Balaclava recommendations
12-16-10 | 08:31 PM
#27
commuter and barbarian
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,494
Likes: 3
From: Potomac, MT, USA
Speak to Lou at Foxwear and have him make you one out of Polartec fleece of any thickness material you'd like. I've worn mine at 8 degrees (F) and been perfectly toasty. I think he charges $11 for them. He also makes really good, inexpensive other winter commuting clothes. Highly recommended. https://www.foxwear.net/
I also have a merino wool one that is good when it is not too cold.
12-16-10 | 09:20 PM
#28
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 653
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From: Central CT USA
Bikes: 1991 Tomassini Prestige 1973 Raliegh Supercourse, 1975 Panasonic Sport Deluxe, 1983 Fuji S-12, 1975 Motobecane Mirage, 1983 Motobecane Super Mirage 1999 Trek 930 1989 Trek 930 ,
I hate balaclavas. They either constrict your jaw or you have to breathe through the fabric.
1. Poly pro beanie or hat (thicker one for colder
2. Neck gaiter Polypro
3. A strip of polypro fleece or even just some spandex cut from a pair of tights to drape down the sides of your nose and cheeks. You can adjust this well . Sometimes I'll pull it down then pull it back up if it gets windy.
Advantages: better adjusting and breathing. Much more comfortable. The other day I draped a wool middle eastern style scarf over my head and under my helmet, and that worked well too. A bit more adjustment is availiable in the neck area with that as well.
Try "bag Balm" on your face with the above system. I can ride in anything with that.
1. Poly pro beanie or hat (thicker one for colder
2. Neck gaiter Polypro
3. A strip of polypro fleece or even just some spandex cut from a pair of tights to drape down the sides of your nose and cheeks. You can adjust this well . Sometimes I'll pull it down then pull it back up if it gets windy.
Advantages: better adjusting and breathing. Much more comfortable. The other day I draped a wool middle eastern style scarf over my head and under my helmet, and that worked well too. A bit more adjustment is availiable in the neck area with that as well.
Try "bag Balm" on your face with the above system. I can ride in anything with that.
12-16-10 | 09:20 PM
#29
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2009
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I recently got a balaclava and I love/hate it all at once.
Mine is pure polyester so wind-blocking is out of the question. It's also tight fitting, something I never cared for on my face. It also messes up my hair but that's par for the course with any hat. I notice my nose running more, it can be a bit suffocating when breathing heavy, and my glasses fog up while using it.
It does keep reasonably warm down into the 20's for me though. And it scares the young kids I pass on the way to work sometimes. That's amusing at least. However, even if you're just running into the gas station for one thing, take it off. Almost had a silent alarm hit because I needed AAA batteries in a rush.
Mine is pure polyester so wind-blocking is out of the question. It's also tight fitting, something I never cared for on my face. It also messes up my hair but that's par for the course with any hat. I notice my nose running more, it can be a bit suffocating when breathing heavy, and my glasses fog up while using it.
It does keep reasonably warm down into the 20's for me though. And it scares the young kids I pass on the way to work sometimes. That's amusing at least. However, even if you're just running into the gas station for one thing, take it off. Almost had a silent alarm hit because I needed AAA batteries in a rush.
12-16-10 | 10:29 PM
#30
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 188
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From: Fargo, ND
I have a Serius Ultra Clava
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ef=oss_product
This clava has worked for me from 40 to at least 9 degrees. You can move the face covering down when you get too warm. It's got a wind blocking, too. I highly recommend it, as my face has not been cold since I started wearing it.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ef=oss_product
This clava has worked for me from 40 to at least 9 degrees. You can move the face covering down when you get too warm. It's got a wind blocking, too. I highly recommend it, as my face has not been cold since I started wearing it.
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_no...bo+tnt&x=0&y=0
Fleece lower portion, neofleece(close to neoprene but more comfy on the face) facemask, and a thin Thermax top. If the temps dip below zero I can add a beanie without adding a lot of bulk.
