The reason why snowboarding is considered an ‘extreme sport’ is because there’s a lot of risk involved, the first and most important being the harsh weather. You’re literally snowboarding down an icy slope at a really fast speed in insanely cold temperatures. That’s like challenging mother nature. This requires every bit of preparation in terms of gear and safety equipment!
In a Hurry? Here are Our Top Choices
The 5 Best Balaclavas for Snowboarding
Something that can help keep all the snow away from your face is a balaclava. A balaclava is a face mask that covers your entire face to keep you safe in the cold. And this article is all about helping you find the best balaclava for snowboarding to make the most of the adventure. So, let’s dive right in, shall we?
1. Ergodyne N-Ferno 6823 Balaclava Ski Mask
Making it to the top of our list, the Ergodyne Balaclava is a full mask that covers both your head, face and the neck to make sure no air or snow goes inside. This balaclava is crafted in thermal fleece, keeping you warm and comfortable in the harsh weathers. You can tuck it in your jacket to seal all the openings.
Apart from the warmth and the comfortable fit, the Ergodyne balaclava also has a mesh panel over the mouth that ensures there’s enough ventilation. You can breathe freely without feeling suffocated. It also comes with reflective accents to help snowboarding in the dark. You can choose from a wide variety of 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
Tough Balaclava Ski Mask by Tough Outfitters is aptly named tough for its ability to withstand the extreme conditions. This ski and snowboarding mask can be worn in two ways; with and without the face covering, thanks to its connected but separated parts. It also keeps you safe from UV rays. The mouth covering has a mesh panel that makes it breathable and prevents your goggles from fogging.
Pros
- Comes in multiple colors.
- Breathable and comfortable.
- Offers UV protection.
- Fits well with helmets.
Cons
- Comparatively thinner material.
3. Balaclava Ski Mask – Winter Face Mask Cover for Extreme Cold Weather – Heavyweight Fleece Hood
Tough Balaclava Ski Mask Fleece Hood is another great ski and snowboarding mask by Tough Outfitters. This model is quite heavyweight and warm enough for extreme weathers, thanks to its soft premium polar fleece hood. It protects you from snow, wind, and UV rays, making sure you are comfortable, warm and cozy inside.
It has a pull-on closure and can be worn as a half mask, a full balaclava and as a neck warmer. Comes with a perfect fit without making you feel suffocated. You can tuck it inside your jacket to secure it.
Pros
- Wind-resistant.
- UV protection.
- Comes in two classic color options, black and camo.
- Great warmth.
Cons
- May feel too heavyweight and tight.
4. Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Infrared Balaclava
Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Balaclava makes it easy for you to stay warm without feeling bulky. This lightweight balaclava is insulated yet thin enough to ensure comfort. There is a mesh panel around mouth with small perforations to maintain the ventilation and make it easy for you to breathe.
However, what sets this balaclava apart from the rest is the ColdGear infrared technology that comes with a conductive inner lining that keeps the body heat. That’s what makes this lightweight mask warm enough to withstand extreme colds. So, you never get too hot or too cold.
Moreover, the edges of this balaclava are designed like hinges so they can be adjusted in various ways.
Pros
- Universal size.
- Machine-wash safe.
- ColdGear infrared technology.
- Lightweight and warm.
- Great ventilation.
Cons
- Too tight for very big heads.
5. Outdoor Research Option Balaclava
Outdoor Research Option Balaclava is a great quality balaclava that is perfect for snowboarding or skiing. It is crafted in a thermodynamic fabric that maintains your skin’s temperature. Whereas the outer nylon layer makes sure to keep all the moisture and snow away. Another polypropylene layer maintains the ventilation by wicking away the sweat. Despite its three layers, this balaclava is incredibly lightweight and won’t feel bulky.
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 GoPro Balaclava for Snowboarding
Ventilation
No matter how warm and comfortable your balaclava is, if it does not have ventilation, it’s of no use. Ventilation makes it possible for you to breathe easily. You would specially need this feature when snowboarding because it is hard as is to breathe at heights. Therefore, make sure you get a balaclava that is breathable an has proper ventilation around the mouth.
Materials
Although a balaclava should be warm, it shouldn’t be suffocating or heavyweight. Make sure you the material it is crafted in is lightweight yet warm. It should be made in a tough material. For instance, nylon masks are great for keeping you warm without being heavyweight.
Build
A balaclava should be versatile enough to be worn in multiple ways. Moreover, it should be easy to tuck it in your jacket when needed. It should cover your entire head, face, and neck, specially if you are buying it extremely cold weather.
Our Final Thoughts
Our top choice for the best balaclava for snowboarding is definitely the Ergodyne N-Ferno 6823 Balaclava Ski Mask as it provides ample warmth while being lightweight. It offers a full coverage and comfort and comes in multiple color options to choose from, making it our ideal choice.
