This is probably obvious to most, but I just put 2 & 2 together. I rode with a half balalclava last winter (Mountain Hardwear Windstopper Half balaclava) & found it to be pretty good. I am going to switch to a full balaclava for this year, but noticed that many of them do not have mouth/nose holes. The one I wore last year had both & I figured they would be necessary for commuting as even with the holes, the inside of mine got wet from respiration. On the other hand, if those without the holes work, it would be nice to have something warming the air a bit before I breathe it in.

Does anyone use a balaclava without mouth/nose holes? If so, is it a thick or thin material? Are you happy with the performance of it?

Thanks,

I use an Under Armor balaclava, thin, pretty happy with it, but I don't ride past Thanksgiving...

Thanks. Does it have holes for your mouth & nose, or is it solid?

I have a Sugoi full (not sure of the full name) that has worked well through MN and WI winters. It is a solid mask, but I have had no issues breathing. For the really cold days I add a neoprene face mask (no brand name...sorry) that has openings for the nostrils and mouth holes. I got both at an outdoor store that is only in St. Paul, but check out anyplace that has cross country skiing equipment, and they should have an extensive selection of something to cover your face/head. Just make sure it isn't too thick on your head so the helmet fits.

there are face masks , fleece lined neoprene over the nose, exhale directed down
so glasses don't readily fog.
wrap around velcro, in fleece, behind your neck, so no added stuff under your helmet.

I usually use a burlap sack and a 12 gauge...... wait, what forum is this?

The Under Armor has no holes

Thanks for all the help!

I use an Outdoor Research Ninjaclava. On most days I tuck the face mask part under my chin; I only need the full balaclava effect on the coldest of days. The material is pretty thin.

I just got one of these, haven't used it yet, but I'm hoping it will solve the severe condensation problem I've had with every balaclava I've tried.

I have the Outdoor Research Ninjaclava as well. I think it's the best combo of price and quality. Works well for skiing too - it's original application

Pearl izumi thin polypro. Don't use the mouth covering. It covers the top of the nose and you can choose to breathe through the mouth covering or push it down.

I use the Serius version, and it's amazing how warm that thin layer of material is. I got so hot wearing it under my motorcycle helmet I couldn't stand it anymore - it felt like my head was on fire.

I have used a Serius one for the past two winters. Called the thick and thin (TNT). It's good but I mangled it trying to open up the mouth holes a bit. Gonna try the Outdoor Research Gorilla something this year.

I have two. It has to be pretty cold before I'll wear the Performance Lycra balaclava. Here in north Texas, there will be more days that I wear the super-thin one from Winter Silks.