens that keeps the outside temp away from the inside, nixing fog.
HK Army’s got two HSTL versions: one with the thermal lens and one single-pane style. It’s a $15 difference, but man, that thermal lens is worth every penny.
The HSTL rocks – great deal, quick-change foams, top strap, and thermal lens. Perfect for newbies or anyone eyeing an upgrade to a thermal lens goggle.
