Based on feedback we’ve gotten from our test phase users, we’ve learned a couple things. One is that most people can fit comfortably within a range of sizes, and like to try out at least two before deciding which works best for them. Something else we’ve noticed is that many of our users prefer to have two different sizes for different activities: one for exercise and one for sleeping, or one for their gym routine and another to wear under goggles or a faceplate. Plus, sometimes it’s just nice to have an extra option. Variety is the spice of life, as they say.

If you’re wearing Intake for high-impact activity, or in a sport that requires goggles or glasses, we recommend sizing down. A smaller size Band will create less pull on the adhesive Tabs, making the Band more likely to stay put. Of course, your mileage may vary, so we recommend trying out both sizes in your Kit to see which is the best fit for you. For use of Intake with sunglasses, there should be no need to change your size from whichever you feel is most comfortable.

If you’ll primarily be using Intake for sleep or lower-impact activities (for instance, a moderate gym set), we recommend choosing your normal size or even sizing up—the larger sized Bands are less convex, meaning they’ll pull your nostrils open wider and allow greater airflow. However, this also means they’ll pull harder on the adhesive Tabs, meaning you’ll potentially get less run time out of the Tabs. You will learn quickly if your skin takes well to the adhesive and you are able to use a larger size, or if your skin prefers the use of a size that is more “perfect” for your nose. If you’ll just be using the Bands for sleep, it’s best to opt for a slightly larger size first to ensure you have access to the most airflow.

The proper size Intake Band should create a significant difference in airflow while not exerting too much force on the Tabs. Most first-time users, including those who have no trouble breathing through their nose normally, are surprised by the increase in airflow Intake creates. Though this isn’t an exact science, a good rule of thumb is that if you’re not surprised by how clearly you can breathe, your Band is likely too small. Conversely, if your Band feels uncomfortable, or your Tabs peel off despite proper application, your Band is likely too big.

We get it—sizing can be tricky! If you haven’t already, we recommend taking each Band in your Kit for a full test run—give both sizes a full training day or night of sleep, and see how they wear. The proper size often seems too big at first (if you hold it up to your nose without applying it to the Tabs, there should be around 3mm to 1/4 inch of space on either side). As long as the Band doesn’t pull up the Tabs before you’re ready to remove them, it should be the right size for you. If the Band is too small, you’ll find that it doesn’t open your nostrils wide enough to feel a noticeable difference. If you’ve used the size chart and given both Bands a trial run, contact us at info@intakebreathing.com and we’ll ship you an alternate size. No need to return your current Bands, simply give them to a friend or recycle them.