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18 Best Neck Gaiters for Skiing and Snowboarding (2024)

Staying warm on a cold ski day is essential to keep the whole family happy. We know the importance of quality ski helmets and outer gear. But, sometimes we can forget about a critical part of exposed skin. Our faces and necks! This guide shares the best neck gaiters and balaclavas for your whole family. From adults to kids and even toddlers and babies, there’s a perfect fit for your family!

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mom and daughter on a chairlift wearing matching pink neck gaiters

Quick Picks: Neck Gaiters and Balaclavas

What is a Neck Gaiter?

A neck gaiter is a tube of fabric designed to keep your neck, face, and ears warm and protected from the elements. The versatility of a neck gaiter allows it to be worn in many ways. Neck gaiters provide outdoor adventurers with versatile options for how they can use them, from scarves to face coverings to even hats. I prefer wearing a neck gaiter when I’m skiing because of the simple fit with my helmet and the versatility of this simple piece of gear.

What is a Balaclava?

A balaclava is a type of headwear that provides coverage for the entire head and face, except for the eyes and occasionally the nose and face. It is made from a stretchy material, such as wool or synthetic blends, and fits snugly over the head and neck. They are worn balaclavas in cold weather conditions to provide warmth and protection from the elements. Somewhat more restrictive than other face coverings, balaclavas are best for someone looking for more protection in cold temperatures. There are many balaclavas that fit under ski helmets, giving additional warmth for the entire head. There are also now balaclavas that go over the ski helmet and provide an outer fleece layer. 

What is the Difference Between Neck Gaiters and Balaclavas?

Neck gaiters and balaclavas are both gear that keep the face and neck warm in cold weather. However, there are some key differences between the two:

  1. Coverage: People pull neck gaiters up over the face and ears. Balaclavas cover the entire head, including the face, ears, and top of the head. This makes them a better choice for extremely cold or windy conditions. It also provides additional insulation under ski helmets. 
  2. Breathability: Both neck gaiters and balaclavas can be made of lightweight or heavier material. However, the extra coverage provided by some balaclavas can cause them to be more restrictive than a neck gaiter. 
  3. Versatility: Neck gaiters can be worn in a variety of ways, such as a scarf or headband, and are versatile enough to be used in a variety of outdoor activities. Balaclavas are used for snow sports like skiing and snowboarding.
  4. Comfort: Neck gaiters are considered more comfortable to wear than balaclavas, as they are less restrictive and allow more movement. Balaclavas can be tight and constricting, which can be uncomfortable for some people.

What are the differences between natural and synthetic fibers?

Neck gaiters come in a variety of materials, but the two main categories are natural fibers and synthetic materials. Manufacturers derive natural fibers from plant or animal sources, while synthetic materials are man made. Here are some key differences between the two neck gaiters:

  1. Moisture Management: Choose a natural fiber that is known for its wicking qualities, such as merino wool. This will help manage moisture better than a cotton product. However, I’ve found that merino wool does not stay as dry and warm in wet conditions as a synthetic material. Also, my children lick or suck on their neck gaiters while skiing (yeah, kids can be gross.) Merino wool often becomes saturated when they use it for skiing.
  2.   Warmth: Both natural and synthetic fibers can provide great warmth while out skiing or snowboarding. I find on the coldest days I prefer using my thick fleece neck gaiter for ultimate warmth and protection from the elements. 
  3. Durability: Synthetic materials can be more durable than natural fibers, as they withstand wear and tear. They are also less likely to shrink or lose shape after being washed.
  4. Environmental Impact: Natural fibers are biodegradable and more sustainable than synthetic materials, which are made from non-renewable resources and take a long time to decompose. If environmental impact is a concern, then natural fiber neck gaiters may be a better choice.

