best balaclava for skiing

Best Balaclava for Skiing – Reviews & Buying Guide

Nothing satisfies our sense of adventure as skiing does. Still, if you want to embark on a skiing adventure, you must be prepared for it. Otherwise, precipitations combined with the wind could stand in your way – and you don’t want that, do you?

That’s why you need the best balaclava for skiing. It serves as a face warmer and is specifically designed to meet the needs of the enthusiast skier, bikers, snowboarder, or adept of winter sports. However, selecting the right product for your needs might be harder than it seems: there are various products in this category, each designated for one purpose or another.

So, the goal of this article is the following: to help you make a sensible, informed purchase. We will present to you (almost) everything you should know about getting the best balaclava for skiing. Let’s proceed!

Product Name

​Rating

​Best ​​​​For

​Price

Knit Black Face Cover Thermal Ski Mask

​Cold weather

3-Hole Ski Face Mask Balaclava

​Cold weather

Balaclava Face Mask for Men and Women

​Harsh winter

​Oldelf Tactical Heavyweight Balaclava Outdoor Sports Mask

​Cold weather

Under Armour Men's ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hood - Best Balaclava for Skiing

​Harsh winter

NewNow Candy Color Ultra-Thin Ski Face Mask

​Cold weather

The Best Balaclava for Skiing 

Knit Black Face Cover Thermal Ski Mask

Knit Black Face Cover

Our list of reviews begins with the thermal ski mask manufactured by Super Z Outlet. This thermal face mask provides full face coverage. The acrylic fabric is thin, yet it keeps both the face and neck warm.

A bonus is that you could layer this face cover under jackets or scarves, depending on the weather forecast.

This balaclava features three distinct holes, designated for the eyes and mouth.

As for the design of the item, its extended length accounts for a notable advantage. That’s because it facilitates optimal protection against wind and moisture.

Worth mentioning is the versatility of this item.

For instance, we have used this for both skiing, backpacking, and cycling in harsh conditions. In each instance, it has served its purpose, meaning that it protected us from the cold.

Apart from that, this increased our performance level at the sports mentioned. Unsuitable weather can tire us excessively, which minimizes our performance. Still, when you introduce a balaclava in your skiing arsenal, you’ll notice a range of improvements.

Regarding the fit of the face cover, it is suitable for any adult head size, as it is stretchy yet soft.

Still, as some users complained, since the material is a bit stretchy, the stitches around the holes aren’t that long-lasting. Apart from that, some say that it is not quite suitable for severe winters.

On the whole, considering the price, it is a decent acquisition. It could keep your mind off the cold if the conditions in which you’re skiing, snowboarding or hiking aren’t the worst.

Things We Liked

  • ​Affordable rate
  • ​Breathable fabric
  • ​One-size-fits-all
  • ​Versatile
  • ​Smart design

Things We Didn't Like

  • The fabric is a bit too stretchy
  • It could be a bit too tight for some users
  • It is not suitable for harsh winter conditions
  • Poor-quality stitching around the holes
  • ​Durability is a concern

3-Hole Ski Face Mask Balaclava

3-Hole Ski Face Mask Balaclava

This item is another one-size-fits-all face mask for winter, featuring three holes. It measures 16.5 inches in height and 7.5 inches in width. Considering that the fabric is rather stretchy, most adults will feel comfortable while wearing this mask.

Obviously, comfort is a significant consideration. And this ski face mask is rather comfy and cozy to wear on your cold winter adventures.

Once again, the three-hole design is practical. However, one of the downsides is that the stitching of the eyes and the mouth could be a source of discomfort.

For example, when we wore this snow mask for a couple of hours, we sensed a bit of itchiness between the eyes, in particular. Apart from that, the mask doesn’t actually stay put in that area.

We had to keep pulling the mask down so that we could see in front of us. While this isn’t unbearable, we think you should know what to expect.

Apart from that, in our opinion, the eye holes could have been a tad smaller.

What about the weather appropriateness of this face mask? Most customers say that this is suitable for winter. However, you could choose another item if you’re pursuing the most adventurous skiing trip in a harsh winter environment.

For example, the acrylic fabric isn’t quite windproof, as some users noted. This means that your ears are prone to getting cold.

In the end, this is an affordable product that could protect you during your hiking, skiing and snowboarding trips, unless the weather isn’t too harsh.

Things We Liked

  • ​One-size-fits-all
  • ​Warm material
  • ​Affordable rate
  • ​Comfortable, except when it is worn for many hours in a row
  • ​Versatility

Things We Didn't Like

  • ​The material isn’t windproof
  • The eye holes are a bit too big
  • The fabric tends to become itchy
  • Not fit for severe temperatures
  • Can cause discomfort, when worn for many hours

Balaclava Face Mask for Men and Women

Balaclava Face Mask

Next on our list is this winter face mask, made of thin, polyester fabric. Due to the fabric’s natural wicking ability, it ensures your comfort during your winter adventures. Another unique advantage is that it is windproof.

