testing testing

We Tested 75 (and Counting) Actually Kind of Stylish Fabric Face Masks

Photo: Abacaxi

In order to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, the CDC recommends everyone wear a face mask in public. This is especially important now that we have seen new, more contagious COVID variants rapidly spreading in the United States and abroad. According to Dr. Sten Vermund, an infectious-disease epidemiologist and dean of the Yale School of Public Health who published a study on the subject, “many types of masks can essentially block droplet transmission. If you aerosolized the virus, it might seep through a lot of masks, but when most people cough, the aerosol released is a small volume and the droplet is a large volume. So if you block the droplets, you may substantially reduce exposure.”

Dr. Purvi Parikh, an immunologist with NYU Langone Health who was involved in two of the COVID vaccine trials, says, “We’re finding that upwards of 50 percent of cases are happening by asymptomatic spread. So even if you’ve been vaccinated, it is crucial to continue to wear masks because we know the vaccine prevents you from getting symptomatically sick, but we don’t know for sure yet if the vaccine will prevent you from passing the virus without symptoms.” Outdoors continues to be safer than indoors, but you should still wear a mask while walking with a friend in the park and stay at least six feet away — if not more. “We say six feet as the general marker, but we’ve seen evidence that the virus can spread at ten feet or 12 feet.” For the moments when you can’t avoid spending more time in close quarters with other people, like on a plane or at a doctor’s appointment, doubling up on masks (like we saw a lot of at the inauguration) is an easy way to lower your risk.

We asked Vermund and Dr. Scott Segal, chairman of anesthesiology at Wake Forest Baptist Health, for insight into the choosing the best mask for you. Because there is a shortage, and because they are among the most at risk, health-care workers like doctors and nurses should be one of the few groups of people wearing N95 masks. That leaves fabric and disposable masks (we’ve rounded up the best of those, too) for the rest of us. Segal conducted a study on the efficacy of different materials used for homemade masks and says you want to look for thick, tightly woven cotton like the kinds used for quilting or batik. These are better at filtering small particles close to the size of a virus (0.3 to 0.5 microns). “Our general guidance is to do a quick light test,” Segal says. If you can see light passing through the material when you hold it up to bright light or the sun, it’s less likely to be a good filter. (Soon consumers will have a lot more than the number of layers, type of material, and the light test to go by when picking a mask. A division of the CDC is working with ASTM International to create a set of filtration standards for masks. Once the standards become public, companies will be able to have their masks tested at a third-party lab and, if the masks pass, carry labels saying so.)

Segal and Vermund also note that your mask should be both comfortable and fit tightly to your face, but it obviously shouldn’t be so tight or so thick as to impede your breathing. To help find the right face mask for you, we tested 75 of them (so far) on the basis of fit, breathability, style, and whether they pass Segal’s light test. Below are our favorites. We will continue to update this article with new information and edit the list as new masks are wear-tested.

The best fabric masks to buy online

As we continue to fight the virus and its more contagious strains, you may want to consider putting aside your lightweight masks in favor of an upgrade. A materials study conducted by four scientists out of Virginia Tech shows the importance of an additional filter layer sandwiched between two layers of tightly woven cotton. Many of the fabric masks you can buy now feature a pocket for such an additional filter. In addition to mask filters, you can buy (which we wrote about here), Dr. Laszlo Mechtler, professor of neurology and neuro-oncology at SUNY Buffalo, says a coffee filter, a section of a non-fiberglass HEPA vacuum bag, a swatch of flannel, a few tissues, or any other material that passes the light test but does not restrict your breathing would make a viable added filter.

In terms of handling, Segal says, “try to handle it by the ties or ear loops, not the fabric front. Wash your hands after taking it off, and then either hang the mask up to dry out, or wash it before the next use.” And if you’re buying your masks online it’s a good idea to wash them before wearing for the first time. (Here are some directions on how to clean your face mask.)

Masks we’ve tested

Baggu

Photo: kabir fernandez

We love Baggu’s original masks because they look good, feel good, and stay put, and now the brand is offering masks with adjustable ear loops instead of ties in a bunch of cool prints and solid colors, too. The masks are machine washable and made from 100 percent–organic quilter’s cotton, which is very effective at blocking respiratory droplets. They also feature an adjustable nose wire and a pocket for an extra filter insert. For every pack of masks sold, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to organizations on a rotating basis. Currently, Baggu is contributing to the Black Voters Matter Fundthe Center for Disaster Philanthropy, and Community Alliance With Family Farmers.

