While the CDC stated yesterday that “fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing,” there are still plenty of reasons (from personal comfort to independent regulations) for continuing to use face coverings while in public or shared spaces. Similar to our wallets or keys, face masks have quickly become one of the crucial everyday items we just don't leave the house without. There are stylish masks for fashion, breathable masks for running, and masks best suited for wearing when you fly — the latter being something you might find yourself doing more of as domestic travel becomes safer this summer.
Bringing the best face mask for a plane has become as much of a priority as traveling with the best luggage or weekender bags. If you're looking for the right style to accompany you on your next trip through the TSA line, then consult our list of air-travel-approved styles. Ahead, find face masks that are breathable, comfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time, contain multiple protective layers, are able to properly repel moisture, reduce droplets, and can be washed once you arrive at your final destination. When it comes to the best travel-worthy face masks that are both easy to breathe in AND follow safety measures, the options ahead have you (and your face) covered.
COVID-19 has been declared a global pandemic. Go to the CDC website for the latest information on symptoms, prevention, and other resources.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. The product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
OMK 2 Pcs Reusable Face Shields
When layered atop a regular cloth or fabric mask, the reusable face shield doubles its protectiveness. The shield protection saves you against dust, smoke, particulates, saliva, or splashes when worn properly.
OMK OMK 2 Pcs Reusable Face Shields, $, available at Amazon
HMNKIND APM Face Mask
HMNKIND makes face masks that focus on fit. Their Antibacterial Performance Mask is 99% antibacterial, UV-blocking, has 4-way stretch, and comes in five size options. Each mask is made with 3 cotton outer layers and an additional 2 internal silk layers for the most effective filtering.
Uniqlo AIRism Face Mask (Pack of 3) - Black, $, available at Uniqlo
Hammacher Schlemmer Antibacterial Cooling Face Mask
Protect against germs with this antibacterial face mask — an option that has a cooling effect for extended use. Think flights, jogging, and long walks in a crowded park.
Hammacher Schlemmer Antibacterial Cooling Face Mask, $, available at Hammacher Schlemmer
Etsy Silk Face Mask With Earloops & Nose Wire
According to the CDC, certain materials are better at enhancing filtration AND reducing droplets: "(e.g., silk) may help repel moist droplets and reduce fabric wetting and thus maintain breathability and comfort."
Summersalt Face Coverings | $32, $, available at Summersalt
Everlane 100% Human Face Mask 3-Pack
It's important for masks to be both breathable and washable — it's been said that single-layer masks, such as neck gaiters and bandanas are less protective, and Everlane's iteration is made from double-layered woven fabric.
Athleta Everyday Non Medical Masks 5 Pack, $, available at Gap
Space Mask
The Space Mask uses impressive-sounding (and feeling) nanotechnology for its tightly woven filters and is made of three layers including an antibacterial filter, soft cotton, and another nano filter. It's CDC-approved and comes in three sizes for a comfortable fit.
The Classic face mask from Herschel comes in a variety of different prints for every personal style. Beyond that, it's made with three protective layers with a soft liner and a center sleeve for added air filters.
Herschel Classic Fitted Face Mask, $, available at Amazon
SUDILO Disposable Face Masks
With over 2,000 5-star reviews, it's easy to see that these are some of the most loved face masks on Amazon. One traveler said, "These masks are super easy to breathe in. I like that they don't sit too uncomfortably on your mouth. Definitely recommend these!"
SUDILO Disposable Face Masks, $, available at Amazon
Madewell Three-Pack Face Masks
For a face mask that's both cute and functional, opt for Madewell's 3 packs. The subtle prints vary, but all of them feature a triple-layered construction.
Madewell Three-Pack Face Masks, $, available at Madewell
CONICOMasks Face mask
These cutesy little masks are not only aesthetically pleasing — they're made from organic Japanese cotton with a double-layer silhouette, ideal for eyeglass wearers.
CONICOMasks Face mask for Glasses wearers, $, available at Etsy
Vida Protective Face Mask
Vida's face mask is made of 2 layers of pure cotton with adjustable straps, and a hidden, integrated metal nose-piece to ensure a proper fit. Get yours in every color from pink to bright red, maroon and black.
Banana Republic Face Mask 3-Pack, $, available at Banana RepublicAs of Tuesday, November 10, the CDC updated its COVID-19-related health-and-safety guidelines to reflect that studies are now showing the use of non-medical face masks can protect the wearer in addition to those around them. According to studies, the CDC claims that "cloth mask materials can also reduce wearers’ exposure to infectious droplets through filtration, including filtration of fine droplets and particles less than 10 microns." However, it's important to remember that not all face masks are created equal and wearers should choose materials and styles that are most effective for filtration: "Multiple layers of cloth with higher thread counts have demonstrated superior performance compared to single layers of cloth with lower thread counts."
