It is quite normal to be uncomfortable at first when using our masks. Resistance is increased when breathing through our microfiber active carbon filters. Just like all things, a pollution mask takes time to get used to.
Our masks are very adjustable, so finding the right fit for you shouldn’t be too difficult. First and foremost you should make sure that the nose piece is positioned high up on the bone of your nose so that it is not closing your nose shut. You can do this by lifting it up on your cheek bones. Before you put on the mask it helps to tighten the nosepiece as much as you think would fit the size of your nose. Then you can close your mouth and breathe through your nose while you pull the fabric on your cheekbones left and right until you can fully breathe through your nose.
You should try to have the mask tight, but not too tight. It is alright if the mask is a little bit loose so when you turn your head it doesn’t pinch your nose. When you breathe in, the filter forms a seal so don’t worry if it feels a little bit loose. Just perform the seal check to see if all the air you breathe out is coming out of the valves, and that there is no air escaping into your eyes or under your chin. If there is no seal, you can tighten the mask or adjust the nosepiece.
As the filter removes more particles from the air you breathe, the resistance will increase and it will get more difficult to breathe through as the filter fills up with particles. If you feel out of breath, please remove the mask until the claustrophobia goes away. It can feel a little bit cramped at first, especially when exercising, but you should get used to this within about 5 hours of use.