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Accessory of Necessity Need a new face mask? We’ve got you covered By Jamie Ueda
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ACE MASKS HAVE BECOME a new normal for society. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people wear cloth face masks to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, and in many locales, doing so is required in public spaces. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which is the best mask to buy — and which will work best for you. So, product-testing company Reviewed tried dozens of face masks for you. To gauge wearability and comfort, we evaluated how easy it was to put on and take off
each mask. We also noted if adjustments were needed for the nose wire, ear loops or ties to keep the mask in place. Next, we assessed the effectiveness of each mask by evaluating the material and fit. To gauge quality, we washed them according to their care instructions and looked for any post-cleaning damage. We noted if their laundering instructions were inconvenient (i.e. if the mask was hand-wash only). We also examined the fabric to see if it was substantial or flimsy, as well as the overall sewing construction of the mask. After many hours spent researching, testing and wearing multiple brands, Reviewed found its favorite face coverings. Here are some of the best cloth face masks we tested:
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ATHLETA EVERYDAY NON MEDICAL MASKS $20 for a set of five; athleta.com PROS: Three layers of fabric; comfortable; easy to adjust; breathable CONS: Care instructions: lay flat to dry Athleta is known for its functional workout and active lifestyle clothing, so we were curious about how their masks would perform. After hours of wearing them, the face coverings were better than expected. While the material is thinner than other masks, each one is triple-layered. It strikes a nice balance between providing protection and breathability. The masks are comfortable to wear for long periods at a time, as they have adjustable ear loops for a customized fit and an adjustable nose piece. The one drawback is that care instructions advise they not be put in the dryer, which can be an inconvenience.
ATHLETA