What we think: For those of us who like the original Baggu masks but don’t have the patience to tie and untie the straps over and over again, the launch of these new masks is a true blessing. They stay in place just as well, are just as adjustable, feel just as substantial, and are just as fitted as the tied masks but are much easier to use. They’re also more flattering because of their rounded design and won’t mess up your hair. And they’re more comfortable, since you can’t accidentally tie them too tight. While other masks, both flat and accordion style, tend to sit right against your skin, Baggu’s envelope design and sturdy cotton keep the mask slightly off your face, which helps it feel less hot and sweaty. And these do pass the light test. Plus, die-hard Baggu fans can now match their mask to their favorite tote or reusable shopping bag, as these masks are made in three of the brand’s simple, easily coordinated colors.

Under Armour

Under Armour’s Sportsmask has sold out multiple times thanks to a unique structured design that keeps it off your face and mouth for added breathability and comfort. The outer layer is water-resistant, and the inner layer is treated to be anti-microbial to help keep the mask fresh even when you’re working out. And to protect you from the sun it features a built-in layer of UPF.

What we think: Compared with other masks Strategist senior writer Karen Iorio Adelson has tried running in, the Under Armour Sportsmask is “easily the most comfortable and best fitting,” she says. She loves that it’s slightly tented over the face so it doesn’t cling to her mouth on the inhale when she’s breathing heavily. It comes in five sizes so you can really get a close fit, and it works in hot weather just as well as it does on cold, windy days. “I’ve run up to 12 miles with it on, and even then it’s surprisingly easy to forget I’m wearing a mask at all.”

We first heard about Mamask when we included its cute kids masks in our children’s-masks roundup. Then Strategist writer Louis Cheslaw gave its masks his seal of approval. The company made jackets, suits, and other clothing for some of Korea’s top fashion brands before the pandemic, and it now produces an assortment of masks for both adults and children, including sport masks and these thicker fall/winter masks. The fall/winter masks are made of two layers of 100 percent cotton with a bendable nose strip and adjustable ear elastics. They also come with a free copper-ion fabric filter included.

What we think: These masks are breathable but sturdy enough to block the wind on chilly winter days. They come in multiple sizes and fit both me and my fiancé well, thanks to the adjustable ear loops. The thick cotton outer layer makes them feel durable, and the contrasting piping gives them just the right amount of pizzazz. (My fiancé isn’t a fan of most decorative masks.) We wore them out sledding in Prospect Park, and they kept our noses and cheeks warm and cozy. The included filter feels substantial enough to make me confident about wearing these on the subway or in other crowded spaces.

Buck Mason

Sasha Koehn and Erik Allen Ford, co-founders of Buck Mason, make masks using three layers of the heavyweight cotton they usually use to make T-shirts. Initially they were planning to donate the masks to nonmedical essential workers at grocery stores and warehouses in their community. But so far the biggest request has actually come from health-care workers. “The medical community is requesting them for things like sending patients home and going to and from work,” Koehn says. The brand’s original goal was to sell and donate 100,000 masks. They have already sold double that number and have set a new goal of 1 million.

What we think: Buck Mason’s masks are very soft and comfortable on a cool day. They also pass the light test thanks to three layers of fabric. Strategist writer Lauren Ro loves how soft and breathable they are. She also likes that they have ear loops and a tie, which makes them easy to keep on and also hang from your neck if you need to take the mask off for a moment.

NxTSTOP

These dual layer adjustable face masks feature a wire insert above the nose for a tighter fit.

What we think: These use adjustable ear loops, a bendable wire nose strip, stretchy fabric, and an added lower section that hugs your chin to create a tight but comfortable fit on many different face shapes. They’re well made, pass the light test, and seem like they will last a long time, plus the navy fabric and black piping is a nice change from all the craft shop patterns we have been seeing out in the world. The fabric isn’t heavy but they are only average in terms of breathability. NxTSTOP also carries a more breathable version of its mask, made for working out. It has the same fit and number of layers, but the fabric is designed to cool you as you run, hike, or deadlift 200 pounds.

