The media could not be loaded. SPORTS BALACLAVA VS. NORDIC BALACLAVA This video shows you what you are getting when you order the the two types of balaclavas offered by the Friendly Swede.....Both are great in my opinion! We tried the SPORTS Balaclava and my kids have both used it for skiing in very cold conditions, and for sledding and other outdoor winter activities. When skiing in extremely cold conditions my daughter used this balaclava under a helmet and with a neck warmer. This particular balaclava doesn't provide a lot of warmth on it's own, but definitely scores points for being compact and covering skin that would otherwise be exposed and keeping heat in that would otherwise dissipate. The Sports Balaclava is perfect for having that extra layer when doing anything outdoors. The NORDIC Balaclava is a bit warmer, with a nice fleece underlayer that is not bulky AT ALL. Very soft to the skin and perfect for colder conditions. I think this will be the go to Balaclava for very cold weather, as it not only protects skin from the elements, but with the fleece will add warmth as well. I will be ordering another two pack of these NORDIC Balaclavas as soon as I'm done with this review. Comparable balaclavas at the ski shop are around $20 and up, and here you are getting two for that price. Both Balaclavas will probably fit quite comfortable under nearly anything (Well, I'm not sure how tight a motorcycle helmet is but using ski helmets as an example the both fit great.) I don't think my kids will want to go out in cold weather without a balaclava at this point, they love them so much. I certainly won't!! Read more
I bought these to use for plowing/ blowing/ shovelling snow and going to American football games. I must say that I am greatly impressed by the design and quality! The piece that covers the mouth and nose is sewn in such a way that when you pull it down it doesn't pull the material away from the side of your face. They form fit my head well without bunching up in typical areas. With that said, these will NOT keep your head warm by themselves. They are mostly meant to be a barrier from wind and function as an underlayer to insulation while wicking moisture. They are advertised as such and are perfect for it! I was so happy to see that these were higher quality that I put one on immediately and stalked around the house pretending to be a ninja and attacking my girlfriend with a yard stick. She was unimpressed until she put the other one on (yes, the pack comes with TWO!) and was also so inspired by these that we battled as ninjas for an entire night. TL;DR: Quality materials, best design, two in a pack, best for cutting wind and putting under something warm, instant ninja Read more
I got this to supplement my winter kit since it's a lot simpler to wear a balaclava instead of a hat and neck gaiter. Although it's thin, it has fleece where it counts providing good ear and neck/face protection, and it's lighter/breathable on top of the head. I use this to bike commute to where I can reach speeds of 20-25 mph so wind protection is a must. It's good by itself through the 30s F, below which I supplement with a smartwool beanie. Good quality and all in all is a nice addition to the winter kit. I'll probably use this in deep winter as well when I hike and snowshoe. Read more
Great balaclava. I purchased to keep my ears and face warm while biking through the Boston winter and this product does the trick. It fits snugly, but not so tight as to be uncomfortable. So far I've biked with it in temperatures as low as 22 degrees F, and have had no issues keeping warm. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I wear glasses and did have some trouble with them fogging up from my breathing. The material is fairly breathable, but I found that covering both my nose and mouth resulted in significant fogging. On the other hand, if I only cover my mouth, I don't have any fogging issues. I plan to manage nose coldness by tactically raising and lowering the balaclava to manage the fogging. Long story short, if you don't wear glasses, you should seriously consider this balaclava; if you do wear glasses, I'd still recommend, as the fogging can be circumvented in many cases. Read more
Even the "nordic" one isn't super thick, but there are TWO of them! You can double up if you want super cozyness. I'm usually moving when I use these, so I actually like this weight of fabric. Super soft, stretchy, and comfortable! I've used a balaclava for years for winter cycling, snowboarding, hiking, running, and generally not freezing my face off in the winter. These are super versatile, and can also be used as a neck gaiter or hat. It packs very small, and can easily fit in a pocket. Unlike my old one, these have flat lock seams and a cool design that makes them more comfortable worn "ninja style" or with your face uncovered. (look at the product photos to see how the overlapping layers of fabric work. It's really great!) I especially like that I can wear this product without leaving a line down the middle of my forehead when I take it off. Hopefully, these will hold up well, but only time and use will tell. My guess is that the other weight (non-nordic) is mainly for sun protection? Read more
