In Need of More Rest? We Tried Two Popular Sleep Masks to See If They Help

Could these sleep masks be the secret to a better night's rest? We put them to the test.

November 06, 2024
By: Amanda Mushro

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Photo by: Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

I've been on-the-go a lot lately — planes, hotels, car rides — and I've barely unpacked my suitcase before I'm out the door again. With travel comes the ultimate question: How am I supposed to sleep in strange beds with subpar pillows and plane lights flickering like it's a hopping dance club?

After what felt like a thousand sleepless travel nights, I decided it was time to try a sleep mask. But not just any mask. I wanted something substantial! Something that could actually help me get some shut-eye. Sleep can be hard for me even on a good night, so I decided to try two sleep masks from Manta: the Weighted Sleep Mask and the Sleep Mask Pro.

Did these masks magically solve all my sleep problems? While I wouldn't put myself in the "great sleep" category, I have to admit, I'm a fan of these masks. Keep reading to see my review of each one I tried.

Features of the Manta Weighted Sleep Mask

This mask is all about bringing weight and comfort to help you snooze. The idea behind it is like a weighted blanket — gentle pressure helps to relax and ground you. It's fully adjustable, with a Velcro strap that holds it snugly around your head without feeling like it's squeezing your brain.

Photo by: Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Plus, the eyecups are made from a soft, breathable material that molds comfortably, so there's no awkward pressing on your eyes. Manta claims this helps with REM sleep by eliminating any trace of light and I'll give them credit — it does feel like shutting out the world entirely.

The material is super soft and the mask is very comfortable even with the added weight.

Features of the Manta Sleep Mask Pro

The Manta Sleep Mask Pro is all about premium experience. It ditches the weight, but adds an extra level of adjustability and a cooling feature. You can also add heat to the eye cups for a soothing cushion for your tired eyes. Made with ultra-breathable materials, it's designed for all-night comfort and really lets your face breathe.

Photo by: Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

The Pro also has zero eye pressure because the sculpted cups don't compress your eyelids — something I've found cheaper sleep masks to do. It's an upgrade for those of us who toss and turn and feel sleepy all day long. You can even add aroma dots, so you have instant aromatherapy as you doze off.

Who Would Love These Sleep Masks

  • The Chronically Sleepless: If you're like me and find sleeping in new places challenging or even impossible, Manta masks offer a real chance of peace. They block out light effectively and add just enough comfort to help you drift off a little easier.
  • Weighted Blanket Fans: If you find that weight on your body relaxes you, the Manta Weighted Mask will feel like a hug for your face. It's oddly comforting and the soft pressure definitely adds a soothing effect.
  • Those Who Sleep Hot: For anyone who wakes up with a sweaty forehead or dislikes the idea of a standard eye mask trapping heat, the Manta Pro's breathable materials keep things cool and comfortable all night long.
  • Those Feeling Under the Weather: The Manta Pro offers cooling or steam eye cups and aromatherapy — all three of which are super comfortable and relaxing if you aren't feeling well or just want a little extra self-care.

Pros of the Manta Weighted Sleep Mask

  • Provides gentle, relaxing pressure that feels soothing.
  • Effective light-blocking for deep, uninterrupted sleep.
  • Super adjustable, so you don't feel like a plastic-wrapped burrito.

Photo by: Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Pros of the Manta Sleep Mask Pro

  • Great for all-night wear thanks to breathable materials.
  • Zero eye pressure, so it's fantastic if you're sensitive to anything touching your face.
  • Cool and comfortable, especially if you're a hot sleeper or steam if you want to warm up the eye cups

Photo by: Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Courtesy of Amanda Mushro

Cons of Manta Masks

  • If you are a CPAP mask wearer, these masks might not work for you.
  • The weighted mask has added bulk that can be a little much if you're used to a slimmer mask.

Bottom Line

If you're searching for a sleep mask that goes beyond just blocks out light, Manta's are worth a try.

Neither mask is a miracle cure for all sleep issues, but they're a solid step toward creating a more restful environment, whether you're tossing and turning in your own bed, a hotel room, or a cramped airplane seat. For travelers or the chronically sleep-challenged, they're a little slice of nighttime heaven.

For those who crave that extra bit of comfort and weight to lull them into relaxation, the Manta Weighted Sleep Mask has you covered. Meanwhile, the Manta Sleep Mask Pro offers a luxurious, breathable option that keeps things light and comfy for all-night wear.

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