VForce has released their Profiler 2.0 and it has been met with some mixed enthusiasm. Though it does look to be a solid mask it has landed flat with some long-time users, where newer users seem to like the new look. They were expected a bit sooner as they were seen on social media some time ago, but they are in stock at many online and local stores at launch.

What we had

The Profiler was one of the first widely available paintball masks with a quick change lens system. The mask itself is a bit unassuming by today’s standards (see HK’s offerings), but at the time it had a very sleek and aggressive look compared to their main competitor JT. They were comfortable, breathed well, and were flexible enough compared to the hard plastic options. It helped that they were priced right. They quickly became a go to mask for many paintballers. The original run only had a single pane lens option with anti fog coating, but over time they added a second layer to the lenses.

What we have now

Much like the Grill 2.0, the Profiler 2.0 uses the same lenses as the original. That is about where the similarities end. There is also more ventilation but with smaller holes so time will tell how well they breathe. Though the profile of the Profile 2.0 looks to be similar, the styling is very different. More aggressive is the best way I can describe it, taking cues from dirt bike helmets and Mortal Kombat.

A big new addition is the soft ears. The original Profiler the ears were part of the mask mold and unchangeable. This not only means a potentially more comfortable mask, it also opens the doors to customization like we see in the JT Proflex. Given that VForce’s parent company also owns JT this isn’t a big surprise.

A history of value

Thankfully one thing the new Profiler 2.0 has kept is the reasonable price. At time of writing the 2.0 has been released at $94.95 USD. This means that the new release is actually less expensive to the non-sale price of the original, though the original is being cleared out for some very reasonable prices if you are deal hunting.

All in all the Profiler 2.0 looks like a solid option and will hopefully be a worthy successor to the original. Time will tell if it makes the same impact as its predecessor but we will likely be seeing them fielded by some teams at the upcoming NXL events. Expect some great photos and videos on VForces social media to tempt you into a new look for 2025.