I bought these after reading an article about how they are some of the only made-in-USA masks available on the market. They are definitely a bit pricy, but overall they're my favorite mask! When I wear one I can feel that the air is mostly going through the mask and not around, which is an issue with a lot of disposable particulate respirators. Also, I'm personally a big fan of the headband style overall because I find it much more comfortable than the earloop style. For what it's worth, I've been using these masks for about a month now and the elastic bands haven't snapped off, so I'm not really sure what went wrong with some of the more-critical reviewers' masks.
For comparison's sake, here's how I feel these Demetech masks compare with some alternatives that I've tried:
Compared to fold-style headband KN95 masks:
I also have a set of fold-style headband KN95 masks, which are very similar to these Demetech ones. However, I feel like the Demetech ones get a better seal around my face (mostly due to the foam insert on the nose bridge).
Compared to earloop-style KF94 masks:
The KF94 masks just don't have a strong seal like these Demetech ones do (or even the KN95s). They're super comfortable, but if "filtering the air that you are breathing" is your goal for a particulate mask, then KF94s just don't cut it, IMO.
Compared to 3M molded cup style headband N95 masks:
The gold standard of N95 masks! I've found I prefer the fold style over the molded cup style, because it's far more comfortable but I still feel like I'm getting a good seal. The 3M ones really grind into your face, which on the one hand is good (they get a great seal also), but also is a bit on the uncomfortable side. Also, this is entirely superficial, but I much prefer the aesthetic of the fold style masks over the cup style. Also 3M masks are I believe still made in China, for what that's worth.
Overall, if you want to support US mask manufacturing, and you want masks that give you an optimal blend of comfort and sealing-to-your-face, I highly recommend this one.
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