Customer Reviews Outdoor Research Essential Face Mask Kit

I just cannot recommend using this mask alone without the disposable filters - and since it only comes with 3 - essentially this is a mask that fully depends on the inserted filter to offer real protection. All masks - when used properly - need to pass the light test. That is checking to see how much light passes through the weave of the mask fabric with or without the filter. When this mask is used without one of the disposable filters, yes, it is extremely breathable because the fabric is not even close to the tight weave of cotton typically being used in other masks, but it also lets through a lot of light (see attached image). When a mask - to give even basic protection - requires use of a disposable filter - I cannot use this as my go to mask.

I've been unhappy with masks that don't fit well and with a recent potential exposure to COVID, I wanted a mask that might better protect myself and the people in my life. We can't find our legit n95s and since I'm wearing this almost 24/7, I wanted something that will protect and be comfortable. The fit is 100%. If you adjust the straps right, it draws the bottom part and the sides of your mask to your face creating a great seal, which I don't get with other masks. The nose adjustment is also comfortable and secure. I went for a very socially distanced hike and didn't feel uncomfortable once, no breathing my mask into my mouth. It also doesn't move up and down when you talk so there important parts are always covered! I ended up buying another for my husband and friend! They also love it!

Honestly, just order this face mask. I did a lot of research before settling on this one, probably overthinking the whole matter, but my diligence paid off because I ended up with this mask and I couldn't be happier. It doesn't pinch around my ears, it provides great coverage even for a human bobblehead like me, and it's honestly so comfortable to wear and breathe in it that I often find myself wearing it while sitting alone in my office or in my car, simply because I don't really notice it at all and don't think to remove it as such. Add in the ability to wash it, plus the ability to swap out the replaceable filters, and I really can't imagine a better mask option out there. I've recommended it to family members and co-workers alike, and I highly recommend it to anyone reading this review. **NOTE ON REPLACEMENT FILTERS** -- Some reviewers complain about not getting 3 full replacement filters, or about the filters not fitting properly. PLEASE just watch the brief video on how to install the filters and you'll see the mistake those reviewers made. The filters are folded in half in the packaging, and can be a little tricky to peel open, which has given some people the impression that they received 3 half-size filters. This is simply not the case. Find the open seam and you will have no trouble peeling open the filters to full-size, just as the tutorial video demonstrates.

I have purchased masks from two other companies and they have never compared to these masks. The other ones slide off my nose when I talk so it totally defeats the purpose. These masks are comfortable, breathable, and they never slide down. I will never buy another mask from any other company!

Love the mask (have 4x now)! I wear this style of mask every day for work as well as for exercises. I cycle to work and find the mask comfortable, fairly windproof with the filter inside, and breathable. Nothing is as breathable as not wearing a mask, but this mask is better than several I've found. I also run, hike, and do all my shopping in this mask. The ear straps are elastic, adjustable, and very very comfortable. I honestly didn't even notice the nose had a wire piece until day 3. The wire piece is supple and wraps around the nose nicely. I strongly suggest washing your face every day when using a face mask. I have noticed that there is additional facial oil build up on the nose and cheeks, which I believe is the result of a mild outbreak of acne (the result of my wearing face masks EVERYDAY - regardless of the brand). Replacing the disposable filter along with face washing has eliminated all acne from my face. I just consider this improved hygiene. I honestly forget I'm wearing the mask now, since I wear it so often. My only other note is that I would cut out the tag on the inside left pocket of the mask. I have discovered that the tag sometimes crimps the disposable filter, creating a bunching near the nose. Just take an extra 5 seconds to make sure the disposable filter is sitting correctly in the mask, and you are good to go! Strongly recommend this mask!

For me, this is the best mask I have found to keep my glasses from fogging. I have tried several different brands. The mask is very comfortable and I can wear it for long periods of time.

This is the best face mask I've used, and I've tried many over the past 5 months. It's big enough to cover my face from the top of my nose to just under my chin, its breathable and really the only face mask that allows me to walk and talk comfortably with another person, the ear lops are adjustable and the flat metal insert on top allows a tight fit over the bridge of my nose so the lask doesn't slip down. My only complaint...if you didn't watch a video showing you that the liners that come with the mask actually unfold to fit inside the mask, you would have no idea that you can open them up. You really have to know that it's possible to pry open the smaller side of the mask which comes folded tightly in half in the bag. It takes some doing to get the pieces to separate so the filter is open fully. There are no instructions in the bag, but if you go online you can see a video of how to open the filter

Functional & comfortable. Material and construction seem to be of high quality. Only issues. No neck lanyard. Filter occasionally shifts if you take off and put on. Not an issue with the Adrenaline model.

This is my go-to mask for all situations where I need to wear a mask. This is the first one I've purchased that is large enough to fit an adult face, and the adjustability complements this. The mask shaping and wire in the nose piece gives me a very good seal and really helps to prevent glass fogging even when I'm exercising. The only downside is that the filter does not stay in place very well. The filter material is very flimsy. If you fold the mask for storage (who doesn't) when you unfold it the filter pulls out of the flaps that are supposed to hold it in place.

Great product. Only issue is the filter does not stay in place and needs to be readjusted frequently.

I love how the mask itself fits - it's snug and adjustable. It's also easy to wash and quick to dry. However, the filter just doesn't stay put, no matter how carefully and tightly I try to put it in the mask.

The Outdoor Research masks are designed with fabrics that maximize your protection compared to other masks generally available. So that is the big plus. On the downside is that the arrangement for holding the filters leave something to be desired. They don't stay in place which means you have to touch the filter to reinsert it properly. Touching the filter is the last thing you want to do because you potential contaminate the surface in contact with your mouth and nose. They've chosen their fabrics well. The size and shape of the mask is great and the fit over your face is tight. BUT having the filter dislodge requires a design improvement and in its current configuration risks introducing the virus your are trying to block.

I like the mask. It fits well. However, the product lacks adequate instructions about how to use the filters. They actually split apart into a double-fold, but that isn't at all obvious, and no directions about how to install the filters came with the product. I ordered more filters and Outdoor Research cancelled my order with no indication of when new filters might be available.

5

Love this mask! Incredibly comfortable, and provides the safety and protection required.

Comfortable and conforms well to nose to keep glasses from fogging

Comfortable and easy to wear. Mask conforms well to nose to help keep glasses from fogging.

I own several of these masks in different colors. They beat other masks hands down. We all need masks that are comfortable because a mask cannot be effective and protect you if you don't wear it. These masks are comfortable so I wear it whenever I am out in public. Buy a pair of these today and you will ditch your other masks tomorrow.

I love these masks. They are so comfortable and are the only ones that I wear. I also wear glasses and these do not fog my glasses up because the nose wire is very formable and creases right around my nose.

Been using these masks for much of the pandemic. I'm a tradesman and the mask worked out well keeping me covered while performing multiple duties. I even used the suppled filters as a template to cut N95 filters from masks . This was especially useful when our company couldn't source needed PPE.

Comfy, a bit warm, easily adjustable

My husband loves this mask. It is his favorite one to wear. I bought him another as a spare.

Simply the best

Only mask I'll use - hopefully won't need it much in future, but if we do, OR is the one I'll use!

Great for a full day of teaching.