More and more people are cycling these days. It’s a great way to improve your fitness, cut down your commuting time and save on travel expenses. But most commuter cyclists are based in cities, where pollution is a serious hazard. In the UK, more than 30 regions currently exceed the “safe” limit for air pollution, exposing urban riders (and other outdoor types such as joggers) to a host of health problems.
This isn’t just a theoretical risk. A study conducted by King’s College London found that up to 9,500 Londoners each year die prematurely due to long-term pollution exposure. So it’s well worth investing in a cycling mask. These simple, low-cost accessories can cut down the air pollutants you breathe by up to 99% – and they’re available in a range of styles and colours, so you don’t need to look like a movie villain.
Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about bike pollution masks – their benefits and any potential drawbacks – along with our pick of the best options on the market.
Disclaimer: Expert Reviews is not a medical authority. Our recommendations are based on advice published by non-affiliated organisations.
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How to choose the right bike mask for you
Why do I need a cycling mask?
Anyone who regularly cycles, jogs, or walks in an urban environment can benefit from an anti-pollution mask. These masks are designed to filter harmful particulate matter and gaseous pollutants out of the air you breathe – protecting you from diesel fumes, roadwork dust and even airborne viruses. They can also reduce the amount of pollen you inhale, which is great news for hayfever sufferers.
And while you might do most of your cycling in the UK, a mask can also be a particularly smart investment if you’re travelling to a country with even higher pollution levels, such as India, Saudi Arabia or China.
What certifications should I look for in a bike pollution mask?
Western anti-pollution masks should carry either an N95 or N99 certification. These ratings are issued by the US government and indicate the percentage of air particulate matter that a mask can filter. An N95 rating will thus protect you from 95% of particles, but we recommend you look for an N99-certified design. These masks can filter out PM 2.5 particles, which are the smallest, lightest and most dangerous, due to how long they can stay in the lungs.
What can’t a bike pollution mask filter?
No matter how good your pollution mask, it can’t keep everything out. Cigarette smoke, for example, is very difficult to filter completely as some of the particles are extremely small. A regular cycling mask also won’t reliably protect you against viruses and diseases; if that’s what you need, look for a device with a European PPE or US MDC classification.
How do I get the right fit for my bike pollution mask?
It’s essential that your mask fits correctly. If it’s too loose, polluted air will slip in at the sides; too tight, and it will restrict your breathing. Look for a sizing chart before you buy, so you can ensure you’re ordering the correct size.
There are also a few different ways to attach the thing to your head: some masks use ear loops, while others have behind-the-head straps. Which you choose is largely down to your comfort preference. The majority of masks have a bendy metal strip in the nose bridge, to ensure a good fit above and around your nose.
Is it better to get a mask with replaceable filters, or valves, or neither?
Some manufacturers make masks with replaceable filters or valves; other models have built-in filters, which means you have to replace the whole thing once it’s reached the end of its lifespan. It’s up to you which you go for; disposable masks may not be quite so environmentally friendly, but they’re simpler, and each one should last between six months and a year, depending on the frequency of use and pollution levels.
Best bike pollution masks to buy, from £25
Vogmask N99 C2V: Best double-valve bike mask
Price:£41.70 | Buy now from Amazon
Vogmask started out in 2011 as a small-time San Francisco-based mask manufacturer but now sells its anti-pollution masks in over 40 countries. Alongside a top-tier N99 certification, its devices boast a European CE Mark and approval from the Chinese and Korean health ministries.
Vogmask produces both single-valve and double-valve masks. I found that the single-valve model didn’t allow enough air in during a hard cycle, but the double-valve was superbly comfortable and worked brilliantly. The filters aren’t replaceable, so in pollution-dense areas, you’ll need to replace your mask every five months for maximum effectiveness. For an extra few pounds, you can also order a reusable head-strap accessory from the website, which we strongly recommend to ensure a good, snug fit.
Cambridge Mask Pro: Best personalised bike mask
Price:£25 | Buy now from Amazon
UK-based Cambridge Mask offers its N99 anti-pollution masks in no fewer than 15 colourful and charming designs (one of which has pandas on it). If you really want to express yourself, you can even order custom-designed masks, either individually or in bulk – and the company caters specifically for children, with sizes to suit every member of the family.
The masks don’t have replaceable filters (the filtering is done by the mask’s triple-layer lining) but there is a filtered valve to help breathability, and Cambridge Mask offers a useful chart giving advice on how often to replace your mask depending on your area’s pollution levels. In all, it’s a fun and stylish mask, if not quite as comfortable as the Vogmask double-valve.
Respro Ultralight: Best cycle mask for hot conditions
Price: From £34 | Buy now from Amazon
Respro is the world leader in bike pollution mask sales, and while its masks might look a little sinister, their N99-rated filtering technology certainly does the job. The Ultralight is our favourite from Respro’s range: its mesh-like stretchy fabric keeps you cool when it’s hot and humid, and a double-valve filter makes it easy to breathe, even when you’re pedalling hard to get to the office on time. The Hepa Sport 2.5 PM filters on the Respro Ultralight are replaceable, and you can buy specialised filters designed to reduce allergic reactions or eliminate bad smells.
Totobobo Anti-Pollution Mask: Best replaceable-filter bike mask
Price: £25 | Buy now from Amazon
Totobobo is a popular alternative to Respro’s market-dominating masks. Instead of the Sith Lord look, the manufacturer has gone for a clear design, with simple ear straps and a white filter on each side. It’s very lightweight, and kept my face cooler than either Vogmask or Cambridge Mask’s offerings – though we suggest you steer clear of the “‘SuperCool” model, as this doesn’t cover your nose, and therefore offers much less effective protection.
There are two sizes to choose from (large and “petit”), and while the supplied filters only have a 92% effectiveness rating, you can order replacements with ratings up to 96% for greater protection from harmful particles. If simplicity is your thing then it’s a great choice – and it’s very satisfying to remove the blackened filters and see all the filth that’s been prevented from entering your lungs.