This story was originally published on November 11, 2020
Our takeaway from this multi-loop spiral of a year is that face masks are, indeed, essential accessories. Similar to our wallets or keys, these non-medical coverings have quickly become one of those crucial everyday items we don't leave the house without. There are stylish face masks for fashion, breathable face masks for running, and, now with summer vacation upon us, face masks specifically suitable for air travel.
Wearing a face mask while flying is as just as significant as remembering to bring your carry-on suitcase or weekender bag. To take some of the selection pressure off, we went ahead and pulled out the best ones to buy for a safer flight home this season; styles that are breathable, comfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time, contain multiple protective layers, are able to properly repel moisture, reduce droplets, and can be washed once you arrive at your final destination. When it comes to the best travel-worthy face masks that are both easy to breathe in AND follow safety measures, the 17 options ahead have you (and your face) covered.
COVID-19 has been declared a global pandemic. Go to the CDC website for the latest information on symptoms, prevention, and other resources.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
Contrary to the name, gaming chairs are not solely for hardcore gamers. If you've ever set butt in one, then you've probably realized that the intensely-structured seat is actually incredibly comfortable. Anything built to support the body through prolonged Fornite or Animal Crossing sessions (pick your poison) should work pretty darn well for daily WFH support, too.
While many office chairs focus on supporting the lower body, gaming chairs are built to also support the back, shoulders, and neck with an ergonomic design that properly aligns the spine for prolonged periods of sitting. While they may not be the most stylish of decor statements, these supportive seats can change not only the way you experience your favorite game but also the way you work. But, don't just take it from us — we'll let the impassioned reviews of real-life gamers seal the deal. We scoured the internet for top-rated chairs according to avid techies, console creatures, and people who just generally spend a lot of time on their behinds.
Ahead, discover the top options for full-body-support whether you be a gamer, WFHer, or some mixture of the two. (We even found a cute few with sleek features that won't put a damper on your overall home aesthetic.)
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Gtracing Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 6,317 reviews on Amazon
Expert Gamers Say: "Amazing! I’m definitely getting another one for myself — I highly recommend it. Clean, comfortable, easy to put together, and super smooth. For the price, I didn’t expect it to be this great but it obviously exceeded my expectations." — Velvet Dunlap, Amazon reviewer
GTRACING Gtracing Gaming Chair, $, available at Amazon
Bonzy Home Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 957 reviews on Amazon
Expert Gamers Say: "I love the footrest for gaming and the detachable cushions are a great addition. I've used a lot of nice office chairs and spent a lot of time in them both for gaming and for work but this one has them easily beat." — Lindsay, Amazon reviewer
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 530 reviews on Best Buy
Expert Gamers Say: "This is a great chair for gamers or anyone that sits for long periods of time. Excellent lumbar, back, and neck support. Sturdy yet comfortable." — Flips, Best Buy reviewer
AKRacing AKRacing Core Series EX Gaming Chair - Black, $, available at Best Buy
Lowndes Ergonomic Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 2,906 reviews on Wayfair
Expert Gamers Say: "We ordered four of these chairs for our grandchildren. With school online plus their entertainment, they spend a lot of time at their computers. We felt their growing bodies needed ergonomic support. They love their chairs and we feel we are helping them grow without posture problems. Thank you." — Joyce, Wayfair reviewer
Zipcode Design Lowndes Ergonomic Gaming Chair, $, available at Wayfair
Staples Emerge Vortex Bonded Leather Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 5,307 reviews on Staples
Expert Gamers Say: "Went a different route and bought a gaming chair after trying multiple office chairs that cost twice as much money over the years — 2 weeks in and back hasn’t gone out and my legs don’t go numb! The ergonomics are excellent!" — Stephanie S., Staples reviewer
Staples Staples Emerge Vortex Bonded Leather Gaming Chair, $, available at Staples
VITESS Gaming Recliner Chair
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 1,736 reviews on Amazon
Expert Gamers Say: "I'm writing a review for the big guys! I'm 6'1 and 264lbs and this chair couldn't be more perfect. Very comfortable for hours of gaming or binge-watching. Great chair for the price." — Dean, Amazon reviewer
VITESSE VIT Gaming Recliner, $, available at Amazon
Symple Stuff Jones Street Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 1,118 reviews on Wayfair
Expert Gamers Say: "Reasonable price and quality is very good. The ergonomic design has lumbar support that is very comfortable. The reclining function is very nice to have when relaxing. Please note that the chair is not made of genuine leather." — Anonymous, Wayfair reviewer
Shop Wayfair
