Where to buy lightweight and breathable face masks for the summer
Going to be exercising or outside all day? These mask materials wick moisture so you can breathe easy.
Going to be exercising or outside all day? These mask materials wick moisture so you can breathe easy.
Wearing a face mask in the summer heat is unavoidable if you plan to head into public spaces. If you're running errands, you should be wearing medical masks or cloth-based face coverings to do so. But if you know you will be in humid and hot conditions for many hours outside — or even working out in a public space — cotton face masks will absorb sweat and the moisture you're breathing out over time, which can be uncomfortable, not to mention potentially attract the airborne particles we're trying to avoid.
Performance-based fabrics, however, will wick and alleviate moisture. One such example is which is constructed from three different layers of fabric, including polyester. Alongside lighter variations of cotton, face masks created from performance-based materials can make breathing much easier during intense physical activity, while sufficiently covering your face and catching potentially infectious droplets.
The best breathable face masks to buy this summer:
If you're considering buying a face mask designed with synthetic performance fabrics, look to see if the brand has consulted . You'll want to buy a mask that has multiple layers of material that work to stop you from spewing debris as well as potentially prevent you from breathing in airborne particles. You'll also need to ensure that the mask is designed to cover your nose and mouth entirely, and can be secured against your head, neck or ears.
Another option is to source a neck gaiter, a piece of athletic gear that's been used for years by those who want to avoid inhaling dust or other airborne particles during outdoor workouts. Neck gaiters that sit tight across the bridge of your nose and cover your mouth entirely may also relieve the pressure put on your ears by loops or bands.
Note that synthetic performance-based fabrics are best used by those who will be spending multiple hours outside around others this summer, or essential workers doing physical labor outside in the heat. Why? There isn't enough research surrounding the efficacy of these kinds of masks compared to cotton options.
How to keep cool while wearing face masks:
Regardless of which face mask you choose to buy or make, there are a few things you can do to make your face mask more comfortable this summer.
- Use a mask with ties. Wearing a mask that uses ear loops to stay tight to the face for multiple hours can be very uncomfortable on your ears. Some masks () are made with ties that can be tightened individually across the crown of your skull and the nape of your neck.
- Schedule your tasks with breaks in between. If possible, try scheduling brief breaks at home in between errands or work done outside around others. Washing your hands and removing the mask to wipe away any sweat will give your skin a brief break, and you can put on a fresh, clean mask before you head out again. Face masks should be washed thoroughly after they've been worn, and you shouldn't leave sweat-filled masks to percolate in a laundry basket for too long (they'll breed more bacteria!).
- Bring multiple masks with you. If your mask has become fully saturated you'll need to change your mask, says , the associate dean for research for the College of Health Professions at . Remove your current mask and then immediately wash or sanitize your hands thoroughly before handling your new one, as you can contaminate it before you even put it on. A clean, dry mask might alleviate some of the difficulty you're experiencing in drawing in breath — but keep in mind that even athletes can't perform at full capacity due to face coverings.