10 reusable face masks that Team KCM loves.
As the highly contagious Delta variant spreads across the country, it’s throwing a wrench in people’s plans to go back to work, school, and normal life in general. Mask mandates are becoming increasingly common once again, and some cities and states are requiring people to mask up in outdoor spaces as well. If you’ve let your reusable mask supply dwindle over the past couple of months, we have you covered.
We, too, are dreading going back to damp, clingy masks that seem to breed “maskne,” but we’ve also learned that not all masks are created equal and most of our mask collections need an upgrade. Some don’t offer enough protection, some don’t fit well, and others feel like a gas mask. Fortunately, team KCM has rounded up 10 reusable, comfortable face masks that balance protection with breathability. These breathable masks are designed to allow us to live life as normally as possible — whether traveling, working, socializing, or exercising — but with a layer (or three, to be exact) of protection for ourselves and others.
Our reusable face mask guide prioritizes comfort but also style and breathability. Our favorite masks range from soft layers of protective, comfortable cotton to high-tech fabrics engineered to perfection. We can guarantee you’ll find the perfect mask for you on any given day, from moisture-wicking masks on hot days to casual masks for leisurely walks to performance masks for working out.
The Best Reusable, Breathable, and Comfortable Masks
Hello Friend Ultra Mask 1.0
The Hello Friend Ultra Mask is, well, ultra in every sense: Ultra-protective, ultra-breathable, and ultra-comfortable. It’s made of recycled polyester designed to keep your face cool and dry, and comes with a replaceable five-layer filter that you can purchase a discounted subscription for. The masks are lab-tested and proven to provide 95 percent protection — and did we mention they’re currently 40 percent off? Trust us, this will be your go-to mask for long days of errands or work.
NxTSTOP 3-Layer Cotton Face Mask
As a brand dedicated to comfortable travel wear, the NxTSTOP knows how to make a mask you won’t mind wearing for six hours straight. Their three-layer cotton mask offers a high level of protection but is constructed to hold the fabric away from your mouth and nose for extra breathability.
Rafi Nova Adult Performance Mask, set of 2
Rafi Nova’s three-layer mask is shaped for a more secure fit and includes toggles around the chin so you can fit it perfectly to your face. The middle layer is made of a cotton-poly blend antibacterial filter that offers a high level of protection and breathability. The inner layer is moisture-wicking to keep you comfortable, whether you’re working out or sitting at a desk. The masks come in multiple sizes to fit every face.
Gap Unisex Full-Coverage Accordion Mask, set of 3
Gap’s unisex mask is affordable, comfortable, breathable, and — dare we say — stylish. The packs of three come in fun patterns and colors and are made of three layers of breathable cotton. For those looking for a tighter fit, Gap also sells an equally comfortable contour mask with adjustable ear loops and a filter pocket for extra protection.
Vida 99% Filtration Protective Cotton Mask, set of 5
Vida’s double-layered masks come with filters that block up to 99 percent of airborne particles. The filters can be used for seven days before being replaced, and Vida sells them in packs of five so you can stock up while checking out.
Vistaprint Face Mask
For a super secure and comfortable mask that comes in as many patterns as you could possibly want, you’ve come to the right place. Vistaprint’s lightweight face masks are machine-washable and moisture-wicking, and they come in different sizes to ensure a snug fit around your chin and nose. They’re also designed with a pocket for replaceable filters that can be used for 12 hours of active filtering time. The filters — sold in packs of ten — slide into the pocket easily and are designed to allow for good airflow, so you won’t be stuck with a damp mask.
Clare V. Bisous Tie-Back Reusable Face Masks, set of 4
These Clare V. Bisous masks from Anthropologie take the cake as the prettiest masks around. Made of three layers of breathable cotton, the contoured masks are the perfect size for full coverage without any gapping. We love that you can either tie the masks around your ears or ponytail for the most comfortable fit.
Outdoor Research Face Cover Kit
Outdoor Research does not disappoint with their Face Cover Kit, which is currently on sale for 50 percent off. The kit comes with a face mask and a three-pack of filters that, when worn together, are naturally breathable and filter more than 95 percent of virus, bacteria, and particles. The masks, which are made of durable polyester, are designed to allow for breathing room around your face without any gapping. It’s the ideal mask for high-impact activities like running or hiking.
Summersalt Face Covering, set of 3
Summersalt brings its signature colorblock to this cute and comfortable face mask. The masks are made out of recycled materials and are durable enough to go in the washing machine time after time. They’re designed to fit snugly around your chin to give you a secure fit and hold the mask away from your mouth so you can breath easy.
Boody SoftTouch Face Mask
Boody’s triple-layer mask is made of the same bamboo viscose as the rest of the brand’s apparel, meaning it’s soft, lightweight, and highly breathable. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps your face dry all day and is also soft enough not to irritate even sensitive skin. The adjustable straps for getting the best fit and filter pocket are an added bonus to an already great mask. Say goodbye to those pesky breakouts for good.
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