Posted by Andrew Senske on 5/3/2013 to
Articles
The Wisp nasal mask was first announced by Philips Respironics in November 2012 and then was subsequently released to brick-and-mortar stores in December 2012. It wasn't until April 1, 2013 that internet-enabled retailers were able to advertise the mask for sale. The wait for us was a little difficult because we really liked the design of the new mask (we received a sample) and we could hardly wait to be able to offer it as a new mask solution for our customers.
Even though it was much-anticipated, the eventual release date of April 1 ended up being just slighly inconvenient for us because I was out of the country on vacation when the internet release date was finally announced, and also when that date actually rolled around. I'd been waiting for four months and I missed the release!
A month later the mask has been selling very well. In fact, the Wisp is now our #2 mask behind only the ComfortGel Blue nasal mask. Feedback to date has been positive, including our own internal feedback from Mike (our resident product tester) who has switched to using the Wisp regularly. He now uses both the Mirage Activa and the Wisp nasal masks.
Here's a list of five things we like about the Wisp.
1. Low Profile
The Wisp is a minimal-contact mask much like a nasal pillows mask but without the nasal pillows that seal against/inside the nostrils. The cushion is a traditional over-the-nose type of cushion but it's much smaller than most traditional cushions and doesn't ride up high on the bridge of the nose. The manufacturer calls it a tip-of-the nose cushion. For anyone who likes the general look of a nasal pillows mask but who doesn't like the idea of nasal pillows in the nostrils, the Wisp is the only bridge between that gap. We suggest you drive on that bridge.
The low-profile design of the Wisp compared to a traditional nasal mask.
2. Lightweight
3.5 ounces. That's really light. You know what weighs 3.5 ounces? Really, really small things. A typical TV remote is twice that weight. My iPhone in it's case is twice that weight. The latest issue of Sky & Telescope magazine is about twice that weight. The headlamp I wear when camping weighs about the same as the Wisp.
Wisp is lightweight at just 3.5 ounces. Not as light as a hummingbird, but you get the idea.
3. Quick-Release Tube Connector
I'm surprised more masks don't have this feature. Being able to easily disconnect the tube while keeping the mask on - like when you get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom - is exceedingly convenient. Having this feature means you don't need to readjust or refit the mask when you're half asleep.
The quick-release tube is super convenient.
4. The Wisp is Groovy!
Really. It is. The silicone cushion has grooves at the top and bottom that allow the cushion to easily flex in and out and maintain a good seal during movement. The general concept is similar to the design of the Mirage Activa and Mirage Activa LT masks, that have extra cushioning material that allows the mask to flex in and out when the mask moves around. Our resident expert says the Wisp seals as well or better than the Mirage Activa and Activa LT, and it's partly due to the grooved design.
The grooved design of the Wisp cushion helps maintain seal during movement.
5. All Sizes Included
The Wisp includes three cushion sizes: petite, small/medium, and large. Kinda weird sizing conventions, but they cover pretty much all users. I think the naming of the sizes and the sharing of the small/medium size is a result of Philips Respironics wanting to offer what appears to be a full range of cushions from petite to large, but with only three cushions sizes. In the past other masks have had four (and sometimes more than four) sizes. It's easier for the manufacturer and dealers to offer fewer sizes, and when all sizes are included as a result, it ends up being a lot easier for the end user as well.
All three cushion sizes are included and fit on the same frame.
If you've tried the new Wisp we welcome your comments. If you haven't yet tried it, we think you should. If you have any questions about the mask which haven't yet answered on our website, please feel free to give us a call, send us an email, or start a live chat. We'd be happy to answer any questions you might have. We're experts in finding solutions to people's problems with their CPAP masks, so you can count on us to help you.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Andrew Senske
President
www.cpap-supply.com
CPAP-Supply.com is a leading online retailer of CPAP equipment. Located in Spokane, WA CPAP-Supply.com has been serving thousands of customers around the world since 2001. Founded on a belief that patients are their own best primary care providers, CPAP-Supply.com understands the importance of educating patients and customers on both the effects of and treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. For more information visit CPAP-Supply.com or call toll free 1-888-955-2727.