Best Synthetic Neck Gaiters for Adults

Turtle Fur Original

Turtle Fur made this classic neck gaiter of a double layer of polar fleece. It’s great for extra cold days or days with a lot of snow. The double layer means snow and ice can collect on the outer layer, while your neck and face continue to stay warm on the inner layer. This face mask also helps protect against cold wind, thanks to the thicker material. 

Pros:

  • Very warm
  • Affordable
  • Extra soft
  • Durable
  • Thicker material than other neck gaiters

Cons:

  • Only one size
  • Bulkier than other ski masks
  • Not good for mild temperatures
  • Washing frequently in the washing machine may cause piling over time

Black Strap – The Tube

A very popular face mask for avid skiers and snowboarders, Black Strap’s design features a stretchy, outer layer and a warm fleece inner layer. The outer layer is excellent at wicking moisture while the inner layer will keep you cozy on powder days. It also comes in a vast array of colors and designs – over 70 on Amazon! The Tube also features protection against UV rays, making it a top choice for warm days in the sunshine. 

Pros:

  • Great wicking qualities
  • Soft interior
  • Stretchy and lightweight under helmet

Cons:

  • More expensive than other options
  • Not very thick

Buff Original

Survivor made the Buff Original famous, and it has been one of the top picks for neck gaiters since. I consider it the best ski mask for warmer days, especially when I am skiing with my young kids. Skiing with little kids can be a lot of work and makes me boiling. This breathable fabric keeps me cool when I’m hot, while also giving me some protection on warmer days. The Buff Original is also great year-round. One of the best ways to use it is to turn it into a headband for hot summer hikes. It also comes in many colors. 

Pros:

  • Most versatile neck gaiter 
  • Breathable material
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Very thin material
  • Not the best option for colder days 

Best Natural Fiber Neck Gaiters for Adults

Buff Lightweight Merino Wool

Similar to the Buff Original, this merino wool neck gaiter features the same versatility as its synthetic counterpart. This is a good option for someone looking for natural fibers from a brand you can trust. Since it is merino wool, it is warmer than the Buff Original for chilly days downhill skiing or snowboarding. 

Pros:

  • Lightweight material, yet warm
  • 100% merino wool
  • Affordable for merino wool

Cons:

  • Hand wash only
  • Merino wool tends to not dry as quickly as synthetic options like BlackStrap.

Smartwool Thermal

The thickest and warmest SmartWool neck gaiter is a good idea for someone looking for a natural fiber that will keep you warm in cold conditions. At a lower price point (at the time of publishing) than the Buff Lightweight Merino Wool, this is an affordable option for any skier or snowboarder. 

Pros:

  • Very warm natural fibers
  • Best for snowy days
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Can feel itchier than other merino wool or synthetic fibers.

MeriWool Neck Gaiter

This mid-weight merino wool ski mask provides warmth and protection for cold winter days. With low bulk, it is also great for warmer days at the ski resort too. With a more scarf-like fit, it’s great for someone who does not want to have material form fitted around their face. 

Pros: 

  • 100% Natural fiber
  • Lightweight and loose fitting

Cons:

  • Hand wash only
  • Doesn’t have a tight fit. 

Best Balaclavas for Adults

Tough Headwear Half Balaclava

This ski mask is the best of both worlds- not fully a balaclava, yet providing more face protection than a typical neck gaiter. Featuring moisture-wicking material, breathable mesh panels, and a thermal fleece liner. This is a great option for freezing days. 

Pros:

  • More versatile than most balaclavas
  • Gives more overall protection than neck gaiters

Cons:

  • Personally, I think it’s ugly
  • Hand wash only 

BlackStrap Hood Balaclava

The Hood is a lightweight balaclava that fits with a ski helmet. It is also moisture wicking and rated up to UPF 50 against UV light. It’s best for any skiing conditions and provides the ultimate protection at ski resorts. 

Pros:

  • Warm
  • Protects against UV light
  • Moisture wicking in cold weather
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Higher price than other products. 

