Table of Contents
- This is how we evaluate and select products
- The Best Ski Masks & Snowboarding Balaclava Comparison Below
- 1. Ergodyne N-Ferno 6823 Wind-Resistant Hinged Balaclava – Best Overall
- 2. BlackStrap The Kids Hood Kids Balaclava
- 3. Smartwool Merino 250 Balaclava Facemask
- 4. The North Face Patrol Balaclava Facemask
- 5. ZERDOCEAN Winter Windproof Fleece Thermal Full Face Motorcycle Ski Mask Balaclava – Premium Choice
- 6. WTACTFUL 3D Animal Funny Balaclava Face Mask
- 7. Nike Pro Combat Hyperwarm Hydropull Hood
- 8. CIKIShield Skull Face Masks For Couples
- 9. Beardski Prospector Cool Skiing Face Mask
- 10. Mountain Hardwear Men’s Snowboard Balaclava
- 11. Outdoor Research Ninjaclava Headwear
- 12. Anon Deringer SnowFall Goggles & Ski Mask
- 13. Outdoor Research Gorilla Wind Stopper Balaclava Hat
- 14. Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hood
- 15. Burton Anon Women’s Ski MFI MD Neckwarmer
- 16. Seirus Innovation 8030 Neofleece Half Facemask
- 17. Knitted Black Robber/Burglar Face Cover
- 18. Dakine Hunter Balaclava Facemask
- What is a Balaclava?
- Types of Ski and Snowboard Masks
Today we review and find out the best ski mask on the market to date. Whether you live in cold regions or are an avid lover of ski or snowboard, you will need a thermal winter face mask to provide protection and warmth. Finding the right product for you crucial for your ski, snowboard and mountain activities to go smooth. To keep your hands warm, make sure you have a warm and reliable pair of skiing gloves or mittens.
Not wearing a ski or snowboard mask can be uncomfortable or worse give you frostbite. You require complete protection during outdoor sports similar to skiing and snowboarding and generally too if you live in a very cold winter climate. People often forget their face needs equal protection as their hands or feet during ski, snowboard, and mountain activities. Get a sturdy pair of ski boots for even more foot protection!
Yo! Don’t forget the importance of specially designed snowboard pants – see them here. Or, If you are into Skiing – see our top picks for Ski Pants.
This is how we evaluate and select products
In this article, we review a number of popular products that we have found through in-depth research and thorough analysis. The products listed here are sold by one or more of our partners, and although these partnerships may influence the range of products in the article, our recommendations depend on an overall assessment of the product.
We evaluate and compare products in the article based on:
- Any official and impartial product tests
- Customer opinions about the product
- Product specifications, features as well as advantages and disadvantages
- Warranties, service and reputation of the dealer
- Insight and knowledge of our reader's preferences
We keep these parameters up against price and quality, and deliver our subjective assessment and recommendations to our readers. Keep in mind that the order of the products does not reflect their quality, since each product is chosen as the best option for certain customers and their specific needs.
The Best Ski Masks & Snowboarding Balaclava Comparison Below
1. Ergodyne N-Ferno 6823 Wind-Resistant Hinged Balaclava – Best Overall
This Balaclava mask is perfect for your skiing expeditions as it is snug and breathable. The long-length of this balaclava covers every part of your face without being too tight. It has a stretchable fleece so virtually anyone can wear these face-masks.
The great thing is that these balaclava masks are quite lightweight weighing merely 2.9 ounces so it never disrupts your snow-sports similar to skiing, snowboarding or mountain climbing and does not feel too clingy. You will instantly feel warm when you wear these balaclava skiing face masks whether you live in moderate winters or extremely cold ones. These balaclava-masks are especially good for those who work outside and can have the balaclava on for long hours.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Covers entire face
- Great for working outdoors
Why We Liked It – Balaclava-masks are not just for ski, anyone can add them to their clothing for any occasion just to feel warm. These hats are multifunctioning so you can have them as a neck gaiter as well. There is a little color choice as well with black and camo offerings in this particular balaclava.
