A Plexiglas facemask also has a tendency to fog up when the humidity is high at the rink. Masks are now available that have a combination of the traditional metal cage with a piece of Plexiglas inserted in the middle. This provides a player with both the opportunity to view the game through a clear material and it reduces fogging by allowing air to circulate through the mask. Half Shields are also available. A half shield covers the top half of the face only.
Many leagues require the use of mouth guards for players that choose a half shield.
Half Shields provide maximum visibility, less chance of fogging with protection for the eyes and mouth. Many injuries occur when a player has accidentally gotten a stick up and it gets up under the half shield or causes injuries to the chin. In most cases a full shield is the best choice for the adult player. In fact many players forgo them. The Football style shoulder pads may not be necessary in a no checking league.