i still haven't gotten COVID & having an elastomeric mask with a better seal than disposables is one of the prevention steps i take—its part of what made me comfortable going to a (masked) convention last year. plus: super comfy straps!
EnvoMask Pro N95 is here and their other products are on that site. coupon code is SUMMERBREEZE20!
pros/cons below! i promise i'm not sponsored by envo! i just want folks to be COVID-safe.
pros
- like most elastomerics: seals way better than disposables. huge efficacy difference.
- the gel cushion is super unique and very comfy
- straps are also very comfy & super easy to get on and off
- great for my long face shape
- easy to replace filter
- oh also! i find i am pretty audible in the EnvoMask Pro. i also have a Dentec 400nx P100 mask (much higher inhalation filtration than N95s, and great seal) but i'm super muffled, so i don't use it if i need to do a bunch of talking (it's more of a travel/airport/etc. mask.)
cons
- sweat is the #1. the gel cushion is so comfy but gets very slippery when sweaty, which can make it easier for the seal to break in high heat. indoors with AC, it's not too big a deal.
- not great for people with short faces (vertically). especially if they also have glasses.
it's only $54 (rn $43!) and then $2.50-$3 per replacement filter (replace as often as you would N95 disposables.) it's really REALLY worth the up front investment, i promise.
other COVID prevention stuff below the break!
also, have a short face? i recommend a Breathe99 or FloMask instead!
and finally, if you want more prevention measures while you're here:
- get Covixyl, a simple cheap nasal spray that lasts 6 hours
- get a portable air filter like a PureZone Mini
remember: just like contraceptives, layering protections hugely increases effectiveness!
