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The Best Breathable Balaclava

Last updated on February 15, 2022

We looked at the top 9 Breathable Balaclavas and dug through the reviews from 11 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Breathable Balaclavas.

Our Review Process

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Our Picks For The Top Breathable Balaclavas

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
Pros
Cons
 Top Pick

AstroAI Breathable Fleece Balaclava

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AstroAl

AstroAI Breathable Fleece Balaclava

Perfect for outdoor activities in sub-zero temperatures, this full-face, breathable balaclava is crafted from superfine polar fleece. It has insulated mesh to keep your goggles or glasses from fogging up; you can also wear it as a neckerchief or half ski mask.

Overall Take

Total ProtectionThis balaclava protects your face and neck from the cold and wind and comes with a satisfaction guarantee from the manufacturer.

Pros
" Comfortable fleece balaclava keeps your face both cozy and warm. It has mesh over the mouth which allows you to breathe comfortably. Cap function fits snug."
Cons
"It fogs glasses or goggles. It also has a limited fit"
 Runner Up

Achiou UV Proected Breathable Balaclava

Achiou

UV Proected Breathable Balaclava

Achiou's affordable balaclava is made from polyester with a bit of spandex for stretch, comes in eight colors and fits under helmets. You can also wear it as a neck gaiter, hat, in the Saharan style or as a ninja hoodie.

Overall Take

Warm and ComfortableThis versatile head and neckwear will keep you nice and warm and can shield your face from others for privacy.

Pros
" Comfortable, breathable and versatile. It's lightweight and fits in a helmet well."
 We Also Like

Tough Headwear Stretchable Breathable Balaclava

Tough Headwear

Stretchable Breathable Balaclava

Guard your head, face and neck from the elements with this polyester/spandex breathable balaclava. It has mesh breathing panels, shields you from the cold wind and ultraviolet rays and wicks away moisture to dry. You'll breathe easy when you wear this on your head and neck.

Overall Take

Stay Cozy and DryYou will never have to worry about being uncomfortable when working or playing outside when wearing this cozy balaclava.

Pros
" It has mesh breathing panels and a four way stretch. It is also very compatible with helmets."
 Strong Contender

GAMWAY Elastic Closure Breathable Balaclava

GAMWAY

Elastic Closure Breathable Balaclava

Gamway's unisex balaclavas come in some terrific colors, and the thin, insulating material provides lightweight, reliable coverage for your activities, dries quickly and fits easily under hats and helmets. They are also particularly affordable, so you can order several and keep them in your car, backpack, suitcase and duffel bag.

Overall Take

Great VentilationThis affordable balaclava makes a great and inexpensive gift.

Buying Guide

Also called ski masks, ninja masks and other names, balaclavas are close-fitting hoods that cover most of the face and neck. Some have larger face openings, while others only leave the eyes showing. They are key layering pieces that help you maintain a comfortable body temperature when it is cold and windy outside.

You lose a lot of body heat is through the head, so balaclavas are a must for skiers, people who work in frigid temperatures and others who spend a lot of time in the cold.

Balaclavas are very versatile because they can be folded, rolled up and worn in different ways. You can use a balaclava as a neck gaiter or open it up a little more for a half ski mask. They fit right under helmets in most cases, but you might have to loosen the straps a little bit for a comfortable fit.

They are made out of polyester, cotton, fleece, silk and even bamboo. Not all balaclava material weights are the same. Some are heavier and are best used in the dead of winter. Thinner materials are suitable for the late fall and early winter because you don’t want to sweat too much.

Look for ones that have mesh breathing panels; otherwise, you will not feel comfortable when your heart rate gets up. Antimicrobial fabric is another good feature because your balaclava might start to smell if your head sweats a lot.

On a completely different note, balaclavas are also a trending fashion statement and can be seen on celebrities and influencers when they are out of doors. Even if you’re not very athletic, but if you are into high fashion, this is still an option that can be great for you.

Balaclavas prominently appeared on runways at the Fall 2018 Gucci and Calvin Klein fashion shows, went off the radar and have come back again. Look for options that are made by designers like Eckhaus and Miu for the ultimate in style.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, DWYM analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
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Products Considered

We identified the majority of the breathable balaclavas available to purchase.
9

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

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Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: Top 10 Buddy, Gadgets Reviews, Ultimate Reviewer, The Drive, Globo Turf.

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User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 9 Breathable Balaclavas and also dug through the reviews from 11 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Breathable Balaclavas.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in their category.

The Best Bang For Your Buck

GAMWAY Elastic Closure Breathable Balaclava

Key Takeawy

Gamway's unisex balaclavas come in some terrific colors, and the thin, insulating material provides lightweight, reliable coverage for your activities, dries quickly and fits easily under hats and helmets. They are also particularly affordable, so you can order several and keep them in your car, backpack, suitcase and duffel bag.

What to Look For

  • Frostbite can occur at 31 degrees Fahrenheit and below, so always have a balaclava handy if you work or play outdoors in these temperatures.
  • Most balaclavas can be machine washed but check the label first just in case.
  • Not all balaclavas have full neck coverage. Be aware of the measurements before you order if that’s something that’s important to you.
  • Look for balaclavas made from moisture-wicking materials to keep you dry when you sweat or else you’ll end up making yourself colder just from the wetness.

More to Explore

Balaclava is an unusual word, and you can trace its roots back to the Crimean War from the mid-19th century. During this time, British soldiers wore knitted headgear that covered their faces with only the eyes showing during The Battle of Balaclava.

Balaclava was the name of a nearby town, and soon enough, it became associated with those masks. Back then, balaclavas were made out of wool and assuredly did not have any moisture-wicking properties.

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