The Best Jet Ski Masks Compared [Video]

A mask is just one of several important jet ski accessories. Based on our research, the best jet ski mask configurations are as follows:

• Neck gaiter
• Full-face mask (balaclava)
• Rigid jet ski mask

If you want to compare these masks head-to-head, you’ve come to the right place.

We at JetDrift have compiled all you need to know under one roof!

Do You Need to Wear a Mask on a Jet Ski?

There’s no question that a mask is an essential accessory for every jet ski owner. It protects against the weather and other elements, including:

• Wind
• Water spray
• Rain
• Bugs
• Debris
• UV rays
• Cold

What’s more, at higher speeds it can also help you breathe easier. For PWC fishing trips and long tours, a mask is a must for every jet ski rider.

Thanks to its light weight and small dimensions, it can be stored in a storage compartment.

Therefore, there is every reason to have one!

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and talk in detail about the best jet ski masks.

The 3 Best Jet Ski Mask Alternatives

1. Neck Gaiter

The cheapest jet ski mask alternative is a simple neck gaiter, which can be used in many configurations, including:

• Scarf
• Headband
• Mask
• Balaclava
• Pirate
• Beanie
• Do-Rag
• Sahariane
• Hood (headwrap)
• Wristband
• Hair tie

It’s lightweight, cheap, versatile, and easy to put on and take off.

A thin neck gaiter does a good job on sunny days as it can protect you from burning sunshine and UV rays.

Note that you will need proper eye protection as well since a neck gaiter will leave your eyes completely uncovered.

2. Full-Face Mask (Balaclava)

If you need more protection, you should invest in a full-face jet ski mask, also known as a balaclava or helmet mask.

As the name suggests, these masks are often designed to be work with a helmet, but they can also be worn on their own.

Due to its design, a jet ski balaclava covers your head and only exposes a small part of your face, typically just your eyes and mouth. This means that you will need a pair of jet ski goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Some have a plastic-molded area around the mouth area to keep the mask from getting wet.

If you can’t locate a dedicated boating or jet ski mask, you can still use a cycling or ski mask.

3. Plastic Boating/Jet Ski Mask

There’s no question that rigid jet ski face masks (a.k.a. jet ski face shields) offer the best protection from the elements. They are often marketed as boating masks, but they also do a good job on jet skis.

These purpose-built jet ski face masks are made of plastic or fiberglass and usually house a built-in visor.

They can effectively keep wind, water, bugs, and debris away from your face and eyes. What’s more, they offer much better protection against wind, so they are a must-have accessory on cold days.

If you are on a budget, you can also use a simpler, more affordable paintball mask.

Conclusion

There’s no question that face protection is essential on a jet ski. Therefore, a mask is one of the most important jet ski accessories, especially on long tours and fishing trips.

Jet ski masks are designed to keep your face warm while protecting it from the elements, bugs, and flying debris.

The most commonly used masks on jet skis are neck gaiters, balaclavas, and rigid jet skis face shields.