Uniqlo adds a “3D” element to its 2nd gen Airism mask. But what does that even mean?

You might own a few Airism masks from Uniqlo. Heck, I certainly do. They’re easily and readily available in your nearest Uniqlo outlet, and the brand promises the mask’s efficacy after 20 washes. So, not only are they mad comfortable to wear, they’re reusable and go with almost every outfit. Now, Uniqlo has announced that they will be launching the Airism 3D mask, meant to one-up the first-generation ones. But is it really any different?

How are they different from the older Airism masks?

First of all, Airism masks are made from Uniqlo’s Airism technology—which gives its material a “highly breathable and quick-drying, with a smooth, light feel”. Airism clothes are basically great for if you’re walking around under the hot sun, which is usually the case if you live here in Malaysia. To have Airism material made into masks is fantastic—it feels light, airy, and makes you feel protected at the same time.

The older Airism masks have a triple-layer structure—which is considered safer than other conventional cloth masks. The center of the mask also employs a filter that delivers a bacterial filtration efficiency of 99%. One of the three layers also includes a UV Cut layer, which cuts 90% of ultraviolet rays.

For the new Airism 3D masks, they… actually offer the same triple-layer structure with the same benefits. However, they feature a “clean three-dimensional feel and sharp face line” to their design. The masks are also designed by artist and designer, Tokujin Yoshioka, who trialed more than 100 patterns before going for the completed look.

“A beautiful design must be simple and innovative, as well as functional. I hope the experience of wearing this mask makes everyday life more beautiful and positive,” said Yoshioka.

Besides the new fancy design, there’s an added stiffness to the fabric—which “helps retain the shape of the mask”, and the newly developed ear adjusters—which “reduces irritation around the ears, maintaining comfort even when worn for long periods”. Besides that, that’s basically it. Oh! It will also come in pink, as well as white and blue—weirdly it doesn’t come in black.

The Uniqlo Airism 3D masks will launch on 28 February 2022, but will only be available in East Malaysia stores on 7 March 2022. They’re priced at RM39.90 for a pack of two—which means they’re more expensive than the regular Airism masks which costs the same for a pack of three. You can get them in sizes S to XL.

Related reading

• Uniqlo Airism masks will be available in Malaysia on 14 September
• Uniqlo Malaysia now offers Airism face masks in Grey