Speed Feeds

Speed feeds replace the standard solid hopper lid with a design that has flexible fingers, rubberized gates, or segmented openings. During a reload, the player presses a pod against the feed opening and pours paintballs directly into the loader. The flexible elements move aside to admit the paint, then spring back toward their original position, helping to keep paint from bouncing back out.

This design significantly reduces the time and hand movements needed to refill a hopper, particularly in fast-paced formats like speedball where every second behind cover is important. Players do not need to flip a lid open or ensure it closes securely after a reload, which simplifies the process during high-pressure points.

The main trade-off is reduced environmental protection. Openings in a speed feed make it easier for rain, dirt, or debris to enter the hopper in wet or muddy conditions. In heavy rain or when diving aggressively, paintballs can occasionally escape through the feed openings or be exposed to moisture.

Some loaders offer interchangeable systems so users can switch between a speed feed and a traditional lid depending on conditions. Players who routinely encounter bad weather or scenario-style events may carry both options and choose the one most appropriate for the day’s format and environment.