2. BlackStrap The Kids Hood Kids Balaclava
It’s impossible to move on with this list without making an offer for our youngest fans. If your kid likes snowboarding or skiing, this BlackStrap Balaclava could be the most attractive choice for them. Awesome attractive design that not only protects from the cold and snow with antimicrobial and moisture wicking lens safe fabric but also makes it impossible to go unnoticed. Perfect choice for social media lovers! It is also machine washable so its maintenance is as easy as it gets. Fits almost all helmets and covers your neck and head completely. Pair it with glasses and start cruising!
Why We Liked It – The Kids Blackstrap Hood Balaclava offers all the benefits and technologies of the Adult Hood Balaclava, with the added bonus that it comes in 10 colorful designs, which will make your kid the most attractive person on the piste!
3. Smartwool Merino 250 Balaclava Facemask
On very cold and windy days, you’ll want to cover the bits of your face left exposed by a hat and gaiter. While covering the entire face and neck, Merino wool is probably the coziest material that you can look for. It will make you feel like you are tucked in your warm bed while sliding through snowy forests and roads. It stands out as one of the classics, most selling products on this list, due to its design, but also because the fabric offers breathable warmth and moves sweat away from the body. It fits under every helmet without having your head wet at all, and still enables good peripheral vision.
Why We Liked It – Merino wool has been the to-go fabric for winter clothing for centuries now, and with good reason – it’s comfortable, breathable, and offers perfect insulation. Combining that with modern production technologies and a camo pattern has resulted in a stylish and comfortable face protection for all ages.
4. The North Face Patrol Balaclava Facemask
The The North Face Patrol Balaclava Facemask is created and designed for serious riders. It provides ultimate comfort while shielding your face during any possible snow condition you can ski into. Ergonomic fit, and helmet friendly, with a hinged construction, so you can easily adjust to your perfect fit no matter where you are on the mountain. It is also machine washable so maintenance is not an issue at all. The modern fabric blend FUTUREFLEECE™ does not only make it extremely warm but also breathable and it has flat-locked seams for additional comfort
Why We Liked It – The simple and functional design of The North Face Patrol Balaclava Facemask makes it a perfect choice for all skiers. We also like it because of its versatility, as the adjustable face opening can sit below or extend above the mouth, depending on how you prefer to wear it.
5. ZERDOCEAN Winter Windproof Fleece Thermal Full Face Motorcycle Ski Mask Balaclava – Premium Choice
Keep your face warm with a Balaclava that doesnât just feel good but that looks good while you are wearing it! It comes in black, army green, dark camo, light camo and gray, so that you can get whatever goes the best with the rest of your outfit. There are four different ways to wear this Balaclava.
You can wear it as a full-face mask, a neck gaiter, a half ski mask or an open Balaclava, and it fits effortlessly under most types of helmets. The material is stretchy and it has a soft fleece lining which offers great comfort, you can use it for winter sports or just for being out on cold days, and you will look great while doing it.
Pros:
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Four different ways to wear
- Soft and comfortable fleece lining
- Stretchy one-size-fits-all
Why We Liked It – There are so many different ways to wear this balaclava, and you will save money compared to having to buy a variety of products to cover all your needs.
6. WTACTFUL 3D Animal Funny Balaclava Face Mask
Calling out all the animal lovers as here is a snow-board mask they will absolutely adore. This hood can both be considered a winter protection and costume with an animals head printed on it. The thing covers your face, ears, nostrils entirely and the snugly fitment keeps them warm. The stretchable cloth makes it good for everyone from teenager to adults, from men to women. It is good for both regular and lining under helmets.
Why We Liked It – It is a fun piece of ski gear that anyone can carry and look adorable in. It also is quite lightweight and portable. You can just take it off and put in the pocket during ski expeditions or mountain climbing. Unlike many other close-fitting garments, it is incredibly cheap.
7. Nike Pro Combat Hyperwarm Hydropull Hood
This hood from Nike is designed for tough winter sports in tough winter. It is remarkably comfortable with its soft and stretchable Nylon and Spandex construction. Its hood has a flat seam construction that makes it ideal for combining it with a helmet (click here for our full review). It has the capabilities of a winter ski mask but anyone can wear it anywhere because the prime purpose here is to keep you warm. It nicely covers everything from your skull to your collar and can also be converted into a gaiter. It has a very simple construction and is practically most suited for any kind of sport similar to ski or snowboard.
