Most riders should by now know the benefits of wearing base layers under their clothing, whatever time of year they are riding.
In winter, they help to keep the body warm while in the summer, they can do the opposite, helping to keep the body cool by wicking moisture away from the skin to be dissipated by the clothing itself.
While this works for the body, there is no reason it won’t work for the head too and that is why a balaclava can be a useful addition for many riders.
A thermal version will help keep the head warm in winter – essential particularly if, like me, you need vents open for airflow to keep you demisted. Similarly, a summer one will help with cooling on warmer rides with the same airflow helping dissipate the moisture and cool your head.
Both can also be particularly beneficial for riders who are going thin on top or who are already bald, as some may not like the feeling of the helmet against their skin or their head gets cold.
Related: Best motorcycle base layers
Another benefit is that if you have problems getting a helmet on over your ears – you wear earrings, for example – then a balaclava can help here by smoothing your head as it enters the helmet.
Of course, one thing that can change a balaclava's effectiveness is the fit; helmets are generally worn tight so that they remain in position on your head at all times.
Wearing another layer between your head and the inside of the helmet may affect the fit and/or the comfort levels, so we would advise trying before you buy if you can.
If you can’t, then either Amazon or Sportsbikeshop should allow you to return the item as long as you haven’t worn it, only tried it on.
So here is a selection of balaclavas to help keep you warm or cool.
The best motorcycle balaclavas
1. PX Balaclava
Description
This balaclava from PX is available as either a full face or an open face (as shown) and comes
Pros:
Windproof and water resistant
Two styles
Cons:
Cotton content may hold moisture
2. MotoGP Balaclava
Description
A comfortable, thermal balaclava to keep you nice and warm riding in the winter months. This very
Pros:
Great value
Warm in winter
Official MotoGP clothing
Cons:
One size may not fit all
3. Spada Thermal Balaclava
Description
Another fine example of a comfortable balaclava - tight and thin enough to easily slip a helmet
Pros:
Great value
It'll keep you warm
Cons:
It'll be a tight fit at first
4. Held Dryarn
Description
This short balaclava from German manufacturer Held is made from Dryarn, the same material many
Pros:
Flat-lock seams for comfort
One size fits all
Help keep skin dry
Cons:
May be tight on larger heads
5. Rukka RWS Hood
Description
A serious piece of kit for serious conditions, like most of Rukkau2019s clothing. The Coolmax hood
Pros:
Combination of materials
Three sizes available
Keep wind and rain out
Cons:
Could be cumbersome
6. Alpinestars Open Face Balaclava
Description
The Alpinestars Open Face Balaclava is a bit pricier than some of the others on the list but with
Pros:
Moisture wicking
Flat-lock seams
Help cut wind
Cons:
One size may not fit all
7. Rev'it Maximus WSB Balaclava
Description
The most expensive balaclava on the list that boasts a number of benefits lacking in some of
Pros:
Moisture-wicking properties
Available in two sizes
Mesh panels for breathing and sound
Cons:
Limited size may affect fit
8. Knox Cold Killer
Description
Forming part of Knoxu2019 winter Cold Killer range, this open-face balaclava with a deep neck
Pros:
Keep head warm
Breathable to prevent moisture build-up
Prevent draughts at neck
Cons:
One size may not fit all
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