When the temps really drop, you know the worst part of running is often your nose and cheeks. That’s exactly why running balaclavas were invented!
What you’ll need for winter running depends a lot on where you live. Here in Colorado, we’ve seen our share of mild winters, but when the temperature drops and the wind kicks up, the right gear can mean the difference between getting out the door or heading to the treadmill.
Balaclavas are a must have for super cold-weather running, offering almost full-face coverage to block out the chill. Comfort and warmth are the goals here, you don’t want anything distracting you when you’re pushing through those chilly miles.
Keep reading to see some of our top picks for the best running balaclavas.
Best Running Balaclavas
We’ve done the hard work of researching and testing to find the best running balaclavas. Our picks will keep you warm, wick away sweat, and fit just right so you can focus on the miles instead of fidgeting with your gear.
Best Full Coverage Balaclava- Gorewear M WINDSTOPPER Balaclava
When the weather takes a turn for the worse, our gear tester Connie puts on the Gorewear WINDSTOPPER Balaclava to keep her covered. Made with GORE-TEX Labs’ Windstopper material, it offers total windproof protection, so even the strongest gusts don’t stand a chance.
But what she loved most was how breathable it was—no more feeling trapped in hot, sweaty gear. The holes around the mouth and nose vent allow for fresh air to come in.
The thermo-stretch fabric moves with you, providing a snug, comfortable fit without any restriction. The flatlock seams keep everything smooth and irritation-free, and the reflective details help keep you seen when out in low light.
The only issue is that if you are wearing glasses, they tend to fog up depending on how they sit on your face. But Connie’s husband also tested the Gorewear Balaclava and didn’t experience any fogging, so ultimately it’s going to come down to the shape of your face!
- Level of warmth: high- windproof and water resistant
- Fabric: 85% Polyamide, 15% Elastane (hat), 100% Polyester (recycled) (panels)
- Size: one size fits most
- Colors: 1
- Price: $55
Best Fleece Lined Running Balaclava- Turtle Fur Shellaclava
Our tester, Brittni, put the Turtle Fur Shellaclava to the test in snowy, windy conditions and loved how it kept her comfortable the entire run.
The fleece-lined design offers a thinner layer around the head to prevent overheating, while the thicker neck portion keeps you warm and protected from the wind and even blowing snow!
The Turtle Fur Shellaclava fit is snug so that it stays in place and doesn’t need really any adjusting as you move around.
If you have thicker or super curly hair, the Turtle Fur Shellaclava may be a little difficult to get on and feel comfortable. Nothing a low ponytail can’t fix!
While it’s great for most winter runs, if the temperature drops below 20°F, you may want to add a beanie or ear warmers for extra warmth.
- Level of warmth: high- good for single digits
- Fabric type: 100% Recycled Polyester
- Size: one size fits most
- Colors: 14
- Price: $30
Best Lightweight Running Balaclava- Buff ThermoNet Balaclava
Made from lightweight ThermoNet material, this balaclava from Buff feels comfortable and moves with you, so it won’t feel restrictive during your run.
Unlike a standard Buff, the ThermoNet material is specifically designed to block the chill while still preventing you from overheating.
One feature that we love is the VaprGrid technology. This design keeps the material from becoming wet as you breathe, so your face stays warm without that dreaded frozen fabric feel.
Bonus points because it also helps prevent your glasses from fogging up!
If you’re looking for a cozy, functional alternative to a regular Buff, the Buff ThermoNet Balaclava checks all the boxes.
- Level of warmth: high- good for single digits temperatures
- Fabric type: 96% Polyester, 4% Elastane
- Size: one size fits most
- Colors: 11
- Price: $34
Wool Running Balaclava- Smartwool Intraknit Merino Tech Balaclava
When it comes to winter gear, Smartwool is always a favorite, so naturally, their balaclava earned a spot on our list.
The Smartwool Intraknit Merino Tech Balaclava is designed with Intraknit technology, which provides just the right amount of insulation to keep you warm, plus strategically placed mesh for better breathability.
Unlike some balaclavas with a spandex-like feel, this one stands out for its lightweight design. It’s form-fitting enough to stay in place but never feels overly tight or restrictive, making it ideal for long, cold-weather runs.
What’s unique about this balaclava is the knit-in wind protection around the ears and forehead. This added feature helps block out wind and rain, keeping you warm and comfortable even in the coldest days.
Buy Smartwool Intraknit Merino Tech
- Level of warmth: medium- it’s moisture wicking and quick drying
- Fabric type: 49% Merino Wool, 36% Polyester, 13% Polyamide, 2% Elastane.
- Size: one size fits most
- Colors: 1
- Price: $55
Best Budget Running Balaclava- Under Armour ColdGear Balaclava
The Under Armour ColdGear Balaclava stands out for its versatility, offering two ways to wear it depending on your needs.
You can pull it up over your mouth and nose for full-face coverage when it’s extra chilly or fold it down into a gaiter to keep your neck warm if you start to heat up mid-run.
What makes this balaclava stand out is the ColdGear Infrared lining. Not just a stylish touch, this smart design absorbs and retains your body heat, keeping you warm and comfortable even on the coldest winter days.
It’s a reliable piece of gear that will keep you covered through every phase of winter.
Buy Under Armour ColdGear Balaclava
- Level of warmth: high- brushed fleece and thermo-conductive coating
- Fabric type: 100% Polyester
- Size: one size fits most
- Colors: 2
- Price: $32
Best Running Balaclava Shirt- Calia Running Balacalva
This one’s a bit different from the rest, but Amanda swears by it—especially for winter runs.
The CALIA Running Balaclava is perfect for those chilly early mornings when the temperature starts low but warms up as you go. You can begin your run with full coverage over your head, nose, and mouth, then roll it down once you heat up.
With BodyWarm insulated paneling, it helps retain heat, keeping you comfortable throughout your run.
This is thin enough to layer under a light or thick jacket depending on if you heat up easily or not.
- Level of warmth: medium, would use this as a base layer
- Fabric type: 89% polyester / 11% spandex
- Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Colors: 1
- Price: $66
The right gear can make all the difference for winter runs. When temperatures drop into the teens or even single digits, keeping your body heat in is key. That’s where a good running balaclava comes in. Hopefully, this list gives you some ideas of gear to help stay warm on your winter runs!
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