All mammals produce colostrum, a nutrient-dense milk, to feed their newborns in the 48 hours after giving birth. It’s meant to help young babies and their fragile immune systems develop antibodies for warding off illness in a world filled with pathogens. 

“Colostrum is specifically designed to seal up our internal barriers from the outside world,” said Dr. Sarah Rahal, an NYC-based pediatric neurologist who launched ARMRA Colostrum in 2020. 

“When babies are born, their bodies are immature. So this food evolved 300 million years ago specifically to be the first thing that goes into your body and seal up all of your barriers like glue.” 

Over the last 30 years, it’s also become a component in the diets of experimental weightlifters, bodybuilders, and professional endurance athletes looking to boost their performance. Grown men are consuming colostrum, primarily from cows, despite very little credible data that shows it has positive effects on athletic performance. “Got Milk?” takes on a whole new meaning. 

It’s the definition of a woo-woo health trend that sounds crazy, and to a certain extent, it is. Yet some researchers have found it’s beneficial in a totally different way than the gym bros initially suspected. 

A growing body of research conducted over the last 10 years shows it can protect endurance athletes from the risks of rigorous training schedules and the elevated exposure to infection they get while traveling and in large stadiums. It still helps athletes, but instead of making them faster or stronger, it provides a boost to their immunity. 

The initial theories around the supplement’s benefits have been disproven, but that hasn’t diminished interest within the medical community, and there’s reason to believe that anyone’s ability to ward off illness could benefit from a (small) scoop of freeze-dried cow milk every day. 

IGF-1 Muscle Growth, and Colostrum

“If you take colostrum within the first 0-24 hours after birth, and test it, it’s very high in IGF-1, or insulin-like growth factor,” said Glen Davison, a professor of sport and exercise science who specializes in immunology at the U.K.’s University of Kent. His lab is producing the bulk of the latest colostrum research.

IGF-1 is a driver of muscle growth, hence its ability to help babies develop fresh from the womb. Grown men, however, assumed that it would help supercharge their muscle growth after hours spent pumping iron in the gym. 

Initial research also showed that this was the case, often with small groups of athletes taking colostrum and comparing their performance to a placebo group consuming whey protein, or similar replacement. 

The problem with these studies, however, is they’re not designed to isolate colostrum as the cause of the enhanced performance, since it’s not a 1-1 substance compared to standard protein and athletic performance will improve naturally over 6-8 weeks regardless of which supplements one is taking. 

“My suspicion is that the performance-enhancing effects that were found in the early studies weren’t because it was colostrum. They were because they were getting a bit more protein and some more micronutrients that were contributing to their training gains,” said Davison. 

Davison also explained that these previous studies assumed that certain larger proteins within colostrum were able to permeate the gut barrier in adults in the same way they do in children. However, more recent research has shown this is not the case. An adult gut has far more barriers than a baby’s within the first few days of its life, so larger proteins, like IGF-1, aren’t able to pass through and have an impact. They’re broken down and digested like any other protein. 

Nonetheless, groups of heavy lifters in America hopped on the bandwagon in the early 2000s, and began buying freeze-dried powders from China in the hopes that their muscles would swell without hundreds of pounds of iron. Since then, dried bovine colostrum powder has remained a supplement for rumored benefits for fitness, beauty, and overall wellness. 

Michael Bosstick is the CEO of Dear Media, the podcast studio, and co-host of the podcast The Skinny Confidential HIM & HER, which has over 200 million downloads. Earlier this year, he defended his use of colostrum to guest Scarlett Johanson live on the show who questioned the practice. Bosstick shared he didn’t know where the “powder” comes from, but that he’s also used a liquid form on his face. 

Wellness podcast hosts, they’re just like us. 

Davidson noted that other supplements, like whey protein and beta-alanine, are likely superior to colostrum in their benefits for gym performance and recovery. 

“Beta-alanine is 10 times better at increasing muscle recovery capacity than colostrum ever will be,” said Davison. 

“If you were to compare it to creatine, it’s not going to come close in terms of benefitting resistance training, strength development, and all those sorts of things.” 

Beta-Alanine

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$19.96

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Bulk Supplements’ beta-alanine powder has 3000 milligrams per serving and each bag comes with over 160 servings.

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Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine

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$26.04 $30.35

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Optimum Nutrition’s creatine comes with 5 grams per serving and is a 100% pure creatine monohydrate. This is one of SPY’s favorite brands for reliable, clean supplement powders.

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Davison said the initial testing groups likely didn’t design the studies to confirm commercial interest on purpose, but the standard follow-up studies that tend to be more robust and dive deeper into the initial interest weren’t conducted because “they’d gotten the answer they wanted.” 

Marketing a product to men with the promise of better gym performance is, perhaps, more lucrative than a product that helps you avoid the common cold. Davison and his team are nonetheless more focused on the latter. 

Colostrum’s Daily Flu Shot

Davison’s colostrum studies focus on professional endurance athletes who are not only frequently taxing their immune systems through intense exercise, but are also more exposed to illness. 

“There’s a pretty strong body of evidence that shows supplementation with bovine colostrum can reduce the incidents and/or the duration of these [colds and flus] in active individuals, in those who are training hard,” said Davison. 

“The proportions tend to be about 50% to 30% reduction in the risk of contracting it and/or the duration it’ll persist for, or the ratings of severity people give to that illness.” 

This happens due to “passive immunity,” or the strengthening of the immune system through transmission of proteins as opposed to being exposed to an illness and developing antibodies. The larger proteins bodybuilders assumed would be the golden ticket don’t get through, but smaller proteins do and may strengthen the body’s immune defenses. 

Where to Find Colostrum

Colostrum is frequently sold in powder form since it’s easier for the body to absorb and easier for folks who can’t swallow pills to consume. 

Consumers looking to find high-quality colostrum should look for two things, according to Davison. 

“There’s definitely massive variability in the quality of these products. One of the things [one should look for] is the total protein content and one of them is the total IGG content — that can give you an indicator. The higher those things are, the more likely you’ve got high-quality colostrum,” said Davison. 

“They’re not the reason for it but they’re a surrogate marker that you’ve got a high-quality colostrum.” 

He also mentioned that colostrum that’s been exposed to high temperatures is less likely to be potent and beneficial since it can kill off beneficial proteins. For this reason, it’s important to store it in a cool place, like the refrigerator, and be wary of certain brands’ shipment practices. 

