The 10 Best Balaclava Ski Masks Money Can Buy

Whether you’re a mountaineer, a skier, a snowboarder, or just someone who appreciates a little extra warmth on a cold day, a balaclava ski mask could be your new best friend. By covering the entire face in a close layer of breathable, warm fabric, balaclavas can keep you snug and cozy no matter how cold, windy, or rainy it is outside. If you’re ready to inject a little comfort into your life, these are the 10 best balaclava ski masks to consider.

10. Buff UVX Balaclava

Wearing any kind of covering over your face can quickly turn you into a dripping mess, regardless of whether you’re sitting still or hurtling down a ski slope. Thankfully, the Buff UVX Balaclava is made from microfiber polyester, a fabric that quickly wicks away moisture before it starts making you feel uncomfortable. As an added advantage, the material is rated UPF 50+, so you won’t need to worry about damaging your skin no matter how long you spend outside. It also offers exceptional warmth thanks to its extra-long length – unlike some balaclavas that leave a gap between your jacket collar and the base of the balaclava, the Buff UVX Balaclava covers the entire neck and shoulder, leaving no gaps for cold air to get in.

9. Ergodyne N-Freon Balaclava Ski Mask

Named as one of the best balaclavas on the market by greatproreviews.com, the Ergodyne N-Freon Balaclava Ski Mask is made from a synthetic, moisture-wicking material that will keep you dry and comfortable no matter how long you wear it. It’s also wind-resistant and breathable, with a mesh panel around the mouth and nose area to facilitate airflow. One of the key things that sets it apart from the competition is its versatility, which lets you wear it as a neck gaiter, a full ski mask, or an open-face balaclava, depending on both the weather and personal preference.

8. Burton Burke Hood Face Mask

If you’re looking for something extremely warm, super functional, and very stylish to boot, you might want to consider the Burton Burke Hood Face Mask. Made from soft polyester, it’ll keep you warm and toasty no matter how low the temperature falls. The hooded design comes in a range of colors and patterns, making a nice chance to the usual selection of boring neutrals and block colors. The cinched hood lets you tighten the face mask once it’s on, doing away with any annoying gaps that could let the cold air sneak in. Best of all, it comes with a one-year warranty.

7. Outdoor Research Option Balaclava

It might only weigh 2 ounces, but the Outdoor Research Option Balaclava goes big on performance, delivering everything you could need from a balaclava in one very small, very transportable package. The water-repelling nylon exterior will keep you snug and dry, while the moisture-wicking polypropylene layer on the inside delivers excellent moisture management to keep you free of sweat and excess heat. If the weather permits, the stretchable thermodynamic fabric can easily be converted into a neck gaiter or hat.

6. Self Pro Balaclava Ski Mask

If you’re looking for a breathable, moisture-wicking balaclava that can be worn either alone or under a helmet, the Self Pro Balaclava Ski Mask makes an excellent choice. Made from CoolMax premium high-tech polyester fiber, it offers excellent protection against cold, wind, sun, rain, snow, and almost every other condition you can name, making it an excellent choice for skiers, hikers, snowboarders, and other outdoor sports enthusiasts. As it extends all the way down the neck and shoulders, you won’t have to worry about any cold air sneaking in. On warm days, it can be easily transformed into a hat or neck gather. As it’s machine washable, keeping it fresh is a breeze.

5. RefrigiWear Balaclava Mask

With its snug, comfortable fit and excellent insulation properties, RefrigiWear Balaclava Mask is ideal for winter sports. Made from a micro-denier acrylic fabric with a knit construction, it offers excellent breathability. The proprietary smart silver technology offers superb protection against wind, rain, and snow, while the close fit makes it a great choice for wearing under helmets.

4. Outdoor Research Ninjaclava

As tripsavvy.com notes, the Outdoor Research Ninjaclava has been specially made for extremely cold conditions on the slopes, boasting a nylon fabric shell that effectively repels wind and water. The Motion Fleece backing will keep you warm and snug while offering excellent moisture-wicking properties. Although it covers the entire head and face, it can be easily opened to release trapped heat. The addition of silicone prints will keep goggles in place easily, making it the ideal companion for skiers and mountaineers.

3. GearTop Balaclava

Named as one of the best balaclavas for skiers by bestreviews.com, the GearTop Balaclava fits snuggly under a helmet to keep the face, neck, and ears warm. The close fit and lightweight, 4-way stretch material ensures it won’t ride up during activity to block your eyes or expose your neck to the cold. Thanks to its ability to absorb and retain body heat, you won’t have to worry about sweat build-up. Made from Super Roubaix Fabric, it’s designed to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter, making it a great companion all year round.

2. Columbia Powder Keg Interchange Balaclava

Made from 100 percent merino wool, the Columbia Powder Keg Interchange Balaclava has amazing insulation, even when it gets damp. Like all wool products, it’s superbly breathable, helping to regulate body heat while drawing away moisture from the skin. Thanks to its lightweight construction, it’s thin enough to fit under a helmet, while the snug fit will make sure it doesn’t ride up or down to leave any part of your face or neck exposed. Just be aware that, unlike synthetic options that can be thrown into the washing machine without worry, this balaclava benefits from occasional washing on a gentle setting only.

1. Under Armour ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hood

An incredibly lightweight, easy to wear option, the Under Armour ColdGear Infrared Tactical Hood is an excellent option for people who want to combine superior comfort with class beating performance. Thanks to its innovative ColdGear Infrared fabric, it offers superb insulation, effectively absorbing and retaining body heat to ensure superior comfort. The close fit will stop any cold air sneaking in, while the moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric makes it a great option for winter sports enthusiasts. Although it offers full face protection, the versatile design lets you easily transform it into a neck gaiter on warmer days.