
Best face mask for exercising in 2020, according to experts
Need a breathable face mask before your next workout? We consulted experts on everything you should know before buying one of these essential face masks.
Hanna Horvath


Hanna Horvath


These exercise masks are made of two layers, polyester and spandex, as well as a cotton liner. Masks are machine-washable and available in different colors (to match your workout outfit, of course). The athleisure brand is also donating 100,000 non-medical masks to Mayo Clinic.
These masks, sold on Etsy, come in four neutral colors: beige, black, checkered and khaki. Masks are antimicrobial and waterproof, with adjustable ear loops.
This antimicrobial face mask is made up of two layers of spandex-polyamide material. Masks are machine-washable and fast-drying, and additionally offer UV protection. They are one-size-fits-all.
These one-size-fits-all masks are made of a polyester-spandex blend with moisture-wicking technology. Additionally, they come with a breathable mesh lining on the inside. Masks are machine-washable and come in packs of six.
These masks are machine-washable and made of a dual-layer polyester blend. Masks come in packs of three and are one size fits all.
These Etsy face masks are handmade from muslin and waterproof fabric. Masks come with a filter pocket and three protective layers. The mask is also machine washable.
The company’s 2.0 face mask comes in different colors and in three sizes based on weight. Masks are built with an inner synthetic rubber sleeve and outer silicone layer. Each mask has six air resistance caps for increased (or decreased) air flow. Masks are not machine-washable.
These black masks come in three sizes and are made of two layers: a 100-percent polyester, antimicrobial outer layer and a nylon-spandex inner layer. Masks are fitted around the nose and chin and are meant to be hand-washed.
While some runners use running buffs, most don’t adhere to CDC guidelines, like those calling for multiple layers of fabric. In a statement, running buffs retailer Buff USA explained that while their buffs and neckwear fully cover your neck and mouth, their items cannot protect against getting or passing of the coronavirus — if you spend time outside or in proximity to others, the CDC, WHO and experts we've consulted on multiple guides to face masks recommend wearing a face mask.
This running buff is made of a single layer of cotton jersey, is machine -washable and one-size-fits-all. The material is breathable and comes in gray.
This running buff sits around your neck and can be pulled up over the mouth and nose. Buffs are made of 100-percent microfiber and are stretchy for a snug, optimal fit. It comes in four colors, and is one-size-fits-all.
This fleece neck gaiter is made of a lightweight polyester-spandex fleece fabric blend. The gaiter is designed to fit snugly around your neck and mouth while working out or outside.
This running buff comes in a number of colors and is one-size-fits-all. The buff is machine-washable and made of 100-percent polyester. The material is breathable and moisture wicking.
This running neck warmer fits snugly around the neck and comes in two sizes. It’s made of a polyester, nylon and spandex blend and sports moisture-wicking technology.
These buffs are made of stretchy, breathable fabric made from bamboo. The fabric is antibacterial and offers UV protection up to 50 SPF. Buffs are swim-friendly and machine-washable, and come in 13 colors.
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