An exact timeline of colostrum’s benefits is hard to quantify, but Davison said that after 2-4 weeks of consistent use, the product’s full benefits have had enough time to take effect. 

Rahal, along with her team at ARMRA, developed a proprietary cold-chain pasteurization technique to avoid damage to the product. 

Armra Colostrum

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$109.99 $159.96

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Armra’s colostrum is pricey, but it only requires a half teaspoon per dose so this jar will last a while. It comes in an unflavored variety, but there are also watermelon and blood orange flavors.

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This product is sourced from grass-fed cows on family-owned farms in the U.S., whose overflow production was formerly going in the trash. 

“Cows make about [seven times more] colostrum than their babies consume and it’s considered a waste product in the industry because they’re not allowed to sell it to their milk suppliers. It’s considered a separate good,” said Rahal. 

“Right now, it’s either thrown out or it’s stripped off to China because they’ve been using this stuff for decades. They know the benefits.” 

Davison uses a brand called Neovite colostrum in all of his studies, and trusts the quality of the product. He recommends anyone looking to vet specific brands check out the clinical research that’s been done and find the brands they used.

Here are a few other brands SPY editors recommend to frequent travelers, endurance athletes, or anyone who’s interested in an alternative immune system boost. 

WONDERCOW Colostrum Powder Supplement

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$64.99

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The WONDERCOW Colostrum powder supports the immune system and overall health and wellness. It contains 40% IgGs (immunoglobulins) which play a vital role in the function of the immune system.

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Ancestral Supplements Grass Fed Beef Colostrum Supplement

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$68.00

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This non-GMO Colostrum by Ancestral Supplements promotes and supports gut health and the immune system, while also increasing athletic performance and iron levels.

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Symbiotics Colostrum Plus Powder Supplement for Immunity Support

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$42.89

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Symbiotics Colostrum powder helps boost and maintain a healthy immune system. As an added bonus, it’s also gluten-free.

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When I was young, Wim Hof didn’t yet have the method, just the madness. In 2000, the year he swam 188.6 feet under the ice – his corneas freezing and a rescue diver pulling him out – I was waiting for a growth spurt I’d been promised by a loose-lipped pediatrician. I was also killing time. I did so unproductively by finding various ways to frighten myself. Deep, cold water made the list. Like many kids in Maine, I had access to a beater of a boat, which meant my friends and I also had access to open water.

We dared each other to jump in. Everyone did.

I think about what happened next every morning I walk out onto my roof in Brooklyn and slide slowly into my Cold Plunge, which marinates stubbornly at 45 degrees, even in summer as the roof sealant starts to ooze. It’s a sharp thrill, a neurological jolt followed by a deep full-bodied cramp, followed by adrenaline and a shot of awareness that tastes as clean as a cocktail – cerebrospinal fluid served on the rocks. I remember being a kid and almost shooting out of the water, scared of sharks that wouldn’t manage to make it that far north for another two decades. But you can master yourself.

Daring and discipline aren’t the same, but they crew the same ship.

The big question when it comes to the Cold Plunge, a well-made mini-pool that comes with a chiller and a set of instructions spiritually adjacent to a hot plate user manual, is whether it’s just a feeling. Does hopping in cold water and stressing the body (while engaging in controlled breathing) build immunity or lower inflammation? That’s the theory. That’s the so-called Wim Hof Method. There’s some scientific evidence to support it, but it has far more anecdotal support.

Cold Plunge

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There are legions of cold plungers at this point. This chattering class is big enough to capsize a glacier or alienate a pod of porpoise with their enthusiastic evangelism A cursory search on TikTok, where the practice has become a bona fide trend, shows 1.4 billion views associated with the term “cold plunge.”

I’m not a true believer in Wim Hof or, to be fully honest, a true skeptic. I sit between ambivalent and agnostic. What I really am is nostalgic and also keenly aware that my old rise-and-grind routine with the coffee maker wasn’t working. If coffee doesn’t make me an asshole, it certainly reveals the asshole within.

The Cold Plunge is, considered closely, a reverse coffee. It’s a cold cup into which I pour myself — with results that are far more profound. Every morning I dare myself – memories of the transom of a Boston Whaler buoy to the surface – and then I do the thing. I emerge panting from the pain and the shock of it, but feeling in control of myself. Am I stronger or healthier for it? Hard to say in the absence of a control group, but I believe that I derive a psychological benefit from frightening myself. And, yes, the cold is frightening even when contained. The body isn’t built to trust.

The product itself, the slick Cold Plunge tub, feels like something of a totem. A Cold Plunge is a sure sign that you’re about to have a conversation about the benefits of psychedelics or Burning Man. I’ve never been to Burning Man (people who grew up on beaches distrust the desert.) But I don’t mind being mistaken for a bit of a searcher. I don’t believe in alternative medicine, but I do believe in trying stuff. And the Cold Plunge has been a positive trend for me, personally.

Will it work for everyone? No. Is it expensive? Absolutely, though not profoundly given the equipment involved. Am I convinced that it will make me live a longer, fuller life? Nah, but I still recommend it to friends for whom the cost won’t be prohibitive. It makes the morning more interesting and one dare naturally leads to the next.

Despite stiff competition in recent years, lululemon’s grip on the athleisure market is ironclad. Their April 2023 quarterly market valuation placed them at just over a record $48 billion dollars, and they remain the brand worth investing in in the eyes of this commerce editor. Extra emphasis on invest, for as much as lululemon is known for their high-performing gear, they’re also known for high price tags. Thankfully, I’ve found a perfect dupe on Amazon for 60% cheaper, and the resemblance is uncanny. 

CRZ YOGA has done what numerous cheap Amazon brands attempt to do, but fail miserably at: create lululemon alternatives that look and feel just like the real thing. Their stuff feels so similar to actual lululemon gear that I’ve mistaken it numerous times while packing and doing laundry. They even have a minimalist logo at the tailbone of the leggings and lower corner of the shorts. 

The women’s leggings, available for only $32, feel just like lululemon’s Butterluxe fabric. The men’s linerless shorts are a perfect $28 replica of lululemon’s $68 shorts. I’ve washed their gear as I would lululemon gear — cold cycle and a regular drying cycle with my other clothes (don’t come for me) — and the quality holds up. Their stuff is sweat-wicking and lightweight. It looks expensive, as far as athleisure goes, and I can’t believe more people aren’t talking about this brand. 