Inbox Zero Comfortable Home Office PC & Racing Game Chair, $, available at Wayfair
RESPAWN 110 Racing Style Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 197 reviews on Home Depot
Expert Gamers Say: "I had a $50 chair before I started to work from home, and quickly figured out I needed a better one. This chair is it. It came in one box and included everything (plus extra) of what was needed to put it together. It took maybe 15-20 minutes to put it all together. The head and lumbar pillows are great. There’s enough cushion through the whole chair that I could sit here for 8+ hours." — KaylaMF, Home Depot reviewer
Respawn RESPAWN 110 Racing Style Gaming Chair, $, available at Home Depot
Homall Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 37,398 reviews on Amazon
Expert Gamers Say: "I previously passed on this chair for something twice the price, thinking that it would be worth the investment. I was so disappointed that I went back and ordered this chair instead and have not regretted it a moment since." — Joesph, Amazon reviewer
Homall Homall Gaming Chair, $, available at Amazon
X Rocker Pro 200 Gaming Chair Rocker
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 211 reviews on Walmart
Expert Gamers Say: "I love that this chair is easily foldable. I love that I can use it whenever I want to play a game or just watch TV. It's super comfortable and the sound is great; very loud! I'm planning to purchase another for my boyfriend." — Kayla, Walmart reviewer
X Rocker X Rocker Pro 200 Gaming Chair Rocker with Sound Enhancement Features, $, available at Walmart
Dowinx Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 3,618 reviews on Amazon
Expert Gamers Say: "This is not the first Dowinx chair I have purchased. I just loved it so much that I had to get another. I originally bought my first chair (the one on the left with more red tones) last year when I was setting up my game/workroom (I work from home a lot) and this chair has not disappointed." — Amazon customer
Dowinx Dowinx Gaming Chair, $, available at Amazon
Shuanghu Gaming Chair
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 701 reviews on Amazon
Expert Gamers Say: "I needed an extra gaming chair in my basement and the looks of this chair immediately caught my eye. The black chair with red accents looks really cool. However, besides the looks, I really bought this chair because it looks supportive and comfortable." — johnny072, Amazon reviewer
According to a national sleep survey, 74% of people sleep on their sides — that's a lot of people. If you happen to be one of them, then you're probably intimately acquainted with the snuggle struggle. Assuming the comfortable position requires a night-long dance of wiggling, fluffing, and tossing until that one snoozed-on arm begins to lose circulation and then the cycle begins all over again. For the sake of our exhausted slumber sanities, we culled together a list of the best pillows that were actually crafted for side sleepers.
The Sleep Foundation states: "Side sleepers generally need thicker pillows to fill the space beneath their head and neck. Pillows that are too thin do not provide enough cushioning, while excessively thick pillows can interfere with spinal alignment and cause added pressure points to develop." With these notes in mind, we dug through a handful of trusted retailers across the web for raving reviews on supportive pillows that'll do the trick. Shop these side-sleeper-favorites ahead, from cooling-gel types to molded-latex iterations.
Welcome toHype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.Reviews have been edited for spelling and grammatical accuracyonly.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Eli & Elm Cotton Side-Sleeper Pillow
The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 374 stars on Eli & Elm
Side Sleepers Say: "I was hesitant to spend so much on a pillow but did a lot of research for side sleepers and this one continued to pop up as a good option. One day I noticed my traditional pillows always end up smooshed into this exact shape! That's when I made the leap and have not been disappointed." — Becka S., Eli & Elm reviewer
Eli & Elm Eli & Elm Cotton Side-sleeper Pillow, $, available at Eli & Elm
Bear Mattress The Bear Pillow
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 908 reviews on Bear Mattress
Side Sleepers Say: "Hands down the best pillow I've ever slept on. The way it maintains its shape and the cool temperature is pure-genius-pillow engineering. I usually have an arm underneath the pillow as well because it's super comfy and I don't feel my head pressing against my arm." — Andrew W., Bear Mattress reviewer
Bear Mattress The Bear Pillow, $, available at Bear Mattress
Layla Sleep Kapok Pillow
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 2053 reviews on Layla Sleep
Side Sleepers Say: "My Layla gives great shoulder and neck support, I do prefer softer pillows but I'm trying to sleep with the right pillow for a side sleeper, this pillow is more firm, but it does exceed my pillow comfort. Love the sleep I'm getting!" — Melissa T., Layla Sleep reviewer
LAYLA Layla Kapok Pillow, $, available at Layla Sleep
Brooklinen Down Pillow
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 1,844 reviews on Brooklinen
Side Sleepers Say: "Ordering was super easy and with free standard shipping it was delivered in 2 days. I chose the firm pillow. My sleep position is somewhere in the middle of my stomach and side, arm up under my head. I sleep with the pillow slightly diagonal with my head more on a corner. I have been using this pillow for a month and if it has lost any firmness, it was not enough to notice. I love that it is perfect fluffed up to sit up in bed to read, and then conforms for sleeping." — Christine H., Brooklinen reviewer
