The new UA Sportsmask is a reusable, water-resistant performance face mask designed by Under Armour’s innovation team for maximum breathability.
This first-of-its-kind mask functions to reduce the spread of respiratory droplets by the wearer.
No fogging, more protection
The top of the mask features a mouldable nose-bridge to help 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.
The UA Sportsmask features a unique, three-layer model engineered for athletes during performance:
- LAYER 1: SPACER FABRIC. It is light but has air pockets for structure, so it stays off the mouth and nose for better airflow.
- LAYER 2: OPEN-CELL FOAM. The breathable middle layer lets air through but makes it hard for moisture and sweat to pass.
- LAYER 3: UA ISO-CHILL. This fabric feels cool against the skin, stretches, and is treated with PROTX2™, a non-metal anti-microbial technology which inhibits growth of bacteria on the mask.
PROTX2 has been shown in laboratory tests to destroy COVID-19 and 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. Under Armour also has a patent pending on its design and construction of the mask.
Born from PPE production
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 healthcare and community organisations to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
During this process, Under Armour founder Kevin Plank recognised a need for performance solutions that would support athletes navigating the pandemic climate.
Under Armour’s official local distributor, Apollo Brands will bring US Sportsmasks to South Africa by September 2020. They will be available in all brand house stores from R699 (subject to market-related fluctuations).
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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