While mask mandates are holding strong across the country (and the world), many of us are still adjusting to this new way of entering the world outside our front door. After grabbing your car keys, wallet, purse, and sunglasses, we now also grab a face mask. Yet, the jury is still out about mandating face masks for outdoor activities.
Yes, it’s been found that the virus is far less likely to be transmitted outdoors, especially on a sunny day. Of course, this doesn’t mean it’s impossible. With a handful of new highly transmittable variants of COVID-19 quickly burning their way through the country, it’s more important than ever to mask up. Yes, even outdoors.
Of course, this is easier said than done when it comes to exercise. For runners, joggers, walkers, bicyclists, or sports players, attempting to work up a sweat, boost your heart rate, and breathe through one or two layers of cloth is incredibly challenging. Luckily, with demand comes supporting products!
A handful of companies have decided to tackle this unique problem by designing COVID-safe masks that are also super breathable and ideal for the outdoor sportsperson. Each mask design takes into consideration material, fit, and breathability with the thought that every face and head are shaped uniquely.
If you’re looking to get your hands on a long-lasting, all-activity, environment-friendly mask, here are a few to get you started.
It’s important to note that many of these masks are not medical grade! Make sure to consider this aspect before purchasing depending on the specific use you are intending.
Under Armour Adult Sports Mask/Amazon.com
For the avid outdoorsman, Under Armour has you covered! This Under Armour Adult Sports Mask is designed specifically for those who will be working up a sweat and breathing hard. Made from 100 percent polyester and high-performance UA materials including Iso-Chill fabric on the interior, this active-wear mask has full pull-on closure and is machine washable. It’s also been designed with comfort in mind, structured to sit off of the face and lips, ultra-breathable, and has soft, yet secure ear loops. Depending on size and design these masks range from $19.60 to $45.00.
Adidas has been a pinnacle in the active world for years and now they’re stepping up to offer a face mask to keep you safe while you exercise outdoors! These Adidas Face Covers are made from 93 percent polyester and 7 percent elastane providing a secure, yet comfortable fit. They offer two layers of fabric for maximum safety against expelling or inhaling those viral droplets, yet retain breathability for hard workouts. Plus, Adidas uses recycled materials called Adidas Primegreen. A 3-pack costs $39.95.
THUMPER says “I’ve tried about 20 different styles if face masks and these are just in a league of there own! I can have this on and workout for 2 hours, while chewing gum and talk if I have to all without even once needing to pull it back up over my nose (or back down like how some ride up instead of down.)
Material is very comfortable, easily washes, form fitting like a glove almost yet still comfortable. Easily the best face mask out there. expensive though, but still a lot cheaper than buying 20 different ones and all being bad.”
Proper Cloth Everyday Face Mask with Filter/Amazon.com
This Proper Cloth Everyday Face Mask with Filter may look unassuming, yet it’s retrofitted to make sure you stay safe while out for the day or out on a run. Proper Cloth has designed their face mask with a perfect fit with pleating for all-day or active comfort. These masks are hand sewn using 100 percent cotton fabric and come with a 3-layer polypropylene filter (melt-blown polypropylene core) that is replaceable. This mask has a moldable nose piece to fit any face and will secure to your face for any type of exercise. A 3-pack of masks costs $50.00.
Karen says ‘The best thing is that the elastic isn’t hooked behind my ears!”
Another trusted activewear brand is offering an activewear face mask to keep you moving outdoors! This Reebok Face Mask is incredibly simple, yet effective. It’s made from 93 percent recycled polyester and boasts a soft, breathable, washable, and reusable design. This Reebok face mask is not of medical-grade — meaning it’s not labeled as Personal Protect Equipment — but promises to provide protection and help from spreading via droplet transmission. A single mask costs $21.33.
Marie says “This is the BEST mask for working out. I am a medium build female and purchased the large. This is the only mask I have found that doesn’t “suck in” when I am breathing heavy from cardio. It doesn’t get too heavy when it is sweaty and it doesn’t irritate my skin. I am so happy I can stop searching for a mask That doesn’t make me miserable!”
If you’re looking for disposable face masks to use only once or a few times during your workouts, then these Hanes Face Masks are a great option! They are made from 100 percent cotton with three layers for ultra protection, yet retain breathability and moisture-wicking abilities during workouts. Even though they are machine washable and reusable, these masks are also disposable. A 10-pack costs $15.00.
