Buff Adults Multi Functional Headwear Merino Balaclava

Product Information

We tested a variety of our favorites in temperatures from -10 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit and in wind, snow, sleet, and cold. In testing, we not only looked at the overall performance of each, but also at fit, style, breathability, and durability. Frequently Asked Questions How tight should a ski mask fit? Pull it over your head so that the bottom of the opening sits underneath your chin and top sits across your forehead. The Buff in these images is made from 100% Merino wool; a natural and sustainable fabric that, as well as being breathable, has excellent thermo regulation properties. This pirate-style bandana buff configuration is another simple way to create a heat-enhancing hat or sun cover protection without using a bulky knot.

Wearing a Buff bandana works wellunder a cycling helmet, and the ingenious and simple twist can be adjusted to fit. Create the twist as follows: Our balaclavas are developed with the latest in-house production technologies that can be applied to headwear accessories to achieve an optimal, seamless fit, improved breathability, and head protection against different hazards. The use of multipurpose protective fabrics ensures maximum safety across industries. Our entire staff has used the majority of the face coverings and gaiters tested here for multiple seasons in a row now. For our initial testing, we spent around 2 months (in a few places across the country) wearing these gaiters, buffs, and balaclavas skiing, snowshoeing, and commuting in the winter.

Get a mask that’s either a synthetic blend of polyester and spandex fabrics or merino wool. Avoid cotton, as it will retain moisture and be cold against the skin (unless you’re looking for a mask to wear around indoor mountain areas and not while physically skiing). Editor’s note: We updated this article first in December 2020 after receiving new information from ski resorts. At that time, representatives from Vail Resorts, Winter Park, and more noted that their resorts accept any cloth mask that fully covers the nose and mouth. Outdoor Research Protective Essential Bandana Kit There are tons of options on the market, but we have some favorites. Keep in mind, most of the products listed below come in men’s, women’s, and kids’ styles and many colors and patterns. Balaclavas are used globally for different reasons, but the main reason is to increase warmth and face protection. Military personnel often use balaclavas to conceal their identity as well as keep warm. Skiiers and snowboards widely adopt balaclavas as the sport requires them to explore exposed mountain locations. The shape, design, and fit of your hiking balaclava should not be taken for granted, especially with some of the less stretchy materials. A slim profile is most comfortable for a hiking balaclava that hugs your head and has an excess of material at the bottom. Looser-fitting balaclavas work well with an insulated hood design but not with the traditional balaclava profile.

After using some (like BUFF) for literally thousands of outings, we’ve come to rely on them and can count on them for consistency and quality. So, we take this into account when making our selections. MaterialsYes, there are also dog-specific Buffs available. Well, if you’re camping with your dog then you don’t want them missing out, do you?! Burton is a snowboarding brand, but because this balaclava isn’t too tight-fitting, it is ideal for hiking and camping as well. It has a stretch face coving for comfort and breathability, which gives you lots of freedom of movement. This is a balaclava you don’t feel like a bank robber in if you are just heading to the shops.