Elevation training masks are an excellent way to build your lung capacity and get ahead of the competition. Often used for altitude training to mimic high elevation areas, they may be a valuable addition to your training regimen on the court. They’re relatively affordable and are small enough to carry in your gym bag with ease.
But which one is the best on the market? You don’t want to cut corners in your decision—but how can you research their effectiveness without wearing one? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Our experts have done all of the heavy lifting so you don’t have to. We have evaluated several masks; below are our top three.
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Who Should Get An Elevation Training Mask?
An elevation training mask is no joke. Those who don’t intend on training at high altitudes, or those not looking for an advantage in lung capacity on the court, should probably skip this training method. They’re ideal, however, for professional athletes that play in different altitudes across the country. Also, endurance athletes, like distance runners and cyclists, would probably benefit from training with them.
Best Elevation Training Masks: What To Consider in 2022
It’s important to note that dizziness and discomfort aren’t uncommon when you add an elevation training mask to your workout routine. To some users, it isn’t noticeable or is minimal, but it’s one of the many things to consider when you start doing your research.
Let’s take a look at some of the considerations that’ll help you decide which mask to buy.
Comfort
Not only is there a mask covering your nose and mouth while restricting oxygen into your body, but the straps wrapping around your head could also cause discomfort. Make sure to look at the materials being used and the sizing chart before making your final decision. No two masks are created equal. Like any accessory, they may run big or small. As for the materials used, how thick, soft, stretchy, and durable the straps are is crucial.
Quality/Durability
If you get the right mask, you should expect it to hold up for years. Many factors contribute to durability: what materials were used, how it holds up to weather and sweat, and how well you take care of it. While you aren’t draining your savings account by purchasing an elevation training mask, they cost significantly more than a gallon of milk. How long they hold up is a big factor.
Fit
Sure, Darth Vader looks cool, but you don’t want to look like him while running around the court—or your neighborhood, for that matter. Eventually, bulky equipment will annoy you during your workouts. Why do you think there have been so many innovations built around wired vs. wireless headphones? Headphones with wires will hurt your workout! The same can be said about the fit of your elevation mask. The sleeker, the better.
Best Elevation Training Mask: Our Picks 2022
Training Mask focuses on manufacturing high-quality elevation training masks, and they’ve earned thousands of loyal customers in the process. They have branded themselves as elevation training mask pioneers, and their products do not disappoint. The 3.0 is their newest mask, bringing extraordinary modifications from the last model, including forty percent more fabric for a more comfortable fit.
What We Like:
Its sleek and cool design allows for both comfort and mobility no matter how intense your workout is. It still doesn’t bother your head or face after hours of training!
More breathable materials provide your skin relief during a vigorous lung workout.
Six training levels offer you a wide range of intensity to build your strength and stamina.
What We Dislike:
It could interfere with certain headphones during workouts. Keep reading for our expert picks on elevation mask-friendly headphones.
You might be asking, “If you already have Training Mask’s 3.0 on the list, then why don’t I just get that one?” Good question—there are a lot of differences between the 3.0 and 2.0. First, the 2.0 has old-school ventilation pieces right on the front of the mask. Second, some like having less fabric on their mask’s head straps. Comparing the price of the 2.0 to the new version doesn’t hurt either. New to elevation training and don’t want to invest too much? The 2.0 is your better value.
What We Like:
Every mask comes with a 3-year warranty.
They force you to breathe differently in order to expand lung capacity.
Improves non-mask breathing functions, too.
What We Dislike:
Some users complain about the mask sliding slightly after long periods of wearing it.
A worthy option for both the beginner and professional user, the Nextgen Altitude Training Mask comes loaded with settings for the perfect workout. It boasts twenty-four resistance levels, meaning that you can customize your training to the precise level you can handle. Not only does it work well, but it looks good, too. The design is modern, and the materials are machine washer-friendly—so you don’t have to deal with old sweaty head straps all the time.
What We Like:
The hard-shell zipper case with accompanying carabiner makes for easy transportation anywhere. It also has room for backup filters and mask cleaner.
The universal fit sleeve provides comfort to anyone who wears it.
Twenty-four different resistance levels give every user the chance to customize their training.
What We Dislike:
Some complain about the fit of the mouthpiece over their nose and mouth.
Useful Tips and Resources
If you are serious enough about working out that you purchase an elevation training mask, then you probably have a workout playlist curated to motivate you every step of the way. If your earbuds continuously fall out during intense training, however, then that can seriously affect your workout. Investing in a pair of earphones that hook over your ear for a snug fit is key to taking back your music no matter how intense you move.
These Otium Wireless Headphones are a steal for the comfort and security they provide in a headphone. They are waterproof and allow up to 9 hours of battery life just in case you want to spend an extra couple of hours at the court. And they are nearly impossible to knock off while you wear an elevation mask.
Final Thoughts
If you are in the market for the best elevation training mask on the market, then you can’t go wrong with any of our top picks. The Training Mask 3.0 and 2.0 options offer maximum performance. They’re on the higher end, while the uber-valuable Nextgen mask is your safe pick for customizing your lung capacity and for all of those extras that come along with the mask.
The only person who truly knows what mask is right for them is you, so I hope you found your elevation mask soulmate during this article. Happy training!
Have you ever used an elevation training mask on the court or during pick-up games? Tell us your experience with it below in the comments!
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