I'm still in the process of getting protective gear, and I see a lot of of veil options -both stand-alone and attached to jacket or bee suit. If you could share what you use and what you like or don't like about it, that would help not only me but a lot of other new beekeepers, I'm sure. And maybe you could even share what kind of veil you would like to get but don't have yet.
If I'm correct, I see these types:
- Attached Round veil with 360 degree vision
- Separate Round veil that slips over helmet
- Separate round pull-down veil that slips over helmet - offered by BetterBee
- Round veil with attached hat
- Square veil that slips over helmet
- Attached "Fencing veil" that flips back over top of head. Is "English-style veil" the same thing??
- Veil that looks like fencing veil but has face front that zips to fold down
Also, just what does "Clear Vue" mean in a veil description? I would think that a "clear view" would be afforded through a clear plastic insert that would remove the veil weave obstruction, but that is not what I see. (Example
https://www.mannlakeltd.com/protective-gear/clear-vue-hat-veil/)
My first impressions: It looks to me like the hood veils or "English-type" veils might be too close to the top of the head, unless you have thick hair. And they might be warm? (I'm looking for coolness down here in Texas!!
As for helmets, I can't think of anything worse than a solid plastic helmet. I mean, we're not gonna go check bees in the rain, and in the sunshine, it will get sweaty and rain from the inside! (Oh, okay, some have "side louvers," but still ... ) Ventilated mesh helmets should be good, but sure are pricey at MannLake (
https://www.mannlakeltd.com/search-results/?search_query=Helmet) And does anyone know the difference between a "Standard Vented Helmet" and a "Ventilated Mesh Helmet," other than the $10.00 price difference?
Any comments at all on veils & helmets appreciated