In Texas, finding decent reusable cloth masks has been a real challenge lately. My wife ordered some fancy-looking ones from Canada over a month ago, and they're still sitting in limbo, unshipped. Meanwhile, I recently waited three weeks for a pair of overpriced masks that fell apart after just one use.
Fortunately, more clothing brands are stepping up to the plate by launching their own mask lines. GORUCK is among the latest to join the fray, and their masks are currently in stock. After spending a week testing these masks myself and with my family, here's my take:
The GORUCK masks are surprisingly comfortable to wear for extended periods. Their build quality is top-notch compared to other reusable masks, and they look sleek without being overly bulky. While they don't filter as effectively as a properly fitted N95, their snug fit works well for most everyday situations.
When I'm out in a crowd or in a larger, well-ventilated space, I reach for these masks. For smaller, crowded indoor settings, I still prefer my N95s. My kids love them because they feel like little ninja warriors wearing them. And at $45 for a three-pack, they're actually a bargain compared to many inferior options online.
GORUCK provided a three-pack for review, but I liked them so much that I bought two more packs with my own money. These masks come in a three-pack, and for each purchase, GORUCK donates N95s to those in need. They're great for hot days, though the slight gaps around the nose make me lean toward N95s for really crowded, indoor environments.
The masks have a dual-layer design with a slick outer layer and a softer inner layer. Made from a nylon/polyester/spandex blend, they form a large pocket where you can insert a filter medium of your choice. Many people use PM2.5 filters, but these don't quite fill the entire pocket, which leaves room for improvement.
To address this, GORUCK provides a printable template to create your own filter inserts from alternative materials. I plan to experiment with different inserts made from cotton sheeting to see what works best. Even though the filters don't fully cover the entire mask area, the snug fit ensures you're primarily breathing through the filter itself.
The mask's elastic ties and fabric offer some stretch, allowing you to adjust the fit tightly and securely. The moisture-wicking material keeps things breathable and prevents the mask from becoming damp or uncomfortable, unlike typical N95s.
However, I do have one significant issue with the mask. The thin wire inside the nose bridge isn't stiff enough to maintain a proper seal. As a result, there are noticeable air gaps on either side of my nose. When I exhale, I can feel air escaping through these gaps, meaning unfiltered air could be entering as well. To counteract this, I've resorted to pursing my lips while inhaling to create a makeshift seal, but this isn't ideal for prolonged use.
Despite this drawback, I'm still quite pleased with the GORUCK masks. Their comfort and durability make them a solid choice for daily wear, especially during Texas' scorching summers. I've already added some to my family's emergency kits, and I'll be gifting others to friends and relatives.
For high-risk situations where I'm stuck indoors in crowded spaces, I'll stick with my N95s. But for outdoor activities or less intense scenarios, these masks are a fantastic option. I'm even considering experimenting further with different filter materials to enhance their performance.
All in all, I'm glad I gave these masks a try. They've become a staple in my wardrobe, and I look forward to seeing how they perform with various filter combinations moving forward.
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