Last edited by dehoff; 12-16-10 at 10:32 PM.
12-17-10 | 09:55 AM
#31
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 61
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I have an Under Armor balaclava and I am very pleased with it. I've never used it in 12 degree weather mind you, but for 30 or so here in Georgia it works nicely.
https://www.amazon.com/Under-Armour-M...2514728&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/Under-Armour-M...2514728&sr=8-1
12-17-10 | 10:59 AM
#32
One Man Fast Brick
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,121
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From: Chicagoland
Bikes: Specialized Langster, Bianchi San Jose, early 90s GT Karakoram, Yuba Mundo, Mercier Nano (mini velo), Nashbar Steel Commuter, KHS Tandemania Sport
I don't think you have found the right balaclava. If it is constricting your jaw, then you need a larger one or one that is constructed of different material. 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.
12-17-10 | 11:01 AM
#33
One Man Fast Brick
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,121
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From: Chicagoland
Bikes: Specialized Langster, Bianchi San Jose, early 90s GT Karakoram, Yuba Mundo, Mercier Nano (mini velo), Nashbar Steel Commuter, KHS Tandemania Sport
I have used a few, but the one that fits best snugly around my face is the Pearl Izumi Barrier model. The only draw back with the tightness of the balaclava, is that if you wear thick templed cycling glasses (Specialized Helix in my case - has prescription insert), the elastic puses the glasses temples against your face. for a short, one hour ride, its not realy so bad, but I rode last Sunday from Prospect Park, Brooklyn, to Stricly's bike shop in NJ, and back... my temples still hurt when I chew... I would sugest making holes on the sides of the Balaclava, for tghe temples to slide through. However, this must be done using hot scissors, that quickly melt the openning, to prevent the elastic fabric from unraveling.
Another issue with wearing cycling glasses with a balaclava, is that wind enters aroun temples, making it quite noisy. This can be solved by suffing cotton balls around the temples.
The Pearl Izumi Barrier balaklava is windproof, covers neck well, and is ergonamicaly constructed. I use it daily in Prospect Park, and its mighty chilly these days!
Another issue with wearing cycling glasses with a balaclava, is that wind enters aroun temples, making it quite noisy. This can be solved by suffing cotton balls around the temples.
The Pearl Izumi Barrier balaklava is windproof, covers neck well, and is ergonamicaly constructed. I use it daily in Prospect Park, and its mighty chilly these days!
12-17-10 | 11:14 AM
#34
Thread Starter
Rustbelt Rider
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 9,105
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From: Canton, OH
Bikes: 1990 Trek 1420 - 1978 Raleigh Professional - 1973 Schwinn Collegiate - 1974 Schwinn Suburban
I want to thank everyone for their replies, I haven't had the time to read through each one just yet but I definitely will.
So far the Underarmor and the Serius ones look pretty good. I think I will stop at Dick's sporting goods sometime this weekend.
Thanks again everyone.
So far the Underarmor and the Serius ones look pretty good. I think I will stop at Dick's sporting goods sometime this weekend.
Thanks again everyone.
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12-17-10 | 12:15 PM
#35
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 257
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From: Toronto, ON
Bikes: Norco VFR D3, CCM Cruiser
I have this one:
https://www.mec.ca/Products/product_d...34374302883734
I like it. I would definitely look for one where you can adjust how you wear it depending on the conditions. If it's warmer out I can pull it under my chin, and if colder, I can wear it on the face for more protection.
https://www.mec.ca/Products/product_d...34374302883734
I like it. I would definitely look for one where you can adjust how you wear it depending on the conditions. If it's warmer out I can pull it under my chin, and if colder, I can wear it on the face for more protection.
12-17-10 | 01:40 PM
#36
-
Joined: Feb 2004
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Bikes: yes!
It's not a full face balaclava, which I don't need for riding, but I've used the OR Peruvian Hat for years.
