Should we be encouraging mask use where possible even for the legally exempt?

[whole diary]

[IndustryInsider]

With winter here, I, and I am sure a few others, are actually sometimes wearing masks outdoors when it is not a requirement as it helps keep your face warm without needing to remember a scarf.

I'm not sure if that is why, based on my own observations, face covering compliance (everywhere, not just on trains) seems to be higher now that it was after the ruling was introduced?

[Bmblbzzz]

Yep, I've found mask wearing is beneficial with sinus problems. I don't know if that's actually the reason for the increased wearing or maybe people are just coming round to the view it's what they've got to do?

[froome]

Out of interest, do people think you should have to wear a mask when riding a bicycle?

I did this the other day. Just couldn't be bothered to take it off when I came out of a shop so rode home with it on, from Whiteladies Road to near Gloucester Road. All fine... until I got to Cotham Hill, which (as you know) as a hill in name only. Here my heavier breathing caused the fabric to be sucked in ? and out ? and in ? and out... I think if it had been a proper hill I would have suffocated, not because the fabric doesn't pass enough air but just because of the 'respiratory diaphragm' effect! Of course it might not have happened if I wasn't so unfit...

I certainly wouldn't wear a mask while cycling because, as you said, I've found that the fabric can get into your mouth if breathing heavily. I have seen a few people wearing them, though enough of a rarity to be noteworthy.

[froome]

With winter here, I, and I am sure a few others, are actually sometimes wearing masks outdoors when it is not a requirement as it helps keep your face warm without needing to remember a scarf.

I'm not sure if that is why, based on my own observations, face covering compliance (everywhere, not just on trains) seems to be higher now that it was after the ruling was introduced?

Yes, they are good at keeping your face warm, and undoubtedly many are keeping them on because of that, but as someone whose nose runs a lot in cold weather, I find I have to remove mine quite quickly.