As terrible as this global pandemic is, at least we're living through it during the time of internet. Thanks to Al Gore, we can browse through endless face mask options from the comfort of our own quarantine (not to mention order food, supples, and Pinterest far too many banana bread recipes). Sure, it may take a little longer than usual for the masks to arrive, but we don't have to leave our homes to buy them, which we couldn't do without masks anyway. So, yay?
Face masks, however, are not all created equal. You've probably discovered that it isn't easy finding a mask that provides proper protection, fits well, is comfortable, and is actually a design you'd wear.
Video of the Day
I asked friends, strangers, and the people of the internet for their input on the best face masks, taking into account all the above requirements. I was able to try several of them for myself, so I'm only including the ones that don't suck. Because let's be honest, a lot of them suck.
Adjustable straps? Yes
Cool designs? Yes
Reversible? Yes
Adjustable nose piece? Yes
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? Yes
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? Yes
*Adult mask fits larger faces better than smaller ones.
Adjustable straps? No
Cool designs? Yes
Reversible? No
Adjustable nose piece? No
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? No
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? Yes
*For each mask purchased, B. Yellowtail donates one mask to Indigenous communities most impacted by COVID-19.
Wrapture Masks - $19.99
Adjustable straps? No
Cool designs? Two options in black and white.
Reversible? No
Adjustable nose piece? Yes
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes, four layers with an anti-moisture microbial layer.
Filter pocket? No
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? No
Adjustable straps? Yes
Cool designs? Yes
Reversible? Yes
Adjustable nose piece? No
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? Yes
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? Yes
*For every mask purchased, one is donated to someone in need.
Adjustable straps? Yes
Cool designs? Yes
Reversible? No
Adjustable nose piece? Yes
Machine washable? Yes, but hand washing is recommended
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? Yes
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? Yes
*Masks are made with Anti-Microbial, nano silver-infused fabric. Clear-It Antifog solution is recommended for smile masks to prevent fogging.
Adjustable straps? No
Cool designs? Yes
Reversible? No
Adjustable nose piece? No
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? No
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? Yes
Adjustable straps? No
Cool designs? Four color options
Reversible? No
Adjustable nose piece? No
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? Yes
Filter included? Yes
Kid sizes? No
*A better fit for larger faces. For every mask purchased, one is donated to Direct Relief.
Adjustable straps? Yes
Cool designs? Three color options
Reversible? No
Adjustable nose piece? Yes
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? Yes
Filter included? Yes
Kid sizes? No
*Made from sustainable bamboo fabric that naturally repels odors, allergens, and toxins.
Adjustable straps? Yes
Cool designs? Yes
Reversible? Yes
Adjustable nose piece? No
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? No
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? Yes
Athleta
Adjustable straps? Yes
Cool designs? Yes
Reversible? Yes
Adjustable nose piece? Yes
Machine washable? Yes
More than one layer? Yes
Filter pocket? No
Filter included? No
Kid sizes? Yes