Turtle Fur Shellaclava

This 2-in-1 design features a spandex hood and a double layer fleece neck gaiter. This balaclava features the same warmth as the Turtle Fur neck gaiter, but with additional insulation from the spandex hood. 

Pros:

  • Best balaclava for cold winter days 
  • UPF 50 against UV light
  • Provides additional coverage vs. Turtle Fur neck gaiter

Cons:

  • Bulky neck gaiter
.

Best Synthetic Neck Gaiters for Kids

Turtle Fur Original Neck Gaiter

Like the adult version, this classic neck gaiter is made of a double layer of polar fleece. It’s great for extra bitter days or days with a lot of snow. The double layer means it snow and ice can collect on the outer layer, while your neck and face continue to stay warm on the inner layer. This face mask also helps protect against icy wind, thanks to the thicker material.

Pros:

  • Very warm
  • Affordable
  • Extra soft
  • Durable
  • Thicker material than other neck gaiters

Cons:

  • Only one size
  • Bulkier than other ski masks
  • Not good for mild temperatures
  • Washing frequently in the washing machine may cause piling over time

Kid’s BlackStrap Tube

Very similar to the adult version, Black Strap’s design features a stretchy, outer layer and a warm fleece inner layer. The outer layer is excellent at wicking moisture while the inner layer will keep you cozy on powder days. It also comes in a huge array of colors and designs – over 30 on Amazon! The Tube also features protection against UV rays, making it a top choice for warm days in the sunshine. 

Pros:

  • Great wicking qualities
  • Soft interior
  • Stretchy and lightweight under helmet

Cons:

  • More expensive than other options
  • Not very thick

Jan and Jul Neck Gaiter

Neck gaiter by Jan and Jul kid's brand.

Jan and Jul is a kid-specific brand based out of Canada. This super soft brushed fleece provides warmth and protection for the chilliest of ski days. It’s made of a durable and stretchy spandex/polyester blend, making it a cozy fit under helmets. 

Pros:

  • Soft and stretchy design
  • Kid-specific clothing brand has better fit than other brands
  • Machine washable

Cons:

  • Not available outside Jan and Jul’s website

Best Natural Fiber Neck Gaiters for Kids

Wee Woolies Neck Gaiter

This ultra-soft merino wool neck gaiter is lightweight and warm for young children. Although they advertise it for all sizes (including adults), I find it tight. This is a great natural fiber neck gaiter for cold days on the ski hill. 

Pros:

  • Natural fiber
  • Machine washable!
  • Warm and lightweight for chilly days

Cons:

  • Can get wet easier than synthetic neck gaiters

Iksplor Neckies

This lightweight, washable merino wool neck gaiter is a great choice for kids! It is also UPF 50 rated against UV rays! This makes it a great option for sunny ski days. 

Pros:

  • Natural fiber
  • Machine washable!
  • Warm and lightweight for chilly days

Cons:

  • Can get wet easier than synthetic neck gaiters

Best Balaclavas for Kids

Reima Aurora Balaclava

Pink kid's and toddlers balaclava
Save 15% on your order with the code OUTDOORSY15!

This wool blend balaclava fits comfortably under ski helmets. It keeps kids extra cozy on cold ski days, providing additional protection that neck gaiters don’t have. 

Pros:

  • You can roll it up or down to protect faces during cold and windy days.
  • Machine washable
  • Specific sizing for kid’s ages

Cons:

  • May feel bulkier than Turtle Fur’s spandex liner.

Turtle Fur Shellaclava

This 2-in-1 design features a spandex hood and a double layer fleece neck gaiter. This balaclava features the same warmth as the Turtle Fur neck gaiter, but with additional insulation from the spandex hood. 

Pros:

  • Best balaclava for cold winter days 
  • UPF 50 against UV light
  • Provides additional coverage vs. Turtle Fur neck gaiter

Cons:

  • Some find Turtle Fur’s neck gaiters to be bulky

Best Neck Gaiters and Balaclavas for Babies and Toddlers

When choosing a neck gaiter or balaclava for a baby or toddler, be sure to choose something that is snug fitting and cannot be a choking hazard. Always monitor babies and toddlers when wearing articles near their face. 

