A filter support that includes two or more first support ribs on a first side of the filter support is disclosed. The first support ribs are generally aligned along a longitudinal axis. The filter support also includes two or more second support ribs on a second side of the filter support, where the filter support's second side is opposite from the first side. The second support ribs are also generally aligned along the longitudinal first axis. At least one of the first support ribs is laterally offset from each of the second support ribs along a transverse axis that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The filter support provides support to opposing sides of a filter bag or opposing individual filter elements. Also disclosed are a filter assembly including a filter and a filter support, along with a helmet-mounted powered air purifying respirator in which the filter assembly is located within the helmet crown.