Originally Posted by
hubcap
You don't have to breath through it if you don't want too. The same applies with a neck gaiter. Some balaclavas and gaiters have a small area with more porous material around your mouth/nose area to allow for easier breathing. I have only found this necessary for the gear made with windproof membranes. And I have already said that a windproof balaclava is way too hot for me regardless of the temp.
It sounds like you haven't had experience with trying to breath through a windproof balaclava because you don't use them.
It's a major pain.