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22 Face Masks for Running That Are Super Lightweight and Breathable
Excessive moisture? Don’t know her!
The first time I tried to work out in a face mask, it wasn't pretty. The mask got all sweaty and I was breathing so heavy that I kept inhaling the cotton material into my mouth. Not cute. Honestly, it was so unpleasant that I started to question whether wearing a mask while doing cardio was really necessary.
But it totally is, considering we're still in a global pandemic (hi, Omicron surge...) and as per the CDC's guidelines, masks should be used in public settings even during high-intensity activities. The only exception is if you're in a well-ventilated area (aka outside) and you're able to stay six feet away from people at all times. Otherwise, mask up!
With that in mind, I began my search for an athletic face mask that I didn't totally hate working out in. And since you're here reading this, I'm gonna go ahead and bet you're in the same boat. So let's start with the basics: According to the CDC, you want to look for a mask that has at least two layers and is made from tightly woven fabric you can't see through. It should also have breathable material and fit snugly around your nose and chin with no gaps on the sides.
So, when it comes to athletic masks, the material they're made from is extra important. You want to look for something that's breathable AND sweat-wicking so it doesn't end up soaked in sweat or moisture from your mouth. Not only is that super uncomfy, but a report published by the CDC found that wet masks are less effective at filtering air than dry masks. In other words, steer clear of 100 percent cotton masks since they're v absorbent.
I know, I know, that's a lot of criteria to look for—so let's browse together, shall we? Here are 22 athletic face masks that'll keep you comfy and, most importantly, safe while workout out.
Oh, and P.S. If you're wondering whether or not we saw the CDC's updated guidelines on masks from earlier this month, we did! IYKYK, and if you don't, here's the lowdown: the CDC is now suggesting that N95 and KN95 masks are more effective than cloth masks. But before you totally ditch your pretty, nondisposable face coverings, know that these cloth bbs are still very effective. And if you can't get your hands on an N95 or a KN95 respirator, perhaps consider double masking with a disposable one underneath your cloth mask of choice.
Evolve Together We Stand Together, 30 Black Face Masks
Evolve Together We Stand Together, 30 Black Face Masks
These eco-friendly masks are incredibly lightweight and made with a water-resistant exterior and a moisture-absorbing interior. Love alllll of that.
Airinum Lite Air Mask
If want to ensure that your mask will fit your face properly during your run, go for this ergonomic style that has a 3D memory nose foam and a shapeable nose clip.
Caraa 3 Origami Adult Masks
Don't worry about your mask falling off while you're running with this bad boy. Not only does it have elastic earloops, but it also has a built-in necklace cord for secure wear.
Ouragami Active Mask
Gotta love a mask that was literally created for working out. Even though it's made with some heavy-duty fabric, it's still super breathable while being heat- and moisture-resistant.
SOCK FANCY Reusable Cloth Face Mask
Two-ish words: Triple-layered protection.
All my fellow glasses-wearers will appreciate this option. It has a 3D curved nose shape so your specs can sit evenly on top. Another perk: You can wear chapstick or lip gloss without stressing about transfer!
Shop Lezat Adult Rib Mask 5 Pack - Nude Palette
Shop Lezat Adult Rib Mask 5 Pack - Nude Palette
IMO, an aesthetically pleasing neutral mask is a must in your collection. Snag this muted set that is equally as cute as it is protective.
Masqd Ultra Sport Face Mask
Get this standout five-star mask that's "great for workouts," according to a reviewer.
TaziAthletics Neoprene Safety/Athletic Face Mask
Oh, you thought it was already hardcore with its neoprene shell? Well, get this: This affordable gem has also got piping around its perimeter to guarantee maximum sealing.
CanDidArtAccessories Black Abstract Face Mask
Add some boldness to your running 'fit with this graphic mask. It'll fit super snug on ya while you're doin' your cardio.
ASICS Runners Mask
You know it's gonna be good when it's made by a top-rated running shoe brand. That's all I gotta say!
UnderArmour Sportsmask
This mask was made specifically for ~athletes~. It's designed to sit up off your face so it won't get pulled into your mouth, even when you're breathing heavy. Plus, there's a special anti-microbial treatment on the inside layer to keep it from getting nasty. Yay!
KORAL Shiny Netz Face Mask
There are a lottt of leopard masks out there, but this one from Koral is by far the cutest. It's made from the same material as the brand's activewear sets for a snug yet breathable fit, ICYWW.
Carbon38 The Mask Kit - Small
Carbon38 The Mask Kit - Small
The fast-drying anti-bacterial fabric on this look will keep you comfy throughout your treadmill sesh.
adidas Face Covers
If your masks are always gaping at the sides or falling off your nose, try this guy. The XS/S size will stay securely on your face—even while you're doing sprints.
Athleta Everyday Non Medical Masks - 5 Pack
Hate doing laundry? Same. This pack of pleated masks will get you through five workouts before you have to run the washer.
Uniqlo AIRism MASK (PACK OF 3)
Trying to save some $$? Welp, you can't go wrong here. These three-layer masks from Uniqlo are less than five bucks each—yet, they're still moisture-wicking, breathable, and comfortable.
Halo Life Face Mask
Halo Life Face Mask
Unlike those masks that require you to buy a filter separately (annoying), Halo Life's comes with a reusable, water-resistant one.
Reebok Face Covers M/L - 3 Pack
Reebok Face Covers M/L - 3 Pack
Reviewers say this design is comfy, easy to breathe in, and won't pull on your ears. Sounds like a winner.
QueensFace Mesh Face Mask
This athletic face mask has racked up over 700 five-star reviews on Amazon. What makes it so great, you ask? Well, buyers say it's way more comfortable and breathable than others they've tried.
Megan Uy is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, where she searches for the best products in all things fashion, home, beauty, sex, gifts, and more, so you don’t have to. When she’s not writing for the site, she’s whipping up some cool and trendy content for the fashion section of the print magazine. She’s been with the brand since 2019 (when she was an itty-bitty editorial fellow), and she's also written for Delish, House Beautiful, and People. Follow her on Instagram to get some BTS of the editor life and chaotic NYC content. Also, feel free to hit her up if you ever wanna discuss the madness that is TikTok.
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