We did notice a drop in air flow, it was noticeable but not restricting. You are probably right though that they are not needed. Thanks for the comment and for watching.

Good review on a great product. I have the Expedition model and it really saved me this year - plus allowed me to replace two items in my pack. I have found the flow regulator to be a bit unnecessary on mine... it does not seem to do a bit of difference regardless of where I have it set at. Anyway, good review!

How is this for the zero to -30 degree weather. The fleece looks a bit flimsy.

is it washer and dryer safe

So I have to look like a knob

Honestly doesn’t seem very effective. It’s just a piece of plastic with holes in it that goes over your mouth and traps a little bit of the warm air you exhale. A regular jogging mask could do the same thing