If you're interested in fencing - either sport fencing or HEMA - you need a mask. And you want this one, because it's richly padded inside. Sit down, children, and let Uncle Internet tell you a story.

There's a thing called "Waffle Burn" that happens when fencing with wooden swords. IT happens when your opponent stabs you in the mask - the mask rocks back, compresses against your face, and you get a fencing-mask-shaped bruise (and sometimes an abrasion). This mask prevents waffle burn, in no small part because of the heavy padding on your forehead. This has the effect of making the mask heavier, yes. It also moves your head further back into the mask, creating a larger (and potentially more distracting) cavity between your face and the grate of the mask. You will appreciate this the first time you catch a really good hit on the head instead of the sword.

Great quality

Love! Decorated our house in 20 minutes instead of 2 days.

I am completely satisfied with this purchase. The mask is perfect quality for practice, and it even arrived a day early. It fits well, and the price is reasonable. If I had to offer a single critique, it would be that the seam where the base of the chin meets the neck on the mask interior rather slightly presses into the throat. A minor inconvenience at best and your mileage may vary.