The following face masks for runners are designed to wick sweat and other moisture off your mouth and nose while adhering to current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mask guidelines. Fitness fanatics will appreciate that these masks are all made with at least 2 layers (if not 3 or more!) to act as a barrier for any potentially infectious particles in the air around you, which is a valid risk for even those running outside. A group of researchers in Belgium created buzz last summer after self-publishing data that suggests that runners and cyclists could potentially be inhaling each other’s exhalations during a workout even when maintaining six feet of distance. The research is limited, but the need is clear — runners and outdoor enthusiasts must remain masked up while working out in any public area.
How to shop the best masks for running and working out:
Cloth-based face mask design has come a long way since the pandemic began, and there are breathable options that are made with lighter fabrics so you can breathe easily. Lexie Sachs, Textile Director at the Good Housekeeping Institute, says the best masks for exercising are made from performance fabrics in place of cotton because these materials are smooth and better at wicking away your sweat. Polyester and polyester blends, in this case, can be engineered to wick the moisture by drawing it to outer fabric layers, leaving your skin cool and dry for longer.
When you’re picking a mask for any running or fitness routine, wear a mask that is:
Breathable. Effective masks will provide some breathing resistance due to filtration and proper fit, but you need to be able to take deep, even breaths if you’re spending lots of time outside working out. Current recommendations from the CDC suggest two layers of fabric, Sachs notes, as well as a design that covers your nose, mouth, chin, and can form a firm seal against your cheeks. In terms of disease prevention, tightly woven cotton masks have been shown to be most effective (silk masks may also repel infectious particles and droplets more effectively than other options). To be clear: Activewear masks aren’t as effective in protecting you from infectious airborne particles and droplets, but are suitable for outdoor use, where risks for transmission are considerably lower than poorly ventilated indoor areas. Read more about the best ways to exercise indoors here.
Snug and tight. Some cloth-based masks are built to stretch over a filter or another medical disposable option, and while that’s okay if you’re breathing normally, extra fabric can be an issue if you’re huffing and puffing. A mask should form a firm seal around your chin and cheeks so that it’s not shifting or slipping out of place while you run or exercise, Sachs says; and it won’t feel like you’re sucking in fabric every time you inhale and exhale while you’re outside.
Comfortable around your ears (or head!). Whether you choose a mask that features ear loops, or surgical-style ties that secure around the crown of your head and the nape of your neck, is up to you. Ultimately, you want to be able to wear your mask the entire time you’re exercising without having to stop and adjust it routinely. Sometimes, an adjustable head tie may be a better fit than ear loops — trying it could be a serious upgrade for any runner.
Washable and rugged. Material choice is everything, and the masks on this list are made with materials that can help keep you cool and comfy, but they’re also going to stand up to vigorous use! Washing a soiled mask between public workouts is a must, and you don’t want a mask that’ll lose its quality with repeated washing. If you’re dead set on using a disposable mask in the case that you don’t have access to in-home laundry, one of the cotton options below may be better suited for you.
Below, shop some of our favorite face masks for runners and fitness enthusiasts who are planning on staying active while outside this spring, summer, and fall.
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3-Ply Reusable Face Mask
EnerPlex amazon.com$24.95
This mask has racked up more than 85,000 reviews on Amazon and has still maintained a near-perfect 5-star rating. Its cotton-blend fabric base is designed alongside an outer polyester layer that’s finished with a water-repellent exterior. The bulk pack works out to have pricing for each mask around $6.25.
5 Universal Adult Masks
Caraa caraasport.com$25.00
A more traditional cotton mask, we love how Caraa’s mask includes a 100% cotton poplin layer that works to be more breathable and less stifling. The outer layer is made from a more tightly woven cotton, making this a great option for anyone in crowded outdoor spaces, alongside a built-in pocket for added carbon filters. The nose clip will help keep the mask in place as you run, and the ear loops can be knotted to keep it secure while you exercise if needed.
Adrenaline Sports Face Mask Kit
OR Outdoor Research outdoorresearch.com$21.75
This mask is made using a multi-layered polyester mesh front, keeping your breathing even and steady while you run, bike or lift. The ear loops are fully adjustable to keep pressure fatigue from hurting your earlobes, and users can use an optional add-on head strap to eliminate the need for ear loops altogether. The mask also is made with a filter pocket for disposable filters that are included with your purchase; you can keep a few extras in the storage bag that the mask comes in.
Active Performance Facemask
New Balance newbalance.com$24.99
This form-fitting design works in three separate layers that extend below your jawline and sit squarely on the upper bridge of your nose. Rather than use ear loops, New Balance’s mask features adjustable crown and neck straps to keep pressure off your ears; there’s also a nosepiece to ensure a set fit. The moisture-wicking polyester mask also comes with a storage pouch that runners can secure to their wrist — a great option if you need to swap out a mask after training for hours.
