Neck Protection

Neck protection in paintball usually takes the form of padded collars, wraps, or soft guards that cover the front and sides of the neck. Hits to this area can be particularly uncomfortable, so many players choose to add a thin layer of padding to reduce the sting and help them stay confident when playing aggressively.

Neck guards may be purpose-built for paintball or adapted from other sports, as long as they remain flexible and do not interfere with mask fit. Soft fabric wraps and lightweight padded bands are common solutions. The goal is to provide enough coverage to improve comfort without restricting head movement or breathing.

Newer players often find neck protection reassuring, especially when they are still adjusting to being hit at close range. Front and snake players, who frequently expose their upper bodies while playing low, may prefer neck protection as part of a larger padding setup.

Neck guards should be adjusted so they do not push against the bottom of the mask or cause the mask to lift. Combined with a properly fitted mask and other protective equipment, neck protection can make play more comfortable without significantly affecting mobility.