Talking about the best face masks for running is a recurring theme that just a few months ago we wouldn't have thought of addressing in RUNNEA, but the situation is what it is and we must adapt to the circumstances and be aware that it will be an element that will accompany us for a long time. Whether you use it all the way through your training or competitions or occasionally when you cross paths with other people, the choice of a suitable running mask is key. In this article we will see which types of masks are the ones we like the most according to health recommendations and where you can buy them.
The best face masks for running
Returning to the central theme that concerns us, and applying common sense, it is more than likely that the mandatory use of the mask to go running will be imposed as a rule, especially in environments where it is difficult to maintain and keep the safety distance of social distancing.
Clearly, the effectiveness of the mask focuses on slowing the spread of Covid-19 transmission by retaining the droplets from each individual. So what masks do is protect other people from ourselves.
Now, what kind of mask can I use for sports, such as running? We resort to the detailed information published by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism on the classification of the different types of masks -which you can consult HERE-, with 5 models:
Mask + Particle filters (FILTER:P1,P2,P3).
- To protect the wearer from inhalation of dangerous particles.
- Correctly used with the two pieces of equipment ensure an acceptable level of protection against inhalation of particles.
- Reusable but not considered as PPE.
Self-filtering respirator (FFP1,FFP2,FFP3)
- Protect the wearer from inhalation of dangerous particles.
- Used correctly, they ensure an acceptable level of protection against inhalation of particles.
- Disposable or reusable but not considered as PPE.
Surgical mask (I,II,IIR)
- Prevent transmission of infectious agents from the wearer. Those indicated as IIR also provide protection against splashes of fluids that may be contaminated.
- Very low level of reliability of protection against inhalation of particles.
- Disposable, and not considered PPE.
Dual mask (FFP1,FFP2,FFP3 -AS PPE-//I,II,IIR -AS PS-)
- Same as the surgical mask adding the self-filtering against particles.
- Used correctly, they ensure an acceptable level of protection against inhalation of particles.
- Disposable and considered PPE.
Hygienic mask
- These are not designed to protect against any risk, and are not recommended for situations with exposure to hazardous agents.
- It is not classified as a medical device, nor is it considered PPE.
This is the theory that, when applied in practice, the results are quite different, because the need for them to be reusable and washable greatly restricts the options. Moreover, since the announcement of the start of de-escalation, sales of so-called training (or hypoxia) masks have skyrocketed. These are intended to simulate training at altitude, promoting lung capacity. Although it should also be noted that there is not much scientific evidence to prove it, and that the studies carried out to date are not very representative.
Best running masks
Under Armour Sportmask
Under Armour 's Sportmask is a running mask developed for athletes, since its features promote better airflow and a comfortable fit on the face, without having to give up that feeling of staying cool with every movement. The UA Sportmask features an effective 3 system, including ISO-CHILL technology, which disperses heat. Its disposable filters make it an environmentally friendly mask, but it's also a washable model that also offers high durability.
UYN Community mask
The UYN Community mask models stand out for their high durability, but also for being a reusable and washable product. It is a type of mask that offers a perfect fit to the contours of the mouth and nose, thanks to its ergonomic design, and is optimized for sports use. The three-dimensional fabric makes this mask more breathable, but it also features Texlyte Nano technology for quick drying and water repellency.
Eltin Mask
The Eltin mask is a protective mask for sports use that stands out for its universal, comfortable and versatile design. Ergonomic design that fits perfectly to cover mouth and nose without leaving any gaps. Made in 2 layers with Tek outer membrane - breathability , thermal insulation and waterproofing - and micro-mesh sides, they also have a Velcro closure on the back to ensure a perfect fit, avoiding chafing and straining.
adidas mask
The adidas buconasal mask stands out for its comfortable, washable and reusable design, and is made with two layers of fabric. It is made of 93% recycled polyester and 7 elastane. As it is a model included in the Primegren collection, the article is made of at least 40% recycled material. It comes in 3 format in sizes M/L. Soft, breathable and close-fitting design for greater coverage. For each sale, adidas will donate 2 to Save The Children's global Coronavirus response fund.
Reebok Mask
Reebok masks are also hygienic and follow the same line of performance and usability as the model presented by adidas. It also comes in a pack of 3 units with the consequent donation of 2 to Save The Children for each sale made. Apart from this tight, comfortable, reusable and washable design for daily use, another data to take into account of this Reebok sports mask is that it has a large size, whose dimensions are 17cm x 15.3 cm.