Reima Aurora Balaclava

Pink balaclava for kids or toddlers
Save 15% on your order with the code OUTDOORSY15!

This wool blend balaclava fits under ski helmets. It keeps toddlers extra cozy on cold ski days, providing additional protection that neck gaiters don’t have. 

Pros:

  • You can roll up or down to protect faces during cold and windy days.
  • Machine washable
  • Specific sizing for kid’s ages

Cons:

  • May be bulkier than Turtle Fur’s spandex liner.

Toddler Turtle Fur Neckula

This super warm neck gaiter keeps toddlers cozy on the coldest of ski days. With an insulated inner layer and water resistant outer layer, you are guaranteed to keep your little one warm!

Pros:

  • Toddler fit
  • Very warm

Cons:

  • Will be too hot on mild ski days. 

What is the Best Fit for a Neck Gaiter?

The best fit for a neck gaiter is one that is snug enough to stay in place, but not so tight that it feels uncomfortable or restrictive. The gaiter should cover the neck and be long enough to be pulled up over the nose and ears if needed. Here are some tips for finding the right fit:

  1. Measure your neck: To ensure a proper fit, measure your neck circumference and compare it to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. They designed most neck gaiters to fit a range of neck sizes, so choose the size that corresponds to your measurement.
  2. Consider the fabric: Some fabrics, such as spandex or elastic, are more stretchy than others, such as wool or fleece. If you prefer a tighter fit, choose a gaiter made of stretchy material, but if you prefer a looser fit, choose a gaiter made of a less stretchy material.
  3. Try it on: If possible, try on the neck gaiter before purchasing it to ensure a proper fit. Pull it up over your nose and ears to make sure it provides adequate coverage without feeling too tight.
  4. Adjust as needed: Some neck gaiters come with adjustable features, such as drawstrings or toggles, which allow you to tighten or loosen the fit as needed. Use these features to customize the fit for your comfort.

What is the best fit for a balaclava?

The best fit for a balaclava is one that is snug but not too tight, allowing for comfortable movement while providing adequate coverage for the face, neck, and head. Here are some tips for finding the right fit:

  1. Measure your head: To ensure a proper fit, measure the circumference of your head and compare it to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. Balaclavas are designed to fit a range of head sizes, so choose the size that corresponds to your measurement.
  2. Consider the material: they made balaclavas from a variety of materials, including wool, fleece, and synthetic blends. Some materials are more stretchy than others, so choose a material that allows for a snug fit without feeling too tight or constricting.
  3. Check the eye opening: The eye opening on a balaclava should be large enough to provide good peripheral vision, but not so large that it exposes the face to the cold. Try on the balaclava and make sure the eye opening is in the right place and provides adequate visibility.
  4. Adjust as needed: Some balaclavas come with adjustable features, such as drawstrings or toggles, which allow you to tighten or loosen the fit as needed. Use these features to customize the fit for your comfort.

Can Kids Wear Adult Neck Gaiters or Balaclavas?

It depends on your child and the fit they are looking for. My son prefers a quick drying, thin adult-size neck gaiter we put on like a balaclava. He feels too restricted by kid’s balaclavas and kid’s neck gaiters and rarely likes his face covered while skiing. My daughter prefers the thickest Turtle Fur neck gaiter to prevent cold air from touching her face – no matter the weather! Every child is unique, and it’s best to test several winter face mask options to find the right fit for your kid. 

The Best Neck Gaiters and Balaclavas for Your Family

This guide provided the best neck gaiters and balaclavas for the whole family. Using this guide can provide you with all the information you need for choosing the best gear for your family’s ski trip. Be sure to check out guide to the best ski helmets for kids. We also have a guide for ski sizes for kids and best ski tools for toddlers.

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