It’s so good it almost feels illegal. I’ve tried other, cheaper athletic wear on Amazon. It does fine for a while, but ultimately pills, rips, or becomes so rigid and itchy that the price of lululemon’s fabrics looks more justified. My CRZ YOGA gear has yet to turn that corner. 

Shop CRZ Yoga on Amazon

The problem with lululemon, for me, is that it’s always been a little too expensive and rarely goes on sale. At the end of the day, these stretchy multicolored fabrics are being used to cover me up while I sweat. They’re not shielding anyone from gunfire or warding off frostbite at sub-zero temperatures. They make movement easy and help the body regulate its temperature, and that shouldn’t require spending hundreds of dollars. 

CRZ YOGA is also just as good for men’s gear as it is for women’s, and the price for the quality you’re getting is hard to beat. Here are a few of my favorite things with a few testing notes about each one. 

CRZ YOGA Men's 7"/9" Linerless Workout Shorts

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$28.00

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These are very close to lululemon’s Pace Breaker shorts, complete with the option for a 7- or 9-inch inseam, and the ultralight fabric feels exactly like it was made by lululemon. They feel smooth, cooling to the touch, and don’t ride up unnecessarily during high-intensity movements. They’re also available in a bunch of neutral lululemon-esque colors and because the price is low you can stock up on multiple pairs without splurge-induced guilt. 

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CRZ YOGA Men's 2-in-1 Running Shorts With Liner

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$32.00

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Skimping on running shorts is a bad idea, especially for long-distance races where cheap material will fail you fast. These don’t perform at the level their price tag may imply. The liner inside stays in place, the outer layer performs much like the linerless shorts and the pockets inside feel dependable. Their design inspiration appears to be the Fast and Free Lined Shorts from lululemon, without the extra $56.

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CRZ YOGA Men's Stretch Golf Work Pants

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$45.00

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lululemon’s ABC Pants revolutionized men’s work pants by making them flexible and comfortable without looking shlubby. These take that a step further by dropping the price by more than $80.00, so you can be a budget-friendly former shlub. They’re marketed towards golfers but are one of the closest dupes to lululemon’s office-appropriate pants I’ve seen to date. 

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CRZ YOGA Men's 4-Way Stretch Golf Joggers

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$42.00

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These jogger pants are another rip off of lululemon’s ABC joggers, a sleek pant for lounging and brunch stops where sweatpants aren’t appropriate. They have zippers along the ankles for extra breathing room on warmer days, exactly like lululemon, and are made of stretchy fabric for easy movement. Most importantly, they’re less than half the price and certainly don’t look like it. 

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Cheap dupes normally reveal themselves to be shortcuts by sharply losing quality and not holding up long-term. CRZ YOGA doesn’t do that, which is astonishing given how intense of a beating athleticwear takes both while being born and washed. 

Dupe culture has been rightfully criticized for its environmental impacts akin to fast fashion, since it’s much cheaper to produce a ripoff than a real pair of Bottega Veneta earrings. Dupes steal and devalue artistic work while bolstering the value of authenticity. Dupes make pretty things more accessible. There is truth to both sides of the argument. 

I also think there’s room for both the real deal and the knockoff in someone’s wardrobe — so long as the dupe is good enough that it doesn’t crap out and end up in the trash after three wears. There are times when splurging on the real thing is more than warranted. With CRZ YOGA, though, you revel in Luxstreme softness without paying a premium. 

There’s a lot of buzz online about quitting, or limiting, caffeine, a puzzling revelation for a society obsessed with coffee. Two billion cups of coffee power minds and bodies worldwide every day, and 62% of Americans consume just over three cups to get through the workday. Most of the available correlative research points to coffee not only not being bad for you, but perhaps being beneficial. 

And yet, thousands of outspoken health nuts are ditching the beans to see how it affects everything from their sleep to energy levels throughout the day— and they’re urging others to do the same. There’s a desire for a more “natural” approach, which means that coffee is no longer the only game in town. 

In his international bestseller Why We Sleep, Dr. Matthew Walker, a professor of neuroscience and psychology at UC Berkeley, describes caffeine as a “significant” disruptor of sleep and the body’s 24-hour circadian rhythm. A cursory search on TikTok for a “caffeine-free” lifestyle churns out hundreds of videos of folks touting the benefits of skipping the morning brew. Does that mean you should quit? 

Not exactly. At least for coffee, the data skews the opposite direction. It’s worth mentioning that almost all of the research done on caffeine and its effects focuses on coffee rather than other caffeine sources, and not only have certain negative health effects of coffee been disproven in recent years, but a laundry list of benefits has been attributed to daily java consumption. 

Pro-Java

According to Dr. Brad Analwalt, an endocrinologist and men’s health specialist at the University of Washington Medical School, coffee drinkers are more likely to be rich, grow thick hair longer, be more active, and may even live longer than coffee teetotalers. 

“[Coffee] is associated with lower risks of a variety of cancers including colorectal cancer and skin cancers,” said Anawalt. 

Plenty of studies purport to show that coffee boosts cognitive and athletic performance, may stave off severe disease, and even prevents androgenetic alopecia, the most common type of hair loss in men. 

Anawalt also mentioned that the long-held belief within the medical community (and elsewhere) that coffee increases your risk of high blood pressure and arrhythmias is false. In fact, coffee drinkers had lower rates of rapid heart rates. 

However, coffee is everywhere and it’s drunk by many people every day. This makes it hard to attribute the results of these studies to coffee, precisely, since it’s nearly impossible to pinpoint it as the sole variable. Anawalt also poked confirmation bias within the chronically sleep-deprived medical community. 

“The people who do the studies are PhDs, MDs, and so forth. They’re really likely to drink coffee. You always wonder whether there are biases that factor into this,” said Anawalt, chuckling. 

Since all of the data on caffeine centers on coffee, there’s very little clinical guidance on tea, energy drinks, or caffeinated sports drinks. 

How Much Coffee Is Healthy?

According to the FDA, otherwise healthy adults can consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, without experiencing adverse health effects. That’s about four cups of coffee or a little over a single can of an energy drink. 

While the majority of Americans fall beneath that threshold, Dr. Justin Houman, a men’s health specialist in Los Angeles shared that a significant number of his patients say that they drink more than that. 

