A face mask can only do so much when it comes to keeping you warm. As fall and winter roll in, we're looking to supplement our PPE. And what better way to do it than by inviting the face mask's mean older brother, the balaclava, into the mix.
While the balaclava won't provide any protection against the virus, finding one that works in tandem with your face mask can give your Covid-era fits new life.
We’ve rounded up some of the best balaclavas out there to give your PPE game a much-needed visual boost. From technical builds by Peak Performance to luxury options by 1017 ALYX 9SM and John Elliott, our selection stretches all bounds of the balaclava.
Shop the best balaclavas below.
Arc'teryx Motus Phasic AR II Balaclava
Motus Phasic AR II Balaclava
Arc'teryx
Arc'teryx knows a thing or two about balaclavas thanks to its long-time expertise in outdoor wear. The double-knit Phasic™ fabric is breathable and quick-drying to keep you covered in all conditions.
Walter Van Beirendonck Save Planet Earth Balaclava
Save Planet Earth Balaclava
Walter Van Beirendonck
You don’t wear Walter Van Beirendonck if you like the tone things down, so it’s no surprise that this balaclava features an unmissable pink & green floral print to the face.
1017 ALYX 9SM Knitted Balaclava
Knitted Balaclava
1017 ALYX 9SM
A heavy rib knit ensures maximum coziness for 1017 ALYX 9SM’s merino wool-blend balaclava which features a zip detail, positioning it between balaclava and detachable hood.
Acne Studios Jacquard Logo Balaclava
Jacquard Logo Balaclava
Acne Studios
Acne Studios enters the balaclava game with a bang thanks to this pure wool number. The brand’s signature face logo is woven into a traditional pattern around the hood while splits to the shoulders mean you can tuck your bally in.
John Elliott Wool and Cashmere Balaclava
Wool and Cashmere Balaclava
John Elliott
Woven from a cashmere blend, John Elliot’s balaclava certainly errs on the luxury side of knitted headwear. The heather grey iteration has a definitive vintage appeal.
NEIGHBORHOOD. AW-Cap Balaclava
AW-Cap Balaclava
NEIGHBORHOOD.
If you’re okay with terrifying passers-by then NEIGHBORHOOD.’s AW-Cap Balaclava should work for you. Eschewing a single face hole for two eyeholes and a mouth hole, this piece should see you through Halloween, too.
ASICS Fleece Balaclava
Fleece Balaclava
ASICS
Constructed from technical fleece, this ASICS balaclava is lightweight and super warm which makes it ideal for your cold-day workouts.
Marine Serre Second Skin Printed Balaclava
Second Skin Printed Balaclava
Marine Serre
Marine Serre outfits this second-skin balaclava in its signature crescent-moon motif. The all-over pattern sits on a neutral, peach background for an eye-catching yet understated finish.
Raf Simons Hand-Knit Balaclava
Hand-Knit Balaclava
Raf Simons
None of these balaclavas are medically tested, but it should go without saying that this Raf Simons balaclava will do nothing to stop the spread of germs. It does look good, though.
Carhartt WIP Beaumont Mask
Beaumont Mask
Carhartt WIP
Lightweight fleece forms the basis of Carhartt WIP’s Beaumont Mask which is distinguished by elastic toggles to the face opening for a customizable fit when the winds pick up.
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