They are not yet available on the market but represent hope for the indoor sport industry, whose establishments have been closed since the fall. Strict health protocols were deployed in the sports halls but the big absentee was the mask. Today, prototypes have been developed and tested by athletes who practice on medical prescription.

Everyone seems to adopt it. For Emma, ​​no more wet surgical mask after a session on the treadmill. “I always have a little humidity, which is normal when you play sports. It flows a little but it goes below, it does not stay in the respiratory zones, so it does not interfere with the race. “ she explains. Mathilde, she insists on the breathability of this new mask: “It really follows the shape of my face and I actually breathe really normally.”

Homologation tests still awaited

But beware, these devices still have to pass homologation tests. They must meet the conditions published by theFrench Association for Standardization (AFNOR). More demanding recommendations than for a surgical or fabric mask.

“The mask will still have to stay in place on the face, well placed. In terms of filtration, we have remained on the recommendations of the High Council of Public Health, therefore a filtration level of 90%. And in terms of permeability to air, we have defined two levels of intensity, which can be moderate or high according to the sporting practice to allow breathing very easily ” details Audrey Leplat, standardization project manager at AFNOR.

Finally, even if these masks arrive on the market, this does not mean the reopening of sports halls. For this, a government decision will be necessary and will depend on the health situation.