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.
Gap Adult Face Mask 3-Pack
Each mask is made with three layers of soft and lightweight cotton poplin fabric, plus an adjustable nose piece for a secure fit.
Old Navy Triple-Layer Cloth Face Masks With Ear Adjusters
Credit: Courtesy of Old NavyA great value at just $2.50 each, these also use three layers of breathable cotton poplin. There's no metal nose piece, but they have adjustable straps.
BKBTailoring Cotton Face Mask
Now 18% Off
This one's a basic, hand-made face mask with two layers of cotton fabric. The Etsy shop promises to ship within one day of purchase.
Caraa Universal Masks 5-Pack
These breathable masks have a lightweight cotton inner layer, a heavier cotton outer layer, a pocket to add a filter, and a wire nose piece.
Buttonsmith Cotton Face Mask
With two layers of cotton jersey (including elastic-free ear straps), this mask feels soft and breathable just like your favorite T-shirt.
everlane Cotton Mask 3-Pack
Credit: Courtesy of EverlaneBreathable cotton jersey on the inside with a double-knit layer of cotton on the outside.
Case-Mate Safe+Mate x Case-Mate Cloth Face Mask
Now 52% Off
Credit: Courtesy of AmazonAvailable in a range of sizes for a surely snug fit, a polyester/cotton blend exterior is reliable and comfortable.
Banana Republic Flyweight Face Mask 3-Pack
Now 80% Off
Credit: Courtesy of Banana RepublicThe outer shell incorporates polyester and spandex into the mix, but the inner construction of this durable mask is made from 100% cotton.
Avocado Green Mattress Organic Cotton Face Masks (4-Pack)
Credit: Courtesy of Avocado Green MattressThese two-ply face masks are entirely lightweight while incorporating 100% cotton.
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.
UnderArmour UA SPORTSMASK
The foam structure gives a 3D fit so there's room to breathe, plus the inner fabric feels cool to the touch.
Athleta Made to Move Mask 3-Pack
Made with lightweight materials and a breathable mesh liner, these masks have filter pockets and a head strap to alleviate tension.
Reebok Face Covers 3-Pack
There are two layers of soft, stretchy, breathable fabric made of recycled polyester. A tight fit rests securely on your face.
Adidas Face Cover (3 Pack)
Credit: Courtesy of AdidasThe polyester front is backed by an elastane mesh middle layer and backed by a cotton lining.
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.
Greens Sprouts Adult Reusable Face Mask
Credit: Courtesy of GreenSproutsThis comes loaded with an activated carbon filter in its construction, but its outermost layer is water-resistant and the inside polyester lining is also moisture wicking.
Wicked Sheets Washable Multi-Layer Face Mask
Two layers of incredibly lightweight fabric that feels like mesh, yet has been tested to filter tiny dust particles. Straps go behind the head instead of the ears.
This bedding brand uses two layers of its signature moisture-wicking bedding fabric, plus a filter layer on the inside.
Lululemon Double Strap Face Mask (3 Pack)
Credit: Courtesy of LululemonThis moisture-wicking mask is quick to dry and stretches to conform perfectly across your face.
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.
Xirotex Protective Comfort Mask
Credit: Courtesy of XirotexThis mask aced both water-resistance and air permeability tests, meaning droplets won't pass through the fabric but it's still breathable.
EnerPlex Reusable Face Mask 3-Pack
It's Amazon's Choice for breathable face masks, with two layers of cotton-blend fabric and an outer polyester layer that has a water-repellant finish.
Wolford Stay Safe Face Mask
Credit: Courtesy of ZapposThis brand is known for its durable, breathable hosiery. Its mask has a water-repellant finish atop two finely knit polyester layers.
Jaanuu Reusable Antimicrobial Face Mask Adult (Pack of 5)
Credit: Courtesy of JaanuuSoft scrubs' fabric has been treated with this brand's proprietary antimicrobial finish to repel mildew, mold and other side effects of moisture.