𝕭𝖔𝖇𝖆𝖒𝖎𝖑𝖐𝖌𝖍𝖔𝖘𝖙

the big parameter, at least in my circle, is behind-the-head vs behind-the-ears for the elastic. some people absolutely hate one style vs. the other. I know nothing about the relative efficacy (i imagine it's similar on both if you get a good seal but i don't know the relative difficulty with the two styles)

I would also love more info on these. I'm also nervous to get one because I've had different types of masks over the pandemic and some really exacerbated some jaw pain issues I already have. If any are more adjustable or if you have/find any recommendations for comfort, I would love to know!

There's a few things to consider:

1. How is the mask rated? As in how efficient? There is usually tests they do to show how well the mask filters out viruses, bacteria, allergens, smoke/dust, etc. Even if they don't use an international rating system, all must have information about what tests they did use to rate their efficient on their website. I find it generally in their FAQ or About sections. You want a rating that is at least a 95% or better.

2. Seal. Masks must have good seals for them to actually work. For the cloth masks such as cambridge, vogmask, AUS Air, etc.,, these seals depend on the fit-test, where you measure your face to get the right size to make sure it fits your face and you can pull it tight for the seal, especially around your nose. Most of these tend to be held in place by either ear hoops or by around the back of head bands.

3. Bands. Do you prefer ear bands or around the back of head bands? Often ear bands can fail to maintain a good seal, so experts often push folks to try the around the back of head bands. All ear loop designs can be converted to behind the head bands through some neat accessories. Vogmask adn Cambridge offer these accessories. I haven't checked if AUS Air does.

4. Cleaning and longevity. How do you clean the mask? How long does its filters last? Vogmask, Cambridge and AUS Air are masks that only last upward of three to four months. Then they become ineffective and need replaced. AUS Air has a design where it has a cloth outer mask, then you attach the filter and seal to that outer mask; you then replace that inner filter ever three to four months but keep reusing the outer cover/seal portion. Flomask and Envomask are similar as are most elastometrics, where they have a solid reusable portion (that often can be decorated!) and then you insert the filter. These filters can then be replaced at the end of their life cycle. Be aware of when you insert those filters and set a reminder in three to four months to have the filter replaced. (If you only use the mask sparingly, then filters can last longer, so in that case just mark down the date you input the filter).

5. Speaking. This can only be tested by you after you get the mask to be honest. How well can you speak in the mask and have people hear you? Some masks may make you sound muffled so you need to speak louder. Flomask and Envomask have two different filters that both work well (one is a higher rating than the other) but the filter that is closer to the 95 is easier to speak in than the filter that is closer to 99. Be aware of this when buying replacement filters. Elastrometric masks (especially those that look similar to a gas mask) will tend to make you sound more muffled, so think about which mask to get for most activities and which is best for speaking in public sort of activities.

That's what I look for! Maybe I ought to make this a separate post... hmm..