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21 Lightweight Face Masks for Your Next Heat Wave

Photo credit: courtesy
Photo credit: courtesy

Wearing a mask in a hot, stuffy room or under the scorching sun isn't comfortable for most — but remains necessary if you're in crowded spaces, or have yet to receive your COVID-19 vaccine. The good news? Not all masks are constructed the same, and there are plenty of breathable options to help you feel more comfortable in hotter temps — whether you're exercising in public, physically working outdoors or facing a local heatwave.

The Good Housekeeping Institute textile experts and health editors have reviewed hundreds of lightweight face masks to find the best options that are breathable while providing the best personal protection that masks can provide. Below, you'll learn about unique fabrications for lightweight face masks along with our picks for masks in each category you may be on the hunt for.

How to choose a breathable face mask:

  • Check CDC Suggestions. According to guidelines published by officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most effective types of masks to prevent users' from spewing infectious droplets into the air are surgical-grade medical masks, followed by those made from tightly woven 100% cotton. Ensure that the mask you choose is designed to cover your nose and mouth entirely, and can be secured against your head, neck, or ears.

  • Consider whether you'll be sweating. While cotton face masks are convenient and often breathable, the cotton fabric will absorb your sweat and stay wet if you're working out. In these cases, you're better off with a performance fabric that wicks moisture.

  • Look for protective features. Since lightweight, breathable materials may be less protective, make sure there are multiple layers of fabric. For even more protection, some masks have a nonwoven filter layer, while others have a pocket to add a disposable filter. A metal nose piece can also help create a more secure fit around the face.

Shop the best materials for breathable face masks:

Lightweight Cotton

Cotton is the most popular fabric for face masks, but some can be heavier (similar to denim), which won't be as breathable. Lightweight variations like poplin will feel cooler and more comfortable in the heat, while still adhering to the CDC's suggestion of 100% cotton woven fabric. You can also opt for cotton jersey fabrics, which feel more like a summer T-shirt. Just keep in mind that these are knit instead of woven, so be careful that they don't stretch too much while you're wearing them.

Performance Fabrics

Most exercise clothing is made of performance fabrics instead of cotton because these materials are lightweight, smooth, and better at wicking away your sweat. Activewear brands that are well-known for their innovative workout gear have adapted their fabrics into face masks that are specifically designed for exercise.

Wicking Materials

Certain polyester fabrics are engineered to wick moisture by transporting the sweat from your body to the outer fabric and spreading it out quickly, leaving your skin feeling cool and dry.

Water-Resistant Fabrics

Face coverings with a water-resistant finish on the outer fabric are ideal if you're concerned about less protection with lightweight, breathable masks. These help to protect against droplets from passing through without feeling overly stuffy.

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