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Balaclavas for sun protection

Original Post
Karl Henize · · Boulder, CO · Joined Aug 2013 · Points: 643

I am looking for recommendations on balaclavas for climbing.  Most of the balaclavas that I have found are either too heavily insulated or are not breathable enough for use while climbing.  

While there are plenty of neck gaiters and sun hoodies that are made of the light and breathable materials that I am looking for, I would prefer to wear a balaclava made of those same materials.  I find balaclavas are easier to keep in place with less pressure on my face than neck gaiters.  Balaclavas do not resist my head and neck movement as much as hoods do.  Balaclavas also avoid the need for overlapped material on the back of the head and neck.  

The best balaclava that I have found thus far is the Montbell Zeo-Line Light Weight Balaclava.  

It weights just 1.1 oz (30 g) and fits my head very well.  It is breathable and dries quickly.  It easily fits under a helmet.  I love it for winter climbing, when temperatures are below freezing or the wind is ripping.  I would like to find something similar, but less insulating for warmer temperatures or less windy conditions.  

Gunkiemike · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Jul 2009 · Points: 3,687

Maybe at the merch section of the Proud Boys website?

Brandon R · · CA · Joined Mar 2006 · Points: 194

Same. A loose fitting balaclava made out of something like OR Echo fabric would be nice. 

Isaac Mann-Silverman · · Oakland Ca · Joined Nov 2020 · Points: 0

OR makes a sub hijab that works pretty well, loose and light enough for climbing and hiking in high uv.

ClimbingOn · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Aug 2008 · Points: 0

Look at hunting gear. During the spring turkey season many hunters wear balaclavas or similar for full camouflage in warm conditions. There are several hunting brands that are very comparable to Arc’teryx quality. Look at Sitka and First Lite. 

that guy named seb · · Britland · Joined Oct 2015 · Points: 236

Also worth looking at airsoft stuff

This came up as my first result for airsoft

https://nb-tactical.com/en/products/ghost-mask-light-v2

Looks well ventilated. 

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

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