Originally Posted by
msommers
I've read the same thing about the valve. I think it 'looks' helpful, like a gas mask or something, but think about it. That entire mask better be impermeable besides the valve, and the mask better be skin tight. If you're having trouble breathing through a mask without a valve and thinking having a valve will help, I hate to tell ya but you have bigger problems.
Many masks out there don't conform to your face well, particularly the top portion against your maxilla(?). The metal wire here is really helpful and many don't have it.
A lady in Lake Chaparral made ours and I'm quite happy with them. Have lots of disposable ones in the cars too.