Which is Better for Hunting: Face Mask, Head Net, or Face Paint?

Can you be a deer hunter without applying face paint before climbing into the treestand?  Of course, face paint isn’t necessary but some hunters apply it like war paint before each and every hunt.

The most common scenario for hunters to choose face paint over a face mask or head net would be in warm weather.  The hotter it is, the less layers hunter wear, including on their face.  So, ditching the facemask might be best when it’s hot out.

Another advantage that face paint has over the other options is that it’s attached directly to you, so there’s no extra movement or something to lose.  Simply turn your head and you could be busted by a deer or other game animal if you don’t have you r face covered, so be sure to camouflage yourself if you go the face paint route.

Face paint for hunting comes in several colors and you can choose a couple that will be a good match for the terrain you are hunting. Also, you’ll stay better concealed if you sit in the shade.  Hunters in a ground blind often stick with black, while those spot and stalking on the ground may need a blend of colors to better conceal themselves.   You can also use face paint on your hands, neck, and other exposed areas.

One of the biggest disadvantages of face paint is the chore of taking it off.  It can be really messy, sticking to everything it touches, and getting your hunting clothing and gear.  Glare can still be a factor, so make sure you find a face paint that has dull earth tones to reduce the shine of your face!

Best Hunting Use for Face Pant:  Extremely warm weather conditions

My personal choice is the face mask, especially when the temperatures begin to fall.  I’ve purchased several different models through the years, but you want to make sure you find a face mask that articulates from below the chin to the mouth.  Meaning a face mask that only has a cut-out for you to see out of isn’t going to be nearly as comfortable or versatile as one that can be slid down below the chin when not needed.

The additional warmth and cover that the facemask provides is my preferred choice, but hunters with beards often struggle with discomfort when wearing a face mask.  A facemask covers not only the face, but the head and ears as well.  Face paint doesn’t conceal nearly as well as a face mask.  Also, there are different types of face masks for different occasions.  Thin face masks for warm temperatures and thick, warm face masks for when the temperature drops.

Another advantage that a face mask can provide is protection from mosquitoes!  Those pesky things can ruin a hunt and anything you can do to protect yourself from them is a lifesaver!

Now, there are also disadvantages to using a facemask, such as impaired hearing.  Any time you cover your ears, you reduce your ability to hear.  Also, as your head moves, the rustling of the facemask can generate noise, making it even harder for you to hear.  One of my favorite things about a facemask is that they’re built into a lot of my baselayers, such as the Sitka Equinox Guard Hoody, which is one of my favorites for warm weather hunting, and the Sitka Fanatic Hoody for cold weather hunting.

Other disadvantages might include:  blocked peripheral vision and for bowhunters, it may affect your anchor point.  Be sure to practice with the facemask on before going hunting so that you know precisely how your equipment will perform.

Best All-Around Face Covering for Hunting:  Face Mask

Head nets are similar to face masks but they don’t fit snugly to the face.  A head net is designed to drape over the bill of a hat usually and it’s best suited for avoiding mosquitoes!  If you’re hunting a warm, mosquito-rich environment, skip the face paint and consider a head net.

You certainly won’t win any beauty contests, but keeping those pesky bloodsuckers away from your face is a must!  Head nets aren’t great for concealment, as they’re often perforated all the way around, allowing light to be shown through it, as well as the outline of your face.  Similar disadvantages to a face mask, but usually they’re a lot bulkier and not as pleasant to wear.

Best Hunting Use for a Head Net:  Warm, mosquitoe rich environments

Is there another option?  Well, that’s about it for concealing your face.  However, you could always just go bare face, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you had a lot of facial hair.  Patchy beard guys like myself need to keep our faces covered, but sometimes hunters with big burly beards can avoid wearing a facemask.  However, if your beard has turned white or it’s red, then you should cover that thing up!  Going bareface has advantages in being more comfortable in warm conditions and there’s no restrictions to you hearing. However, you’re more likely to get busted if you don’t cover up your face as it’ll stick out like a sore thumb!

Hopefully, this comparison will help you make a decision about which of these three options is best for the hunting conditions that you’re in.  It’s a good idea to give each option a try and not just take my word for it that face masks are the best option for hunters.