These Bros Offered Free Face Masks To California Beachgoers. It Didn't Go Well.

Brittany Wong
Updated ·3 min read

Chad Kroeger and JT Parr were super stoked to “solve the mask shortage” in Huntington Beach, California. Armed with a big box of free masks, the duo hit the city, which lies 35 miles south of Los Angeles and whose residents are notably anti-mask and not exactly fans of the statewide lockdown.

Stoked, at least, until they started getting chased off the beach and fielding f-bombs from the locals.

In a YouTube video posted Tuesday, the internet comedians (or “activists,” as they prefer to be called) walk around Main Street and the beach and ask if anyone wants a mask to help curb the spread of the coronavirus.

“Guys, we’ve got a cure for the mask shortage,” they tell the crowd. “We’ve got masks! If anyone needs a mask, we’ve got ’em!”

Few people take the boys up on their offer. The reasons they say no run the gamut:

“Breathing your own carbon monoxide is not healthy.”

“They’re killing us.”

“I’m walking 20 miles!”

“It’s not a mask, it’s a muzzle!”

“I know where I’m going when I die.”

“It’s all fake, dude.”

Kroeger and Parr ― whose previous viral hits include a video in which they lobby for a Mount Rushmore-style Paul Walker memorial in San Clemente and another in which they speak out against a Hollywood Hills house party ban at a Los Angeles City Council meeting ― selected Huntington Beach as their donation spot for very practical reasons.

“I surf in Huntington Beach all the time, plus they have Bear Flag Poke,” Kroeger told HuffPost. “We noticed that lots of people weren’t wearing masks. We figured this was ’cause, like supply chains are all boned up, but then we realized people weren’t wearing them because they think they suck.”

Though the guys say they’re totally still down to meet up at the local Sharkeez to give away masks and have a beer with anyone interested, they’re a little taken aback by the feedback they received the first time around.

“The reaction that surprised me the most was probably the guy who said God loves me followed by ‘Fuck you,’” Kroeger said. “They seem like disparate thoughts.”

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Experts are still learning about the novel coronavirus. The information in this story is what was known or available as of press time, but it’s possible guidance around COVID-19 could change as scientists discover more about the virus. Please check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the most updated recommendations.

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Anthropologie

<a href="https://fave.co/2zrYy4T" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anthropologie now has face masks</a>. You can find a <a href="https://fave.co/2LlNt8k" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">single reusable striped mask</a> that's 2-ply cotton jersey. There's a <a href="https://fave.co/3dyOg1F" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">three-pack</a> that has cheetah, floral and leaf prints. This pink and polka-dotted pack is made from organic cotton and features a removable filter. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/2Wo8Wnb" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this pack of three for $24 at Anthropologie</a>. Keep in mind that the pack is on backorder until June 5.

BaubleBar

While you might know <a href="https://fave.co/2NerTq2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">BaubleBar</a> for its <a href="https://fave.co/2Wh8F5c" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">colorful jewelry</a>, the brand recently launched <a href="https://fave.co/2Olxw3p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">sets of masks</a>, which are double layered and have adjustable ear loops. BaubleBar says in the description of the masks that they are selling them at cost &mdash; rather than marking the price up. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/2Olxw3p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find a set of two masks for $12 at BaubleBar</a>. 

Casetify

<a href="https://fave.co/2AuwvCv" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Casetify</a> is known for its phone cases. But the brand has started selling <a href="https://fave.co/2WuFLPx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">masks on its site</a>, too. Casetify has a "buy a mask, donate a mask" program, so when one mask sells, one surgical mask is donated to a health worker in need. These masks are made with breathable cotton materials and fitted with a filter. You can pick the color and purchase a <a href="https://fave.co/2WuFLPx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">pack of ten filters</a>. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/2WuFLPx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this mask for $15 at Casetify</a>.

Etsy

Recently, <a href="https://fave.co/2LiLWzL" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Etsy</a> has been exploding with face masks. You'll spot every print out there &mdash;  from <a href="https://fave.co/3dyLZDF" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">peacock feathers</a> to polka dots. <a href="https://fave.co/3fGOq9d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">This one</a> is washable, reusable and double-layered. Be sure to check all the details in the description for masks on Etsy before adding them to your cart. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3fGOq9d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this floral and polka dot mask for $5 at Etsy</a>.

Lucky Brand

<a href="https://fave.co/2XKw3re" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lucky Brand</a> offers a <a href="https://fave.co/3fOb4MY" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">set of five face masks</a> that are reusable and washable. The outer face of these masks is made entirely out of cotton and the inner face is polyester. Lucky Brand is limiting purchases of face mask bundles to one per order. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3fOb4MY" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this pack of five for $25 at Lucky Brand</a>.

Madewell

<a href="https://fave.co/39eH5u2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Madewell'</a>s non-medical cotton face masks have elastic ear straps and three layers. Each mask has a filter, too, and is made from leftover fabric scraps, making each color a limited edition. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3dy2z6H" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this pack of three masks for $20 at Madewell</a>. Keep in mind that this pack is on backorder until June 3.

Maisonette

You might have heard about <a href="https://fave.co/2WA7m1X" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Maisonette</a> from your mom friends &mdash; the brand's all about cute baby and child clothes. Right now, Maisonette has lots of <a href="https://fave.co/361oBMl" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">mask sets for kids</a>, including <a href="https://www.maisonette.com/product/adult-child-mini-mask-set-deep-blue-stripe" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">matching sets for adults and kids</a>. But the company has a small selection of adult masks, too, like <a href="https://fave.co/2ZeWkAX" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this one</a>. This floral mask is made completely from cotton, has an inner pocket to add a liner, and has elastic bands to put over your ears. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/2ZeWkAX" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this mask for $16 at Maisonette</a>. Orders usually ship within four weeks.

