8 Balaclavas to Keep Your Face Protected All Winter
The functional piece is also a top winter fashion trend. Shop a curated selection of favorites, from Miu Miu to Kule.
Balaclavas have been trending more and more in recent years, transitioning the wearable item from a functional cold-weather essential to a fashion-forward statement piece. Once primarily associated with skiing, mountaineering, military use, or just living in a freezing cold climate, the balaclava has newly been embraced by designers, celebrities, and streetwear enthusiasts alike, elevating it as a staple in winter wardrobes around the globe, even where the wind chill doesn't warrant something so heavy duty.
The balaclava trend reflects a growing intersection between practicality and style in fashion, where everyday items are reimagined through a lens of high creativity and luxury. From runways during Paris Fashion Week to the style mavens populating our Instagram feeds, balaclavas are now available in many more iterations than their function-forward counterparts.
Now, it's possible to shop for the piece in sleek, minimalist designs made in neutral tones or bold patterns with eye-catching details. When finding your perfect balaclava, opt for something wam and smooth, like fleece or cashmere. (Some wool versions work just fine, especially when blended with fibers that aren't so notoriously itchy.) Whether you're looking for one that covers the entire face or is more like a hood, keep scrolling to shop the best balaclavas to sport this season.
This balaclava by Eaves is crafted from a luxurious blend of 47% wool, 38% viscose, 10% nylon, and 5% cashmere, offering both warmth and comfort. It features a midweight knit fabric that's ideal for chilly weather but light enough too. It's perfect for a cozy yet stylish winter look.
Rufus Knit Balaclava, $125, Revolve
This balaclava is crafted from a soft merino blend yarn, combining warmth, breathability, and durability for ultimate comfort. This take by Todd Snyder is perfect for layering under a ski helmet or when braving a chilly morning run. Its lightweight yet sturdy fabrication ensures it'll retain its shape while remaining a stylish barrier against the elements.
Todd Snyder X Woolrich Balaclava in Cream, $128, Todd Snyder.
This balaclava by White + Warren is designed for ultimate warmth on the coldest days. Made from cashmere with a ribbed finish, it provides heat retention while offering a relaxed fit. The bottom panel ensures it stays neat and seamless under a coat, making it both stylish and functional for winter layering.
Cashmere Ribbed Balaclava, $345, White + Warren.
This Miu Miu balaclava combines luxury and warmth with its blend of wool, cashmere, and a touch of polyamide and elastane for flexibility. Made in Italy, it features a heavyweight knit and is adorned with the label's logo for a subtle touch of chic.
Miu Miu Knit Balaclava, $695, Fwrd.
Isabel Marant's brown balaclava is crafted from a brushed knit stretch nylon blend for a soft and cozy feel. It features a drawstring at the opening for an adjustable fit, a rib-knit collar for added warmth, and a leather logo patch at the face for a signature touch.
Isabel Marant Brown Belkym Balaclava, $356, Ssense.
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