Some skiing masks are warm, yet they aren’t windproof. That can be a problem when you’re skiing or snowboarding.

Another feature worth considering is the separate upper and lower half. This means that you can wear this balaclava in many, many ways.

For example, when adjusted accordingly, it could cover your entire face, except from the eyes. However, if you intend to use it otherwise, you can cover your neck. That means it could also serve as a thin warmer.

So, this could qualify as the best balaclava for skiing for its versatility.

Nevertheless, there is a drawback you should note.

Although we liked that the fabric is windproof, you should know that this minimizes its breathability. Since there aren’t any designated breathing holes, you are prone to get moisture buildup eventually.

Apart from that, a customer noticed that the hot breath could be eventually directed to your goggles or glasses and cause fog.

Even so, we would have to say that this balaclava works excellently in freezing conditions. It actually keeps you warm in windy, ultra-cold environments.

However, if you’re considering buying this item, note that it tends to run a bit small.

 The verdict? This is a good-quality item. Our experience with it was mainly positive, apart from the aspects mentioned before.

Things We Liked

  • ​A good option for freezing temperatures
  • Breathable fabric
  • It wicks moisture
  • Wind-resistance
  • Excellent price

Things We Didn't Like

  • The ski mask tends to run a bit small
  • Hot breath is directed towards the eyes, which fogs the goggles
  • It tends to get a little too hot
  • The area around the mouth tends to become moist
  • Adjusting the mask with the goggles can be challenging

Oldelf Tactical Heavyweight Balaclava Outdoor Sports Mask

Oldelf Tactical Heavyweight Balaclava

To begin with, the main pro about this balaclava is that it is warm. Still, it is a bit heavyweight, without it being suffocating. 

The opening space for the face is rather large. This could be interpreted as either an advantage or disadvantage, depending on your preference and needs.

For example, when we wanted to increase the coverage, we simply pulled the material upwards and the problem was solved.

This could be an unmatched benefit, particularly if you want to get some water or breathe some fresh air. I for a change tend to get rather warm when I’m up in the mountains.

As long as you adjust the balaclava accordingly, it does a good job at keeping the wind out.

According to the users, the drawstrings capped with plastic caps facilitate e decent fit. Also, they noted that this balaclava does tend to run a bit small.

Finally, we could say that this product could be significantly improved with the addition of a section of breathable fabric in the proximity of the mouth and nose. Apart from that, this is a good acquisition.

Things We Liked

  • One-size-fits-all
  • ​Soft, fleece composite fabric
  • ​Windproof
  • ​Versatile
  • ​Comfortable to wear

Things We Didn't Like

  • If the mask is pulled up, you cannot wear glasses or goggles
  • Goggles and glasses tend to get foggy
  • The fit is a bit too loose
  • The fabric is non-breathable
  • It has a weird odor

Under Armour Men's ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hood - Best Balaclava for Skiing

best balaclava for skiing

For many years now, Under Armour has been a prime provider of sports gear for cold weather, balaclavas included. The infrared tactical hood is an equally qualitative product that has pleasantly surprised us.

We had high expectations, which were actually met.

For starters, the form-fitting design takes the shape of your face. That leaves no room for the heat to go out.

The soft, thermo-conductive inner clothing is one of the aspects that make this product the best balaclava for skiing. In other words, this winter mask retains the body heat during your activities.

What is more, the customers noticed that if the balaclava gets wet due to breathing, it dries out ASAP. So, no worries in this department.

On the whole, this is a great buy for some serious snow activities. It keeps you safe and warm round the clock.

Things We Liked

  • The stretchy material keeps the original shape of the product
  • Form-fitting design
  • Excellent for freezing conditions
  • You can wear it as a neck gaiter
  • Thermo-conductive inner-coating

Things We Didn't Like

  • It could be large for some people
  • The material around the mouth is non-breathable
  • The design exposes the forehead
  • Short neck coverage
  • It determines sweating around the mouth area

NewNow Candy Color Ultra-Thin Ski Face Mask

NewNow Candy Color Ultra Thin Ski Face Mask Under A Bike / Football Helmet -Balaclava

This ultra-thin ski face mask is a bargain. To begin with, it is unexpectedly affordable, and the quality of the item is decent.

The soft material feels comfortable against the skin. Moreover, it is flexible and quick drying, which is a major bonus for winter sports adepts, since we don’t have time to wait around for our sports gear to dry out. 