Vistaprint

Vistaprint’s masks are made to ensure proper filtration, breathability, and comfort. Their masks feature adjustable ear straps. For every mask you buy, they’ll give 10 percent to support local small businesses impacted by the coronavirus.

What we think: Of the dozens of masks we tested for this story, Vistaprint’s are among our favorites. Adjustable ear loops, a bendable wire nose strip, stretchy fabric, and an added lower section that hugs your chin make this mask fit several different face shapes securely and comfortably. It doesn’t feel constricting or heavy and it looks cute enough and is really well made. The fabric is synthetic but moisture-wicking, so it feels a little hotter than a lightweight 100-percent cotton mask but it didn’t make us sweat — even after wearing it on a hot day. These masks pass the light test on their own, but Vistaprint also sells replaceable filters in packs of 10, which easily slide into the mask’s inner pocket.

Hedley & Bennett

One of the first brands to start making fabric masks, Hedley & Bennett added these two-ply cotton face masks to their collection of very stylish, well-crafted aprons and chef’s gear. With each purchase, they will donate a mask to essential workers in need.

What we think: Now in their third round of design, Hedley & Bennett’s masks have a metal nose strip and a longer body so, according to former Strategist Writer Nikita Richardson, they won’t ride up as much when you’re talking. They also feature easily adjustable ear loops and an inner pocket for adding a filter. The masks come in 8 different colors, all of which pass the light test.

Vida

$28 for 2

San Francisco fashion brand Vida is making double-layer cotton face masks with adjustable ear loops. Ten percent of profits will be donated to SF-Marin Food Bank and Food Bank NYC to support COVID-19 relief efforts.

What we think: Even with the filter in we found these masks breathable. The adjustable ear straps mean there’s no fumbling to tie the mask straps behind your head or mess up your hair. Plus there’s a metal nose piece, which ensures a snug fit — and according to Camilla Cho, our senior VP of e-commerce, helps keep her glasses from fogging up.

Casetify

These washable cotton masks come with an activated charcoal filter and are available in five colors. For each mask sold they are donating a surgical mask to health-care workers on the front lines.

What we think: Aside from some small gaps on either side of the nose, this mask fit well without feeling constricting. It’s very soft inside and passes the light test without an added filter. The mask wasn’t our top pick in the summer heat, but now that the temperature has dropped, it feels downright cozy. In addition to an activated charcoal filter each mask comes with ten sanitizing alcohol wipes for your phone.

Diop

Detroit-based clothing label Diop is making face masks inspired by mud cloth from Mali. Masks feature elastic straps that go around the head instead of the ears for a more secure fit. For each mask sold, Diop is donating a portion of mask proceeds to a handful of coronavirus relief initiatives, including Feed the Frontlines, which supports Detroit restaurants and provides meals to emergency and health-care workers. Fabric patterns vary and are limited. Diop is now selling packs of adhesive aluminum nose strips that you can add to your masks at $5 for a 10 pack.

What we think: Instead of going around your ears, the two elastic straps on this mask go around your head and the back of your neck. This means it’s less likely to move or slide down. We found that it fit tightly, without being constricting, and passed the light test, but it wasn’t the easiest to breathe in.

Diop recently launched a version of its masks with adjustable ear loops instead of elastics that go around your head. The new masks are made using the same fabric as the originals, but they now include a filter pocket. You can also purchase filters for your mask separately on their site.

Oura

From $63

The Air Mask is one of the few fabric masks we have seen that has undergone independent testing by a leading third-party laboratory to ensure proper filtration. It’s made from two layers of antimicrobial, moisture-wicking, and UV-protective UPF medical-grade fabric and features a bendable nose strip, full face coverage, and an inner filter pocket. It’s also a favorite of Ravina Kullar, an infectious-disease specialist, epidemiologist, and spokesperson for the Infectious Diseases Society of America, who wears them on days she isn’t wearing an N95. For an extra $8 Oura will throw in a NIOSH-approved N95 filter.