J. A. Dudley says “These are our favorites. We each keep a big stack. Comfortable 3-ply, a gentle bendable edge across the nose, nice flattering cut if that actually matters. I’m just sorry for all the folks who just got their braces off. Oh well, it won’t be forever. These masks are fine. Cost-effective, wash well. If you have cheeks like Santa – or a beard! then this will pull tight and you’ll feel it at your ear. So maybe something else for you.”
MASQD Ultra Soft Reusable Face Mask/Amazon.com
This MASQD Ultra Soft Reusable Face Mask has it all in the name! This mask is washable, reusable, and unisex to fit any size or shape face. MASQD promises a comfortable and adjustable design with metal molding around the nose for a secure fit. On top of that, this mask comes with an optional pocket filter to add another layer of protection. A single mask costs $6.00.
LilWeezElle says “This is an incredibly well-made mask! It’s lightweight, breathable, soft and doesn’t slip below your nose. I can breathe easily and wear it for several hours without a problem or feeling claustrophic like some masks! The color is natural like a light khaki color. It doesn’t feel imposing and does it’s job with style. I will order more. Hoping this material mask will be offered in more colors soon!”
Lunair Protector Face Mask White/Amazon.com
This Lunair Protector Face Mask White uses “FUZE technology that includes chemical-free antibacterial fabric with UV protection and odor control.” This mask is designed with ultra-soft materials to avoid any friction and maximize comfort without sacrificing breathability for low-impact activities. Both the nose bridge and ear loops are adjustable! A 2-pack costs $14.99.
Kim G. says “This is a great mask for my husband. All the other masks we have ordered have shrunk so much they are too small on him. We have washed the masks after each wearing, and they haven’t started to loose threads like the others. I also appreciate the 2 sides to help getting the filter in.”
Sudilo Disposable Face Masks/Amazon.com
Another reliable and ultra-affordable disposable face mask option! These Sudilo Disposable Face Masks are available in large orders — a 50-pack! — for ultra-low costs — $13.99 — yet don’t sacrifice safety, comfort, or breathability. This mask was designed for all-day comfort with soft material, a smooth fit, and maximum breathability. Sudilo created this mask with 3-layers and a 3-way filter. Plus, they come with universal fitted elastic ear loops for any head size. A 50-pack costs $13.99.
Lyn says “The black masks come in a box of 50 for your daily needs. They are disposable, but thick enough and well made to get more than one use from them. They fit well over your chin and they are adjustable for a snug fit over the nose, giving them a fog free fit for glasses when adjusted properly.”
Champion Washable and Reusable Face Covering/Amazon.com
Along with Reebok and Adidas, sports equipment company Champion has stepped up their game to offer masks for the sports players out there! This Champion Washable and Reusable Face Covering is made from 60 percent cotton and 40 percent polyester for an ultra-lightweight and breathable design. This mask is form-fitting with an all-around elastic band and adjustable nose piece for any head shape or size. Plus, it features X-Temp Advanced Cooling Technology making sure to keep your face cool and sweat-free even during strenuous activities. A 3-pack costs $14.99.
FictFan says “This is my second purchase of these masks. They are the only ones my 20 yr old son will wear now. He finds them very comfortable and they fit well on him – he’s 5’10” 165 so a pretty average size man. They would be too big on my face as a smaller woman. He has actually had strangers ask him where he got them.”
Halo Life Face Mask/Amazon.com
One of the top-rated and popular face masks online, the Halo Life mask has it all! This Halo Life Face Mask is ultra-breathable with a poly-honeycomb outer design for maximum airflow without sacrificing safety and bamboo inside lining for a soft comfortable fit. Great for any temperature, hot or cold! This mask uses a nanotechnology filter that captures 99.9 percent of airborne particulates. Plus, this mask is fully adjustable with a nose clip and earloops to securely fit any size face. A single mask costs $20.95.
Amazon Shopper says “I work for the GatesFoundation, and we’ve been given dozens of masks for free. They’re all fine and washable, but none fully covered my nose and wrapped under my chin. We’re told that makes a large difference in the effectiveness of the mask for protection. This mask definitely covers both, it’s actually very breathable – isn’t pressed against your lips or nose. The adjustable straps are nice to have to make sure it’s secure. The bamboo material they claim to use is very nice as well, it’s very soft. I haven’t tried washing it yet to see how it holds up, but will update my review at that time. I’m going to recommend this mask to my team for the fit over nose and chin as mentioned above. Great mask.”
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