Why We Liked It – This ski facemask is very affordable and since it is from Nike, one of the top athletic clothing brands in the world, you can be sure about the highest quality. So all in all, it is the greatest value for money that will perhaps last several winter and many slope sessions.
8. CIKIShield Skull Face Masks For Couples
The Seamless Skull Face Tube Mask is a ski mask that is truly great value for money because you can carry it for so many functions. You could utilize these hats as scarf, bandana, muffler, liner, gaiter, or even a skull band. It is made entirely from polyester and is very breathable which means you do not have to worry about sweat or bacteria for that matter as it is also anti-bacterial. These snowboard masks keep you cozy and can be used for regular use or winter sports. Both men and women can wear this skull printed mask just like that or under their ski helmets to provide extra heat.
Why We Liked It – These funky masks can be worn as part of a costume too with the colored skull print on it. The skull print adds a little bit of funk in the mix and would appeal to anyone who likes such Gothic stuff. Of course, we like it also because these products are incredibly cheap.
9. Beardski Prospector Cool Skiing Face Mask
If you desire those big beard ski accessories you will love this one with its 12-inch synthetic beard that looks quite cool for ski hats. It is a one size full mask that can accommodate everyone thanks to the adjustable flap. The beard is made from thermal fleece which keeps you incredibly cozy even in the toughest winters.
These slope accessories are comfortable enough with their silk lining. You can easily wash the beard ski prospector ski mask once the winter is over and it should last you for several winter seasons. This piece of protective gear is a result of quality craftsmanship in a price that is remarkably low.
Why We Liked It – The beard on the ski and snowboard mask is quite soft and cozy. The beardski prospector ski mask almost looks like a real one so anyone wearing this ski mask would look as if they actually have a beard. And the facemasks perform the job well to keep you warm and protected from cold winds. This is why we rate the beardski prospector ski mask number two in the list of the best ski masks of this year.
10. Mountain Hardwear Men’s Snowboard Balaclava
This part ski mask from Airshield is known to be very cozy. It will accommodate quite snuggly even if you wear it under a hood or helmet which you most likely would as it is only a halved balaclava. It is a stretchable balaclava and has venting ability in areas where there is an ample amount of ventilation. It is a good choice for those men who work outdoor and require something soft and comfortable around the clock.
Why We Liked It – This balaclava fully covers the neck and is a good combo with a hood or helmet. Some people do not want a full close-fitting garment when they are wearing ski helmets so this helps extend the safety and warmth of the ski helmet.
11. Outdoor Research Ninjaclava Headwear
You know you are getting something flexible when it is a mix of nylon, polyester and spandex. Yes, this item’s construction is mostly nylon and polyester but has 5% spandex as well. This is a perfect item for children who want to do a sporting projects outdoors in winters. These are one measurement that fits all children thanks to its stretchability. However, do not think they will get uncomfortable for the young ones as these are designed with soft materials and will stay breathable.
Why We Liked It – It is perfect considering it fits all sizes of children nicely. If the ski or snowboard mask is too tight obviously it is going to be uncomfortable for the toddlers so this kids ski mask ensures that your child’s head is covered snuggly without being too tight on their dome and face. It is safe to say that the kids’ ski mask will grow with them.
12. Anon Deringer SnowFall Goggles & Ski Mask
This is a must-have combo of ski goggles and masks because it is of high quality and durable so you are good to go for quite a lot of winters to come. With snapback closure, things get pretty easy. Let us be honest, the eye visors look pretty cool and the MFI mask adds all the more protection and heat necessary for winter fun. Skiing would not be complete without proper protection and for that, you require top quality which Anon Deringer is bound to deliver.
Why We Liked It – This combo looks very stylish with both accessories boasting a nice turquoise print on the all-black construction. It also comes with an MFI Bag to keep the ski goggles safe and secure.
13. Outdoor Research Gorilla Wind Stopper Balaclava Hat
Made from very soft fabric and backed with fleece, this black cover sit snuggly around the face and protects from the wind thanks to face-like contours on these masks. This balaclava fleece mask is removable so you can just remove it to eat or drink without needing to take the entire thing off. The fabric used is Nylon so it is considerably light.
