The 10 best face masks for every need

Best face mask for talking

Handmade, Made-to-Order Clear Mask

A transparent face mask with a clear panel like this one available on Etsy lets listeners see your facial expressions and lip movements — important aspects of clear communication. Clear face masks are also vital when speaking with people who have hearing impairments, as well as children and non-native speakers.

This particular masks is available in a range of basic and cute fabric patterns, so you can have some fun while wearing as mask that’s easier to talk through.

Pro tip: If the clear panel of your clear face mask is fogging up, try applying a thin layer of dish soap to the inside of the panel and let it dry on the mask. Reapply as necessary throughout the day.

Best face mask for breathing

Made to Move Mask by Athleta

We love this mask for breathability because it consists of two lightweight layers: inner mesh and outer polyester/Spandex. Many other fabric face masks are made of heavy quilting cotton, which can be difficult to breathe through. These masks also come with a filter pocket — though a filter doesn’t come with the mask.

Made to Move masks are washable, reusable and come in three-packs in a variety of colors. Each pack comes with an elastic binding to take tension off of the straps behind your ears.Shop at Athleta

Best face mask for kids

Society of Threads Kids’ Face Mask

These comfy cotton masks have everything you’re looking for in a good face mask for kids. They’re lightweight and breathable, have adjustable straps and are washable and reusable. Plus, they come in fun colors kids are sure to love!

Purchases support mask donations to Society of Threads, as well as the mission of Clothes4Souls, a nonprofit organization that gives socks and underwear to those in need.

Best face mask for teachers

Clear Face Mask – Four-pack

Teachers may want to wear a clear face mask while teaching so students can easily understand them. This is especially important for elementary and second-language teachers, since lip-reading can be helpful in these situations.

This particular mask comes in a four-pack, making it easy for teachers to wash and reuse masks throughout the week. Other cute mask ideas for teachers include personalized school logo face masks and emoji face masks featuring smiley faces.

Best face mask for glasses

Bold Life Basic 3D Mask with Nose Guard

Your glasses tend to fog up when wearing a face mask because your breath can escape out of the top of the mask toward your frames. To avoid this common problem, look for a mask like this one available on Etsy, which offers a built-in 3D nose guard at the top to minimize the amount of air that’s able to escape through the top of the mask.

Another option? Shop for a mask with a nose wire, such as an N95 face mask. But if you find that nose wires aren’t comfortable for you, a nose guard can be a good alternative.

Best face mask for working out

Colbiz Dust Mask with Activated Carbon Filters Reusable Sports Face Mask

This windproof, dustproof face mask offers optimal breathability, thanks to its valved filters and mesh design. The filters may even help to reduce pollen exposure while exercising or playing sports outdoors. The filters are replaceable, so you can continue to reuse your mask while maintaining its effectiveness.

Find more of our top picks for breathable masks for exercising.

Best face mask for hot weather

Lightweight Cotton Neck Gaiter

Breathable neck gaiters can be a good choice for those in warm climates. They’re usually made out of lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric to help you stay cool and dry. Masks that trap moisture inside can easily harbor bacteria when worn in hot, humid environments. So look for a gaiter or cloth face mask that is designed to help reduce sweat buildup.

As an added bonus, some neck gaiters offer UV protection as well.

Best face mask for beards

Custom Cotton Beard Face Mask

Men with beards might have a hard time finding a regular face mask that fits comfortably and does its job. This custom face mask available on Etsy eliminates this problem by offering a longer face mask to fit virtually any beard! It features adjustable straps, two layers of 100% cotton fabric, a nose wire and your choice of fabric color and pattern.

Best antimicrobial face mask

Copper Ion Infused Mask

Copper and zinc ions may act as an antimicrobial surface when used in face masks and other materials. This particular mask features a six-layer design for maximum protection, as well as copper- and zinc-oxide-infused fabric that’s crosswoven with white bamboo and charcoal-infused threads. The mask is also fluid resistant, helping to minimize the amount of sweat and moisture that can become trapped within the fibers.

Best American-made face mask

Made-in-USA UV Fashion Masks

Looking to support American businesses and get a quality product? These UV-protective cloth face masks available on Etsy are 100% made in the USA and feature lightweight, breathable material and elastic earloops. They’re designed to be unisex and one-size-fits-most, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns — including an American flag design.