What we think: Though it’s not the cutest, Oura’s Air Mask does live up to its name: The fabric is indeed airy, and even with the extra N95 filter inserted, breathing is easy. It also doesn’t get hot and pull moisture away from your mouth. Getting the right size is key. You want the contoured shape to hug you under the chin and the ear loops to be tight enough to keep the mask snug against your cheeks. We also appreciate the brand’s attention to detail, as evidenced in their helpful mask sizing guide.

Food52

Food52 has partnered with Steele Canvas Basket Corp., a company that normally makes handsome canvas products, to sell the brand’s nonmedical face masks. Buy one and the company will donate a second to medical facilities across the U.S.

What we think: The inside layer of this mask is made of soft flannel, which feels nice and cozy in colder weather but might be too hot for warmer climates. It fits broader face shapes better than narrow ones and passes the light test with flying colors. It’s nice looking, too.

Food52 is also partnering with their Chicago-based textile factory partner to make fabric patterned face masks using 100 percent cotton deadstock fabric. They feature adjustable ear loops that tighten with a simple tug of the elastic and an inner pocket should you want to add a filter. For every mask sold they are donating 10 percent of the retail price to No Kid Hungry.

What we think: Strategist managing editor Maxine Builder says they’ve turned out to be the sturdiest mask she owns and that she gets compliments on hers all the time. “The description says there’s a wire insert around the nose, but mine seems to be missing it. It doesn’t matter though because it fits snugly,” says Builder adding that because of the snug fit and adjustable ear loops her mask is never at risk of slipping down or falling off and if she does have to tighten it while out, she doesn’t have to bring her fingers close to her face. This mask easily passes the light test, and though Builder found it a bit hot for summer, it’s the perfect weight for fall and winter.

Editor’s note: This pattern is not currently available, but there are lots of others to choose from.

Ki Collection

Made by hand in Brooklyn, these double-layer masks are made using cotton bandanas and tightly woven muslin. Choose from pink, beige, blue, or black and with or without a pocket to add a filter. All proceeds go to help the designer make more masks to donate to essential workers in New York and New Jersey.

What we think: We have tried both the pleated and non-pleated versions of the Ki Collection bandana masks. Both have a bendable metal nose strip that creates a tight seal and holds the mask in place. The pleated mask is more malleable (the non-pleated one is actually made with three layers of fabric to accommodate a filter) and soft which makes it mold to your face better and keeps it from shifting when you talk. Both pass the light test and are among the nicest looking of the bunch. For $7 dollars more you can get the same mask with an antimicrobial lining.

Caraa

$25 for 5

For $25 dollars you get a pack of five reusable masks. Plus, Caraa will donate a pack of five to New York State’s COVID-19 Response Fund.

What we think: We found these masks comfortable and well-fitting thanks to stretchy material, soft elastic ear loops, and a bendable metal strip in the nose bridge. The darker colors seem to do a better job passing the light test. They’re made out of the same moisture-wicking, lightweight material as the company’s bags and accessories, so you won’t feel sweaty while wearing one. According to Strategist writer Dominique Pariso and Strategist junior writer Jenna Milliner-Waddell, they are hotter than a regular surgical mask but not as hot as a bandana. Milliner-Waddlell says they are very breathable and that she wore hers on a six-mile walk with no issues. Caraa has recently updated their masks to make them more breathable and comfortable, so now they’re made with two layers of cotton instead of their bag material, and feature adjustable ear loops as well as a filter pocket. If you own the earlier version of their masks, you can also purchase a set of toggles for the ear loops to make them adjustable.

Christine Alcalay

Designer Christine Alcalay is making masks using an inner cotton lining and outer layer featuring stylish prints from the brand’s seasonal collection. Christine Alcalay continues to donate to healthcare professionals and organizations working toward equity and social justice.

What we think: The two layers of cotton feel lightweight and breathable, which probably accounts for why some light shines through when you hold it up to a window or lamp. That said, the elastic ear loops don’t pull or pinch your ears, and the brand offers masks in three sizes, which is rare. The small worked well for my oval-shaped face but was too small for a broader-faced man with a lower nose bridge. These masks don’t have a bendable nose wire, but they are the only ones we have tested with darts sewn into each cheek area, which helps the mask to help it better hug the contours of your face. And it stays put for extended periods of time even while talking, so you never have to touch it or your face to readjust.

