Nota bene: If you buy through the links in this article, we may earn a small share of the profits.
Almost exactly a year ago to the day, we wrote that face masks were here to stay. Unfortunately … it would appear that we were correct in that assertion.
After a short hiatus, it looks as though masks are getting set to mount their triumphant return, as we gear up for what is starting to feel eerily like the third act, so to speak. And while they are not yet being enforced across the board, evidenced by the rise of the Omicron variant even amongst the vaxxed, facial coverings are once again becoming imperative to stopping the spread — so, you know the deal. Wear one.
That said, almost two years into this thing, there are a staggering amount of mask options on the market, with almost every retailer pedaling their own branded iteration. In the event that you prematurely threw your stock away post-vaccination, or that you’re still looking for a face covering that suits you, we’ve compiled a list of the 22 best face masks you can buy on the internet.
Best for Working Out
Outdoor Research Face Cover Kit
We reviewed this mask back in November 2020, and everything we wrote about it then still rings true today — up to and including the bit about it being on sale for half off.
Under Armour
With built-in UPF 50+ sun protection, an anti-microbial treated inner layer, a water-resistant outer shell and a structured design that sits up off the face for added breathability, this UA is the sport mask.
lululemon Ear Loop Face Mask 3-Pack
Sweat-wicking and with adjustable ear loops, these masks from lululemon is great for on the move — whether it’s at the gym or through a crowded airport
Adidas Face Covers, 3-Pack
A hot-ticket item, these Adidas masks have been known to sell out. Constructed of Primegreen, a combination of high-performance recycled materials, its an all-around great product, and if you’re lucky enough to find one in stock, we’d urge you to purchase it immediately.
Nike Venturer Performance Face Mask
This mask first made a splash after members of Team USA were seen donning them at the Olympics. Described as being sort of “villainous” in design, Nike says the pleats allow for “optimal airflow.” They’ve been virtually impossible to get since the start of the games, but they’re supposedly set to be restocked soon.
Rhone Plus 2-Layer Protective Face Mask
An ultra-soft 2-layer construction, moldable nose bridge and treated with GoldFusion technology, this mask is everything we love about Rhone.
The Everlane 100% Human Face Mask 3-Pack
10% of the proceeds from Everlane’s 100% collection go to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) — so you can double up on your societal contributions all in one shot.
UNIQLO AIRism Face Masks, 3-Pack
These masks from Uniqlo feature a three-layer construction — the first wicks away moisture, the second has a washable built-in filter and the third uses “AIRism” mesh to block UV rays.
Breathable 3-Layer, Disposable Masks fromAmazon
Just your trusty, 3-layer, disposable dust filter masks. These come in packs of 100 for just $30.
Boncare KN95 Face Mask, 50-Pack
This mask is a 5-layer design, 95% effective, and also happens to be the “summer model,” with an emphasis on comfort and lightness.
From Your Favorite Menswear Brands
Huckberry Cotton Jersey Face Mask
Moisture-wicking, breathable, temperature-regulating and odor-resistant, this one from Huckberry is a no brainer
Buck Mason Built-Tough Bandana 2-Pack
If you’re more of a bandana guy, allow us to introduce you to the Buck Mason Built-Touch Bandana, modeled off the “Fast Color” vintage bandana.
The Rag & Bone Stealth Mask
If there were such a thing as a handsome mask … this one from Rag & Bone would be it.
J.Crew Non-Medical Face Masks in Mixed Prints, 3-Pack
These J.Crew masks come in their signature fabrics and a variety of mixed prints, but they do request customers purchase just two sets (six masks) at a time so that there’s enough to go around.
Caraa Universal Adult Masks, 5-Pack
At the start of the pandemic, Caraa was one of many companies using repurposed materials — materials found on their production line — to make their masks. They’ve since expanded their product offering to include these bestselling, 100% cotton masks, which come in packs of assorted colors or in all black.
The Best Luxury Masks
Balenciaga Logo Mask
Water-repellant and with adjustable nose wires, this Balenciaga mask is as functional as it is good looking. Also very expensive.
Tom Ford Face Mask
As far as “luxury” masks go, this one from Tom Ford is pretty subtle. Constructed of an interlock jersey knit and featuring a jacquard Tom Ford logo front and center, it comes in 11 different colors.
Versace Reusable Barocco Face Mask
Perhaps lacking in versatility, this mask looks like it’s about to board a flight to Miami where it will be staying at The Villa Casa Casuarina.
M. Cohen Reversible Cotton Non-Medical Face Mask
This is one of the pricier masks we’ve seen to date, but at this point maybe we should be investing in masks the same way we would a watch or sunglasses?
Highly Breathable Athletic Face Mask from Studio3DX
An “Etsy Pick” (so you know they’re good), these sport masks are a spin on another bestseller. For every two sales of this particular mask, another is donated to a service worker (and they are available to buy in packs).
Linen Face Masks with Nose Wire from MassonApparel
A good option to carry you straight through to the fall, these masks are perfect for summer for warm weather.
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