It is a snowboard & skiing face mask that is designed to function and is good for very extreme cold as well and for ski and snowboard winter sports on mountain areas. The look of these facemasks is quite simple and manageable which is a plus considering you are already wrapped with so many layers. This is why the Gorilla balaclava is one of the best ski masks to date.
Why We Liked It – It is relatively simple in terms of appearance but is equipped with necessary wind and snowfall protection. For this reason, this ski mask is also incredibly light and comfortable. This Gorilla balaclava is wrapped on with Velcro so you do not get that static effect when you take the product off.
14. Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hood
Under Armour is a name that needs no introduction as their top quality is known by all. They have produced some top products over the year. With the ColdGear infrared hood ski mask too they are doing something similar i.e. providing high-quality masks. It uses form-fitting which basically allows it to take the shape of your face so there is no room for heat to escape. This way, these items with their thermos inductive heat coating it is able to retain your own bodyâs heat. If you are concerned about moisture from breathing you can just keep the hood below the nostrils as some people prefer that with their masks. So essentially it can also be worn as a gaiter/warmers for warmth.
Why We Liked It – This one is a minimalistic balaclava mask that is easy to rock and take off and does the job just right. These products look quite nice too and have two color choices black and white. It should be part of your essential outdoor winter protect.
15. Burton Anon Women’s Ski MFI MD Neckwarmer
This neck warmer is both pretty and efficient at what it does i.e. keep you incredibly cozy. It retains the heat from your body and the exhaust hole ensures that no moisture is formed during the process. The three-panel construction of the mask provides a natural and relaxed-fit for necks of any measurement. These warmers are compatible with all of the MFI models and can be washed in a machine. It is a must-have for your winter outdoor escapes and fun sports projects whether it is ski or snowboard.
Why We Liked It – Who says winter gear cannot be fun? These warmers come in three different prints all of them providing a little color and fun to play with. You have floral printed Tikki, Pastel and Imperial to choose from.
16. Seirus Innovation 8030 Neofleece Half Facemask
Seirus has produced an innovative product to keep your face and neck warm during winter ski adventures. The Neofleece has four-way stretch construction and increasingly warm insulation. It is a combo of Seirus Innovation and Ploratec Neofleece which results in the top choice you could find in a price tag that is quite low. It has a Velcro closure to give you a snugly fit. The outer shell of this full ski mask is very strong and will ensure that it will last for many seasons to come. It is a favorite for many who permanently reside north of the Equator and need something to keep their nostrils and part below the chin warm.
Why We Liked It – It is a good combination of two good things that make it easy for you to breathe through the cloth without accumulating any moisture. It works out with your helmet and eye protectors for any kind of cold weather outdoor fun.
17. Knitted Black Robber/Burglar Face Cover
This is a knitted full ski facemask that reaches and covers your chin below part too. Whether you do the sport like ski or not, this is a good mask to have in your winter wardrobe. Since this is knitwear, it can stretch to any dome measurement without being tight or uncomfortable. There are three precisely cut holes for your eyes and mouth so you do not have to take it off to have a drink. It can be worn just like that or as lining under a helmet whatever you like. It is made from 100% acrylic materials which add heat.
Why We Liked It – It is a cheap and reliable solution to the cold temperature. It is portable too so you can just keep it in your pocket and rock it once things get chilly and intolerable. The knitwear is very soft against your skin which tends to be extra sensitive in cold weather.
18. Dakine Hunter Balaclava Facemask
Extremely warm and cozy inside, with mouth cover, prevents you from getting almost any part of your face cold. If you combine it with a jacket with same color or material you can barely notice the difference, so it looks like it’s part of it. However, on the outside, it consists of waterproof breathable materials that keeps you dry all the time. It’s also double lined with mid wight fleece, which will keep you warm and cosy even in the coldest environments.
Why We Liked It – The Dakine Hunter Balaclava Facemask looks very stylish thanks to the hoody styling. The fabric blend of polyester and spandex makes it both warm and easy to maintain, which is always a plus in our book.
