This mask is definitely one of the best things I've bought for welding. A few years ago I had back and neck injuries in a car accident. I noticed that after one day of welding, my neck hurt so badly that the next day I couldn't weld due to the weight of my welding hood. I realized that the extra weight of the hood was causing neck and back pain. A typical welding hood slides forward from the head. This extra forward weight can cause a lot of problems for people with neck or back problems. Once I started using this welding mask, NO MORE NECK PAIN! It's very light, easy to use and honestly sometimes I even forget I'm wearing it. You must wear a welder's hat and neck seal or balaclava as they are open at the top and not long, leaving the neck open for the arc. If you have any doubts about the purchase, take my advice and do it. You will not be disappointed.