Now that Omicron has taken over as the dominant variant in the U.S. and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced new guidelines, I’ve started wearing KN95 masks to make daily outings feel a bit safer, and my favorite ones are from Evolvetogether. The brand sent me a few samples to try last year, and I’ve been waiting for its popular colors to come back in stock so I can order more (they’ve been sold out for weeks). Sixty percent of imported KN95 masks may be phony, but I feel good about wearing masks from Evolvetogether. The brand has gained popularity throughout the pandemic thanks to its high-quality masks worn by celebrities and regular people alike. Much more importantly, its KN95 masks meet all kinds of standards. They use authentic medical-grade materials and are made in a factory that’s registered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The masks are also tested by SGS, a third-party inspection and certification company, and have been verified to filter at least 95 percent of micron particles and bacteria and no less than 98 percent of viruses. You can also find a GB number, the Chinese standard for KN95 masks, printed on the packaging of each mask, which ensures it’s the real thing. To buy: $15; evolvetogether.com. In addition to all of that, I can attest that the masks are about as comfortable and breathable as it gets. They have soft, elastic ear loops and a bendable nose bridge that creates plenty of space for easy breathing and talking (with minimal lipstick smudging!) while remaining relatively low-profile. The masks also come in a handful of solid colors, including black, navy, and khaki. It’s no wonder the masks often sell out. In fact, the KN95s recently racked up a waitlist of 500,000 people as shoppers waited for them to come back in stock, according to the brand. As of today, the masks have been restocked in most colors, so stock up while you can. Prices start at $15 for a pack of five.
