CastelliWindstopper Balaclava(Return to Product Page)

My first time wearing a balaclava. I've biked in temperatures down to 18 degrees Fahrenheit with only one thing to note. Between the size of the balaclava and my head shape and size, there are little pockets at the widest part of the opening, that are created that cause the cold temperatures to hit the side of my face around my temples. Once I bike for about 5 minutes that feeling diminishes, and the design works well. I wouldn't want it tighter as it is easy to pull it down to expectorate or clear my sinuses.

As a first time balaclava user and biking in colder weather I learned it is important to be mindful of the position of the balaclava in relation to my nose and mouth as glasses will fog based on the temperature difference of the warmth of my breath vs. the cold of the lenses, the speed I am traveling and the amount of exertion required for the terrain. The design provides it to be positioned fairly easily with colder weather gloves.

The only issue I've had is the material will not slide freely under my helmet strap when I want to raise the position over my mouth or nose. Not a complaint, just something I need to be aware to compensate.

Recently bought this balaclava for Winter riding and it's doing its job keeping the cold to a minimum. I've ridden with it in single digit temps and my neck and face are toasty. My only complaint is not having much protection on the back of my neck area where it can get drafty on windy days and that's where a neck gaiter comes in handy. Would have made sense just include it in one gear piece.

This balaclava is a bit warmer than my Bontrager balaclava, but it's not as form-fitting. There's a lot of excess material in the Castelli, which causes more skin exposure around the face hole. So I get a really cold spot right above my glasses when riding into the wind. That said, the rest is very warm thanks to the Gore Windstopper material.

Not all balaclavas are made alike. This Castelli model has windstopper that allows it to be thin but also protective. The fit is snug as it should be and very easy to move the face covering up and down even with lobster style gloves. I can't imagine a better solution to frigid riding conditions.

Does a great job keeping the head and face warm, but I find that the material over the nose and mouth to be a bit thick. Makes breathing more labored and forces exhaled air up to escape via the eye opening, fogging my glasses immediately. Usually had to pull the lower part down under my chin for most of the ride (kind of defeating the purpose) and only bringing it up for faster descents.