Some materials offer very high filtration, but do not allow for the flow of air. This makes it harder to breathe, but can also cause more moisture build-up as your exhalations condense (due to the temperature difference between the ambient air and the air trapped by the face covering). We all want face coverings that can filter out as many germs as possible, but breathability is crucial too. Seven masks (results listed in the table above) failed our tests. We shared our results with the manufacturers or retailers, and these were their responses.

While not medically graded, the mask has sold out anyway, testifying to the power of brands over common sense.See our face covering usage guide for advice on wearing and washing your mask properly. Glasses compatibility Adidas told us its mask was designed early on in the pandemic, before there was an industry standard for non-medical face coverings, and that its mask was tested for comfort and breathability. Our tests revealed that some reusable face coverings can do a good job of filtering particles, while being easy to breathe through. But others struggle to get the balance right.

We looked to include a range of face coverings made of different materials, numbers of layers and designs (eg pleated, molded, with filter, kids sizes available), to see which were most effective and comfortable. Tiny bacterial particles (three micrometres in diameter) are shot through the face covering via an aerosol generator at a flow rate of 28 litres per minute. We washed each face covering five times at 60°C, or using the temperature / method specified by the manufacturer, looking for damage each time. Unfortunately, we found that the Adidas workout mask fitted a little too closely touching our lips and making our workout a little clammier than we would have liked. It doesn't fit very securely under the eyes either, which can cause glasses and shades to steam up.The adidas face mask isn't medically graded as a Personal Protective Equipment this pandemic, but it'll cost more than an N95 mask anyway.. | Source: Adidas The best face coverings were able to filter 99.9% of particles, while the worst only managed a paltry 7%' This can lead to your face covering becoming damp, which reduces the filtration efficiency. This is why we only gave top scores to face coverings which got the balance right.

Ultimately, glasses and masks don't mix - so none of the options are a magic solution for spectacle-wearers. But some are much better than others. Our tests revealed significant differences in effectiveness between reusable masks. The best can be as effective as a disposable version, but the worst are nearly useless. The company is clearly struggling. So how does it respond? Well, it releases its own branded Adidas face mask. Yes, this move seems completely desperate, and actual sales of the mask will hardly make a dent in its 95% drop in profits. Protect yourself and others with soft, breathable adidas face coverings. Stay comfortable while you shop or exercise, and stay committed to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Our washable and reusable face masks help you practice healthy habits every day while providing a level of comfort that keeps you focused on your favorite activities. They did well when filtering particles - managing 72% of particles on the first test, 73% after five washes - while also being some of the most breathable masks we looked at.

Adidas Face Mask ‘Hype Drop’

We repeated the filtration tests after the masks had been through the wash five times, and gave equal weighting to the pre and post-wash filtration score.

The Vita Group said its face covering had been tested at external accredited testing facilities which showed filtration levels of more than 90%. It said that the discrepancies in results demonstrate the need for mandatory overarching standards to be put in place. We have been in discussion with the Vita Group and we are working together to understand each other's findings. Again, all the products passed this test. Any shrinkage was minimal and not enough to affect the fit. Ease of use Maskari said its mask has been tested by Swiss labs, revealing good filtration results, and has been approved as a community mask in Switzerland, so were surprised by our results. It noted that its masks are treated with antimicrobial substance, that Which? tests do not take into account. Breaking head straps is a common complaint we've noticed with disposable masks, but it doesn't seem to be a significant issue with reusable ones. No damage was reported to any of the coverings during this test, apart from the Vita Shield where the material started to fray slightly after repeated putting on and removing. Cleaning and shrinkage

The Big Silk and Superdrug were our two Best Buys that were least likely to steam up. The Big Silk, Airpop and Superdrug were the Best Buys that were rated 5/5 for comfort while wearing glasses. How we selected face coverings to test