What are the Best Face Masks for Men Right Now?

Do real men wear face masks? Um . . . yeah. With protective face masks now mandatory in many places to fight the coronavirus pandemic, as we face this “new normal,” (no pun intended) what’s a stylish dude to do? Here at Dandelion Chandelier, we’ve covered the latest chic protective face masks for women and for kids. But what about the manly men in our lives? Is basic black their only real sartorial option? Our correspondent Tomas White is sharing a male view of COVID-19 prevention face masks – the good, the bad, the functional and the fugly. Here’s our curated list of the best stylish and tasteful luxury face masks to prevent the spread of coronavirus for men right now.

when it comes to face masks, what’s a dude to do?

Masks, masks, masks. Meh! Who would have known at the start of the year that men would have a whole new clothing category to have to deal with? It’s hard enough to get ready for work in the morning – and now this?

Let’s get past the machismo and accept the fact that while men are empirically less likely than women to wear a protective face mask to combat COVID-19, we should get over it and mask up. How will we get our kids to do it if we won’t? Just sayin.

many men are lost in the mask maze

Once you’ve committed to wearing one, though, it’s not as simple as you might think.

At first, it was virtually impossible to find a mask of any kind. Now, we have the opposite problem: too many options and no guidance on how to choose one. And while you might find a knock-off Fendi mask on Etsy, chances are that most of the luxury menswear brands that you know and trust are staying far away from this category. (Although we should note that Turnbull & Asser has a dapper line of protective face masks). So there’s not a lot of help coming from that direction – at least, not yet.

guidance from the Governor?

Of course, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is the O.G. of men wearing masks.

However, up to now he’s been sticking with the standard “light blue disposable” face masks available at drug stores and supermarkets the world over. Excellent crisis management and leadership. But not a lot of style direction being provided there.

DIY it?

Some guys have resorted to DIY solutions: making their own masks, or having someone in their lives with some sewing skills create a bespoke mask wardrobe for them. One that takes account of the their skin tone, color preferences, existing work wardrobe and the like.

While we envy these gentlemen in the same way we envy those who have their suits custom made on Savile Row, for some of us, the hand-made haute couture model of face masks is not an available option.

The good news? After some extensive research, we’ve found 15 masks available to buy online that hit the mark.

factors to consider before buying

Ultimately, you might decide to buy a mask based purely on its look. After all, like glasses, these are on you face, so appearance really does matter. Nonetheless, for each recommendation, we also provide three additional data points regarding fit and comfort:

• The type of straps (around the ear, behind the head, or some unique invention)?
• Is the fit adjustable?
• Do they come in more than one size?

It goes without saying that none of these masks are medical grade equipment and it would be naïve of us to even attempt to differentiate them based on effectiveness. Nonetheless, a growing trend in masks is selling them with a disposable filter or providing a pocket to insert your own additional filter. We will also let you know if this is an option for each mask on our list. 

With that preface, here are our picks for the best protective face masks for men.

the best face masks for men right now

Minimalist Masks

If you are looking for simple white cotton masks that have no pretense of being anything other than a mask, then this is your look. This is not to say that they are not stylish, however. They offer a clean sharp look and can convey a competent, no-nonsense aura.

1. Naturepedic Organic Cotton Face Mask

Naturepedic is a fairly well know sleeping and bedding company whose mission is to create environmentally friendly products with organic materials and the removal of all unnecessary chemicals. These plain white organic masks are highly breathable, comfortable on the skin and allow you to avoid any chemical off gassing that other materials might produce. The unbleached plain white color and simple design would make these an inoffensive choice for anyone.

Strap Type: Around the Ears. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: No.

BUY NOW – 6 Pack for $49.

2. Matteo Cotton Face Mask

Matteo is a bedding and homeware small manufacturer based in LA.  They pride themselves in the quality of their textiles as well creating a progressive work environment for their 50 employees. Their masks are made out of a crisp bright white cotton textile and the ties that go around the head are made of soft linen. How could these not be comfortable!

Strap Type: Behind the Head. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: Yes.

BUY NOW  – 5 Pack for $25.

3. Standard Issue Tees Cotton Mask

Standard Tee is another LA based manufacturer, and, as the name implies, is known for their simple but high-quality t-shirts. As you can probably guess, these masks are made from the same cotton material.  These masks are about as simple as they come, but if you do wish to branch out from the color white, their textiles are known to use a pigment dye process that give them a subtle washed out look.

Strap Type: Around the Ears. Adjustable: No. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: Yes.

BUY NOW  – 3 Pack for $20.

Business Casual Masks

They say that the best clothes to wear at work are those that don’t draw attention to themselves, and yet make you look great. Frequently, this is a very fine line. If you are looking for something less austere than the minimalist medical look, but also don’t want something too far out there, we have a couple of choices for you. 