Tanya Taylor

Women’s fashion brand Tanya Taylor is offering sets of three colorful masks composed of two layers of fabric. The outer layer is made of either a cotton-silk or cotton-elastane blend, and the inner layer is 100 percent cotton. Masks feature elastic ear loops and a nose clip for a tighter fit to your face.

What we think: These vibrant pleated masks expand to cover your whole face, from under your chin to the bridge of your nose — or even over the bridge if you prefer. They are soft and breathable, and the metal nose strip keeps them in place even after hours of wear. Although we did notice slight gaps over our cheeks, that could be fixed by tying knots in the ear elastics. These masks don’t completely pass the light test and don’t have a place to put a filter, but they are very comfortable on hot and humid days.

The brand now offers an update to their original masks, featuring three layers of cotton, adjustable ear loops, a nose strip, and a contoured fit.

What we think: Like their first round of masks, this colorful iteration is breathable and soft, and it fits well over your whole face. The masks do still let some light through, but the adjustable ear loops and contoured fit help avoid gaps around the sides and make them better for multiple face shapes.

Everlane

Each one of Everlane’s reusable non-medical masks is made from a double-layer knit fabric and features stretchy ear loops for comfort. For every five-pack sold, Everlane is donating 10 percent of sales to the ACLU.

What we think: “I’m actually anti-nose strip,” says Strategist writer Tembe Denton-Hurst who explains that she doesn’t like the way the bendable metal strips hold her nose in an inappropriately long hug, and that they prevent her from making natural facial expressions. That’s why she loves Everlane’s mask, which she says feels like covering her face with an ultra-soft t-shirt. The ear loops are made from cloth too, which makes for a comfortable fit even after hours of wear. “I forget I’m wearing it sometimes, which is a testament to its breathability—a big factor in whether I’m willing to wear it often or swap it out for something else,” she says.

Re/Done

These custom tie-dye masks are constructed from Re/Done’s recycled 100-percent-cotton T-shirt fabric. They feature an interior lining and soft ear loops. Each mask is one-of-a-kind, so they will differ in color and pattern. For every mask sold, Re/Done is donating five masks to front line workers with the help of Donate PPE.

What we think: Like the Everlane mask, this one doesn’t have a nose strip. But somehow it manages to stay put without budging — even when you’re talking. It may not fit every face perfectly and isn’t adjustable. It also feels a little hot if the temperature is over 70 degrees. But it very nearly passes the light test and is one of the nicest looking masks of the bunch.

Abacaxi

From $50 for 3

For every mask sold, Brooklyn-based designer Abacaxi is donating 10% of all proceeds towards organizations supporting Black trans futures including the LGBTQ Freedom Fund, G.L.I.T.S., The Okra Project, and Meta Center. You can either preorder one of their stylish double-layer cotton masks or receive one free with the purchase of any clothing item on their site. Each mask has an opening between the layers of fabric so you can add your own filter.

What we think: We like that these are easy to put on, come in a bunch of cool fabrics, and don’t get hot like some other thicker masks. They let a little light through but don’t feel super thin. Plus, according to Strategist Newsletter Editor, Mia Leimkuhler, they’re good for wearing with a bike helmet.

Abacaxi now makes a tie-dyed version of its masks to match its tie-dyed hoodies and joggers. The masks come in seven colors and feature a filter pocket and adjustable ear loops.

What we think: Somehow, even without a nose wire, these masks fit tightly and don’t fall down. They are very soft and stylish, without looking just like every other person’s in Prospect Park. With an added filter in place, they pass the light test.

En Saison

Because of their pleated design, En Saison’s cotton face masks adjust to multiple face shapes and sizes. They feature ties and are machine washable and dryer safe.

What we think: Strategist senior writer Karen Iorio Adelson decided to try these out because masks with elastic ear loops tend to be a little too big on her. The string ties make getting a tight fit easier on a wider range of face sizes, and she likes that the mask is pleated so you can extend it to cover your whole face. She finds them thick enough to be protective (they pass the light test), but not so thick as to be hot or uncomfortable. And the stripes are actually kind of chic.

Clare V.

This set of four masks from cult L.A. fashion brand Clare V. is made of remnant and dead-stock fabric, produced locally in L.A., and embroidered with the brand’s signature patch. Your purchase helps the company donate masks to frontline and essential workers.

