Before proceeding, it’s worth pointing out that a balaclava is a garment that covers the whole head and neck, excluding some parts of the face. Most designs today are made of fleece due to its soft and light nature. They are mainly used to protect oneself from cold or wind, and in some cases, dust.
A multifunctional balaclava gives you full protection but still allows you to wear differently. When the weather lets up a bit, you want something you can wear as a half-face mask, neck warmer, beanie, hoodie, scarf, or Sahara style. With these clothing items, the thinner and lighter, the better- you’re likely to be engaging in physical activities that will raise your body temperature and therefore need something breathable yet warm enough.
Choosing one narrows down to when you wish to wear it. From when you need to shovel snow off your lawn to skiing down a mountain or jogging on a windy, chilly day, we’ve outlined our selection of 15 best balaclavas for extreme cold available.
1. MJ Gear Balaclava – Best Balaclava Mask
Designed with high-quality polyester and mesh, this balaclava protects against extreme cold and wind. It’s suitable for both men and women and can be won in some styles; scarf, hat, open or closed balaclava, or as a neck gaiter. You can use it for some outdoor activities. MJ Gear offers a lifetime warranty with a 100% money-back guarantee and a refund if you’re not satisfied.
2. Ergodyne N-Ferno Thermal Fleece Hinged Balaclava
Made of wind-protectant fabric, this balaclava protects vulnerable areas against elements adequately. It is long and therefore covers most of the face. The hood’s hinge design allows it to be worn either as a neck gaiter or a ski mask and everything in between. It is made of stretchable fabric, making it a universal unisex size. This fleece ski mask is light enough so you can wear it with a stiff hat or helmet without it feeling bulky.
3. XINGZHE Balaclava Fleece Hood
This fleece has a universal unisex size. Its fabric provides breathability and is abrasion resistant, absorbent, and durable. It has a long neck and an even longer front to provide better protection against the elements. This balaclava can be won for any sport and outdoor activity that requires wearing one. You can equally wear it in various ways, including a full face mask, neck warmer, beanie, or hoodie.
4. Fantastic Zone Balaclava Fleece
Multipurpose and usable in most winter and summer outdoor activities, this balaclava provides full facial and neck protection. It is unisex and comes in one size that fits almost all; it is not suitable for small children. The material is a soft, stretchy, and breathable fabric that’s windproof as well. You can wear it in varied styles to suit your taste and any weather.
5. UShake Balaclava Fleece Hood
You can wear this balaclava in temperatures as low as -4 Fahrenheit. It protects against the sun and UV rays, wind, and dust. It is unisex, and anyone in the family with a head circumference of 22.8 to 23.62 inches can wear it. The fabric is 100% polyester and has synthetic fur for added warmth and comfort. You can wear them for several outdoor activities. UShake balaclava comes with a 12-month guarantee.
6. Super Z Outlet Balaclava Heavyweight Fleece
If you’re looking for something specifically for freezing weather, then the Super Z Outlet balaclava is for you. You can use it for half or full-face coverage by adjusting the two black knit strings. It is also windproof, making it ideal for motorcyclists. One size fits most. This particular brand offers nine different colors to choose from.
7. Ergodyne N-Ferno Thermal Fleece/Detachable Balaclava
The lightweight fabric enables you to wear this balaclava under a hard or helmet comfortably. It covers half or the full face but still maintains breathability. The hood is a two-piece, meaning you can wear it as a ski mask or a neck gaiter and anything in between. It’s a stretch fabric and a universal unisex size. The hook and loop straps can attach to a hard hat for increased stability. It works best for winter.
8. Aegend Balaclava
This balaclava will protect you from all the elements, including mosquito bites. It comes in one size that fits most people. It is made of polyester and spandex fabric but is anti-static. You can wear it comfortably due to its lightweight. It is also machine washable. The balaclava is a three-in-one; a face mask, hat, and scarf so you can wear it as you please.
9. Triwonder Balaclava
This polar fleece material face protection comes in various designs and colors to choose from and thus appeals to different tastes. It works great for winter and has an extra-long neck to tuck under your clothing. It can be worn in a variety of styles and for various outdoor sports and hobbies. The fabric is also light, making it sweat-resistant and quick to dry after a wash.
10. Dimples Excel Balaclava
This balaclava gives you full neck and facial protection during summer and winter outdoor activities. One size fits all though it’s not suitable for children. Mobility and shape are achieved due to the four-way stretch nature of the fabric. It can be worn in some styles. The polymer material makes it highly breathable with the ability to dry quickly. Dimples have a 90-day money-back guarantee.
11. Fantastic Zone Balaclava
You can wear this all year round for whatever activity you like. It fits most adults and children well. The polyester fibers make it expandable, soft, and lightweight but keep you warm and dry as well. The 2017 design has a longer neck for you to tuck and allows you to wear it in any format you please. It is machine washable and quick drying.
12. Chaos Howler Pro Balaclava
This product provides complete protection from elements. The fabric has three layers and is wind and waterproof, making it ideal for extreme cold. You can wear it as a neck tube or balaclava. It can go through a machine wash and, after that, be line-dried. The fabric adjusts as per the heat absorbed or released by the body.
13. OMECHY Balaclava
The fabric in this balaclava is windproof, providing sufficient warmth for winter or windy activities. It has a universal unisex size. It is mainly a ski mask and has a breathable mesh. The light fabric means you can wear it under a helmet comfortably.
