[Tyler]

I'm looking to buy a balaclava, no not to look like a terrorist but because I forgot they existed and these cotton hoody's I have just don't cut it when it gets really windy outside. I don't know much about them or any good brands I was wondering if anyone knew a thing or two bout them? I found some at REI but I still don't know what I should look for, the type of material etc.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

[shorthair]

Just bought my second Under Armour. Pricey but
good.

[garret]

try at you local motorcycle clothes shop, bike clothing is designed to be wind and waterproof, warm and well fitting and you can get stuff pretty cheap if you shop around (certainly cheaper than outdoor specific shops)

[Ron Fontaine]

Brand isn't so important as material, construction, and fit.

Polypro is a good choice. Stay away from cotton. Depending upon the temperatures and wind speeds you expect, a good thick wool balaclava works well too.

Especially if you are very active in cold temperatures, a breathable balaclava may be preferable in order to wick moisture away from you skin.

[DanT]

Originally Posted by Ron Fontaine

Brand isn't so important as material, construction, and fit.

a good thick wool balaclava works well too.

Especially if you are very active in cold temperatures, a breathable balaclava may be preferable in order to wick moisture away from you skin.

I have had excellent results with the 2 merino wool ones that I have from bens backwoods

[kevin]

don't remember who the maker of mine is, but I know it's poly (not cotton). Also, I don't like them too thick because when it's really cold, I wear the clava, with a hat pulled over. if really bad, the insulated hood on my down jacket can pull over both of those!

[AlpineZone]

Originally Posted by Tyler

I'm looking to buy a balaclava, no not to look like a terrorist but because I forgot they existed and these cotton hoody's I have just don't cut it when it gets really windy outside. I don't know much about them or any good brands I was wondering if anyone knew a thing or two bout them? I found some at REI but I still don't know what I should look for, the type of material etc.

Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

What ever you decide on for a balaclava treat it as part of a laying system for the head. Example: Thin silk balaclava as layer one followed by a merino wool, poly two and finally your jacket hoodie for water protections, layer 3.

[heysmithy]

Last year just before deer season I bought a camo fleece balaclava from chinamart. For $10, it has to be the BEST investment I've made with regard to hunting clothing. Warm and very good camo.

[Dick]

I only wear one when it’s -20 C or colder (-4 F) and I am covering a lot of ground on a snow machine. I have worn it while sleeping in sub-zero temperatures too, but found it too hot. Mine is fleece lined wool with 3M thinsulate insulation.

Otherwise...
• They are too hot once you start moving and your head will sweat profusely.
• If it’s cold enough frost will accumulate on your eye lashes, making it difficult to blink or see.
• Sunglasses or other eye protection will fog up quickly and need to be removed.

With wind you risk frost bite on your face and that is where the strength of the balaclava comes in, otherwise I focus on keeping my core warm and leave my face exposed.

[Herbalpagan]

I just got ski masks/hats from Dicks.