Ternua Airgill mask
The key element of the Ternua Airgill mask includes the innovative ViralOff technology, which allows a 99% reduction of viruses. Its outer fabric is developed to prevent splashing as well as to repel water. Composition of 80% polyester and 20% Spandex, in addition to incorporating Polygiene Odor Crunch, through which unpleasant odors are eliminated. Its 3D design offers comfortable and easy breathing, while at the same time offering easy fastening for wearing over the ears.
La Sportiva Stratos Mask
La Sportiva Stratos Mask is a hygienic protection mask with replaceable internal filter and certified for 99% filtration of bacteria and viruses (ISO 14683: 2019), as well as including a Viraloff by Polygiene® antimicrobial treatment. Its design also features internal Lycra Sensitive Comfort Layer gaiters at such strategic points as the chin and nose to ensure a higher degree of comfort, and which is made with a more breathable and resistant 3D mesh fabric.
Rinat mask
The Rinat models are reusable, washable, double-layer protective masks. Among its most outstanding features, it is an antibacterial and water-repellent product, but also breathable. It has an inner pocket to insert the filter, as well as a 6 mm rubber side adjustment for a perfect fit. It is important to note that this Rinat mask is not Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), so it should be used as a complement to protective masks (FFP2 or FFP3), and surgical masks.
ASICS Runners Face Cover
The ASICS Runners Face Cover has been specifically developed by the entire ASICS Institute of Sports Science (ISS) renowned product development team. The uniqueness of this sports mask lies in the combination of these unique vents for more comfortable breathing with a cutting-edge and more fashionable design. At the same time it is proven to be effective in stopping the spread of droplets that spread the virus. On the other hand, this ASICS Runners Face Cover also incorporates an antibacterial material, quick-drying fabric, and also allows you to drink water while you run.
Lurbel Face
Within its varied catalog of accessories and running accessories, the sports brand Lurbelalso incorporates the Lurbel Faz mask, and whose production is 100% in Spain. This mask includes the patented Regenactiv technology, associated with the Bmax technology that this manufacturer applies in its best-selling models of socks. But it also stands out for its ergonomic design and adaptability. Thanks to its soft and pleasant to the touch fabric, this mask can also be washed. Bacterial filtration efficiency up to approximately 95%.
McDavid sports mask
The McDavid sports mask stands out for being areusable and washable complement, in addition to being able to ensure an optimal degree of breathability. Sustainable manufacturing with a double layer of material and an inner lining with antibacterial and antimicrobial treatment. On the other hand, its wide Lycra-Polyester band ensures a good fit and hold on the ears without hurting them, thanks to its ergonomic design that offers support on the head to avoid pulling. Its outer shell is resistant to dust and water, without detracting from its adequate ventilation, so vaya offers good performance in any sporting activity.
226ERS Face mask
The renowned sports nutrition firm 226ERS has also been another brand that has joined the development, production and marketing of protective masks for running. In this particular case, in the absence of one, with two versions: Face Mask Hydrazero and Face Mask Black, because, after all, colors are made for different tastes. Manufactured entirely in Spain, these masks are designed to adapt to both daily use and sports practice. That is why their quality, protection and resistance levels are superior. Ergonomic design to cover the entire contour of the face, and also to fit with a double position: below the ears and in diagonal position.
Otso
Otso face masks are made with a triple layer, using materials such as: cotton (first layer), which, in addition to filtering bacteria, prevents skin irritation; olipropylene (second layer) which ensures a specific structure of microfiltration CA, and is also a water-repellent fabric; polyester (third layer) which is responsible for providing the quality and comfort of the product. These masks are washable and reusable; they are available in two sizes for adults and for young people (smaller faces); they are also available in different colors and prints.
SPORT HG Hygienic reusable
The HGLIMIT model is one of the reusable hygienic reusable face masks of the Sport HG brand. 100% made in Spain, one-size-fits-all for adults, and complies with the UNE 0065:2020 specification . It stands out for being a comfortable and breathable mask, while offering great protection, since its bacterial filtration (92%) and breathability (49 Pa/cm2) tests have been developed by Aitex.