Brooklinen Down Pillow, $, available at Brooklinen
Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillows
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 79,084 reviews on Amazon
Side Sleepers Say: "I am a side sleeper, and I like a firmer mattress. These are sturdy enough for side sleeping while being fluffy and soft. They retain their shape and bounce back with minimal fluffing." — Dar, Amazon reviewer
Beckham Luxury Linens Beckham Hotel Collection Gel Pillows, $, available at Amazon
Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Loft Pillow
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 37,248 reviews on Amazon
Side Sleepers Say: "Criticisms? Ever had a pillow so good you want to stay in bed? Yeah. It’s like that. Oh, and my cat has claimed the other pillow because he likes it too." — Fiendship Fun, Amazon reviewer
Side Sleepers Say: "These pillows are amazing!!! I always thought I liked soft fluffy pillows but couldn’t find one I liked —turns out I was after the wrong thing. These pillows provide firm support but it’s not hard at all, very soft and comfortable. Super supportive for side sleepers." — Kaila, Avocado Mattress reviewer
Avocado Green Mattress Avocado Molded Latex Pillow, $, available at Avocado Mattress
TEMPUR-Neck Pillow
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 2,595 reviews on Tempurpedic
Side Sleepers Say: "My neck feels so much better, and I am sleeping much more soundly. No waking up, trying to readjust my old pillow. Definitely worth the price." — Retired Teacher, Tempurpedic reviewer
Side Sleepers Say: "This pillow felt a little stiff so I thought it would be uncomfortable to sleep on, even though I did want an extra-firm pillow. Unbelievable. I didn't wake up nearly as often during the night as usual, and in the morning for the first time in 20 years my neck did not hurt." — PJNYC, Bed Bath & Beyond reviewer
Wamsutta Wamsutta® Extra-Firm Density Side Sleeper Bed Pillow, $, available at Bed Bath & Beyond
Original Casper Pillow
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 7,105 reviews on Casper
Side Sleepers Say: "This pillow has felt naturally comfortable to me each night. Its contents and design together provide a remarkably comfortable resting place each night for my head, neck, and shoulders. I no longer find myself tossing and turning, fluffing up, moving or rearranging a pillow through the course of each night." — Stefanie Norris, Casper reviewer
Casper Original Casper Pillow, $, available at Casper
Parachute Down Side Sleeper Pillow
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 167 reviews on Parachute
Side Sleepers Say: "Every night sinking into this pillow is the best feeling. It is like being in a hotel. This pillow has helped me sleep again. I am a side sleeper but this pillow feels good at any angle." — Joanna F., Parachute reviewers
With Valentine's Day peeking around the corner — and our effortless-gift tank running on empty — we've got an easy idea that's a step up from your standard same-day bouquet: preserved flower boxes. What's more impressive than a love connection that doesn't fizzle out? A dozen roses that'll never die.
Luxurious, long-lasting, and Instagram-worthy, preserved roses are expertly dried and then rehydrated using a special process to sustain the look and feel of fresh-cut blooms. If you're searching for THE gift that keeps on giving (besides the essential sex toy), then look no further. Ahead, click through an assortment of flower-filled boxes that'll last your valentine a romantic eternity.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team, but if you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Magnificent Roses Preserved Roses
Meant for someone truly magnificent, these genuine roses are selected for their size and perfection, then arranged in a sleek decorative container.
Ode A La Rose Petite Monica Preserved Roses, $, available at Ode A La Rose
Petite Box of Roses
If you're looking for unique colors that really make a statement, look no further than these Etsy arrangements. All the boxes are handmade in Europe with high-quality materials.
It's nearing the end of a turbulent year and we'll be continuing on with our couch-to-kitchen-to-bed-and-repeat existence — which will only make all of those after-Christmas markdowns on the home front even more enticing. With deals rolling out on everything from organizational must-haves to big-ticket furniture buys and more scores to elevate our inside spaces, we combed through the already-live lot of them to pull out only the most unmissable Boxing Day sales.
If you're looking to save big after the holiday season splurge, bookmark this page (they'll be more to come!) and keep scrolling on to discover the promos we've plucked out from every expanse of R29 reader-favorite retailers — including DTC cookware brands, premium gadgets, and mood-boosting decor that packs a stay-at-home punch.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Wayfair
Deal: Up to 60% off with free shipping on orders over $35
Dyson Hot+Cool HP01 purifying Heater + Fan, $, available at Dyson
Bear Mattress
Deal: $300 off orders over $1,300, $225 off orders over $1,000, and $150 off orders over $700, with two free Cloud Pillows with the purchase of a mattress or bundle.