A 2019 study of nearly 2,000 college-aged freshmen showed that men metabolize caffeine at a faster pace than women, and therefore may experience fewer uncomfortable physical effects. 

According to Anawalt, though, the long-term health effects can still occur even if someone doesn’t get a racing heart rate after a venti cold brew. 

“If you’re always drinking five or more cups per day the current evidence suggests that that’s probably not good for your health and more substantively, if there is any benefit to caffeinated beverages, you’re losing it when you go five or more per day,” said Anawalt. 

Coffee vs. Energy Drinks

It’s worth remembering, though, that data around coffee does not extrapolate to all caffeinated consumables. Energy drinks are classified as either “conventional beverages” or “liquid supplements” by the FDA. This means the FDA equates them with sports drinks and does not regulate the amount of caffeine. It’s up to manufacturers to maintain consistent levels across cases. 

One can of Bang Energy, RedBull for millennials who miss Hot Topic’s heyday, contains 350 milligrams of caffeine per can. 5-Hour Energy contains 200 milligrams. But these labels may not be trustworthy. 

“[Energy drink brands] are often either not reporting or they’re inaccurately reporting the amount of caffeine in them,” said Anawalt. 

A 2023 study of 16 energy drink brands found that only 10 of them were within 20% of the caffeine dosage noted on the label. Five of them were beyond 20% of the amount on the label, and one clocked in at 70% below the marked amount. 

So, is it actually better to live life without caffeine? No, there’s no conclusive data to support that claim. Coffee in low-moderate amounts hasn’t proven disastrous healthwise, and there’s some anecdotal evidence that it’s beneficial. Energy drinks, however, have not been studied to nearly the same caliber, and exist in a gray area.  

That laundry list of health benefits from caffeine comes from coffee, and it’s not a 1-1 equivalent with energy drinks or sugary sodas. 

Anawalt cautioned anyone who’s pushing their daily caffeine limit with an energy drink, or chugging something before a late-night workout. 

“Sports drinks, they’re trying to create a physical response in you to make you think you’re getting something, and they will over-spike their drinks with caffeine.” 

What was once a mask shortage during the beginning of the COVID pandemic has become a mask boom, with professional-grade masks available everywhere. But that doesn’t mean they’re all trustworthy or of the same quality. 

Up to 60% of respirators sold in the U.S. are counterfeit or misrepresent the level of protection they offer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The website for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) lists all of the products that it has approved, along with known counterfeiters, and anyone who’s worried about fake goods should buy directly from the manufacturers instead of relying on third-party vendors like Amazon.  

Then, there’s what kind of mask to buy. When it comes to respirators, remember that N95s and KN95s are functionally the same device. “N95” is the certification in the US, while “KN95” is the certification in China, but both masks are respirators that filter roughly 95% of airborne particles. In fact, the CDC has used the two terms interchangeably. Meanwhile, the KF94 is the Korean certification and filters 94% of particles.

What the Experts Say

The experts SPY consulted for this piece all said that it’s less about where one purchases their mask and more about the type of mask they buy. Most major vendors have both trustworthy and counterfeit masks on their platform, so it’s up to the consumer to choose wisely. 

When it comes to which masks are “best,” studies have shown that respirators provide the greatest protection against COVID-19 infection. Anything is better than nothing, according to Emily Volk, president of the College of American Pathologists. “Even just a barrier mask can reduce the risk of spreading upper respiratory illnesses,” she said. 

That can include a surgical mask (most commonly seen as the disposable blue mask). These do not necessarily provide as much protection as respirators, especially when it comes to small particles in the air. However, they are a good option, said Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. In most cases, he said, he feels comfortable wearing a surgical mask even when he’s seeing patients infected with COVID. 

Regardless of what a person chooses, it’s critical that the mask fits them properly, said Dr. Adalja. That means it fully covers the nose, mouth, and chin without leaving large gaps between the edge of the mask and the face. “If it’s fitting snugly around the face, it’s probably performing the way you want it to,” he said. 

Each of the masks below is NIOSH-approved for protection against COVID-19 and available to purchase online.

BEST OVERALL

N95 Face Mask (30 Pack) | NIOSH Certified N95 Disposable Respirator 5-Ply Safety Breathable Face Masks

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$19.99 $27.99

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These N95 masks from BENEHAL are NIOSH-approved for 95% filter efficiency and come individually wrapped so they’re extra sanitary and convenient for daily use. The masks are made with an electrostatic fabric that is rigid enough to create extra breathing room and minimize breathing resistance. The cup shape provides a protective seal and the double head straps keep the mask on without pulling on ear flaps. There’s also a small strip of foam under the nose bridge for comfort and a dependable seal. 

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BEST FOR GLASSES

3M Aura Particulate Respirator 9205+, N95 (240 ea/Case)

Buy Now

$29.68

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Four-eyed friends, this mask is designed specifically for you. Its curved profile provides space for your eyewear and directs exhaled air away from the nose panel. 

Who It’s For: Mask wearers who can’t stand when their glasses fog up.

Why We Chose It: No one should experience the scourge of foggy glasses. 

When to Wear It: Whenever you’ve got your glasses on.

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BEST FOR WATER RESISTANCE

N95 Face Mask, Black (50 Pack) | NIOSH Certified N95 Disposable Respirator, 5-Ply Safety Breathable Face Masks

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$29.99

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This mask provides at least 95% filtration efficiency and is comfortable to wear thanks to its adjustable nose clip and high elastic ear loops. It’s also water-resistant and comes in packs of 50. 

Who It’s For: Anyone whose mask might get wet. 

Why We Chose It: A mask isn’t doing its job if it’s soggy and falling apart. 

When to Wear It: If you’re going to come into contact with liquids.

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BUDGET-FRIENDLY PICK

WellBefore Individually-Wrapped KN95 Face Masks

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$1.49 each

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Normally, skimping on something medical results in something less effective. That’s not true with WellBefore’s affordable masks. Their masks are great for bulk purchases but are still approved by China’s NIOSH-equivalent agency.  This mask comes with ear loops, adjustable ear straps, or behind-the-head straps so the fit can be customized.  

Who It’s For: Anyone who wants the ability to customize their facial covering.

Why We Chose It: It’s from a trusted brand and is also inexpensive — around $1 per mask.

When to Wear It: Indoors or outdoors. It’s a general-use mask.

