mask analysis and recommendation

So after weeks of mask-wearing, I now have a collection.

It makes me kind of laugh (cry?, I'm not sure what) that I am actually writing about different kinds of face coverings. But here we are on day 95 of a pandemic. I think that's the number Cuomo used today. And despite a continuous drop in covid cases, mask-wearing will likely be around for a while. 

After some practice (95 days of it, I guess), here are my thoughts.

Some masks are great for a quick trip to my lobby, or maybe a walk.

The black jersey one I got for free from a local politician is great as long as I don't have to talk to anyone. That mask inhales with me, making talking and breathing at the same time difficult. 

The N95 or KN95 are great for protection and little else. (But then again, isn't that why we are wearing masks?). Still, I almost never wear these anymore.

I got a black silk mask that I had canceled but it came anyway. It's too big and I don't like the fit.

The Matteo mask is nice-ish, but I don't love that it ties and it covers too much of my face.

Which brings me to my favorite, all-around mask.It's by Vida. The mask comes with a replaceable filter. Looks ok, as far as masks go. It's easy to wear and fits snug on your face. it comes in lots of colors and designs. And, it's easy to breathe in.

So here's my little chart;  ratings (on a 1-10 scale) are of course totally arbitrary.  

And in case you are wondering, it's been 16 weeks since my last hair-coloring. And yes, if I am making a chart of masks, I am definitely not busy enough.

	Protection	Ease of Use	Breathability	Aesthetic	Total
Vida Checkered	6	9	9	7	31
Matteo White w/Strings	5	6	8	5	24
Light Blue Disposable	3	9	9	3	24
Black Jersey (small black)	4	9	4	7	24
White N95/K95	10	6	3	3	22
Black Silk	5	6	6	3	20