Even so, there’s no such thing as a perfect product.

The main fault of this particular winter mask is that the tag is stitched in. Not only that it is stitched it, but it is part of the garment.

In other words, you cannot attempt to remove it, although it seriously impairs your comfort. It is a rather silly pitfall, yet it exists.

Apart from that, as soon as we unboxed the package, we noticed that the odor of the balaclava was disturbing.

Furthermore, some clients report that even though the snug fit is an advantage, the item could run a bit small for some people. That is certainly worth considering to avoid getting a poorly-fitted balaclava.

To sum up, this is the cheapest, best balaclava for skiing. However, that doesn’t reduce its usefulness. It is a well-made, affordable item that we wholeheartedly recommend to those of you who are on a budget.

Things We Liked

  • ​Quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabric
  • Breathable and soft
  • Excellent price
  • Snug fit
  • High-quality stitching

Things We Didn't Like

  • Poor neck coverage
  • Odd smell
  • Hand-wash only
  • The face hole runs a bit small
  • After a few wears, the material stretches out

How to Choose the Best Balaclava for Skiing

A skiing balaclava is a significant acquisition. You expect it to reach its purpose: which is to protect you from the unfriendly weather. Still, each user has different needs to be taken into account.Here’s what you should consider to narrow down your choices.

Material 

Evidently, the manufacturer’s choice of material is one of the prime elements you should factor in.So, you’ll have to choose from various materials that have their sets of pros and cons. The truth is that there isn’t an absolute answer as to which material is the best one.

For starters, a common choice is polyester. The advantages of this fabric are obvious: it is lightweight, it wicks moisture and dries surprisingly quickly.

Still, a common concern for polyester is that it gathers up moisture. That might lead to the buildup of bacteria. Still, that isn’t always the case.

Many balaclavas are manufactured of breathable polyester fabrics. These enable the evaporation of moisture in time. Plus, some polyester ski masks feature anti-bacterial properties.

Secondly, wool or merino wool is an equally popular choice. If you’re on the lookout for a soft, yet warm ski mask, this could be an excellent alternative.

Such masks wick away moisture while being odor resistant. Even so, they aren’t perfect. If your skin is sensitive, you could be bothered by their itchiness.

Acrylic is also widespread, being a more affordable alternative to merino wool.

Moving on, neoprene is a durable, elastic fabric whose main advantage is the water-resistance. Apart from that, it is windproof. That being said, neoprene could be a fantastic choice for areas that have consistent rain, snowfall, and wind during the skiing season.

Still, take note that neoprene doesn’t allow the breath to escape properly, which could be a disadvantage.

Fit

While looking for the best balaclava for skiing, you’ll notice that manufacturers advertise these products as one measurement fits all.

Can you count on this, or not?

For the most part, yes. Balaclavas are made to fit all adults, irrespective of age or sex. Still, if you are rather picky concerning the sizing, you should select an adjustable item featuring straps or Velcro.

Many ski masks offer some room for adjustment. That is a useful feature if you feel that the mask isn’t really your size.

As a general rule, a balaclava should stick close to the skin. If not, you won’t get as much protection as you expect.

Face and Neck Coverage

Some indicate that the best face mask for winter should protect both the neck and face entirely.

Still, these masks should leave space for your eyes. Otherwise, you’ll be skiing in utter darkness.

At the same time, some products leave out space for the ears and mouth as well. Other masks cover only the lower part of the face, under the goggles.

Some skiing masks are genuinely versatile, which serves as an advantage. For example, you could easily adjust some balaclavas depending on your needs.

Let’s say that you don’t plan on wearing a helmet. Even so, you need full head protection. In this scenario, a typical balaclava that covers the head, face, and mouth would do.

Still, if you go for a windproof and waterproof balaclava, it implies that you’ll also need breathing holes.

At the end of the day, it all depends on how you intend to use the face mask, the type of weather you’ll be skiing in, so on and so forth.

Goggles Integration

A common problem with a face mask is that breathing into it leads to fogging the goggles. That’s why some balaclavas integrate eye visors.

If you want to wear the balaclava for winter sports, perhaps you should consider this option. Both a face mask and goggles are mandatory for such activities.

It goes without saying that you need absolute assurance whenever you’re skiing or snowboarding if you don’t want anything to stay in your way.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, the market overflows with many options of products claiming to be the best balaclava for skiing. Still, some products are better than others; which makes it difficult for users to make a choice.That’s the primary purpose of our buying guides: to inform our readers. That being said, the winner from our list of recommended products is the Under Armour. It is a good option for regular winter skiing scenarios. It is made of a comfortable material that facilitates a decent fit.

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