For a mask to work properly, it has to seal the area of nose and mouth from the external environment. The inhaled air has to pass through the filter material in order to remove pollution. A nose clip is a vital component required to make an effective seal. Failure to create a seal will allow unfiltered air to pass around the sides of the mask. A ‘one size fits all’ mask will invariably offer a poor fit and an ineffective seal.

Filter materials come in two categories: The first has the ability to remove particulate matter (PM). Typically this would be diesel particulates, dust and pollen. This kind of filter is a non-woven material made from fibres bonded together. These ‘electrostatically charged’ fibres readily trap fine respirable sub-micron particulates in the air. The second type of filter is made from 100 Activated Charcoal Cloth material (DACC™) which works on a molecular level and has the ability to filter (adsorb) gases and vapours, like exhaust fumes. The UK Defence Establishment developed both of these materials through extensive research and testing. It is not cheap to produce, so watch out! If you are purchasing a product which appears to be ‘cheap’ then it probably isn’t doing its job effectively.

Comfort is important because if the mask is not comfortable you will probably give up on it. The goal is to ensure that you do not feel impeded while wearing a mask. So, when choosing a mask keep the following points in mind:

1. Select the correct filtration for the environment you require the mask for.

2. Choose the right size. (see sizing chart at the end of the brochure).

3. Consider the type of valve you need for the activity you are doing; sitting on a couch does not require Powa™ valves, cycling or running through the city does!

4. Ensure the mask is fitted correctly so you can breathe unimpeded through the nose and the mouth.