Best Breathable Face Masks to Fit Your Active Summer Lifestyle

Months into quarantine, and we’ve likely all experienced different versions of the following scenario: You’re trying to stay active by going on socially-distanced walks or jogs outside, only to notice that in no time, your masked mouth-breathing is starting to creep into Darth Vader territory. It might even be hard to maintain your normal pace if your face covering is not exactly allowing you to breathe normally, which — obviously — is an issue. Not one we’re ready to throw down on but certainly a nuisance.
Luckily, you’ve got options when it comes to breathable, fitness-adjacent face masks that allow you to stay cool and comfortable while outdoors. Unsurprisingly, top fitness brands like Adidas, Under Armour, and Outdoor Voices have been leading the charge with coverings that are made with athletes and workout enthusiasts in mind.  These 10 are definitely ones to try.

Reebok Face Covers 3-Pack. You don’t need to sacrifice comfort for protection with these soft, breathable masks that are perfect for wearing on a light jog or outdoor yoga in the park. Reebok Face Covers (XS/S) $20.00, available at Reebok; Reebok Face Covers (M/L ) 3-Pack, $20.00, available at Reebok.

Outdoor Voices Face Mask, 5-Pack.   If you’ve ever tried OV’s leggings, then you know first-hand the sweat-wicking power of the brand’s signature dry-touch fabric. According to one reviewer, these compressive masks (a steal at $25 for five) held up through outdoor CrossFit. Outdoor Voices OV Face Mask (one size), 5-Pack, $25.00, available at Outdoor Voices.

Under Armour Sportsmask.  While you can only pre-order them for now, Under Armour’s ultra-techy masks are well worth the wait. Each one features a layer of open-cell foam to allow for airflow while wicking away droplets and moisture. (It also comes with a washable, anti-microbial carrying pouch so you toss it in the machine without fear of ruining the construction.)  Under Armour UA SPORTSMASK, (Size range: S/M, M/L, L/XL, XL/XXL) $30.00, available at Under Armour.

Coal Lifestyle Mask. Coal’s 100% cotton masks have an adjustable nose strip that you can mold to the bridge of your nose making this mask a little easier if you’ve had issues with rubbing and pulling. Reviewers say they’re comfortable all day long.  Just know they are not recommended for high-impact workouts like running. Coal Lifestyle Mask (one size) $15.00, available at Sun & Ski Sports.

Carbon38 The Mask Kit. Carbon38’s mask is crafted from a fast-drying antibacterial material to keep you cool, and comes with a small laundry bag for convenient machine-washing. Carbon38 The Mask Kit – Small, $29.00, available at Carbon38; Carbon38 The Mask Kit – Large, $29.00, available at Carbon38.

Adidas Face Covers 3-Pack. The inner perforated lining of these recycled polyester masks allows for optimal breathability. Plus, $2 from every mask pack sale will benefit Save the Children’s Global Coronavirus Response Fund. Adidas FACE COVERS XS/S (intended for children) 3-PACK, $16.00, available at Adidas; Adidas FACE COVERS M/L 3-PACK, $16.00, available at Adidas.

Columbia Freezer Zero Neck Gaiter. This neck gaiter covers the face and neck with sweat-activated cooling technology, which reacts with sweat to lower the temperature of the material. There’s also built-in UPF 50 for protection from the sun. Don’t like neck gaiters? Columbia also sells a cooling, UV-protection Freezer Zero bandana for running. Columbia Freezer Zero Cooling Neck Gaiter (one size), $30.00 $19.90, available at Columbia.

Hammacher Schlemmer The Antibacterial Cooling Face Mask.Unlike masks that trap heat and sweat, this mask is lined with a breathable technical fabric that allows moisture to escape and remains cool against the skin. It’s also got adjustable earloops and an inner pocket so it can be worn with or without the disposable filter. Hammacher Schlemmer The Antibacterial Cooling Face Mask (one size), $19.95, available at Hammacher Schlemmer.

Zensah Performance Face Mask.  This performance mask is antibacterial, odor-free, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and reviewers claim it’s exceptionally comfortable for working out in outside. Act fast — this one keeps selling out! Zensah Performance Face Mask, $16.00, available at Zappos.

Mission Max Cooling Neck Gaiter.  This gaiter’s cooling technology cools up to 30° F below the average body temperature in just 30 seconds. Plus it can be worn as a headband once you hit the open road when there’s no one in sight.  Mission Max Cooling Neck Gaiter (one size), $19.99, available at Dick’s Sporting Goods.


Photo Credit: Elizaveta Galitckaia / Shutterstock.com