What we think: Strategist junior writer Chloe Anello ordered these after looking for something trendier to wear than her basic face masks. She confirms that all four masks in the package passed the light test and fit securely once they were tied correctly. “It takes some finagling to tie them at first, because they tie around your ears instead of your head, but once you get it, it’s totally fine,” she says, noting that the strings are long enough to tie around your head but that tying around the ears works better for her because of her curly hair. Anello is also a glasses-wearer and says these masks don’t solve the fogging problem — but none have so far.

Baublebar

Baublebar’s assorted cotton masks feature things like embroidered flowers, eyelets, gingham, and metallic stars. Each one is made with two layers of breathable fabric and adjustable ear loops.

What we think: Two Strategist writers tested Baublebar’s masks: me and Denton-Hurst. While they were a bit roomy on me, Denton-Hurst says she thinks they’re one of the better fitting masks she’s tried so far. We both love the cute patterns, that they have a really soft inner cotton layer, and that they feel breathable but still pass the light test.

Christy Dawn

Sustainable clothing brand Christy Dawn is using their striped, floral, and solid dead-stock cotton to make two-ply face masks.

What we think: Like their dresses, Christy Dawn’s masks come in a bunch of cool patterns. They are soft and easier to breathe through than most making them a good choice for hot summer days. Because they are very lightweight, they also don’t pass the light test. But they’re much better than not wearing a mask. We’d save these masks for times when you are going out in public but not planning on getting too close to other people (like on a hike, or walking your dog.)

Uniqlo

$15 for 3

We have been patiently awaiting the U.S. release of Uniqlo’s breathable face masks since they sold out in a matter of hours when they launched in Tokyo back in May. Made from the company’s signature Airism material, which is lightweight, antimicrobial, and self-deodorizing, these masks have three layers for increased protection. The first inner layer wicks away moisture; the second has a washable, built-in filter; and the third uses a UV-blocking mesh. They come in three colors (white, black, and gray,) and three sizes (small, medium, and large.)

What we think: Though it has three layers, including a built-in filter, the Airism mask is as breathable as we hoped. However, they don’t have a nose strip or adjustable ear loops, which makes them move a bit when you talk. Cho bought a size medium and says it’s a little loose. “I wore it on a run and the thing was sliding off my face,” she says. Still, she likes it enough to go out and buy some toggles to make the ear loops adjustable.

Rendall Co.

Rendall Co. founder Deirdra Jones has been outfitting the hospitality industry with aprons and other stylish and functional workwear since 2012. Each of her company’s masks is made with two layers of pleated cotton. For each mask sold Rendall & Co. will donate one mask to essential workers and nonprofit organizations serving people experiencing homelessness.

What we think: Rendall Co.’s masks are made of heavyweight cotton, which makes them feel very substantial and protective. It also means they pass the light test. They also come with a pocket for an added filter. Although they look nice on, we did find them to be less comfortable than many other options, because of the way the rigid material puts pressure on your nose.

If you would prefer a mask with ear loops instead of ties, Rendall Co. makes those too. They’re made using the same fabric as the brand’s other masks and feature the same filter pocket and adjustable nose wire.

What we think: The ear loops make pulling on a mask on your way out the door much easier, but without anything built in to make them adjustable, these masks run large. But if you have a large face and are looking for something thick and protective, this mask is it.

Sanctuary

As seen on Ben Affleck and Ana de Armas, these masks come in assorted packs of five and feature a built-in nose wire for a tighter fit. Each mask purchase allows the company to donate a mask to someone in need.

What we think: We found these soft pleated masks fit different face shapes equally well and were unobtrusive to wear. You can see a little light coming through but they still feel protective. That said, the brand has recently updated their design to include a sewn in fabric filter made of 100 percent meltblown polypropylene.

Birdwell

California-based surf brand Birdwell Beach Britches is making two-ply fabric masks from their signature Surf Stretch material. For each mask you purchase, one will be donated to CORE, a nonprofit founded by Sean Penn that is working with the L.A. Mayor’s Office and the L.A. Fire Department to provide free drive-through testing for high-risk individuals.

