hubcap - you're right, I have no idea how I missed that one (important) sentence where you said "Some balaclavas and gaiters have a small area with more porous material around your mouth/nose area to allow for easier breathing" - I can only suggest that perhaps I had a total brain fart, lol.

You're right, I obviously missed an important part of your post, and my response was really kind of ridiculous now that I realize I missed that part. My apologies. I can only say that I think this cold weather, short days, and lack of sunlight must be affecting my brain...