4. Proper Cloth: Everyday Mask

It was only natural that one of the leading online custom shirt makers would jump into making masks. Made with the same textiles as their business shirts you have an option of several solid colors as well as materials, including a nice linen-cotton blend. There is also a reason it is called the Everyday Mask; the behind-the-head strap models are super comfortable. 

Strap Type: Both around the ears and behind the head. Adjustable: No. Sizing: Two Sizes. Filter Pocket: Yes.

BUY NOW – One for $25, Three Pack for $50, Ten Pack for $160.

5. Hedley & Bennett: The Wake Up & Fight Mask

 A lit bit more of a preppy look than Proper Cloth, these masks are made from the California based high-end apron and chef clothing manufacturer. (You should definitely check out their site if you are not familiar with them). Made from Oxford cotton and chambray material they come in 5 discreet colors. Coming from the food industry, they have also secured a partnership with a filter manufacturer to purchase custom built filters, though none are included with the purchase.

Strap Type: Around the Ears. Adjustable: No. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: Yes.

 

BUY NOW – One for $22, Three Pack for $45.

6. Aplat

Made from 100% organic duck cotton canvas, these are conservative looking and yet have a unique origami design that not only looks cool, but is very functional. This mask is very comfortable to wear for long periods of time, yet a great thing about it is that it has an embedded neck strap for when you can or need to take it off. More importantly however, when hanging, it naturally folds into a rectangle shape to protect the interior-facing side from the outside air. Made in San Francisco from a company that makes canvas totes, produce bags, and garden carriers, masks are a natural addition to their line. 

Strap Type: Behind the Head. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: Yes.

BUY NOW – $19. 

Overtly Stylish Masks

Who said you can’t have fun with masks? Why not spice up your look with this unique accessory? From a mask that has the contours of an Iron Man robot, to one made of pink clouds, the options are almost endless. These are masks that will definitely call attention to themselves. But hey, that’s the whole point.

7. Triple Aught Design: RS Shadow Mask

This mask provides a very rugged strong look, but amazingly does so without looking too cartoonish. The side stitching and panels create a chiseled high cheek bone look that some might even say hints at what a 1950’s robot would look like. This mask also come with a couple of cool nifty features, such as an embedded neck strap as well as an optional behind the head retention strap that can take off the load from your ears. Given the look, it is not surprising that this comes from a company that makes military and tactile looking clothing and gear.

Strap Type: Around the Ears (With an optional Behind the Head strap). Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: Three Sizes. Filter Pocket: Yes.

BUY NOW  – $45 for Mask, $7 For Optional Behind the Head Strap. 

8. Phlemuns: Pink Cloud Mask

Ok, coming about as far away from the League of Shadows look is this mask from Phlemuns. You would think the Pink Cloud name says it all, however this mask also has a unique feature not seen anywhere else: grommets. There might be health reasons why you wouldn’t want holes in your mask, but they are small, close to the ears, and do look cool and are quite distinctive. Plus, “grommets” is just a fun word to say out loud.

Strap Type: Around the Ears. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: No.

BUY NOW – $29.

9. Stephen Kenn

While these masks might not have grommets, they do have rivets! While “rivets” is another fun word to say out loud, rivets are probably more appropriate for masks than grommets. Rivets also make for a cool retro WWI/Indiana Jones look. They obviously come in a vintage olive-green color, but are also available in black or white. Rivets!

Strap Type: Over the Ears or Behind the Head. Adjustable: Only the Behind the Head Model.  Sizing: Three Sizes (including for Kids).  Filter Pocket: No.

 

BUY NOW – $24-$38.

10. Kiriko

Made with indigo dyed textiles from small manufactures in Japan and stitched in Portland, Oregon, these masks are stylish yet also somehow conservative. From swirling waves, to geometric patterns, to floral patterns, there is probably a style for you. They are made from 100% cotton with a cool chambray liner.

Strap Type: Around the Ear. Adjustable: No. Sizing: Two Sizes. Filter Pocket: Some Models.

BUY NOW – $25-$28.

11. Petit Pli

 This London based company has won multiple awards for their ecofriendly principles, high tech fabrics, and innovative design. These face mask will definitely garner attention with their unique around the neck design and bright colors and are getting rave reviews for their snug contoured comfort.  Cyclists are particularly raving about it, as it is highly breathable, and can be used as a simple bandana when away from people.

Strap Type: Unique around the neck design. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: Yes.

BUY NOW  – £25. 

12. Rag and Bone: Saville Silk Bandana Mask

For the dandy pirate or bandit in all of us, Rag and Bone has made a silk bandana with the addition of hidden ear loops to keep it in proper place. If you are not wearing it as a mask, then it looks like a cool silk scarf. Win win! They also make highly rated more traditional looking masks if you are interested.

Strap Type: Ear Loops as well as around the neck. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: Yes.

