(Photo: Jonathan Maus/BikePortland)
Bad news: Covid-19 is here to stay for the foreseeable future. That means you’ll need to wear a good mask to keep yourself and others safe.
Good news: You can find great masks and face coverings made in Portland and your purchase will help support local bike-related businesses.
Here are some of our favorites:
BlaqPaks
You might now BlaqPaks for their awesome and bombproof backpacks and cargo bike canopies. Now they’ve added masks to their line-up. Blaq has three masks and offers some very cool prints. Their adult model comes in 19 different fabrics including Le Tigre, Tie Dye Birds, and Tiger Stripes! All masks ship within two days or you can order online and pick-up the next day at their Riverplace store in southwest.
Specs:
Made from dual layer cotton with elastic to hold them in place. Tight weave cotton outer layer with soft flannel inner liner. We are using fun random colors and patterns for the liners to make them easier to tell apart. Machine washable. Choose the print which fits your lifestyle!
Models:
— Kids ($10)
— Adult ($10)
— Voxx Romana collab ($15)
Biciclista US
Biciclista is decidedly Italian in its roots but firmly anchored in the Portland bike scene thanks to their ever-present and community-minded owner Stefano Spedini. Biciclista’s ever-growing product line now includes a big variety of smartly-styled masks and even a cool neck gaiter with their iconic and colorful “Helmetto” print. Since these are made in Italy, Stefano says they comply with a decree issued by the Italian Ministry of Health so you know they’re legit. (Disclaimer: I’ve used both Biciclista models while biking and they have great breathability.)
Specs:
Our reusable/washable non-medical face masks and neck gaiters have been developed to allow the outdoor activities with an higher grade of protection and respect for the surrounding persons. The Laser Mask is lighter and extremely breathable for use at higher effort and in situation with very low concentration of others persons. The Dual Protection mask with the dual layer construction and the possibility to ad a third filtering layer is suggested for uses in more crowded areas. The Neck Gaiter is a very adaptable and can be folded to become a very safe mask.
Models:
— Dual Protection ($15)
— Laser ($12)
— Neck Gaiter ($24)
— See them all here.
North St. Bags
You knew North St. would step up and be part of the mask-making game. This local company’s panniers and backpacks have become almost standard issue in Portland and we suspect their masks are made to the same level of style and quality. They come in three sizes, two attachment styles (elastic ear loops or over-the-head and tie), and a variety of colors and prints.
Specs:
Covers nose and mouth for containment of COVID-19 and other germs. 3 layers of tight knit cotton for the optimal filtering and breathability. Made with 100% Cotton or Cotton/Poly blend.
Models:
— Cotton Masks ($19.99 each or 2 for $35)
Chrome Industries
Chrome’s national headquarters are right here in Portland so it’s an honor to consider this respected brand local. If you’re looking for a basic, well-made mask with all the street cred that comes with donning the Chrome label, check out their affordable offerings.
Specs:
(Masks) Reusable, adjustable, easy-to-wear. Adjustable ear slides for comfort. 2-layer 100% cotton canvas. (Gaiter) Breathable, moisture-wicking merino neck gaiter. Naturally antimicrobial and heat regulating. Super soft 65% polyester, 35% merino wool.
Models:
— Citizen Chrome Mask Pack ($14 for two masks)
— Merino Neck Gaiter ($35)
If money is tight, bandannas make great face coverings too.
How’s your mask-wearing been going? Any tips or recommendations you’d like to share?
— Jonathan Maus: (503) 706-8804, @jonathan_maus on Twitter and jonathan@bikeportland.org
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