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BEST FOR ROUND FACES

WellBefore 3D (KF94 Style) KN95 Mask – With & Without Adjustable Ear Loops

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$0.99 each

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Another mask from WellBefore, this one comes with an adjustable noseband and is designed to better fit the shape of rounded faces. Its rounded style also provides more room for breathing.

Who It’s For: Anyone who struggles to find a mask that fits properly. 

Why We Chose It: It’s from a trusted brand and is even less expensive than the individually wrapped mask above — around $.70 per mask.

When to Wear It: Anytime you need protection from infection

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BEST N99 MASK

WellBefore N99 Respirator Mask – NIOSH Approved

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$1.99 each

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This mask is NIOSH approved for filtering out 99% of airborne particles (to qualify as an N95, a mask only has to filter out at least 95% of particles), and it has four layers of non-woven fabric that’s skin-friendly.

Who It’s For: Anyone whose face may be sensitive to the fabrics used by other mask manufacturers. 

Why We Chose It: Especially if you’re wearing a mask for hours on end, your skin may start to rebel. 

When to Wear It: Whenever you need skin-friendly fabric. 

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The days of hours-long lines to get tested for COVID-19 before a trip or wedding are over, but the virus hasn’t gone away. It continues to spread and mutate, and a new subvariant or a particularly contagious wave of infections could mean a surge in demand for testing. Thankfully, the accuracy and accessibility of at-home tests have only improved since the pandemic began. Now there are plenty of choices. 

Most at-home COVID-19 antigen tests use a nose swab, liquid solution, and a developing card to gauge infection after 10-15 minutes. They detect certain kinds of protein from the virus as opposed to molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests which detect if there’s RNA from the virus present. 

Antigen tests tend to be most accurate when a person is symptomatic or has a lot of the virus in their system already. They can be less accurate early on in an infection or right after exposure. Emily Volk, President of the College of American Pathologists emphasized that it’s important to view the test tests within one’s individual circumstances. 

What the Experts Say About At-Home COVID-19 Test Kits

“For a patient who is symptomatic, has been exposed to someone who has COVID-19, and gets a positive result with an at-home test, I think they can rest assured that they most likely have COVID-19,” she said. “If someone else has a similar set of circumstances and they get a negative test, I would not stop at that at-home test to get the all clear.” Dr. Volk recommends a laboratory PCR test for the most accurate and reliable results. 

When it comes to testing, you also have to decide what question you’re trying to answer, said Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security. In other words, are you worried that you’ve contracted COVID-19, or are you nervous about potentially getting someone else sick? “It’s important to remember that there are other viruses out there, like strep throat,” he said. 

Regardless of motivation or circumstances, though, following the instructions for the at-home test is critical,, said Dr. Volk. Common mistakes are not doing the steps in order, not waiting long enough before interpreting your results, and putting the droplets on the developing card before you swab your nose. “That’s obviously going to negatively impact the accuracy of any results,” she said. 

Below are over-the-counter COVID-19 tests that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and recommended by SPY editors after consultation with our experts.

OUR TOP PICK

BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test

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$19.88 $23.99

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Buy Now $19.88

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This BinaxNOW test is similar to the one above but doesn’t require you to use the trained proctor and doesn’t come with an app for sending along the results. The wait is quick though, only 15 minutes, approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and comes with two sets of testing equipment (swabs, dropper bottles, test cards). 

Who It’s For: Anyone who needs a quick, relatively straightforward test.
Why We Chose It: It’s widely used and comes with clear instructions. 
There’s More: This test (and the others) may be FSA/HSA eligible.

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BEST FOR QUICK RESULTS

On/Go COVID-19 Antigen Self-Test Kit with Test-to-Treat App

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$19.99

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If you need to know now whether you’re positive or not, the aptly named On/Go is your test. It delivers results in around 10 minutes, about five minutes faster than other tests on the market. It also comes with illustrated instructions, but be prepared for aggressively small fonts. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who needs results quickly or is testing people en masse (think: a group weekend getaway). 

Why We Chose It: You have better uses for your time than waiting around for results.

There’s More: On/Go also has a companion mobile phone app.

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EASIEST TO ADMINISTER

InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Test

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$12.98 $17.52

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If you last touched a test tube in high school chemistry class and would like to keep it that way, you want the InteliSwab COVID-19 test. It only requires you to open the tube, swab your nose, and then insert the tube into the testing vial — no mixing required. 

Who It’s For: People who struggle with dexterity or otherwise want a mechanically simple process to follow. 

Why We Chose It: The more steps you add to the process, the more room for error. 

There’s More: You can use the InteliSwab on anyone who’s two years or older.

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MOST AFFORDABLE

iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test

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$17.98

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At $18 for two testing kits, iHealth is one of the cheapest at-home kits on the market but still provides reliable results and comes with relatively straightforward instructions. It also comes with an app to help you manage a small group’s results. 

Who It’s For: People who are looking for a good deal or need to buy tests for a large number of people. 

Why We Chose It: It’s accurate, simple, and won’t break the bank.  

There’s More: The FDA has extended the shelf life for iHealth tests from 6 months to 15 months, so they can be purchased in bulk without concern they’ll expire too quickly. 

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The national rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) took an understandable dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, both due to a lack of available care and a lack of human interaction. But they’re back in full force. In 2021, there were over 1.6 million recorded cases of chlamydia, and rates of gonorrhea and syphilis were also up year over year, according to the Center for Disease Control. Life has, after all, returned to normal. 

Regular STD testing is one of the best ways to avoid being an unknown carrier and spreading infection between sexual partners, and because men can be carriers of infections like HPV without developing cervical cancer, it’s even more important. But trips to the doctor’s office for a quick penis swab are not high on folks’ summer “must-do” list. Thankfully, reliable at-home STD testing kits exist and make the process easy and private. 

At-home STD testing kits have been around since 2004, but the technology has become not only easier to use but more accurate thanks to IWANTTHEKIT, a line of tests developed by a team at Johns Hopkins University. Since then, at-home testing has only gotten more popular as more trustworthy brands have emerged and the quality of tests has improved leaving less room for common user errors. The COVID-19 pandemic demanded folks manage more of their health from home than ever before, and the convenience of accurate at-home testing became the norm. 

The price of an at-home STD test ranges widely from $10-$500, on average, with some organizations accepting health insurance, as well as HSAs and FSAs. To identify which tests are trustworthy and worth not just a purchase, but relying on for critical health information, SPY asked experts for some key attributes to look for in an at-home test.