Fits well under helmet, blocks wind with Windstopper fleece.
https://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___95301
Fits well under helmet, blocks wind with Windstopper fleece.
https://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___95301
12-17-10 | 01:42 PM
#37
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 6,431
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From: Minneapolis, MN
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's a major pain.
12-20-10 | 08:12 AM
#39
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 13
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I'm still trying to solve the glasses fogging up business. I'll try putting the arms of the glasses outside the fabric. I've been using a balaclava. I also wear a ski goggle over my glasses. This weekend I bought a Serius face mask with a nose hole and little perforations over my mouth. Hmm. It was no better. The glasses still fogged up.
12-20-10 | 08:37 AM
#40
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
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From: 25 miles northwest of Boston
Bikes: Bottecchia Sprint, GT Timberline 29r, Marin Muirwoods 29er, Trek FX Alpha 7.0
I got one from the hunting dept at Dicks Sporting Goods last year that I was very happy with. it had a single large opening for both eyes just big enough for my safety glasses; a hole for my mouth and a special fabric to cover the bridge of my nose. I found it imperative to cover the bridge of my nose cuz it also covered the top part of my cheeks which is where the sinuses are located I think. I did trim the length of the neck though cuz it was too long
12-20-10 | 08:58 AM
#41
Bike addict, dreamer
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 5,165
Likes: 1
From: Queens, New York
I have an Under Armor balaclava and I am very pleased with it. I've never used it in 12 degree weather mind you, but for 30 or so here in Georgia it works nicely.
https://www.amazon.com/Under-Armour-M...2514728&sr=8-1
https://www.amazon.com/Under-Armour-M...2514728&sr=8-1
I have a Serius Ultra Clava
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ef=oss_product
This clava has worked for me from 40 to at least 9 degrees. You can move the face covering down when you get too warm. It's got a wind blocking, too. I highly recommend it, as my face has not been cold since I started wearing it.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...ef=oss_product
This clava has worked for me from 40 to at least 9 degrees. You can move the face covering down when you get too warm. It's got a wind blocking, too. I highly recommend it, as my face has not been cold since I started wearing it.
LOL, I walked into a Post Office once. Although I had my bike with me, but people still gave me looks. I realized, took it off and said "sorry!"
12-20-10 | 12:28 PM
#42
invisible friend
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 955
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From: Decatur, Alabama
Bikes: Gary Fisher Tassajara hardtail mtb, '01 Rans Wave, '98 Raleigh R700, Mid-80's Takara Professional, '91 Bianchi Alfana
I have several silk balaclavas from Wintersilks.com I think and a couple of fleece ones from various places. I just use the silk ones anymore. They are very thin, easy to rinse out and hang dry while I'm at work before the ride home, and if I need a little more on the ears(under about 30f and windy) I wear clamp on earmuffs over them.
12-20-10 | 01:33 PM
#43
Thread Starter
Rustbelt Rider
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 9,105
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From: Canton, OH
Bikes: 1990 Trek 1420 - 1978 Raleigh Professional - 1973 Schwinn Collegiate - 1974 Schwinn Suburban
Just to follow up here. I read through the posts the other day and ended up buying a Serius Balaclava, I like the idea that I can move part if I get too hot. It looks promising in the warmth department, I will be able to test it later today during my commute. It wasn't the cheapest at 29.00 but it was close by so I payed a bit for convenience.
Thanks again, the help is much appreciated!
Thanks again, the help is much appreciated!
