As some indoor gyms and fitness spaces reopen, and summer weather allows more outdoor exercise, the topic of wearing protective face masks during exercise continues to get folks perspiring. To mask or not to mask, when exercising outside? And if I want to go back to the gym, many of which now require face coverings, how can I find one that doesn’t leave me extra-sweaty, or inhibit my breathing?
To address those challenges, several fitness brands have launched protective face masks specifically for whatever workout and fitness game you’ve got going on, and we rounded up a few of our favorites. Don’t forget that if you’re sweating regularly in your mask, it’s important to properly wash it after every use.
Made to Move Mask 3 Pack ($25; athleta.com)
The active brand developed its Made to Move masks in partnership with the Emergency Design Collective and medical professionals at the University of California, San Francisco. They have a movable, adjustable head strap and Thermoplastic Elastomer technology to fit the mask at the nose bridge more comfortably than a metal strip, and to help keep the mask from sticking to your face when you breathe in. There’s even a version for children, too. The masks are on back order right now and expected to ship at the beginning of August.
Under Armour Sportsmask ($30; underarmour.com)
With a structured design that keeps the mask up and off the face and lips, this one is made with high-performance materials including polyurethane open-cell foam and UA’s Iso-Chill fabric, which keeps cool for as long as you wear it. Currently it’s back-ordered but expected to start shipping out again on August 17.
Adidas Face Covers M/L 3-Pack ($16; adidas.com)
Comfortable, washable and reusable for everyday action, these come in three-packs of small or medium/large. They’re sold out right now, but Adidas does regularly update its stock, and you can sign up through the site for updates.
Hanes Wicking Cotton Masks 10-Pack ($25; hanes.com)
Hanes’ masks are made with three layers and moisture-wicking fabric — and, in partnership with Invisible People, the brand is donating 1 million masks to help protect homeless people across America, particularly in states with recent outbreaks.
Face Covers M/L 3-Pack ($20; reebok.com)
These are dual-layered, soft and breathable, from one of our favorite active brands.
Baggu Fabric Mask Set ($32; baggu.com)
Constructed from 100% Kona quilter’s cotton, Baggu’s beauties have a tight weave and thick thread, ensuring great comfort while simultaneously restricting droplet passage. Each mask comes with a pocket for a filter insert (not included). And for every pack of these nonmedical masks sold, Baggu will donate a pack of surgical masks to health care workers.
Onzie Mindful Masks, Assorted 2 Pack ($24; onzie.com)
This yoga brand has utilized Full Flex Spandex technology for a stretchy, comfort-fitting, quick-dry exterior, with a high performance inner lining and straps.
AE Reusable Face Mask ($14.95; ae.com)
American Eagle’s masks are finished with an antimicrobial treatment to help prevent the growth of on-mask bacteria when masks get wet during exercise.
All4partytime Summer Face Mask for Jogging ($19.95; etsy.com)
Made with 100% certified organic cotton, this popular California shop’s masks are billed as superior for the outdoor workout.
So Fine Designs Face Masks ($10; etsy.com)
This homespun, 100% cotton option is just a cute reminder to others that — fast feet! — you’re a runner.
Source: Elizabeth Wallace