 

 

BUY NOW  – $65.

Forget about Looks, this is just Utilitarian!

The previous masks did have a utilitarian purpose. After all, no matter how professional or cool looking a mask is, I think everyone would agree that no mask is better than any mask. Nonetheless, the following masks have no pretense of style, but they get the job done.

13. Outdoor Research (OR): Essential Face Mask Kit

 Outdoor Research is probably the best-known brand on this list. Maker of technical apparel and gear for the outdoors set, they have a dedicated R&D department as well as a rabid following. (They probably make the best rain hats out there.). The textile of their mask has a microbe and germ resistant coating as well as being water and stain resistant. It is also designed to wick moisture and be fast drying. The material is durable and supposedly lasts over 10,000 wash cycles. OR calls this a kit because a purchase comes with a mask, three filters, and a storage pouch. This is a clearly utilitarian mask!

Strap Type: Around the Ears. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: Yes.

BUY NOW  – $20.

14. Cariloha Bamboo Face Masks

If you have worn a mask outside for an extended period of time you might have had the experience of it become damp and wet. Not only is not nice to wear a soggy bag on your face, this renders it less protective to others and can also be harmful to you as well. This problem will only get worse in the coming winter, when cold air will make your breath condense quicker. Cariloha, the bamboo bedding maker, claims to have a solution to this problem. Apparently, bamboo fibers are as effective as cotton fibers, but can hold a lot more condensation before becoming water logged.

Strap Type: Around the Ears. Adjustable: Yes. Sizing: One Size. Filter Pocket: No.

BUY NOW – $12.

15. Ministry of Supply: 3D Print-Knit Mask 2.0

Founded by former MIT students who geek out on the technical aspects of clothes, and in particular the temperature regulating aspect of astronaut gear, Ministry of Supply has created an incredibly lightweight, soft, and practical mask that can be worn comfortably all day. Forget about elastic bands, these ear loops are made of a soft woven textile. Additional filter use is highly encouraged with this knit design, and they sell these too on their website.

Strap Type: Around the Ears. Adjustable: No. Sizing: Three Sizes. Filter Pocket: Yes (and encouraged).

BUY NOW  – $30.

Accessorizing the Accessory

As we did the research on the best coronavirus face masks for men, we kept coming across related accouterments. Masks are getting accessories of their own! For example, Amazon is now selling all kinds of travel pouches for face masks.

We are also starting to see companies market neck straps to hang masks when not in use, as well as additional behind the head straps that can distribute the pressure of ear straps better.

Lastly, it is recommended that you get some laundry bags to wash masks in so that the straps don’t snag and break. A lot of these masks recommend hand washing. And that can get old really fast.

Outtakes: definitely don’t try these at home

As you can imagine there are some pretty crazy designs out there, and it would be remiss of us not to post some funny masks that you should definitely NOT get. We will spare you pictures of pvc, latex, and patent leather dominatrix masks, but they were certainly eye opening. (Particularly amusing was the fact that for every mask purchased, they were donating one mask to health care workers.) Anyhow below are three funny takes on masks. Who knows, maybe they would make good gag gifts.

Yeezy Boost Masks

An entrepreneurial fashionista in China is buying $500 shoes designed by Kanye West and cutting them up to make customized face masks. Besides the obvious pun about inhaling foot odors, there is so much wrong with this…and yet it is also somewhat genius.

AO Air Atmos Mask

OK, this contraption simply looks ridiculous. And while it might look sci-fi, this would be sci-fi from a B-grade movie, not a stylish Stanley Kubrick movie. What totally kills it, though, is that it is solely designed to keep the wearer (presumably) safe.  The mask forces filtered air into the wearer’s passageways, but does nothing to curb the wearer’s exhaled germs from spreading out. This mask is clearly not for the squad.

Center Zip Line Face Mask

It’s not clear where one should start with this one. One could start with the price: $175. Or the fact that it is made of a material that can’t be washed; you need a UV light to disinfect it. These two traits however are probably overshadowed by the fact that you can zip open the mask right down the middle. Hmm . . .  Why would anyone want to do that? Discuss among yourselves . . . 

the best face masks for men right now

Those are our picks for the best coronavirus prevention protective face masks for men. Whichever one best fits your definition of stylish, our bottom line is that the top face masks for men are whichever ones they’ll actually wear. Stay safe out there, dear reader.

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A fan of remote nature travel, Tomas White enjoys the dichotomy of the good life in harsh settings, whether it is scuba diving off a decommissioned deep-sea oil platform in the Celebes Sea or reading a good book in a remote desert resort in Utah. He likes to keep his possessions to a minimum, and is thus a huge fan of the power of technology and is very particular about finding well-designed items that are built to last. Tomas majored in English at Harvard, and is making a career in IT. He lives in Chicago with his wife and 4-year-old son.

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