The best masks for exercising in 2020

Advice on wear a face mask during exercise varies slightly among major healthcare organizations. The CDC’s recommendation is that a mask or a blanket to be worn in public when surrounded by other people as a protective measure against the spread of the coronavirus, while the World Health Organization has warned that wearing a mask while exercising can make difficult breathing, in large part from the sweat that accumulates. (If you’re looking for pointers here’s how to wear masks comfortably).

So if you’re supposed to wear a face cover while you workout, which are the best ones for maximizing performance and comfort?

Read more: 7 face mask myths debunked: what you need to know about coatings, COVID-19 and your health

Dr. Sandra Kesh, infectious disease expert told CNET that you should avoid going to group workouts or exercise classes yet and try to maintain physical distance. And keep in mind that even if you are social distanced in a gym, having a lot of people inside and a lot of heavy breathing (unmasked) creates an environment where the virus could more easily spread.

For your safety and the safety of others, you should not exercise without a mask indoors with other people you do not know. If you really can’t stand wearing a mask, do your exercise outdoors.

For those who really can’t wait to get back to their gyms and fitness studios, where masks may or may not be needed, here are some breathable, moisture-wicking, and workout-designed masks.

Under protection

Under Armor designed the UA Sportsmask with athletes in mind, but any avid practitioner will find the mask useful if you’re looking to switch from a standard fabric face mask. The mask is made up of three different layers designed to allow air circulation while protecting you.

One layer of the mask has an antimicrobial treatment called “PROTX2” which, according to the brand, “has been shown in lab tests to destroy the coronavirus, and is under review by the US Environmental Protection Agency. to confirm the efficacy of the substance as applied to the UA Sportsmask. ”

Well

The Well Movement sheet mask is made of 50% cotton, so it may not hold up during strenuous exercise and serious sweating sessions, but for most activities it will work better than a 100% cotton mask because it is also made of sweat-wicking polyester and elastane. The mask contains antimicrobial properties to help prevent the growth of bacteria.

The earrings are adjustable which is a huge plus for fit and comfort. The fabric also provides UV protection, which is great if you spend a lot of time walking or exercising outdoors, but don’t forget to wear sunscreen as well.

Carbon38

Carbon38 The mask kit comes with two masks, plus a laundry bag for washing. The masks are made with a blend of polyester and cotton, so they dry quickly and help you stay cool. The earrings are adjustable for a tight fit and the masks are available in two sizes.

Carbon38 says the masks are made with a multi-layered filtration system to protect you, and the fabric has anti-bacterial properties.

Adidas

Adidas goggles are machine washable and made with a soft, breathable material which is a blend of recycled polyester and elastane. This breathable face mask comes in two different sizes for the best fit, and Adidas provides guidelines on how to measure your face to make sure you’re getting the right size.

Onzie

Working out in yoga clothes is much more comfortable than regular clothes, so why not take the same approach for your face mask? Yoga and athletic clothing brand Onzie uses recycled yoga fabrics to create face masks that are stretchy and dry quickly – just like your favorite leggings.

Just a warning: because the brand reuses fabrics from yoga clothing, you can’t choose specific colors and patterns, but it’s definitely worth it for a more durable mask option.

coral

Koral uses the same antimicrobial fabric to make their face masks as their sportswear, which means they are stretchy and quick-drying. It also offers UV protection. After wearing this mask while jogging or walking, you can throw it away in the wash, as this reusable mask is machine washable.

What to look for in face masks for exercise

Fabric

Fabric is one of the most important factors when it comes to exercising with a mask. For everyday activities, cloth masks are ideal. But with exercise, cotton gets wet very quickly, which can make it harder to breathe and promote bacterial growth. So for this reason, masks made with breathable fabric similar to that used in sportswear (like spandex or polyester) are your best choice. But still, you want the mask to be breathable and comfortable while you move.

In shape

There is nothing worse than having a face mask sag or fall off while you move. First of all, it’s just boring. Second, it will disrupt your workout if you have to stop to fix it, and you will likely have to touch your face – something you should avoid doing to stay safe.

Look for a face mask that is adjustable or available in different sizes to find the one that’s right for you. Stretch earrings or rubber bands tend to fit snugly and don’t slip around as much as masks that tie around your head.

Antimicrobial characteristics

Since sweat and humidity can be a breeding ground for bacteria, masks with some type of filter or antimicrobial coating are ideal for physical activity. (Many of the masks on this list have these characteristics.) While these don’t actually kill or destroy a viral particle, it doesn’t hurt to have these extra barriers in place.

Also, be aware that no mask on this list can offer a 100% guarantee that it will protect you from the virus, no matter how many fancy features it has. But wearing a mask is just another tool that can act as an added barrier to help stop the spread and protect you and others.

More fitness and health advice

The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended for health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or health goals.