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 The RZ mask
is the perfect solution for any outdoor activity like mountain biking, motocross, motorcycle riding, rock climbing,
snowboarding, skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and camping. You also can use this mask for light construction projects, working
in your garden, and brush painting. UTV Off Road Magazine tested these masks and gave them 5 stars!
Built from lightweight and durable neoprene, RZ Masks use a carbon/particle filter to trap up to 99.9% of all dust and particulates from the air.
With a dual valve system, the RZ mask expels moisture while keeping a tight seal around your face. You can choose from 3 sizes: XL, Regular (fits most), and
Youth. Each mask comes with 2 filters and a convenient storage bag. Breathe easy and ride hard with this lightweight mask.
*Please note that this mask is not NIOSH approved and does not satisfy OSHA requirements for respiratory protection. This mask only helps to
keep certain non-harmful dusts and particles out of your lungs, nose, and mouth. It will not protect from hazardous dusts
like asbestos or silica.
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RZ Face Masks
Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the R Z mask offers protection against particles like pollen, dust, dirt and other
irritants in the air. Lightweight and inexpensive, these masks are commonly used for a variety of outdoor activities from
riding, running, and mowing during the summer months to hunting, snowboarding or working during the winter months. I tested our sample
RZ mask for a week, and here are the results.
What I like about the R Z Masks
Style & Fit - The RZ masks come in a variety of colors and styles. Currently, we are carrying three, but the designs and colors really set them
apart from other allergy or outdoor masks. Once opened, you simply fit the face to your face, use the velcro strip on the back to secure it, and
pinch the nosepiece to help seal up the space around your nose and cheeks. The fit is comfortable on the face, though, as with any mask, it
takes a bit to adjust and get a good, comfortable seal. It didn't fog my glasses, but again, adjusting can usually solve this if it does. The valves, though difficult to remove,
can be rinsed or cleaned with a mild detergent to remove any debris or gunk that might possibly build up with use.
Filtration - In terms of filtration, the filters are multi-ply with layers of particle filter media sandwiching a layer of activated carbon/charcoal cloth. In each package,
the mask comes with one filter already installed and an extra filter for later use. The filter media has been independently tested by Nelson Laboratories in Utah. Currently,
the filters have only underwent the PFE test (particle filtration efficiency), though more testing, including DOP (Di-Octyl Phthalate), is planned. With the PFE test, Z mask filters
fared well, trapping 99.9% of particles at the 0.1 micron range. This means that dust, pollen, mold spores and the common particles that you encounter outdoors
are effectively filtered. The thin layer of activated carbon/charcoal will adsorb nuisance level smoke, odors or chemicals. Unless you're dealing with wildfire or
possibly campfire smoke, this is generally adequate for most outdoor activities.
Sizing - The RZ mask is available in three sizes. Most people, men and women alike, will find that the Regular size fits well. There are also Youth and XL sizes available.
There is some built-in adjustability with the velcro strips on the back, and neoprene masks are some of the most forgiving, in terms of stretching.
Price - As a particle/carbon mask with replaceable filter, RZ's are some of the most inexpensive on the market. With filters lasting,
roughly, 40-50 hours before replacement, the cost to use the mask on a regular basis really isn't much at all.
What I did not like about the R Z Masks
The nosepiece could be better. The thin steel piece is too rigid and doesn't conform well to the curve on your
nose. Granted, since they went with steel instead of a lighter, more flexible aluminum, you do gain in terms of durability, but
you give up some comfort and flexibility.
The filters are a bit thin. Though I only tested the model for a week, I would not be surprised to find that the filters
need to be changed a little more frequently than, say a Respro or Aero/Allergy mask.
Overall, the RZ mask is an inexpensive alternative to the Respro line of sports/active lifestyle masks. Lightweight and flexible the
particle protection offered is good for allergy sufferers or any outdoor enthusiast wanting to block pollen, dust, and nuisance level odors and chemicals. While
there are areas where the Z mask gives up a little in terms of quality, it makes up for it with a more reasonable price point and replaceable filters.
If you ride, run, work, hunt or spend time outdoors, the R Z mask definitely worth considering.
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