__________________
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|......GO.BROWNS........| ||'|";, ___.
|_..._..._______===|=||_|__|..., ] -
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|^^^^^^^^^^^^^^| ||
|......GO.BROWNS........| ||'|";, ___.
|_..._..._______===|=||_|__|..., ] -
"(@)'(@)"""''"**|(@)(@)*****''(@)
12-20-10 | 02:08 PM
#44
Big Ol' Varmint
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 106
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From: Port Townsend, WA
Bikes: 2015 Rodriguez Adventure, 2009 Kona Dew, 2007 Redline Conquest Pro
I picked up a Mountain Hardwear balaclava at REI a couple years back, and I love it (for skiing, anyway). It's some kind of spandex/fleece combo, so the inside is soft while the outside repels water. Thin enough to fit under the helmet, and it's got enough give that I can comfortably slide down the mouth covering under my chin if I want. You should be able to find one for under $30 -- I think it was closer to $20.
12-20-10 | 02:43 PM
#45
One Man Fast Brick
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,121
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From: Chicagoland
Bikes: Specialized Langster, Bianchi San Jose, early 90s GT Karakoram, Yuba Mundo, Mercier Nano (mini velo), Nashbar Steel Commuter, KHS Tandemania Sport
I normally like your posts, but this one needs a response since you obviously did not read my post with any care.
I agree that windproof membranes make breathing difficult if you pull them up over your mouth and nose, that is why I mentioned windproof products that have an area for your nose and mouth that make it easier to breath. I have indeed tried using windproof materials (neck gaiters) without sections of breathing fabric and it just does not work for me.
Paul, if you have found another way to comfortably use those products tight up against your mouth and nose, please let us all know.
12-20-10 | 03:07 PM
#46
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 6,431
Likes: 44
From: Minneapolis, MN
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...
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...
12-20-10 | 03:22 PM
#47
One Man Fast Brick
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,121
Likes: 0
From: Chicagoland
Bikes: Specialized Langster, Bianchi San Jose, early 90s GT Karakoram, Yuba Mundo, Mercier Nano (mini velo), Nashbar Steel Commuter, KHS Tandemania Sport
No problem Paul. I will continue to look forward to reading your posts as an experienced bicycle commuter.
You folks up in the MN area usually deal with more winter than us in Chicago anyway and I need your advice to stay comforatable through the cold months.
You folks up in the MN area usually deal with more winter than us in Chicago anyway and I need your advice to stay comforatable through the cold months.
12-21-10 | 12:59 AM
#48
Thread Starter
Rustbelt Rider
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 9,105
Likes: 390
From: Canton, OH
Bikes: 1990 Trek 1420 - 1978 Raleigh Professional - 1973 Schwinn Collegiate - 1974 Schwinn Suburban
Well, I used the Serius Balaclava tonight and had a problem with it. The material at either side of my eyes bunches up and and sits away from my face. The wind flows right in, and I can hear it moving past my ears much like a helmet does. I got a large, maybe I should have gotten a medium?
__________________
|^^^^^^^^^^^^^^| ||
|......GO.BROWNS........| ||'|";, ___.
|_..._..._______===|=||_|__|..., ] -
"(@)'(@)"""''"**|(@)(@)*****''(@)
|^^^^^^^^^^^^^^| ||
|......GO.BROWNS........| ||'|";, ___.
|_..._..._______===|=||_|__|..., ] -
"(@)'(@)"""''"**|(@)(@)*****''(@)
12-21-10 | 09:25 AM
#49
One Man Fast Brick
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,121
Likes: 0
From: Chicagoland
Bikes: Specialized Langster, Bianchi San Jose, early 90s GT Karakoram, Yuba Mundo, Mercier Nano (mini velo), Nashbar Steel Commuter, KHS Tandemania Sport
Well, I used the Serius Balaclava tonight and had a problem with it. The material at either side of my eyes bunches up and and sits away from my face. The wind flows right in, and I can hear it moving past my ears much like a helmet does. I got a large, maybe I should have gotten a medium?
12-21-10 | 09:27 AM
#50
Senior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 8,896
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From: Raleigh, NC
Bikes: Waterford RST-22, Bob Jackson World Tour, Ritchey Breakaway Cross, Soma Saga, De Bernardi SL, Specialized Sequoia
I've been very satisfied with my Craft balacava, riding in temps as low as the mid-teens F.