Filtering Out Pollution

Smog and pollen can make outdoor cycling and running sound pretty unhealthy. To cut down on grit and allergens, there’s Respro, a new anti-pollution mask expected to be available this month in local sporting goods stores.

The strap-on mask’s replaceable charcoal filter protects against low level pollutants, pollen and ozone, according to Thomas Ashcroft of Respro North America, who distributes the mask in the United States. The mask--in a range of wild colors like lagoon green and fluorescent orange--costs about $40. The filters, which should be replaced every one or two months, are about $8 each.

Worth a try?

“The mask looks truly good on paper,” says Robert Phalen, director of UC Irvine’s Air Pollution Health Effects Laboratory, who reviewed the mask specification sheets before commenting. The mask might help some people, Phalen says, but because of face size differences and other variables, the proof is in the ride or run, he says. “You have to wear it under actual conditions (and see how it does),” he suggests.