Balaclavas have been through a number of different phases in their lifetime. Originally designed for skiing, they were quickly adopted by criminals and, most recently, the fashion scene.
That's not to say that they're no longer used by criminals or skiers — they are — but there's never been such an abundance of fashion-forward balaclavas to keep you warm.
From technical designs by The North Face and C.P. Company through to luxury pieces by the likes of Loewe and Marni, this selection proves the huge breadth of balaclavas in 2023.
Shop the best balaclavas for 2023 below.
Loewe Heart Motif Balaclava
Anagram Striped Wool Ski Mask
Loewe
These days, balaclavas come in all shapes and sizes. Jonathan Anderson brings us this striped wool balaclava with a heart-shaped cutout in the front to show some love daily.
Carne Bollente Robite Hood Balaclava
Robite Hood Balaclava
Carne Bollente
Arriving as part of Carne Bollente's FW23 collection, where the Parisian brand attempted to rewrite the history of sex, this balaclava is crafted from a soft alpaca-nylon blend fabric with a distinctive jacquard pattern.
C.P. Company Knit Balaclava
Knit Balaclava
C.P. Company
C.P. Company has managed to protect the only part of the face that a balaclava traditionally doesn't get to, the eyes. Like with its outerwear and hoodies, this knit balaclava has functional goggles that can be buttoned down.
Marni Check Knit Balaclava
Check Knit Balaclava
Marni
Last winter we saw an explosion of checkered beanies and this year they've mutated into balaclavas. Marni's knit balaclava comes with a small opening to let you see out of it and is crafted entirely from virgin wool.
BONSAI Knit Balaclava
Knit Balaclava
Bonsai
BONSAI's latest winter collection has some pretty wild knitwear that makes this eye-catching balaclava look mundane in comparison. The fluffy knitted headwear comes with a knit shirt and sweater in the same gradient sunset print.
The North Face Tech Fleece Balaclava
Tech Fleece Balaclava
The North Face
Having initially been designed for skiing, outdoor brands are still the best place to go for warm balaclavas and The North Face is one of the best around. This balaclava comes in the brand's cozy technical fleece fabric.
ROA Balaclava 3D Knit
Balaclava 3D Knit
ROA
Having started off by creating some of the best-looking technical footwear in the game, ROA's expansion into clothing has seen it create a full wardrobe for outdoor exploration. This balaclava is made with the brand's 3D knit technique using a lightweight and technical nylon blend fabric.
Aries Space Dye No Problemo Balaclava
Space Dye No Problemo Balaclava
Aries
Keeping warm in the winter is No Problemo for Aries. This knit balaclava comes with the London-based brand's signature catchphrase printed in orange along the side so you can't miss it.
Carhartt WIP Remi Hood
Remi Hood
Carhartt WIP
Some of the balaclavas on this list are pretty wild, right? This simple, black Carhartt WIP design is an option for those on the hunt for a more minimal, staple balaclava.
Kiko Kostadinov Agathon Balaclava
Agathon Balaclava
Kiko Kostadinov
This isn't just a balaclava, it's a full-on cape. The design comes with a hand-crochet checkerboard design and, while it might slightly restrict your arm movement, it's sure to keep the top third of your body warm.
_J.L-A.L_ Wool Balaclava
Wool Balaclava
J.L-A.L
Based in London, _J.L-A.L_ is one of the most exciting brands adding its own spin to technical clothing. This design is crafted from a stretchy wool knit fabric with a subtle all-over print.
Stone Island Marina Balaclava
Marina Balaclava
Stone Island
Having been part of the brand since the '80s, this balaclava is from Stone Island's Marina collection. The rib-knitted, virgin wool design comes with an eye-catching, two-tone finish.
Reebok Knit Mask Hat
Knit Mask Hat
Reebok
Part hat, part mask, this winterized accessory from Reebok promises to provide you with protection from the elements. The hat is knit from a virgin wool-blend fabric and features an integrated visor with a face covering.
Sacai Knit Balaclava & Gloves Set
Knit Balaclava & Gloves Set
Sacai
Allowing you to match winter accessories, this set from Sacai comes with a balaclava and matching gloves. The wool set is made in Japan with grey logo detailing.
Sky High Farm Hand Knit Pig Balaclava
Hand Knit Pig Balaclava
Sky High Farm
This hand-knitted balaclava from Sky High Farm comes with a striped design in what the brand as a pink-pig colorway. The colorful headwear also has a square-shaped opening to set it apart from the rest.
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