Michael Stars

Known for T-shirts, Michael Stars now has two different packs of masks. <a href="https://fave.co/2WAzuC5" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">One pack of two is striped</a>. It features side ties and is made from either recycled or upcycled fabrics. This <a href="https://fave.co/3dM1CHQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">leopard pack</a> has stretch elastic ear straps and a double-layer fabric that acts as a filter on the inside. It's made from cotton. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3dM1CHQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this pack of two for $38 at Michael Stars</a>.

The Odells

<a href="https://fave.co/3cnRNjl" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Odells</a>, an LA-based clothing boutique, now carries both <a href="https://fave.co/35NNyLp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">single face masks</a> that are $10 and a <a href="https://fave.co/3fzexih" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">six-pack that's $54</a>. You can pick between an adult or kid size. The masks are non-medical grade, reusable and washable. They have an interior pocket that can fit a filter and adjustable behind-the-ear straps. While you can't pick your prints, if you opt for a pack, you get three neutrals (plaids, solids and stripes) and three prints (like florals and paisleys). <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3fEKBBq" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find a single mask for $10 at The Odells</a>. 

Old Navy

<a href="https://fave.co/2xbEmQB" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Old Navy</a> is now offering packs with five masks that are triple-layered and made completely from cotton poplin. They're reusable and non-medical grade. The prints, patterns and colors of the masks are a surprise. There's another <a href="https://fave.co/3bpnUxs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">mask pack that's just for kids</a>, too. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3fF4iJf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this pack of five masks for $13 at Old Navy</a>. Keep in mind that the pack is on backorder until June 7.

Paige

<a href="https://fave.co/2xYPkN4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Paige</a>, known for all its jeans, now has a four-pack of masks that are made completely from cotton and use the brand's extra fabrics and materials. Each pack comes in an assortment of colors and patterns. You can tie the straps. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3fPb3s0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find the pack of four masks for $20 at Paige</a>.

Reformation

<a href="https://fave.co/307xXT4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Reformation</a>, known for its sustainable floral dresses and denim, now has sets of non-medical, reusable masks with ties. The masks are made from tencel, viscose or cotton blends. They'll come in different prints and colors or all be the same in the set. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/2zrafc4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this pack of five masks for $25 at Reformation</a>.

Shopbop

Shopbop now has an entire section dedicated to <a href="https://fave.co/2Lp8zTg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">face covers and protective measures</a>. There's everything from <a href="https://fave.co/2WwE983" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">nylon gloves</a> to <a href="https://fave.co/3dQWa6R" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">surface wipes</a>. But, by far, this section has more masks than anything, including single masks from designers like <a href="https://fave.co/2WTg22h" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Natasha Zinko</a>. The best deal we've seen? This <a href="https://fave.co/2Za1pdo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">pack of five masks</a>, which are reusable and have elastic straps. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/2Za1pdo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this pack of five for $32 at Shopbop</a>.

Uncommon Goods

<a href="https://fave.co/2yW5IOY" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Uncommon Goods</a> has sets of masks for <a href="https://fave.co/2Lrs6Ct" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">adults</a> and <a href="https://fave.co/3dO9wRh" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kiddos</a>. The sets include two masks, which have two layers of cotton and attached strings that loop for an adjustable fit. The designs on the masks were created by kids and have a little message, like &ldquo;keep smiling.&rdquo; All the profits (yup 100%) from these masks will go NYC Health + Hospitals. <br /><br />Find <a href="https://fave.co/2Lrs6Ct" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">adult set for $25</a> and the <a href="https://fave.co/3dO9wRh" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">kid set for $25</a> at Uncommon Goods.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters now offers different <a href="https://fave.co/2T8Dw2m" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">single masks</a>. There's a <a href="https://fave.co/2zzhSNR" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">mask with a Kawaii face print</a>. You'll find <a href="https://fave.co/3byNfFi" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">another with lunar phases</a>. But the best bargains are probably are the <a href="https://fave.co/3bqHfP2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">masks that are $12 for one or $18 for two</a>, including these <a href="https://fave.co/3dO4ft0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">floral and striped ones</a>. You can pick the print. They're made from cotton, rayon and spandex and have adjustable self-ties.<br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3dO4ft0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">You can get one of these masks for $12 or two for $18 at Urban Outfitters</a>. Keep in mind that these masks are for preorder and will ship around June 3, which is earlier than the other masks the company has.

Vida

<a href="https://fave.co/3fSliMm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Vida</a> sells protective masks as singles, pairs or four-packs. The masks are made of 100% cotton, have two layers and feature adjustable straps. Each masks comes with a filter that should be replaced every seven days. You can choose between different colors in the single and pair packs. The <a href="https://fave.co/3eTK5z3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">four-pack has two color options and is $36</a>. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/3eTK5z3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find this single mask for $10 or two masks for $18 at Vida</a>.

Vistaprint

You might know <a href="https://fave.co/2T8M2OS" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Vistaprint</a> for its business cards and invitations, but it recently introduced lots of masks to its site. All the masks have free shipping and 10% of the profits will go to small businesses. Vistaprint is offering both <a href="https://fave.co/2T5lQVe" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">adult and child masks</a>. The masks have an inner layer that's 100% cotton and anti-allergenic. <br /><br /><a href="https://fave.co/2T5lQVe" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">You can preorder this mask and it'll ship by May 28</a>.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.