Adult Reusable Face Mask
Green Sprouts greensproutsbaby.com$7.99
We’ve previously spotlighted the genius design in this breathable mask (which also comes in kids’ sizes!) due to the fact that an activated carbon filter is seamlessly incorporated into its innermost layers. It’s outer layer, on the other hand, is water-resistant in nature, which works well with its polyester lining that will wick sweat and moisture over time.
Face Covers 3-Pack (M/L)
Available in six different colors, Adidas’ signature face covering is made with a recycled polyester they call Primegreen. It’s made with a flexible mask front and elastane ear loops that’ll stretch around your ear lobes. This lightweight option is perfect for those running their way through mostly free trails and roadways around their neighborhood.
AIRISM Cotton Face Breathing Mask (Pack of 5)
Made with a nylon and spandex blend, Uniqlo’s mask may feel the lightest of all during a sprint; but the mask is made with a filter as its third layer. The mask’s inner liner, made from the brands’ AIRism fabric, is designed to wick away moisture as well; the outer layer is made from mesh that repels UV rays, per manufacturer. Available in three different colors, Uniqlo’s mask also comes in a range of sizes (including XL!) to make sure the fit on your face is as snug as can be.
Women’s Activate Face Mask 2 Pack
Athleta athleta.gap.com$19.99
One of our best tested, Athleta’s Activate masks are made with moisture-wicking lightweight materials and a highly breathable mesh liner. The mask is equipped with a pocket for disposable filters and makes use of a removable head strap if you prefer to avoid ear loops altogether. The moldable nose wire actually extends into your cheek region, making this a superior option for anyone wearing glasses.
Under Armour UA Sportsmask
Under Armour underarmour.com$30.00
The outer mask is made from a hybrid foam-fabric construction that allows for a 3D raised fit on your face. The polyurethane inner foam layer makes breathing a bit easier compared to traditional woven fabrics but also allows for moisture and sweat to lift over time. The inner fabric is cool to the touch, and UA has added an anti-microbial finish to ward off any overt mask odors if you’re hard at work for hours at a time.
Face Covers 3-Pack
Another 2-layer option, Reebok’s polyester mask is best suited for those who are able to stay mostly free and clear of crowds in outdoor spaces. The ear loops stretch for comfort, and the mask includes a nose cover feature that aims to keep the mask from shifting while you’re in motion.
Hanes Wicking Cotton Masks, 10-Pack
Simple in its design, Hanes’ 100% cotton masks could be a great option to use if you’re hoping to double mask while exercising. The masks’ ear loops are made using soft cotton yarn and stretchy rubber features for a firm (but comfy!) fit. The nose piece can also help keep this mask in place while you move.
The Lunair Pro Mask
Lunair lunairwellness.com$18.00
Lunair’s mask makes use of a proprietary material that curbs odor in the inside of your mask, but its greatest feature is that it is made using five layers of breathable material. There are adjustable ear elastics for any size head, and a flexible nose piece to keep the mask secured to your face while running. This comprehensive mask comes with a mesh bag for a washing machine to keep it intact for seasons to come.
Face Masks
Medelita medelita.com$14.00
Designed by a manufacturer that creates personal protective equipment (PPE), this structured face covering is made with a proprietary material that can stretch to fit your face perfectly. Medelita’s ear loops are entirely adjustable, and there’s an extra-wide nose piece to keep the mask steady. There’s an antimicrobial feature that aims to reduce any odor as you sweat through your workout.
Adult Cotton Wicking Face Mask
Champion www.champion.com$5.00
If you prefer to use masks that you won’t have to constantly upkeep, but aren’t a fan of medical masks, Champion’s cotton mask is designed to be used through 20 washes. The 100% cotton build adheres to CDC guidelines with two light layers, and the pleated front can stretch to cover most any face comfortably. It’s a basic option that you can load up on due to the low price and swap out with other options later in the year.
Aqua Blue Tie-Dye Face Mask
Fila’s cotton mask is fun and certainly light, and comes in a multitude of fun prints and colors. But its construction is best suited for those who are navigating outdoor spaces that aren’t congested, as it is unable to repel liquids. Add a filter in its sewn-in interior pocket to up the protective nature of the mask, and you’ll feel better about just how lightweight this mask really is.
Mask and Ear Guard
Knit Engine knitengine.com$34.00
A 3D construction ensures that you’re not sucking in material while you run, as the front of the mask sits above your nose and mouth without bending to air movement. But Knit Engine’s masks’ best feature may be its unique head strap, which keeps the mask securely on your face with just one tie to consider. There’s also an aluminum nosepiece sewn into the four layers of fabric that make up this mask entirely.
Zee Krstic Associate Health Editor Zee Krstic is a health editor for GoodHousekeeping.com, where he covers the latest in health and nutrition news, decodes diet and fitness trends, and reviews the best products in the wellness aisle.
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