The Best Breathable Face Masks For Running And Exercising

Here are the safest types of face coverings for outdoor and indoor workouts, according to experts.
Safely exercising during the COVID-19 pandemic means looking out for your own health and the health of those around you.
Thomas Barwick via Getty Images
Safely exercising during the COVID-19 pandemic means looking out for your own health and the health of those around you.

Exercise — especially when it has meant time outdoors — has been a lifeline for many of us during the coronavirus pandemic, particularly in the first few months of lockdowns. However, what we could safely do was pretty limited. Now, thanks to warmer weather and vaccines, workout options will expand for people in the coming weeks. Running outdoors, taking fitness classes or spending some time in the gym all feel more possible than they did last year.

But to exercise right now also still means looking out for your own health and the health of those around you. It’s important to continue taking the proper precautions to prevent COVID-19, which includes wearing a face mask in most cases.

We turned to the experts to find out which athletic and sports face masks they recommend for various workouts. Here’s what you should know, along with some options:

Do you need to wear face masks while running outside?

We know that wearing a face mask is perhaps one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, and that the more people wearing them, the better. However, we also now know that the risk of COVID-19 spreading outdoors ― particularly in a setting like running ― is somewhat minimal. Some people are even calling for the removal of outdoor mask guidelines given the lower risk of transmission.

If you’ve tried running or working out with a face mask on, you probably had a hard time breathing and broke more of a sweat than you bargained for. Experts say it’s not completely necessary to wear a mask while you’re running or walking outside when you’re not around others. That said, it’s best to bring one with you (more on the proper one in a minute) so you can wear it if you end up being near people.

Should you wear a face mask when going to the gym or fitness classes?

Absolutely. Whenever you’re indoors and around others, it’s best to wear a face covering to protect yourself and the people around you. Risk of transmission in places like gyms or workout studios increases compared to exercising outside. Indoor spots have lower ventilation, and you’re in closer proximity to other people (people who are breathing heavily, mind you).

The face mask recommendation holds true even if you’re fully vaccinated. While your personal risk is low if you’ve received your shot, others in the space ― whether they’re other gymgoers or employees ― might not be vaccinated. Wearing a face mask ensures that everyone is doing their part to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

What face mask material is best for running and exercising?

The material and fit of your sports face mask is important to consider because the best face mask materials can limit the spread of large and small virus particles.

A September 2020 study suggested that gaiters, which many people prefer when working out, may be one of the worst choices. The material is porous compared to other masks, and it’s harder to make them fit snugly to your face. Bandanas are also not very effective options, according to the research. That said, the study had a lot of limitations (it wasn’t set up to mimic real-world behavior, for one) and the researchers received some backlash from other scientists and journalists. Those options may be fine depending on your activity ― for example, a fitness class outside.

Lightweight and moisture-wicking face mask materials like polyester and Spandex are ideal for sports and athletic face masks, according to Roberto Mandje, the head coach of the New York Road Runners and former Olympic athlete.

“The mask should contain less cotton or linen-like materials, as these don’t breathe as well, causing the mask to become more sweat-soaked as you go deeper into your run or workout,” Mandje said.

Mandie also pointed out that “you want the mask to be reusable and washing machine-friendly.”

The Mayo Clinic supports this recommendation, noting that a mask won’t impede your performance. It also notes that you should pay attention to the number of layers in your mask:

Mask material should be no more than two layers thick or less. Unfortunately, surgical masks may break down, as they become wet from sweat and increased exhalation that occurs during exercise.

Aside from the mask breakdown, the use of surgical or N95 respirators has been found to be safe with minimal effects on major performance factors, such as heart rate, respiration rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation (SO) during aerobic training.

If you don’t have any of these options available to you and you know you’re likely not going to be in a crowd, then bring whatever mask you have. In the end, any face covering is better than no covering at all when you’re around people, according to Dr. Daniel Devine of Devine Concierge Medicine.

“I recommend a mask with a tight weave of fibers versus a face covering made of loosely woven fibers like many bandanas,” he told HuffPost in August 2020. “[However], any breathable face covering, simple bandana included, is better than no face covering when running in crowded areas.”

Devine advised looking for face masks that are moisture-resistant, because face masks tend to lose their structural integrity and can distort the seal around the face when they get damp. Choosing a face mask with a nose wire you can shape or built-in nasal support (like these on Etsy or this one from Amazon) can help maintain that seal.

On the hunt for the best breathable face masks for running and workouts? Take a look at some options below.

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Prices and availability subject to change.

1
Under Armour Sports Mask
Under Armour
This athletic face mask is made with high-performance materials designed to be worn during sports and workouts. Find it for $30 at Under Armour.
2
graf lantz Regular Zenbu Organic Cotton Face Mask
graf lantz
This breathable cotton face mask has adjustable ear straps and a nose bridge for a secure fit. It also has a spot for you to add extra filters. Find it at graf lantz for $22.
3
lululemon Ear Loop Face Mask (Pack Of Three)
lululemon
These sweat-wicking face masks come with adjustable ear loops so you can get the right size. They come in a pack of three in multiple colors. Find it at lululemon for $34.
4
Shock Doctor White Play Safe Face Mask
Shock Doctor
This athletic face mask has a lightweight design that wraps around the back of your head to it won't slip during burpees, jumps or long runs. It's also easier on the ears. Plus, it features an easy-access flap for staying hydrated. Find it for $10 on sale at Shock Doctor.
5
Page One Multifunctional Face Mask Gaiter
Amazon
This workout neck gaiter is good for outdoor workouts when you need it. It's made with thin, lightweight material and can be tightened to snugly fit your face. Find it for $13 on Amazon.
6
Champion Moisture-Wicking Face Mask
Champion
This two-layer mask is made with moisture-wicking cotton. It also has a nosepiece embedded so you can guarantee it fits correctly. Find it for $6 at Champion.
7
Koral Shiny Netz Face Mask
Koral
This athletic face mask is made with antimicrobial performance fabric and stretchy Lycra, making it a comfortable option. Find it for $10 at Koral.
8
Keen Together Mask
Keen
This breathable face mask is made with two layers of BCI-certified (Better Cotton Initiative) canvas and has adjustable ear slides. Keep in mind that it's not made of sweat-resistant materials, though. Find it for $4 at Keen.
9
NEWMARK Cloth Face Mask (Pack Of Three)
Amazon
Reviewers praise these face masks for being breathable and well-fitted. They come with adjustable ear straps and an adjustable nosepiece. Find it on Amazon for $17.
10
Onzie Mindful Mask
Onzie
This athletic face mask is made with upcycled activewear materials, including Spandex, for a stretchy and breathable fit. Find it for $24 at Onzie.

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