10 breathable face masks to protect you while you exercise

As some indoor gyms and fitness spaces reopen, and the summer weather allows for more outdoor exercise, the topic of wearing protective face masks during exercise continues to make people sweat. Masking or not masking, when exercising outdoors? And if I want to go back to the gym, many of which now require covering my face, how can I find one that won’t sweat or inhibit my breathing?

“In order to protect others in case you are a carrier, you should wear masks in public based on public health needs, whether you exercise or not,” says Suzanne Lukovics, director of physical therapy at Georgetown Living, with based in Austin, Texas. Home health. While the use of outdoor masks during exercise is not mandatory in most states, the risks of transmission during exercise are not yet known, he says, which is why, as much of the public, Lukovics relies on advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health organizations.

“There is talk of droplets suspended in the air for a period of time, but we must remember that exposure to Covid-19 also appears to be highly linked to ‘viral load,'” she says. “So, things like being exposed to air drops with Covid-19 would be less of a problem if, for example, you were jogging in a place where the drops were, instead of exercising for 45 minutes next to a person who can carry Covid- 19 and it is speaking out loud, coughing, or breathing hard during your training with you. ”

For the record, Lukovics says he would wear a mask while running 3 miles outdoors, with a running partner. And masks can affect how easy you breathe, says the physical therapist. “With all exercise, your body’s oxygen demand increases to support your muscles.”

But how that affects a person’s breathing rate is relative. “An older person who has never exercised will be out of breath with very little activity, even without a mask,” she says. “Anyone who wears a mask during exercise, regardless of intensity, will probably feel more out of breath than without a face covering, even if it is a lightweight, disposable mask.”

However, Lukovics emphasizes, it is worth it. “Our amazing bodies will adjust over time and we will appear less breathless with each encounter of wearing a mask while exercising,” she says. “If we have a choice to prevent the spread and ‘endure’ a little bit harder training for our lungs, we should do it for the long-term good.”

Furthermore, wearing a mask, regardless of its protective efficacy, says Lukovics, “can provide a visual signal to others that ‘I care about you and am willing to endure some discomfort’ during this unprecedented time. And when we can finally exercising without a mask safely again, our workouts will seem easier to change! ”

If you are looking for the most breathable mask, Lukovics says: “Cotton is preferable, mainly to absorb moisture / sweat.” She says that multiple layers may be more protective, but will also affect breathability.

To address those challenges, various fitness brands have released protective face masks specifically for any fitness workout and game you have, and we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites. Do not forget that if you regularly sweat with your mask, it is important to wash it properly after each use.

Pack of 3 Masks made to move ($ 25; athleta.com)

The active brand developed its Made to Move masks in association with Emergency Design Collective and medical professionals from the University of California, San Francisco. They have an adjustable and movable head strap and thermoplastic elastomer technology to place the mask on the bridge of the nose more comfortably than a metal strip, and to help prevent the mask from sticking to the face when you breathe. There’s even a kid version, too. The masks are on hold right now and are expected to ship in early August.

Under Armor Sportsmask ($ 30; underarmour.com)

Featuring a structured design that keeps the mask up and off the face and lips, it is made with high-performance materials including open-cell polyurethane foam and UA Iso-Chill fabric, which stays cool over time to use it. Currently on backorder, but expected to start shipping 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 small or medium / large packages. They are out of stock at the moment, but Adidas regularly updates its stock, and you can register on the site to receive updates.

Hanes Wicking Cotton Masks 10-Pack ($ 10; hanes.com)

Hanes’ masks are made with three layers and moisture-wicking fabric, and, in association with Invisible People, the brand is donating 1 million masks to help protect homeless people across the United States, particularly in the states. with recent outbreaks.

M / L Facial Covers, 3-Pack ($ 20; reebok.com)

These are double layer, soft and breathable, from one of our favorite active brands.

Baggu Cloth Mask Set ($ 32; baggu.com)

Constructed of 100% Kona quilter cotton, the Baggu Beauties have a tight weave and thick yarn, ensuring great comfort while restricting the flow of droplets. Each mask comes with a pocket for a filter insert (not included). And for every pack of these non-medical masks sold, Baggu will donate a pack of surgical masks to healthcare workers.

Onzie Mindful Masks 2-Pack Assortments ($ 24; onzie.com)

This yoga brand has used Full Flex Spandex technology for a stretchy, comfortable and quick-drying exterior with a high-performance lining and interior straps.

AE Reusable Face Mask ($ 14.95; ae.com)

American Eagle masks are finished with an antimicrobial treatment to help prevent the growth of bacteria in the mask when the masks get wet during exercise.

All4partytime Summer Jogging Mask ($ 19.95; etsy.com)

Made with 100% certified organic cotton, the masks from this popular California store are considered superior for outdoor training.

So Fine Designs Face Masks ($ 10; etsy.com)

This 100% cotton homemade option is just a nice reminder to others that: quick feet! You are a runner.

Note: The above prices reflect the retailer’s listed prices at the time of publication.