The Swonder Full Snorkel Mask

extra valves and the bolt for the GoPro mount 

If I ever get to an ocean or clear lake to sight see, but in the pool this is still great. This one piece 180 degree panoramic view is incredible. After sizing up the adjustable straps on the back of the mask, it was a little different sliding my head into the mask. The snorkel sits on top and allows the user to be able to submerge themselves without letting water come in. The direction the air moves around the mask, does not even enter the area your eyes and rest of your face it, keeping the mask from fogging up. Breathe through your mouth and nose. I like the added bonus of the GoPro type mount placed on top of the mask, allowing you keep your hands free to swim. The mounting position allows for you to record what you are viewing. 

https://www.amazon.com/Swonder-Snorkel-Full-Black-SWD001/dp/B07C8FLH9R/

The Elevation Training Mask

While both running and using the bike on the rollers, I have been using the Training Mask. So what is it you ask. There are numerous studies out there on how athletes train at higher elevations to increase their performance. The area I primarily live and train in, is about 1000 feet above sea level. The mask covers both your nose and mouth and creates an effect as if I were in a higher altitude.  The mask is said to reduce training time by 1/3 by improving the efficiency of my workouts.  It conditions the lungs creating pulmonary resistance and strengthens my diaphragm.  Wearing it forces you to focus on your breathing. The best way this mask will help my body is by teaching it to use oxygen more efficient forcing me to take deeper more full breathes.  I can tell just after using it for over a month how my breathing is being helped by wearing it. 

Once again the mask fits over your nose and mouth attaching at the back of the head with a Velcro strip. There is Velcro strap it comes with also that can be used to cross over your head, joining the two ear holes on either side.  I have to admit the first time I put the mask on, I was very relaxed, yet then was forced to start focusing on my breathing right away. As without the mask, breathing is very easy and not really something the human body needs to think about doing  There are a few sets of valves that come with the mask and instructions on how to set the mask up to mimic different levels of elevation.  Of course very interested in knowing how the maximum degree of elevation with the mask of 18,000 feet would feel I set the mask up and jumped on my bike trainer.  It seriously was not long before I was having to really focus on getting my next breath.

Respro® Sportsta™ Mask

Here in Arizona there are huge dust storms that will be arriving soon this summer.  The literal walls of dust are picked up and carried all over.  It makes driving and seeing very difficult. Visibility is drastically reduced.   It is in these dust storms, or "haboobs" ,a fungal disease known as Valley Fever is carried.  I try not ride or run when these types of storms are present. I have been packing along just in case a Respro® Sportsta™ Mask, to help keep my lungs and respiratory system healthy while out training.  Whether running, road or mountain bike riding. I have used it several times while out mountain bike riding, as the dust off of the wheel of the person in front of you and sometimes your own tires kick up this dust. The device simply covers your mouth and nose filtering the air while allowing you to breathe normally.  The soft neoprene is attached behind your neck with a Velcro enclosure.  The devices are made in the U.K.  Of course drinking while out training while wearing this device is impossible.  However, I suggest if you need to take a drink while wearing it, simply stop remove the mask, drink, and carry on.   Around the nose there is a metal clip, keeping the mask securely tight around your nose. You will notice on the mask there are two valves in the front, these are where exhales air escapes from, however as you inhale, the air you bring into your lungs is totally filtered.