What we think: Because it’s made out of swim trunk material, this mask feels lightweight and cool. It passes the light test and looks nice on (we tested the Hawaiian print). The brand upgraded its masks recently with a filter pocket and adjustable straps that can be worn around your head or around your ears, depending on your preference. The only drawbacks are that it gaps slightly at the sides, the ties are rather short, and the fabric tends to suck in around your nose when you breathe.

Bonobos

$25 for 3

Popular menswear brand Bonobos is selling two-layer masks made from the same fabric used for its Riviera shorts. The inner layer is 100 percent cotton, and the outer is cotton with a touch of stretch. The masks come with over-the-head elastic straps and a moldable metal nose strip for a snug but comfy fit. Bonobos is donating masks to Callen-Lorde — an organization that provides sensitive, quality health care and related services to New York’s LGBTQ+ communities.

What we think: Because they’re tailored to follow the contours of your face, the fit of these lightweight masks feels snug without being tight. However, they don’t pass the light test without a filter, which you’ll have to buy separately. If you have trouble with ear loops and ties you might like the overhead elastics of Bonobos’s masks, though the straps are not ideal for people who want to wear their long or curly hair down.

Masks we like but haven’t tested yet

Cotopaxi’s colorful masks are fully reversible (just make sure to wash them before flipping sides) and made with tightly woven cotton surplus fabric. They are lightweight, breathable, and machine washable, and they have nose wires and adjustable ear loops. The purchase of these masks helps Cotopaxi donate additional ones to refugee populations in need in South America.

Brixton’s lightweight, 100 percent cotton, woven masks will keep you comfortable on warmer days. They’re also antimicrobial to keep them smelling fresh longer. This mask ties behind the ears, making it easily adjustable. The brand’s heavier masks feature innovative ear loops that continue around the back of your neck and form a mask chain so you never have to worry about losing it or touching it too much when you’re not wearing it.

MIT-founded fashion brand Ministry of Supply initially developed its 3-D printed masks for front-line workers, but now they are available to everyone. Each mask is made of washable woven fabric and contains a pocket for a single-use filter. You can purchase packs of 10 filters from the brand as well. Filters are independently tested by Nelson Labs to provide higher than 95 percent bacterial-filtration efficiency. Based on customer feedback, this second generation Mask° has been significantly upgraded. It’s now lighter, more comfortable due to better ear loops, and there are more sizing options too.

We found out about these masks from Latina-owned vintage shop Miracle Eye when talking to teens about their favorite masks. “It’s kept me stylish and safe this summer through protests, interborough bike rides, and reading days in my favorite gardens,” says Columbia student Thandiwe Genevieve, 19. In addition to being really cute, this floral mask, made with custom-printed fabric, has a bendable wire at the nose bridge and an elasticized bottom to create seal under chin. For each mask sold Miracle Eye will donate another to someone in need.

Resistance by Design makes 100 percent cotton screen-printed Vote masks in five different colors. The purple ones were made in collaboration with Stacey Abrams and her organization, Fair Fight, that works to combat voter suppression and register first-time voters. The mask features a nose wire, adjustable ear loops, and a pocket for additional filter. They are union-made in the USA.

Made in Brooklyn, these vibrant plaid masks help Giovanna raise funds to cover the cost of N95 masks for RETI’s Rapid Resilience program. They are made of two layers of cotton with a middle layer of interfacing fabric for added filtration. Instead of ear loops, the elastic straps wrap around the back of the head and neck.

In our article about the best face masks according to teens, Columbia student Tyrese Thomas says supporting brands that are moving the fashion industry forward is important to him. That’s why he wears a mask from POC-owned streetwear brand Profound. Its triple-layer masks feature adjustable ear loops, a metal nose strip, and a pocket for an added filter (one is included with each mask). A portion of every sale goes to the International Rescue Committee and health-care workers in New York and New Jersey.

Made in collaboration with Mara Hoffman, Custom Collaborative’s community of artisans, buying one of their masks provides vital income to the women in Custom Collaborative’s programs who rely on fashion production work to support them and their families. For each mask purchased, they are donating a mask to frontline workers.

Baron Fig is known for their well-designed pens and notebooks, but now they are also making nonmedical face masks. Each one is crafted from two layers of poly-cotton fabric and features adjustable ear loops.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

We Tested 75 Fabric Face Masks