Trango Seamless Sport
The ergonomic shape of the Trango Seamless Sport BK mask has the mission to adapt to the entire face, covering mouth and nose, adding an integral fit with its bi-elastic fabric. It is a reusable hygienic product, as it is resistant to up to 15 washes. Thanks to its antibacterial Polygiene ViralOff treatment, this mask offers 90% protection. Available in one size.
Regatta Stretch
This Regatta Strecth mask is a very elastic model that adapts and adjusts to the face without any problems. Its design features a 3D engineered pattern, as well as laser-cut holes for the ears. It is an antibacterial and machine washable mask, being a reusable product. Made from a stretch knit fabric with 95% polyester and 5 elastane.
Run Sport
The Run Sport facemask is one of the optimized options forhigh-intensity libre sports practice, being also reusable and washable. Apart from its attractive designs, one of the arguments in favor of this Run Sport is the density of its 120 grams polyester fabric. These models feature 3 layers of protection, as well as an outer fabric that is very soft to the touch and tested to prevent chafing. It is also noteworthy that all the seams of this mask are flat, thus reducing possible rashes. In terms of support, this comes from the hand of an elastic material that adapts to the morphology of the ears.
Wind X-Treme mask Pro
The Wind X-Treme mask Pro is another of the most interesting options that bets for the double functionality of incorporating mask and tubular for the neck in a single piece. The mask functionality is fully approved, as it complies with all the bacterial filtration and breathing efficiency parameters of the Spanish UNE 0065/2020 standard, as well as the European CWA 1553:2020. The mask has a double layer with AITEX-approved fabric, in addition to including an exclusive treatment by the Swiss brand SANITIZED, which guarantees high protection against bacteria and viruses. It is a reusable and machine washable hygienic mask.
RaidLight Mask Mountain
This is a 2-for-1 option because RaidLight s Mask Mountain comes in a double format of mask and tubular bandana. Developed in 100% polyester fabric, the tubular mask can withstand up to 10 washes while maintaining its performance, and the mask area has filtering and breathable fabrics. The nose piece is made of stainless steel for a smooth and perfect fit, being compatible with the use of glasses. While the tubular fabric is also polyester, very light and breathable.
Broyx Sport mask
Broyx Sport mask is an anti-allergic and anti-smog labeled product, which has the CE safety mark and also the personal protective equipment certificate. This type of mask comes equipped with two valves that facilitate the exhalation phase, also improving breathability. Its filter is replaceable and designed with 4 layers, one of which is made of activated carbon, while its filter fleece (electret E12) offers a filtering performance of 99%. In addition, the fabric of this Broyx Sport mask is made of non-sheared polyester.
Puma
The Puma mask is made with a triple layer that can be washed and reused. Attractively designed, it comes in a two-pack: one with the Puma cat detail and the other with the "Stronger Together" motif. The model incorporates an adjustable rubber band that allows it to adapt to any face. The sale of each pack of these masks has a solidarity contribution, since a percentage of the benefits is destined to the 100,000€ that Puma plans to donate to the Solidarity Response Fund to the UN COVID-19 for the World Health Organization (WHO).
ARCH MAX
One of the most outstanding details of ARCH MAX reusable hygienic masks is that it is a product called eco-mask, because it is made of 100% recycled polyester fabric, as well as including a biodegradable filter. It complies with UNE 0065:2020 certification, and can be washed for up to 50 washes. It is highly breathable, includes a nose clip for improved fit, and its fabric is made to avoid allergies and skin irritation.
FITmask
The FITmask FITmask meets the technical specifications UNE 0065:2020, and it is a product manufactured and produced in Spain. In addition to a double-layer fabric it also incorporates an intermediate filter, which helps to reduce the spread of particles, increasing protection; but also improves air filtration. It is a reusable and washable mask, with AITEX approval, and its composition is made of polyester (82%) and elastane (18%) . The FITmask is designed for any type of activity, and its inner filter must be replaced after 5 washes.
Newland Mask
Newland mask combines performance and design with the latest fashion trends. In one size, the composition of this product is made up of 65% polypropylene 33% polyamide 2 elastomer. It presents 3 layers with fabric certified by OEKO-TEX, and whose main characteristics are: filtering, breathable, antibacterial and hypoallergenic. Its ergonomic structure offers a perfect adaptation to the face without sacrificing comfort.
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