11 breathable face masks to wear all summer, if you're not ready to ditch your covering altogether on July 19th
Although - rumour has it - the wearing of face masks will no longer be law from July 19th, wearing a face covering will still be mandatory on public transport, and will remain a recommended personal choice. And to be honest? A quick survey of the virtual GLAMOUR office would suggest the majority of us will continue to choose to wear them on the reg. But with warmer weather on the horizon, we're kinda adverse to wearing something that feels hot, clammy and suffocating. That Central Line tube is sweat-inducing enough as it is. Enter: breathable face masks that are lightweight and comfortable, even when the temperatures soar.
We've all been subject to pesky face mask probs since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic (rubbing behind the ears/gaping at the chin), but the worst face mask tripe of them all? Those that barely allowed any airflow, practically setting your face on FIRE. Luckily, there has been a bit of a breathable face mask revolution just in time for the summer months. Said face masks use lightweight or sweat-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and sans sweat - so much so, you could choose one of these breathable face masks for working out. If you're so inclined.
Which fabrics to make a beeline for? Silk face masks are extremely breathable, lightweight and cooling. Much like your silk pillowcase or silk bedding. Plus, they remain effective: the high-thread-count boasted by natural silk fabrics can effectively filter out virus particles when worn correctly. Sold? We'd recommend Slip's breathable face mask which is reduced by £10 at LookFantastic right now.
Elsewhere, something like the AusAir face covering by SmartTech uses ultra breathable stainless steel exhalation valves to keep the airflow at a maximum. Plus, it boasts a memory nose foam and flexible broad span nose wire for comfort, plus Magic fit ear-loops to prevent from any chafing. So. Good.
It's official: the best breathable face masks don’t sacrifice safety for airflow; rather using shape and fabric to their advantage. So in celebration of breathable face masks, we've curated an edit of the very best. Of course, none of the face masks in this edit of breathable face masks are medical-grade, nor are they clinically proven to protect against the virus. But, these coverings will comply with the governmental regulations, so you can do your weekly shop and hop onto public transport while protecting yourself and those around you.
After more face mask content? We've also got wedding face masks for brides, bridesmaids and wedding guests, plus face masks for glasses wearers if you're sick of your specs misting up.
For more from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Sophie Cockett, follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx.
Scroll for our full edit of the best breathable face masks to wear all summer long.
Silk breathable face masks
Silk Pale Pink Reusable Face Covering, £15, Oliver Bonas
Why we love it: Super lightweight and breathable, this face mask from Oliver Bonas boasts elasticated ear loops and a pocket for a filter (although the filter is mot included). It's really comfortable and doesn't feel in the slightest bit tight or suffocating.
Save when you shop for breathable face masks with these Oliver Bonas discount codes.
Breathable face masks UK
Slip Reusable Face Covering - Leopard,
£39£29.25, LookFantasticWhy we love it: When it comes to breathable face masks, you can't get more luxe than Sip. You can trust this brand to produce a breathable lightweight face mask that warrants the higher price point: it's made using the highest grade of long fibre mulberry silk which is naturally breathable and sweat-wicking.
Save when you shop for breathable face masks with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Breathable face masks with filter
SMARTECH AusAir face Covering Pack Medium,
£59£50, SelfridgesWhy we love it: The AusAir face covering by SmartTech uses ultra breathable stainless steel exhalation valves to keep the airflow at a maximum. Plus, it boasts a memory nose foam and flexible broad span nose wire for comfort, plus Magic fit ear-loops to prevent from any chafing. So. Good.
Save when you shop for breathable face masks with these Selfridges discount codes.
Breathable face masks for sports
Face Covering 2 Pack - Blue Text Print and Black,
£30£15, Sweaty BettyWhy we love it: Complete with adjustable ear elastics for a snug fit, this is the best breathable face mask for sports.
Best breathable face masks
MP Antibacterial Filtered Face Mask,
£12£6.99, MyProteinWhy we love it: Snug yet lightweight, this breathable face masks boasts an antibacterial filter for added protection, plus a combination of multiple filters with advanced moisture control technology helps maximise safety and breathing comfort.
Save when you shop for breathable face masks with these MyProtein discount codes.
Breathable reusable face masks
Daisy Print Face Masks, £17.95, Pacamask
Why we love it: Loved by 1000’s of UK people, not just us, Pacamask face masks are not only stylish, comfortable and reusable, but they also feature fabric which kills 99% of bacteria for up to 50 washes. The antibacterial fabric means they're super breathable too. It's a win win.
Breathable face masks Amazon
Movement Mask for Exercise, Heat, Long Travel, £13.75, Amazon
Why we love it: Designed with hot days, exercise and long travel in mind, this breathable face mask is comfy and reusable and washable for up to 30-50 washes.
Best breathable face masks
2 Pack Face Mask,
£15£10.50, FalkeWhy we love it: One of the more breathable face masks we've tried and available in a plethora of colours to match your outfit, this covering boasts a hydrophilic (read: moisture-absorbing material) to wick away sweat in an instant.
Lightweight breathable face masks
Reusable Silk Lined Face Mask, £5, Reiss
Why we love it: Lined with silk, this breathable face mask feels comfortable on the skin and is perfect for a sensitive complexion.
Save when you shop for breathable face masks with these Reiss discount codes.
Breathable reusable face masks
Face Covers XS/S 3-Pack, £7.50, Reebok
Why we love it: Made with soft, breathable fabric and engineered by the Queens of activewear themselves, the Reebok face covering is comfortable, washable and reusable for practicing healthy habits every day.
Save when you shop for breathable face masks with these Reebok discount codes.
Breathable reusable face masks
Bouquet Print Face Mask, £17.95, Pacamask
Why we love it: Loved by 1000’s of UK people, not just us, Pacamask face masks are not only stylish, comfortable and reusable, but they also feature fabric which kills 99% of bacteria for up to 50 washes. The antibacterial fabric means they're super breathable too. It's a win win.