What the Experts Say

When it comes to at-home testing, personal accountability is of the utmost importance, said Dr. Carol Queen staff sexologist at sex toy retailer Good Vibes. “For years the concern about at-home testing — especially for the most stigmatized STIs, [or sexually transmitted infections], such as HIV/AIDS — involved the loss of follow-up appointments and counseling that presumably would be an issue if people weren’t visiting clinics or their own doctors,” she said. 

In fact, Queen said that many STD testing companies provide telehealth support that address many of the issues above, but it’s up to folks to actually use them. Taking the test at home is one thing, but taking the necessary action steps after a positive test is crucial for minimizing the spread of disease.  “Self-testing folks might fail to realize some of the issues with an STI if they’re positive (like risks during pregnancy). They might not get the right pharmaceutical support, they might not realize in advance how a positive result will impact them emotionally,” Queen said. Any STD test should have a significant level of accreditation to ensure the tests are reliable and not harmful. After all, you’re buying this tool to inform you about critical health information. 

Dr. Justin Houman, a urologist and men’s health specialist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center said both FDA (U.S Food and Drug Administration) approval and CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) certification are crucial to ensuring a test is safe and trustworthy. The former indicates safety and effectiveness, and the latter is solely focused on standards for laboratory testing. 

Dr. Houman also said that anyone with a known exposure to an STI, a symptomatic infection, or someone who has many sexual partners simultaneously should consult with a doctor. That said, at-home testing with reputable brands is a great general practice for mitigating risk and maintaining sexual wellness. 

BEST OVERALL

Let'sGetChecked

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$99.00 - $249.00

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Let’sGetChecked takes the top spot in this roundup for their quick turnaround time on results, discreet packaging, available treatment consultations, and CLIA-approved, CAP-accredited lab tests. FDA approval is critical for a reliable STD test according to Houman, and all of LetsGetChecked tests are approved. 

They offer three testing kits at different price points: Simple 2 ($99), Standard 5 ($149), and Complete 8 ($249). Simple 2 covers chlamydia and gonorrhea and offers treatment options for chlamydia. Standard 5 includes chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, HIV, and syphilis. The Complete 8 test covers everything the previous two do as well as gardnerella, mycoplasma and ureaplasma as well.

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BEST FOR COVERING ALL THE BASES

myLabbox

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$59.00 - $399.00

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Why It’s Great: myLabBox offers the full gambit of testing options. The 14-panel test screens for all of the most common STDs including to HIV I & II, Hep C, Herpes, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and more. No stone is left unturned. 

There’s More: Among the 19 varieties of tests, myLabBox offers a Love Box couples’ kit, a PrEP Box, as well as a Boomer Box with tests designated for the needs of older adults including Hepatitis C, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and HIV.

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BEST FOR THE DATA-CONSCIOUS

Everlywell STD Tests

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$169.00

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Why It’s Great: All data provided to Everlywell is stored on ClearData — a HIPAA-compliant platform.

There’s More: Everlywell’s male STD test offers personalized test results, helping users to start conversations with healthcare providers. Even better, it comes with access to telehealth consultations with physicians.

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BEST FOR ENM LIFESTYLES

ShamelessCare

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$30.00 - $409.00

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Why It’s Great: ShamelessCare boasts judgment-free healthcare for the Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM) community, with three types of packages depending on one’s lifestyle needs. 

There’s More: Made as a preventative measure for those engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners, ShamlessCare comes recommended by Bella Luna and Jase B, hosts of the 4OurPlay Swinger Podcast. A major standout for them is the brand’s customer service, important given that the chances of user error with self-administered tests is high. “With one of the tests, Jase actually didn’t put enough blood onto [the test] so it couldn’t be read correctly. They sent another testing kit so we were able to redo it and send it back out again.”

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BEST FOR ACCREDITED TESTS

Nurx

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$29.50 - $220.00

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Why It’s Great: Nurx offers FDA-approved medication treatments in addition to testing, as well as unlimited messaging for one year with licensed providers. This stands out from other options because it has the FDA’s stamp of approval.

There’s More: While most of the tests on this list feature various CAP and CLIA accreditations, the Nurx home test kits also feature testing components that are all FDA-cleared for use.

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BEST FOR ONE-TIME PURCHASES

CVS Health At Home STI & HIV Test Kit

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$99.99

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Why It’s Great: One of the major pros of CVS kits is how accessible and affordable they are. The CVS Health At Home STI & HIV Test Kit is also available for sale online, if there isn’t a store nearby. Once a collection is done, the kit is mailed back to CLIA-certified labs and users can expect results within a week. Customers can also use HSA/FSA funds if available, which can help reduce costs if $100 is too steep.

There’s More: This single-use test uses blood and urine samples to screen users for HIV, Syphilis, Hepatits C, HSV-2, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Trichomoniasis.

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BEST FOR MSM/QUEER COMMUNITIES

TakeMeHome

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$Free

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Why It’s Great: TakeMeHome is completely free, with local or state health departments covering the costs of the test. Even better, their website features how-to videos on how to administer anal and oral swabs, urine samples, and OraQuick (a self-administered over-the-counter oral rapid test for HIV).

There’s More: While TakeMeHome is not yet available in all 50 states, the company is working in tandem with Building Healthy Online Communities: a platform bringing public health professionals work with app builders together to support the sexual health of men who have sex with men (MSM), queer, and trans communities.

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Read More

Bowflex’s SelectTech adjustable dumbbells are currently available for over 20% off their regular sticker price. After testing 10 pairs of adjustable dumbbells, SPY editors chose this pair as their favorite for its space-saving and efficient design. Bowflex’s 552s replace 15 different sets of dumbbells between 5-52.5 pounds, and their retail price of $550 has been slashed to $429.00.

SPY-EDITOR FAVORITE

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair)

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$429.00 $549.00

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Bowflex’s SelectTech adjustable dumbbells have a weight range between 5-52.5 pounds and can be adjusted in 2.5- and 5-pound increments. They have dials on either end that make it easy to change the weight mid-workout and have a 5-star rating on Amazon after over 20,000 reviews.

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Deals on Adjustable Dumbbells

Mangko 25-pound Adjustable Dumbbells

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$125.99 $199.99

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Mangko’s adjustable dumbbells are 50% off and down to just 100 pounds for five pairs of weights in one pair. Unlike Bowflex and NordicTrack models, these dumbbells only take a twist of the wrist to change weight and have a safety locking mechanism so they stay in place between uses.

