Protective mask

A mask for protecting the face and neck of a person while fencing comprises a mask body including a face piece 10 for protecting the face of the wearer, a neck covering member 15 for protecting the neck of a wearer and retaining means comprising a first strap 20 extending rearwardly and downwardly from an upper portion of the mask body, a second 21 member extending rearwardly from a first side of the mask body, a third strap 22 extending rearwardly from a second side of the mask body opposite said first side, a connecting member 23 being provided at the intersection of the first, second and third strap or harness members, each of said first, second and third strap or harness members being connected to said connecting member 23, the connecting member 23 comprising a dished plate-like member having first, second and third apertures therein, through which apertures are respectively received a respective end of the first, second and third straps.