A balaclava not only keeps all the strong winds and snow away from your face, but it also makes sure that your head is warm, and your goggles are in place. It covers your entire face, head, and neck to keep you safe from sunburns, frostbites, windburn and even precipitation.
In a Hurry? Here are Our Top Choices
The 5 Best Balaclavas for Skiing
This article is all about helping you find the best balaclava for skiing to make the most of the adventure. So, let’s dive right in, shall we?
1. Ergodyne N-Ferno 6823 Balaclava Ski Mask
Our top pick, the Ergodyne Balaclava is a full mask for your head, face and neck that is crafted from thermal fleece. It is an extremely comfortable and warm material that will make you feel cozy inside. You can also tuck the mask into your jacket to seal all the openings.
For breathability, Ergodyne balaclava has a mesh panel over the mouth to help you breathe freely without collecting precipitation. The mask also features reflective accents to make is easy for you to see in the dark. You can choose from a wide variety of beautiful colors.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable.
- Wind resistant.
- Full coverage.
- Comfortable and breathable.
- Wide color options to choose from.
Cons
- Can be too tight for small faces.
2. Tough Balaclava Ski Mask
Manufactured by Tough Outfitters, the Tough Balaclava Ski Mask is quite aptly named. This balaclava is tough and sturdy enough to withstand even the most extreme conditions. It lets you control how you want to wear it, with or without the face mask. The material also keeps you safe from UV rays to avoid sunburn. Whereas a mesh panel on the mouth will make sure to allow ample airflow as well as prevent your goggles from fogging
Pros
- Comes in multiple colors.
- Breathable and comfortable.
- Offers UV protection.
- Fits well with helmets.
Cons
- Comparatively thinner material.
3. Nike Pro Combat Hyperwarm Hydropull Hood
Nike Pro Combat Hyperwarm Hydropull Hood is designed in a Therma-Fit material that will retain all the heat and keep you dry throughout the day. It has a flat seam construction that would lie smoothly against your head. It provides a full face and neck protection and can also be used as a neck gaiter.
The insulated lining is great for wicking away all the moisture and keeping you dry in the cold weather. It comes in a standard one size for everyone.
Pros
- Form fitting comfort.
- Therma-Fit material for maximum dryness.
- Full coverage for neck and face.
- Insulated lining.
Cons
- Only comes in one size that might be too small for big heads.
4. Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Infrared Balaclava
Under Armour needs no introduction. This brand is known to create excellent gear for extreme conditions and their Infrared Balaclava is no less. This lightweight balaclava is insulated with a thin lining to make sure that you don’t feel bulky while staying dry. It has a perforated mesh panel around the mouth area to allow maximum airflow and prevent precipitation.
The best feature in this balaclava is the ColdGear infrared technology that comes with a conductive inner lining to retain the body heat. Therefore, this mask will keep you warm and safe even in the worst snowstorms. Its hinged edges will let you adjust them in multiple ways.
Pros
- Universal size.
- Machine-wash safe.
- ColdGear infrared technology.
- Lightweight and warm.
- Great ventilation.
Cons
- Too tight for big heads.
5. Outdoor Research Option Balaclava
Manufactured by a great outerwear company, Outdoor Research Option Balaclava is one of the best options for the coldest of days. This balaclava is made in a thermodynamic fabric that regulates your temperature and keeps you warm. An outer layer of nylon is installed to provide maximum protection against water and snow. Another polypropylene layer maintains the ventilation by wicking away the sweat. For so many layers, one might wonder how bulky this balaclava must be. Turns out, it’s not bulky at all! It is extremely lightweight.
Pros
- Very lightweight.
- Three layers for ventilation, warmth, and dryness.
- Pull-on closure.
- Warm and comfortable.
- Very breathable.
Cons
- Not completely adjustable.
What to Consider When Buying the Best Balaclava for Skiing
Fit
A balaclava should have plenty of fabric to let you cover your ears and serve as a neck gaiter. It should loosely fit you without being too tight and suffocating you. An idea size should be a snug fit for your head but a loose fit for your face.
Ventilation
A balaclava should be warm and comfortable but not too insulated. It should have ventilation, especially around your mouth and nose to allow you to breathe freely. It’s especially needed while skiing because it gets extremely hard to breathe at heights, due to low oxygen levels in the air. Therefore, make sure your balaclava has vents around the mouth.
Materials
The ideal material for balaclava should be lightweight but tough enough to keep you warm. Nylon balaclavas are great in this regard because they are perfect for keeping warm while being light.
Build
Make sure that your balaclava can be tucked inside your jacket and has support for goggles. It should keep your goggles in place and offer a full coverage for your head, face, and neck.
Our Final Thoughts
Our top choice for the best balaclava for skiing is definitely the Ergodyne N-Ferno 6823 Balaclava Ski Mask. This balaclava is perfect for both day and night skiing. It comes with a fleece lining that ensures coziness and warmth. It offers an all-around performance in a justifiable price.
