Best face masks to wear that look great: fantastic face coverings
We should be wearing them - so let's look good in the process.
Covid-19 is still with us and is set to be a part of our lives for some time to come, which means that we should all be wearing masks wherever possible when out and about. As this best face mask list proves, though, there are some fantastic designs out there to make sure that you look good while protecting yourself and others.
And, hell, if Bane can wear one while overthrowing the world of banking and putting rich people in their place, then we sure as hell can wear some sort of face covering for an hour while we pick up our weekly shopping.
UPDATE: Well, here we are again. With a new strain of Covid-19 it's now more important than ever to wear a face mask when out and about and on public transport. Here's our pick of the best face masks and best face coverings to make sure that you protect yourself and others in style.
If you want to know the government's guidelines for face coverings, then head to the official site.
In short it says: "A face covering is not the same as the surgical masks or respirators used by healthcare and other workers as part of personal protective equipment. These should continue to be reserved for those who need them to protect against risks in their workplace, such as health and care workers, and those in industrial settings, like those exposed to dust hazards."
With that in mind, we've picked out 10 of the best face masks to wear that look great when you wear them. All of them are non medical use but offer the protection the government is asking for. If you want to go further, then please check the small print about just how much the material used filters and protects, as each manufacturer offers a different design.
In the end, it's not about looking cool but protecting you and those around you, so find the right one for you.
- If your hands are chapped after all that washing, head to our best hand cream guide.
Best mask and face coverings
1. Scotch & Soda Reusable face mask
Dutch label Scotch & Soda offer up contemporary clothing for the modern man and we are big fans of their mask output. There's a replaceable nano-filter that should be removed after each use and they are made from breathable, double layered quality cotton. Each mask has a metal nose wire that secures the mask comfortably.
2. Adidas Face Covers
This three-pack of masks is a bargain at just under £15. They are well made, too, as you would expect form Adidas - made with a minimum of 40% recycled content. They aren't medical grade but are comfortable for those who just want that extra layer of protection when out and about.
3. NEQI face covering
If you are in the market for a great-looking, understated reusable face covering then this mask by NEQI is fantastic. These have been endorsed by Which and offer 80% filtration. They are comfy, so good for wearing on long public journes and you get three in a pack.
4. evolvetogether Alberta face mask
This is a great-looking disposable face mask that's made the news a few times thanks to the amount of celebrities that seem to like wearing the brand. There are a few colours available but we are big fans of the burgundy. While the price may seem steep, you get 30 in the pack so this is the ultimate face mask bargain.
5. Hype Knit Face Mask
A UK brand that has its eye on the global stage, Just Hype is a great label and one that does a mean line in face masks. Our pick is this grey knit face mask (which is currently out of stock) but the black one looks decent as well. It has a decent mix of comfort and protection and is made from 12% Elastomeric 40% Polyester 48% Diolen Hygienic Poly.
6. Uniqlo Airism Mask
As with most of Uniqlo's clothes collection, this is a sleek-looking mask. It certainly doesn't stand out, so if you are looking for something that will match your clothes, rather than being a crowd stopper, then this one is for you. The mask is made up of three layers that is said to filter at least 99% of particles within
7. Golden Axe face mask
Zavvi has a decent line of face masks with some rather fun designs. This one caught our eye, based on the classic SEGA video game. While they are £9 a pop, you can get three for £15 which is a great price. It is made from breathable, soft material that ensures a balance between comfort and style, according to Zavvi. It is easy to wash, too.
8. Lucky cat, from Vistaprint
Well, this is a surprise. Vistaprint, which makes a pretty penny out of all our photographs, has turned its hand to making masks and, well, they are decent. The Lucky Cat design took our fancy but there are a whole load to choose from. They are on the pricier end of this list, though, but the designs are vibrant - one for those who want to stand out.
9. Madewell Face Masks
A spin-off of J Crew, Madewell has been around for 13 years now, offering classy get-ups that the likes of Alexa Chung and crew are fans of. These masks are great, made from leftover fabric scraps and both companies have donated 75,000 single-use face masks to Montefiore Medical Center in New York which is great to see.
10. Batman Classic Bat Shield Mask
Not all heroes wear capes, but they do wear masks - especially ones that are emblazoned with the Bat Sign. The Mask Club has loads of decent masks available but this is our pick and offers 2 ply protection. The mask is 100% polyester and has a bendable nose wire to contour your nose. There is also a slot for filter in between the two layers of fabric. And it's reusable and washable.