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The worst of the COVID-19 health crisis is likely behind us, but that doesn’t mean children aren’t still walking petri dishes of infection. A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) showed that while children under the age of 19 had smaller viral loads than adults, they were the most likely to transmit infection in their household. That means masking is paramount for kids, said College of American Pathologists president-elect Dr. Donald Karcher. 

“As a father and grandfather myself, I strongly encourage my children to follow a comprehensive approach to avoid infection of themselves and their children and to minimize transmission to others,” he said. That approach includes masking and getting tested for COVID-19 regularly, and especially after a known exposure. 

However, masks that are appropriate for adults may not be so for children, said Dr. Rebecca Choudhury, an assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases at Mount Sinai’s Icahn School of Medicine. Masks must be worn correctly in order to be effective, and this can be harder for young children. Thankfully, masks for children are more widely available now than they were at the beginning of the pandemic, and there are childrens’ sizes in professional-grade options like N95 and KN95 masks. 

What the Experts Say About the Best KN95 Masks for Kids

A mask that “fits properly” fits snugly on the face and covers the nose, mouth, and chin. This can be more difficult for younger children or young adults with small facial bone structures. 

“For these groups, wearing a surgical or multilayer cloth mask, or a surgical mask under a cloth mask, may be about as effective and more comfortable for frequent wear,” said Choudhury. 

The best mask options for kids are made of multiple layers of cloth or appropriate synthetic material,  said Karcher, and parents should avoid masks made of only a single layer of material, especially if it’s cloth. However, even single-layer homemade masks are better than no mask at all, he said. 

Respirators like N95s and KN95s are the most effective at reducing the risk of becoming infected with COVID, but tight masks can be uncomfortable for children and harder to enforce throughout an entire day. he most appealing option for children, and the pick most likely to stay on for an entire school day, may be standard masks, like the disposable blue surgical masks often handed out at businesses. “A good strategy may be to provide standard masks for children when a mask needs to be worn for prolonged periods of time and an N95 or KN95 mask for shorter periods when maximal protection is needed,” said Dr. Karcher. 

OUR TOP PICK

WellBefore Kids KN95

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$10.00+

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This mask has all of the characteristics of a high-quality facial covering. For starters, it offers one of the highest levels of protection. “In general, the N95 mask and KN95 mask are considered superior to standard masks because they’re designed to fit snugly on the face, leaving only minimal gaps that can allow air to bypass the mask,” said Dr. Karcher. 

Next, it comes individually wrapped to ensure sterility, has adjustable ear loops and a nose piece to ensure that it fits comfortably, and is made of multiple layers of synthetic fabric. The mask comes in three different sizes: extra-small (ages 2-4), small (ages 5-8), and regular (ages 9-12). It also has colors and patterns that kids will like, including pink camo and forest green.  

To help figure out fit, the company’s website has a sizing chart and guidelines on how to measure a child’s face. The masks are also relatively cheap (about $1 per mask), can be ordered through a “subscribe and save” feature at different cadences (two weeks, four weeks, and size weeks), and can also be ordered in bulk.

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THE BEST KN95

Blue Bear LL95 Face Mask

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$17.99 $18.99

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KN95 and KF94 masks offer very similar levels of protection, and this KF94 also offers a slightly different look and feel for the mask using a foldable “boat” design. In addition, the KM Corp. website has easy-to-follow instructions (with pictures!) on how to wear the mask correctly. Just make sure that you choose the “small” size when shopping for children. 

Who It’s For: Kids who want to try a different style of mask and enjoy the same high level of protection. 
Why We Chose It: KF94s offer similar protection levels as N95s and KN95s. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you’re at high risk of becoming infected.

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THE BEST KF94

Dr. Puri KF94 3D White Mask

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$18.99

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KN95 and KF94 masks offer very similar levels of protection, and this KF94 also offers a slightly different look and feel for the mask using a foldable “boat” design. In addition, the KM Corp. website has easy-to-follow instructions (with pictures!) on how to wear the mask correctly. Just make sure that you choose the “small” size when shopping for children. 

Who It’s For: Kids who want to try a different style of mask and enjoy the same high level of protection. 
Why We Chose It: KF94s offer similar protection levels as N95s and KN95s. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you’re at high risk of becoming infected.

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BEST FAMILY OPTION

BOTN KF94 Protective Safety Face Mask, Youth Fit (10 Pcs)

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$34.00

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The BOTN mask comes in four sizes: extra large (for adult men), large (adult women), medium (teens and tweens), and small (kids under 8), this makes it a great choice for families buying their masks in bulk. This company also offers a sizing chart so everyone can get fitted correctly and the family only needs to place one order. 

Who It’s For: Families with a wide range of face sizes. 
Why We Chose It: BOTN is a one-stop shop for masks. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you need a general purpose, protective mask. 

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BEST COLORS AND PATTERNS

Vida Kids' Masks with KN95 Protection

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$35.00

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Even adults acknowledge that wearing a mask, especially for long periods of time, is a drag. Vida is trying to make the experience a bit more fun with colors like birthday cake, popsicle, and blueberry punch. Don’t worry: the KN95s still provide between 95 and 99% filtration. 

Who It’s For: Kids that want a little zaniness in their masks.
Why We Chose It: The COVID pandemic is serious, but the mask patterns don’t have to be. 
When to Wear It: If you need significant protection.

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MOST COMFORTABLE

Smaller or Children's Sized Powecom® KN95-SM Respirator

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$13.00

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This mask is the same as the FDA-approved adult Powecom mask, but it’s about 15% smaller. It’s made of synthetic material, has a flexible nose wire and latex-free ear loops, and gives a comfortable, all-day fit. 

Who It’s For: Kids who say that other respirators don’t fit. 
Why We Chose It: It gives great protection and is easier on the ears and face. 
When to Wear It: If you need to wear a mask for hours on end.

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BEST FOR SMALL CHILDREN

AireTrust Nano Mask for Kids

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$20.00 - $78.75

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Adjustable ear loops are essential for getting a mask snugly on the face of a smaller child, and that’s exactly what AireTrust offers. The mask is also supported by nanotechnology developed at Stanford University to filter microscopic airborne particles and PM2.5 hazards including wildfire smoke and other air pollutants. Each mask also weighs just 0.3 ounces. 

