WindRider UPF 50+ Neck Gaiter, Face Mask - Sun Protection for Fishing

Seems like good quality for a good price. Comfortable and light weight.

I initially chose this mask to wear when mowing the lawn, but I will also use it as a face mask during the COVID-19 epidemic. Without a mask, seasonal allergies can make me sick for a couple days each time I mow the lawn. I have been using a paper face mask while mowing for the last couple years, and it has helped a lot to prevent major allergy symptoms. However, when wearing the mask for 4 hours at a time, the elastic bands rub on my skin and it becomes very uncomfortable. I just received my WindRiver gaiter, so I don't yet know for sure how well it will filter allergens. However, I have tried it on, and it is definitely more comfortable than other types of masks I have used. There are no elastic strings to chafe the skin. In my opinion, it is also a more convenient option than other types of masks, especially if there is a need to put it on and off repeatedly -- as may be the case for use during the COVID-19 epidemic, for example, and you wish to remove the face mask when able to maintain social distancing, and put it back on when needed. In "gaiter mode", it stays comfortably out the way, around the neck, but ready to easily pull the top portion up for use as a face mask. Also, there is no worry about misplacing it. Other types of masks would typically be completely removed, but the gaiter is right where you left it: around your neck, readily available. Overall, these qualities make it a better option for me than other masks I have used. Also, I am happy with the quality of the material and the stitching of the seam and edges. After I use the gaiter for mowing, I will update this review with results on how well it filtered the allergens.UPDATE: My gaiter worked great at filtering the allergens while mowing. No problems breathing after mowing for hours today. My eyes, however, are extremely itchy, so I know there were allergens in the air. That is my confirmation the mask works.

Please note, this gaiter is intended for sun protection, we are repurposing it as a mask to abide with the face covering / mask requirements of our community during the COVID-19 global pandemic. We use this gaiter when taking the dogs on a walk around the block. We avoid getting within 6 feet of anyone.We are under shelter-at-home orders due to COVID-19 and, if we need to go outside, we must wear a face covering / face mask. My husband is a big man with a big beard and we’ve had trouble finding a comfortable mask for him.We have not been able to get disposable masks. We have purchased hand made masks but even the XL Adult have proven to be too small - not covering both his mouth and nose, or hitting him uncomfortably on his chin.Out of the bag, these gaiters we’re a bit snug and he initially rejected them. I worked some of the same magic I use for stretching out tight blue jeans - gently pulling the gaiters a bit around the tight areas and it improved considerably, to where the fit is now snug, not tight.Please Note: This gaiter is for sun protection, so the construction is thin and very breathable. This gaiter is not intended to be a COVID-19 barrier. It does however, keep us in compliance with local requirements of wearing a face mask / covering when in public. This is used for taking the dogs on a walk around the block. We avoid getting within 6 feet of anyone.These gaiters are of good quality and are a good fit for a big man with a big beard.

UPDATE: studies have shown that gaiters are worse than nothing for preventing Covid spread. They aerosolize your exhale. The gaiter is still good for all the points I mention below, but please don’t use one alone as a corona mask.ORIGINAL: At some point the mask restrictions will be relaxed, but I still want to protect myself and others, even if less than perfectly. The gaiter is nice as you can wear it scrunched around your neck and just pull it up when needed. And around your neck protects you from sun damage. My husband will wear his when doing yard work as he has been stung by a bee on the neck three times already. I wish I had one of these when I was commuting by train in Chicago as they really cover you well, better than a scarf. Take up little space and all but disappear when not in use.

The color is amazing and smooth, non-iritating material. Would buy again