Decathlon has halted sales of its Easybreath diving masks to prioritize distribution to healthcare professionals and patients battling the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hospitals worldwide are grappling with severe shortages of masks and respirators amid the COVID-19 crisis. In recent weeks, caregivers in Italy, Spain, and France began adapting Decathlon's Easybreath snorkeling masks for protection. As reported on March 23, Italian firm Isinnova even developed a 3D-printed respirator adapter for these masks.
This innovative idea spread rapidly online, prompting Decathlon's leadership to issue a cautious response. On March 25, their Twitter account stated: "In recent days, we have indeed been approached by research centers and hospitals. We naturally agreed to share our 3D plans and technical information with the most serious and advanced projects. [...] But we remind you that the Easybreath is a mask designed solely for snorkeling. We are not doctors and do not have the skills to support use in the medical field."
They added: "If we see successful projects, and hospitals confirm that certain tests work, then we will keep you informed. But in the meantime, be careful of the unsourced and unverified information relayed on social networks in recent days."
Momentum built quickly as tests validated Isinnova's prototype. With demand surging from resource-strapped hospitals, Decathlon took decisive action: blocking all retail sales to reserve stock exclusively for medical use.
Over 30,000 Easybreath masks (plus 30,000 swimming goggles) are now being distributed to French hospitals in need. Decathlon's community manager tweeted: "If you represent a hospital, or are part of the medical or relief staff, you can also send us your donation requests at this address: easybreath-covid19@decathlon.com."
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