Who It’s For: Kids around 9 years and younger.  
Why We Chose It: Customizing the ear loops is a great way to improve the fit. 
When to Wear It: When you need a long-lasting, easy-to-wear mask.

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The N95 mask was center stage the entire pandemic, and for good reason, but there are other protective masks out there that are easier to find. N95 masks offer superior protection over cloth masks and are regulated by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as a medical-grade barrier against airborne viruses. KN95 and KF94 masks are also available for purchase online, and are sometimes easier to find than N95s, which begs the question: do they offer the same level of protection? And what’s the difference anyway?  

There’s essentially no difference between KN95 and KN94 respirators and very little difference between them and N95 respirators. While N95 is the terminology used in the U.S. — specifically by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which is part of the CDC — “KN95” is the terminology used in China. KN95s tend to stick out further from your face than an N95, but both respirators filter out around 95% of airborne particles. In fact, the CDC has used the two terms interchangeably. Meanwhile, “KF94” is the terminology used in Korea and refers to a respirator that filters out 94% of airborne particles.  

That’s a difference of one percent, which may not be especially meaningful, said Emily Volk, president of the College of American Pathologists. “Any mask that can effectively filter out viral particles can be a very helpful tool in combating the spread of this illness,” she said. Research confirms that wearing a mask is better than not wearing a mask, and the most important difference isn’t between types of respirators. It’s between respirators, surgical masks, and cloth masks. 

In 2021, the CDC studied the odds of testing positive for COVID while wearing no mask, a cloth mask, a surgical mask, and an N95 / KN95 respirator. The respirators were the most effective, decreasing the odds by 83%, followed by surgical masks (66%), and cloth masks (56%). However, there’s a caveat with this data, said Dr. Rebecca Choudhury, an assistant professor of medicine (infectious diseases) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

“Wearing an N95 or KN95 is not automatically better for every individual or situation,” she said. “For some, particularly those with facial hair, they may have trouble finding a respirator mask that can form an airtight seal to their face.” 

Dr. Choudhury stressed that masks have to be worn correctly in order to be effective, meaning they fully cover your nose, mouth, and chin. “If your mask is not covering both your nose and mouth, it is not protecting you from catching or spreading respiratory viruses,” she said. In addition, she doesn’t advise wearing a surgical mask underneath a KN95 or N95 mask. “The primary benefit of an N95 or KN95 style mask is their ability to form an airtight or nearly airtight seal over your face, and layering a surgical mask underneath disrupts that,” she said. 

BEST OVERALL

The MISSAA KN95 Face Masks

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$11.99 $15.99

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The MISSAA KN95 is one of the most well-made, protective face masks available to purchase online. It has an adjustable nose clip for a comfortable and snug fit on the face, and the soft elastic loops reduce friction on the ears. Because the mask protrudes from the face, a “bird beak” design, there’s plenty of room to breathe and the inner layer of the mask uses materials to absorb the moisture generated from exhalations.

The MISSAA mask can be used indoors and outdoors, is lightweight and easy to fold, and has reinforced seams so they’re durable and ideal for all-day activities. In terms of protection, this KN95 also relies on five layers of non-woven fabric, two layers of melt-blown cloth, and one layer of hot air cotton. 

When asked about this mask in particular, Dr. Choudhury explained that this is a great selection for comfort and protection, but that no respirator is ideal for absolutely everyone.“The best mask really depends on the preferences and characteristics of the individual person wearing it.” 

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BEST INDIVIDUALLY-WRAPPED

OPECTICID KN95 Face Mask 60 PCS

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$9.99 $14.99

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Individually-wrapped masks are great to have on hand in a suitcase, backpack, or car console. These OPECTICID masks can be tightened via double-looped ear straps. 

Who It’s For: Folks who need an individually wrapped mask that they can take with them or pass out to others. 
Why We Chose It: It has a filtration rate of at least 95% while also being convenient and easy to throw in a purse, briefcase, backpack, or gym bag. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you need a mask on-hand.

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BEST FOR FAMILIES

BOTN 10Pcs Large White KF94 Protective and Safety Face Mask for Adult

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$24.00 $26.00

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There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for masks, especially in families with all different face sizes and shapes. These masks come in four sizes: extra large (recommended for adult men), large (adult women), medium (teenagers) and small (children). One pack can serve the whole family, so there’s no need to make multiple purchases. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who needs a wide range of sizes, from extra large to youth. 
Why We Chose It: The CDC recommends masks for children 2 years and older, and these respirators allow families to mask together. 
When to Wear It: You need a comfortable, all-day mask.

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BEST FOR BUYING IN BULK

White Powecom® KN95 Respirator Face Mask

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$10.70 $11.70

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COVID is here to stay, so buying masks in bulk is not exactly a crazy idea. You can order these KN95s in quantities of up to 5,000 (which nearly halves the cost). However, masks do expire, so be sure to check the expiration dates on masks that you pull out of storage.  

Who It’s For: Bargain hunters or those who are buying for large groups of people. 
Why We Chose It: It’s high quality, has a mechanism to check if it’s counterfeit, and ships quickly. 
When to Wear It: For day-to-day activities that require strong protection.

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BEST FOR ENVIRONMENT

Rio de Janeiro KN95 Masks

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$14.95

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Like any other single-use product, respirators generate a lot of waste. evolvetogether is trying to combat part of that problem by packaging their masks in a 100% biodegradable and reusable pouch printed with soy ink. This mask still meets the stringent standards of a KN95 but with an environmental twist. 

Who It’s For: Anyone concerned about the ecological impact of disposable masks. 
Why We Chose It: COVID is going to continue to circulate, so starting to think green about respirators is a great idea. 
When to Wear It: Whenever you need a sturdy, all-around mask. 

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BEST COLORS

Vida Adult Face Masks with 95%+ KN95 Allergy Protection

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$41.00

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This mask offers the same 95% filtering efficiency as the other respirators, along with an adjustable nose-bridge and soft elastic ear loops. They also come in bright, unique colors not typical of an KN95, including seafoam green and glacier blue. 

Who It’s For: Anyone who wants to jazz up their mask game with fun colors. 
Why We Chose It: Wearing a mask every day is boring, these are great for a little versatility while still getting the same protection. 
When to Wear It: When a pink, purple, or blue mask matches the ‘fit better. 

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