Best Cold Weather Running Masks in 2023

1. Smartwool Merino 250 Balaclava

Merino wool is a super-soft type of wool. Wool may conjure up images of warm, cuddly little sheep hopping from rock to rock in snowy conditions, and that’s partly right. But wool isn’t the thick, stuffy material some think of it as.

Merino wool, in particular, has some superb properties that make it great for running wear. For a start, it’s much softer and less scratchy than other wools, so this one will go easy on your face.

It’s also moisture-wicking, which means if you do get a little warm, your balaclava won’t get soaked. Even if it does, it’s quick-drying, so your face, neck, and ears can stay as dry as possible.

One of the other awesome things about Merino wool is that it doesn’t hold odor. Even if it does get sweaty, you’ll still smell sweet.

This particular balaclava is made with an interlocking knit and double layers. It keeps warmth in and cold out. Merino wool is thermoregulating, so you’ll most likely be kept at just the right temperature.

It’s also unusually breathable for wool. Not only will it keep the airflow going and not make you feel like you’re fighting for breath, but if you’re wearing sunglasses, they shouldn’t fog up.

The only downside to Merino wool is the price. It’s definitely pricier than other fabrics, but if you have the means, the benefits that come with it are well worth it.

2. Icebreaker Merino Oasis Balaclava

This balaclava is also crafted from lightweight Merino wool, but it’s slightly different in design than the previous one. It’s created using an overlap design, adding stability and, according to the manufacturer, better protection against the elements.

One of things we like about this particular balaclava is the addition of a ventilation flap over the mouth. If you’re a runner who struggles with a covered mouth but suffers in the cold, you may like this one.

The flatlock seams lie flat against the skin, preventing chafing, which is especially helpful in icy weather. It’s slightly longer in the front than in it at the back, which provides great neck protection. Some customers have reported it being a little short at the back, though.

Like our top option, it’s lightweight and easy to wear under a helmet if you do other sports in addition to running. It doesn’t retain odor, and it’s easy to throw in the washing machine after use.

It’s available in black and grey. Although it only comes in one size, it should fit most heads—some people may find it a little tight or too loose to stay properly warm, though.

3. Under Armour ColdGear Infrared Balaclava

While Merino wool is a superb fabric for a balaclava, the best cold weather running masks don’t necessarily have to avoid synthetic materials.

This one is made of polyester and elastane, which have various benefits. One is the slightly lower price than Merino wool. Another thumbs-up to polyester is that it protects from UV rays, which should not be underestimated in winter weather.

Under Armour is known for its quality running gear, and its contribution to the best cold weather running masks comes with their ColdGear InfraRed technology. This makes use of a thermal conductive inner layer that uses your own body heat to keep you cozy.

It’s also easy to breathe in this mask. The material over the mouth is more perforated than the rest, making it far easier to get enough breath in.

The downside is that due to it being one-size-fits-all, it may not fit everyone. Ironic, but true.

4. Nike Running Therma Sphere Hood Mask

If you want warmth around your neck and face without the bulk of a full balaclava, the Nike Winter Warrior neck warmer is our top pick.

Nike’s neck warmer is constructed of a polyester/spandex mix. While it may be as warm as wool, it makes for a light, breathable, and easy-to-pull-over-your-head piece of gear.

We particularly like the full neck coverage in its design. It’s long and stretches down over your chest and shoulders, ensuring that no cold air seeps through.

The neck warmer is made using Nike’s Dri-FIT fabric which allows the neck warmer to wick away moisture and keep you dry, whether you’re sweating, being rained on, or running through a snowstorm.

This neck warmer is also versatile. You can wear it just around your neck. But on really cold days, pull it up so that it covers your mouth, nose, and ears.

5. Outdoor Research Ninjaclava – Cold Weather Wicking Thermal Face Mask

The Ninjaclava is sleek and stylish, as well as practical. It’s made from a combination of 3 different materials: nylon and polyester, for great moisture-wicking properties, and spandex, for a stretchable and easy fit.

