The Best Sweat-Wicking Face Masks
With COVID-19 interrupting our daily routines, exercising is as important as ever for both your physical and your mental health. Although it is not mandatory in Virginia to wear a face covering in the gym, it’s always a good idea to observe best practices in an effort to #stopthespread of COVID-19. With masks being the new norm we’ve researched the best masks that we recommend for daily and active use.
Although it may seem like you are getting less air while wearing a mask, experts suggest otherwise. According to Dr. Christopher Gee, MD, MPH, at the University of Utah, masks don’t change the concentration of oxygen that we are able to breath in but rather just minimally restrict the flow of air. “We are likely getting plenty of oxygen, but the lack of airflow can cause “air hunger” that can make athletes panic and experience a perceived increased rate of exertion and decreased performance during exercise. This feeling is similar to the physical and psychological effects experienced while training in locations at higher altitudes.”
However, if you experience any symptoms like dizziness, headache, or muscular weakness while wearing your mask, stop and take a break until they subside. If able, remove your mask and try taking a few calming breaths. This will restore your breathing levels and reduce the stress on your heart and lungs. If these symptoms continue or worsen, stop the activity. In serious cases, seek medical help.
Luckily, a number of manufacturers are now designing moisture-wicking face masks specifically for running, cycling, hiking, and working out. One of the top picks from online reviewers is the ‘Made to Move’ mask from activewear brand Athleta. An Instagram survey gave Athleta 4,500 responses from women and girls weighing in on what they wanted out of their exercise mask.
“The Made to Move Mask is a lighter, exercise-friendly mask made to stay on your face during exercise,” says Jana Henning, head of product at Athleta. “It’s made from the brand’s featherweight fabric, which combines comfort and performance, creating less friction on your face and preventing heat and oil build-up.”
When health officials suggested that people should wear facemasks, Under Armour also started building prototypes until they made the perfect one for athletes. The UA Sportsmask has an inside fabric that is anti-microbial treated and designed with UA Iso-Chill technology so the mask actually feels cool against your skin. The breathable middle layer lets air through but makes it hard for moisture and sweat to pass. The fit is secure-but-not-tight, with a soft, adjustable nose bridge, and a strip of base layer fabric for a snug fit under glasses. It doesn’t get any better than this!
Although Success Studio does not require you to wear a face-covering while actively exercising, investing in a sweat-wicking sports mask is a great way to have a high-quality mask that provides optimal comfort throughout your day!
Success Studio has partnered with the local Charlottesville Athleta. If you would like to try the mask or other Athleta merchandise, we have 20 percent off coupons at the front desk for you to use. Show us your receipt to receive extra Sweat-er points!
