Testing Out Face Coverings for Your Vacation (Part 3)

In part 1 of this blog post series, I described the masks to be included in our in-park mask testing. In part 2 of this blog post series, I did some at-home performance testing.

Let me first apologize for the delay in putting this blog post together.  We have had 8 people wearing masks in the parks since mid-July.

Since the parks have opened Disney has refined their face covering rules:

All face coverings (whether disposable or reusable) must:

• Be made with at least 2 layers of breathable material
• Fully cover the nose and mouth and secure under the chin
• Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
• Be secured with ties or ear loops and allow the Guest to remain hands-free

At this time, based on guidance from health authorities, neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas, and face coverings containing valves, mesh material, or holes of any kind are not acceptable face coverings.

Neck Gaiters

We tested the Neck Gaiters in the parks before they were banned. The extra fabric made them hotter than other options. They all supposedly have a cooling effect if they are activated with water, but a wet gaiter is not easy to breathe through. We are not disappointed that gaiters are banned.

Disposable Masks

In general disposable masks are lighter than the reusable masks. We include the StringKing face mask in our test. The StringKing mask was Len Testa’s favorite mask. We also tested an inexpensive drug store disposable mask. The drug store mask was the only mask we tested that I would not wear in the parks. The drug store mask felt like wearing a piece of plastic cellophane.

Mask Features

Size does matter. Rachel is 5′ 5″ and found most masks too large. Any mask that was available in a smaller size was her preference. Sam is 6′ 3″ and found most masks too small. The rest of us were under 6′ and were fine with the mask sizes.

People wearing glasses found masks would make their glasses fog up. Masks with an adjustable nose tab helped to avoid fogging.

Adjustable ear loops were a nice feature on the Athleta masks. I prefer a behind the head strap, but it is not common on most masks. There are some options on the internet to add a strap that connects the ear straps together to make a head strap.

100% cotton vs synthetic – The masks we tested were either 100% cotton, cotton blend, or a Poly/Lycra blend. The synthetic masks did a better job of wicking away moister. The cotton masks absorbed some sweat.

Testing Results

Best overall mask: Eliel Face Masks

The Eliel mask was the preferred reusable mask for everyone. The masks come in small and large sizes. Masks come in white, black, or “fun pack.” Five masks for $50 with free shipping. Available here.

Best Disposable: StringKing 3-Layer Face Mask

If you prefer a disposable mask, make sure it is breathable. The StringKing is both lightweight and comfortable. Box of 50 masks for $38 + $12 Shipping. Available here.

Honorable Mention: Athleta Athletic Face Masks

The Athleta was my wife’s and daughter’s second choice. Athleta now has a “Made to Move” option that looks very appealing. Five masks for $30 with free shipping. Available here.

All the other face masks we tested were all viable masks to wear in the parks.

 VTER Cotton Breathing Mask

VTER masks are made with a blend of 35% cotton and 65% polyester that blocks dust, dirt, and pollen while also absorbing excess moisture. Available at amazon.com, 5 for $20 Arrived in 5 days.

Onzie Mindful Mask

Activewear brand Onzie repurposed its performance fabric into a form-fitting face mask that allows airflow and wicks away moisture to keep the environment under your mask comfortable. 2 for $24 -15% WELCOME +$8.50 shipping. Available here.

Purple Face Mask

The sleep company Purple created a soft mask with moisture-wicking Breeze mesh. Comes in two sizes. 2 for $20 with free shipping. Available here.

Thompson Tee

Thompson Tee uses premium breathable, soft cotton for their masks. Masks come in adult and kids sizes in white or black. Made in the U.S.A. Two for $5.99 + Free Shipping Available here.

Kini Bands

Soft stretch face masks. Wicking and breathable. Made in the U.S.A. $14.99 -1.49 (KINI-10 10% off) + $ 3.18 shipping. Available here.

Have you found a preferred brand of mask for your daily use or theme park travel? Let us know your preferences in the comments.