PRODUCT REVIEW

PRODUCT REVIEW: FACE MASKS In the new era of COVID-19, masks have become a staple of our everyday lives. Ultimately, this leaves us with many options ranging from different masks to plastic face shields.

MOST COMFORTABLE

From a pure comfort standpoint, you just cannot go wrong with the Homage soft cotton mask. TESTER NOTES: “Super soft and comfortable.” -Tyler Neidermyer THE LOWDOWN: The ultra-soft materials combined with smooth and comfortable ear loops that ergonomically fit onto your face, makes the Homage company a distinct favorite. SAFEST there is nothing special about it other than the fact that it gives someone the best chance of not spreading potential diseases. breathe through as well as not being as hot as reusable ones.” -Zoe Firchau tight seal that helps protect from at least 95% of airborne pathogens.

HOMAGE, CLOTH MASK, $9, HOMAGE.COM

MOST CONVENIENT DISPOSABLE masks effectively lower the spread of the coronavirus and are very easy to find. They also are very breathable as a result of the light material. TESTER NOTES: “Easy access and breathability.” -Gavin Wells THE LOWDOWN: These are not as envoronmentally efficient as just buying a couple reusable masks, but they are more sanitary.

WECOLOR, DISPOSABLE 3-PLY EARLOOP FACE MASKS, $8.99 (50), AMAZON.COM WORST ALTERNATIVE Widely regarded as a very comfortable alternative to the traditional mask, is the wide tube-like GAITER. and easy to wear.” -Hunter Bennington University stated that the gaiter was less effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 as more respiratory droplets passed through the material.

BEST DESIGN No matter what the sport is or who your favorite team is, chances are that Fanatics has several choices for one to choose from when selecting a particular mask. TESTER NOTES: “ Some have cute patterns and they are better for the environment.” - Peebo Gillispie THE LOWDOWN: They are often very economical and many come in 3-packs to make owning multiple masks very affordable. FANATICS, OHIO STATE BUCKEYES ADULT FACE

Nothing is safer than the N-95 mask, TESTER NOTES: "They are eaiser to THE LOWDOWN: They have a unique airTESTER NOTES: “Extremely comfortable THE LOWDOWN: Research from Duke COVERING, $29.99 (3), FANATICS.COM

BEST ADD ON For those who do not want to be “stuffed up” in a mask, a FACE SHIELD is a solid substitute. It is regarded by the CDC as just as effective as a regular mask. TESTER NOTES: “Makes it easy to speak.” - Mrs. Salinas THE LOWDOWN: While they do tend to stick out and fog up over time, the face shield alternative is still very comfortable and allows more protection than just a mask. OMK, 2 PCS REUSABLE FACE SHIELD, $7.63, AMAZON.COM