The veil is the most critical piece of protective equipment. Protection of the face and neck is indispensable; a sting near the eye can have serious consequences.

The basic rule

The mesh must not touch the face. A sting comes through mesh that is in contact.

This single rule comes before every other consideration in choosing a veil.

Types

Round veil

Fits over a wide-brimmed hat and holds the mesh away from the face.

• Good field of view
• Stands clear of the face
• Depends on the hat; if the hat shifts the mesh comes closer
• Can catch in confined spaces

Fencing type

Wraps the head; light and well ventilated.

• The mesh surrounding the face does not touch it
• Light and more comfortable in heat
• Wide field of view
• Folding models are easy to store

Folding and hatless types

Simple models that go straight onto the head. Cheap, but the mesh tends to sit close to the face.

Closure points

A bee finds the smallest gap. The critical points:

• The neck join: The connection to the suit must be bee-tight
• Zip ends: Where the zip finishes is the most commonly missed opening
• Drawcords: Must be pulled tight
• Underarms and shoulders: Can open with movement

Visibility

Black mesh gives markedly better visibility than white; it does not reflect light. Most veils are therefore black at the front.

Good visibility is not only comfort: seeing the queen, the eggs and signs of disease depends on it.

Care

• Check the mesh before every use. A small tear makes the whole protection void
• Wash regularly. Alarm pheromone in the fabric provokes the colony at the next inspection
• Store dry
• Do not crush the mesh when folding
• Keep a spare. A torn veil cuts an inspection short

Colour

Light colours are preferred. Dark and furry surfaces increase the bees' defensive response.