There are several kinds of ski covers, each mask may suit different requirements. To help you cut through the jargon and find the most suitable product, we will take you through a detailed buying guide.
What is a Balaclava?
A balaclava is a type protection (kind of a mask) that covers the entire face leaving some space for eyes, nostrils and mouth. The name originates from the Battle of Balaclava that was fought in Crimea. This balaclava was utilized during this battle for the very first time and therefore came to be known by the same name. Since this war was happening in Ukraine where the winter is brutal, soldiers needed a mask that could protect their skin as well like the balaclava. Traditionally they were made from cotton or wool but now they are made using a wide variety of materials like nylon, acrylic and neoprene. Balaclavas are also dubbed as ski masks as people rock them during ski and also for snow-boarding and hiking. The main purpose of this is to provide a warm environment which is essential in tough winters. To keep extra warm, make sure you have a good pair of Ski Socks (click here for the review).
A balaclava can be worn in a number of ways. If you so choose you can turn balaclava into what is called a gaiter. If you take the hood down of the close-fitting garment and just keep the neck warm and covered then that is called neck gaiter which is essentially the same as warmers. These products are unisexual and usually come in one measurement only. For this reason these usually apply elastic materials to provide ample flexibility and some even have Velcro to provide a few inches of adjustment on either side.
A balaclava is a kind of snowfall mask which covers the entire face. These accessories are not all the same and many companies put their own twists into their fleece products. Some have hole to provide venting and are stylized with logos. The majority are minimally designed and come in dark colors.
What is the right fitment for me?
You will see that the top ski, snowboard and mountain-masks including balaclava and half are advertised as âone size fits all.â This means that it can fit every adult no matter what age or sex they are. This holds true for most of these especially those from good brands like Nike or Airhole. So you should not have to worry about fitment of the balaclava-masks too much.
Sometimes these full or semi masks do have some dimensions given like the length of the mask or the circumference. Note that this would not be the actual measurement of that these hats can easily stretch and therefore increase in size. However, if you are very particular about the measurement of the ski mask find the one that is adjustable with straps or Velcro. Some types of ski accessories give a little room for adjustment should you feel like the ski mask is not really your size. These products stick very close to the skin and have contours that are designed keeping in mind the human cheek structure. The child would usually have their own size of the ski mask like balaclava or half types which is also only one size. So, you got to be a little more cautious when choosing a mask for your children.
Material and Feel
The materials used in full, half and bandannas are nylon, cotton, acrylic, neoprene and wool. In modern days these ski-masks, the material nylon and neoprene are the most popular materials especially for these items. It is both soft and light and since it is cheap, it is made from this stuff as it is usually the cheapest. There is no direct answer as to which cloth is the excellent for ski masks as each has its own qualities and benefits. It boils down to your own preference as to which quality suits you and which you prefer the most.
Wool is the softest element for any mask and knitted ones are all wool. If you are looking for something toasty and very soft then wool ski mask should be the top choice. However, wool masks can get a bit itchy for some skin types so ensure your skin is fine with this products material. Neoprene is an elastic and long-lasting substance that is commonly found in divided ski masks as well as other kinds too (neodanna). This close-fitting garment’s substance is deeply water resistant, excellent for areas that have rain and snowfall all through the wintertime and of course for ski. Nylon is light, water resistant and stretchable too. You will see that many of the top balaclavas and other types of protection of this element have other material incorporated as well like polyester or spandex. This is for making hats stronger and durable which is essential for snowboard exercise.
Many people are concerned with nylon or polyester gathering up moisture and therefore harvesting bacteria in their ski masks the same as balaclava or neodanna (half neoprene ski mask plus bandanna). This usually is not the case as these are made breathable with perforations that allow timely venting so as to evaporate the moisture in time. Secondly, some have anti-bacterial properties that do not let any kind of bad odor exist in the face shelter. If you sweat a lot then ensure you buy a ski mask that is breathable and anti-bacterial.
Face and Neck Coverage
Yes, the highest quality of full ski masks, the same as balaclavas, hide the face and neck entirely and that is the whole point of them. Of course, these balaclava or other types of ski masks do leave out space for your eyes. Some of these products even have hole for mouth and ears but every other part of the face is covered snugly by the ski mask.