The overlapping design creates an eye-opening that’s just big enough for a good range of vision, without letting in the cold.

A really nice feature is the silicon grippers around the eyes, which are designed for wearing goggles. This could be helpful for runners in icy weather if you need extra eye protection.

Another thing that this balaclava gets a thumbs-up for is how the hood hinges back easily to vent extra heat. This is a helpful feature, because the material is slightly less breathable than some of the others on this list, and glasses could fog up easily with the excess heat.

It also comes in two sizes, so there’s less chance of being disappointed when a one-size-fits-all…doesn’t. Plus, it has a cool name. Who doesn’t want to don their Ninjaclava on the road?

6. TSLA Thermal Fleece Skull Cap

TSLA’s thermal fleece skull cap is both warm and versatile. For maximum warmth, wear it with the full mask and overlapping beanie. This keeps your entire head covered, including the ears which get double coverage from the mask and beanie.

But there are other ways to where. It can be worn only as a mask, either covering your ears or pulled below them. It can also be worn as a neck warmer only, beanie only, or a balaclava with the mask pulled down to make it easier to breath. Whatever temperature you are running in, you can find the right combination to keep you comfortable.

The spandex and polyester mix does a decent job at wind-blocking. A reflective logo adds a touch of reflectivity when running in low-light conditions. The inside of the cap and mask are fleece-lined for comfort and warmth.

Use it on its own, or as a base layer. This is another one-size piece of gear, which may or may not be a problem. For the nice price, it’s definitely worth the buy, though. That’s why it wins our Best Value spot.

7. ROCKBROS Cold Weather Balaclava

Why do most balaclavas only come in black or gray? For runners who want a pop of color on their winter runs, this bright fluorescent green mask will turn heads and make you extra visible to motorists.

The polyester and spandex mix makes it stretchable enough to be extremely versatile. Whatever the weather, you can find a style to suit it. Choose between using it as an open balaclava, a full face mask, a half ski mask, or a neck gaiter.

Moisture-wicking and heat-retaining properties make this mask warm yet breathable, and the part covering your mouth can be pulled up or down depending on temperature.

The decent price of this balaclava means you could buy all colors for the price of a single one of the others. It’s still good quality, and its versatility is definitely worth the buy.

8. Purjoy Warm Fleece Balaclava

If you’re looking for a balaclava that doesn’t look like a balaclava, this one would suit you great. It looks like you’re wearing a cool colored hoodie, and its fleecy design will keep you toasty while you’re out on the road.

A feature we really like, apart from its stylishness, is the drawstring to tighten or loosen the face shield. While this is super helpful for small faces to close little gaps where wind or cold could get in, the already-tight size could make this feature a little redundant for those with larger heads.

With six ways of wearing, you’ll certainly get your money’s worth with one of these. Wear it as a face mask, hoodie, neck gaiter, or even a beanie.

The neck coverage is also pretty decent, so it’s easy to tuck under a shirt to create a decent seal against wind and cold, icy air.

It comes in eight funky colors, and with the fantastic price, you can get one to match every hoodie you own.

9. Smartwool Kids’ Merino 250 Balaclava

Kids should learn the joys and benefits of running from an early age! It can also be a super family activity for keeping fit together.

If you’re going to get one of the best cold weather running masks for your child, this one would be a good start. It’s crafted from Merino wool, which is durable and seriously soft, so it won’t be scratching your kid’s face or annoying them.

Double layers provide maximum warmth, keeping that little face as cozy as possible while out in the biting cold. It’s also lightweight enough for a cap or hoodie to fit over it comfortably.

The odor-resistance is a great help and parents, it’s machine washable, so if your kid drops it on the asphalt or accidentally steps on it, there’s no need to worry.

It does come in only one size, but this should be less of a problem for children than it may be for adults.