Courtesy Under Armour
Under Armour has reengineered the face mask, specifically for athletes, and exercise and fitness enthusiasts. The company recently unveiled the UA SPORTSMASK, a reusable, water-resistant performance face mask designed for maximum breathability by Under Armour’s innovation team in record time. This first-of-its-kind mask functions to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets by the wearer. The top of the mask features a moldable nose-bridge to secure it in place and mitigate airflow to the eyes, helping to prevent glasses from fogging. It can also be washed and dried, making it more eco-friendly than many single-use, disposable options.
Courtesy Under Armour
The UA SPORTSMASK features a unique, three-layer model engineered for athletes during performance. The first layer features a thin spacer fabric with air pockets for structure, so it stays off the mouth and nose for better airflow. The second layer features an open-cell foam, a breathable middle layer that lets air through but makes it hard for moisture and sweat to pass. The third layer features the UA ISO-Chill fabric, which feels cool against the skin, stretches, and is treated with s treated with PROTX2, a non-metal anti-microbial technology.
Under Armour’s patent pendingPROTX2 has been shown in laboratory tests to destroy COVID-19. It is being reviewed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to confirm the efficacy of the substance as it is applied to the UA SPORTSMASK.
Courtesy Under Armour
The seeds for the UA SPORTSMASK were planted in mid-March when Under Armour began manufacturing face masks designed by its innovation team and distributing millions of units of personal protective equipment (PPE) to health care and community organizations to help fight the spread of COVID-19. During this process, Under Armour founder Kevin Plank recognized a need for performance solutions that would support athletes navigating the pandemic climate. He called on the innovation team in Baltimore, equipped with their recent mask-making experience, to join him in finding a way forward, and fast.