Half covers usually hide the lower section from nostrils till your chin. If you want caps that donât cover your head during your Alpine-skiing session, then a half mask is the one to go for. These too have hole for ventilation. However, if you solely want to hide your neck then donât go for one of these products, but instead, buy a warmes. You can add this to a fit ski mask like balaclava or even a part one to increase assurance although the ski mask itself is enough for both the face and the area below chin.
If you have varying needs as sometimes you want your to keep your neck warm or just the face then a balaclava would be the top option for you. They can be worn in several ways like a gaiter, cap or part ski mask. This is why they are suited for wearing in cold countries for both regular use and sport exercise similar to Alpine-skiing, boarding or mountain climbing. A balaclava can be quickly changed to whatever your require is at that hour. Full covers also prove very toasty when utilized as a lining under helmets in winter sports. Especially when they are fleece lined.
Integration With Goggles
You will see that all of these essentially leave space for eyes only where the eye protectors will sit. Most people buy these separately and they work with almost all kinds of products. Since these types stick close to the skin they do not really come in the way of the ski goggles.
You can also find that have eye visors already integrated with them. These are good for those who strictly wear the mask for ski, snowboard or other adventurous exercise involving mountains. Obviously, this option with ski goggles is more expensive than buying a ski mask alone. However, you might find something that is a bit of a bargain on the visors as you get a ski mask too in the price of a goggle. Both these are essential for all activities in the powder as your face needs complete assurance from tough and cold winds and of course all that snowfall you will be flying at yourself when you ski and snowboard on the mountain. This is why it is useful to always stunt a close-fitting garment or at least half mask paired with these products during these outdoor activities.
Are bandannas warm?
The temperature of bandanna depends on the cloth utilized in it. If you are buying a bandanna to provide temperature during ski then go for the one made with fleece material as it keeps the body heat retained. Whether you wrap it around your dome or rock it as a mask to cover face or neck, you should be able to feel enough warmness. Many people stunt these instead of these items listed because they look stylish with a lot of color and print choices to play with. These windproof stoppers are one dimension fits all type of wearable that fits all heads. Choosing a cotton one is not recommended for wintertime as they are light and will not retain so much heat. Also, they get wet pretty fast so they will disrupt your slope activities. You can also stunt bandana as a lining under your helmet instead of full ones when doing any sport in the cold.
Many people now love the new type of ski mask which is a combo of mask and bandanna, the neodanna. It works out great when you want both the temperature of a ski mask and a little bit of style. If you are concerned about the bandanna being not too toasty or protective then this is the top alternative.
Materials
It is important to know about the cloth applied in the ski mask like full balaclava or half face before you buy. This usually determines the level or heat and comfort the balaclava mask or any other kind of mask would provide. The comfort is also a personal preference parameter as some people find some materials more comfortable than others. The materials used in these product are generally cotton, nylon, neoprene, acrylic, wool and polyester fleece. Many times the fabric in the two types is a mixture of these different materials. Some snowboard masks also have a little bit of spandex in them which makes them more elastic. This is usually required to ensure the balaclava or part mask one measurement fits all kind of wearable. Wool of course is the softest and warmest and for some that is what they prefer, but fleece is usually used in knitted and snowboard windproof covers instead. A more popular and rather cheaper option is nylon and you will see that most ski masks utilize this material only. This is because it is light, soft and comofortable – not to mention very cheap. Neoprene is also very elastic cloth and many good brands like Airhole utilize it in their face balaclavas.
Size
Most of the highest quality are usually one measurement that fits all faces which is mostly true as they are made from stretchable materials and virtually any kind of face can be fitted. Choosing the correct product with Velcro at the back allows you to adjust it a few inches. This provides you the greatest opportunity to ensure the balaclava is an excellent fitment for your measurement.
Most of the windproof masks are usually unisexual too. Neck warmers and bandannas may have some prints dedicated to women or men in particular. Other ski accessories especially balaclavas are minimal and come in solids that can be worn by both sexes. As for children, you will have to find the ones that are suited for children’s faces. These balaclavas and other types too are one measurement for all children which means that they will not require another snowboard shelter until they reach late teenage years.
Choosing the design
The designs are many for each kind of these items for outdoor winter sports. The additional customizations are added to designs to improve the overall functionality. Some designs come with small holes over mouth or ears to provide necessary ventilation so as to dry up any moisture. It is really up to you which design suits you and your needs. Choosing a mask can give you a multi-functioning equipment that can take whatever shape you prefer. If you want a stylish and not an old-school mask then a bandana or neodanna made from neoprene would be the top option. You will find many as a combo with other equiptment parts which, if you will, can be very beneficial.
Pricing
These ski snowboard and mountain covers are not really expensive and a single full balaclava or part mask can last several seasons. However, investing in highest quality ski mask means you pay a bit more but in return you get highest quality like ski or snow-board mask from brands similar to Nike or Airhole. You will find most of these ski or snowboard masks within the range of $5-$50 and can easily find a high quality balaclava mask under $20. Bandannas are usually way cheaper than other kinds of ski or snowboard masks. It entirely depends on your own budget as some people would find spending anything over $20 on a balaclava or other types of warmers as they are too expensive.
Types of Ski and Snowboard Masks
1. Balaclava
Balaclava is a kind of ski mask that is a full mask which covers the 95% with some openings for some parts such as eyes, nose or mouth. The name of balaclava originated from a battle of the same name in the Crimea region where these balaclavas were first worn. There are many ways you can rock the cover. You can rock them as it is, or over the head similar to a cap for ski. Because they cover the head and provide heat, balaclavas mask make a great protection for outdoor winter sports similar to ski or snowboard and for climbing mountain too.
2. Half Masks
As the name suggests, these cover half from the nose towards the chin. Some part covering models have a hole for mouth or small perforations for venting. These make a good choice for moderate wintertime and can be paired with a helmet to complete assurance.
3. Neck Warmers
Warmers are worn around the neck to provide necessary amount of heat. These are like a shape of a tube and made from soft and comfortable materials. They can be pulled up to the mouth too to protect from snowfall or dirt similar to a semi mask. Some have a hood attached as well which basically makes them a neck gaiter. This is good for both regular use and outdoor sports such as mountain climbing or snowboard if you have something covering your dome already like a hat or balaclava. Unlike balaclavas, with these you have a little bit room to play with in terms of color and prints. Some basic ones are essentially unisexual.
4. Bandannas
Bandana is a triangular piece of cloth worn around the dome. These can be worn as a lining during tough sports in snowfall similar to mountain climbing. They provide ample heat so to speak but are more suitable for moderate cold. These come in myriads of prints and colors similar to flags, logos, patterns etc. If you want to add a bit of color to your overall outdoor sport kitting these can be worn.
5. Neodannas
This is a combination of bandannas and the neoprene. This basically covers part of the face and the bandanna covers the chin below part as well. This provides the assurance and heat of this combined with the softness and flair of a bandanna. It is a mountain mask that brings together the benefits of two things. Since it is also a bandanna you get a wide variety of prints to choose from.
6. Designer Masks
Designer masks for ski and snowboard are essentially the same as the other kinds of mask similar to balaclava but with few customizations to ensure the mask unique. The designer items could have perforations or could mix different materials to achieve extra strength and flexibility.
7. Beardskis
This is a very fun kind of mask for ski and mountain climbing balaclavas essentially that has synthetic beard on them for both decorative purposes and for providing heat. This is a relatively new kind of ski mask but is gradually getting very popular as mens balaclavas to rock on the slopes.
Took me a while to write this review since there are so many different types of these products and so many to test. I went into all the local slope shops in Colorado to find the various styles and fits to create this review by. If you fancy it, have a suggestion or just want to say hi, please comment below!
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- WARM BREATHABLE & KEEP DRY â Tailored to fit your head and face, ensuring...
- VERSATILITY & IDEAL GIFTS â Can be worn as a full face mask, hat, open...
- WINTER READY: Winter has nothing on our Strike balaclava. Ready to brave...
- LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT: Youâll be surprised by how warm this lightweight,...
- CONVERTIBLE FACE MASK: Wear the Strike balaclava as a full face mask for...
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