The Best Balaclavas To Buy Right Now

Looking to buy a balaclava this winter? Here is a list of some of the best balaclavas to buy right now from brands like Supreme, Prada, Aries, and more.

Balaclava Buyer's Guide
Complex Original

Image via Complex Original

Balaclava Buyer's Guide

It’s freezing outside right now in most cities across the country. Once you have yourself the perfect jacket to endure the chilly winter temperatures, it’s time to start considering the right accessories to achieve maximum warmth. Some people may want to snag a new beanie or some mittens. Those are fine choices. But we’re discussing balaclavas right today. 

The face covering isn’t just for the slopes anymore. With the help of rappers like Kanye West, Playboi Carti, and Pooh Shiesty, the balaclava has become a trendy accessory to complete your next fit even if it’s not snowing outside. Whether you are looking for hand knit option or a more tactical mesh style, we have got you covered. Check out some of our favorite balaclavas on the market right now.

10 Deep Peace Peace Balaclava

10 Deep Peace Peace Balaclava

Depending on your age, you may not immediately recognize 10 Deep. But don’t get it confused. Scott Sasso’s streetwear brand is an OG in the space that deserves its flowers. They also just so happen to make an awesome (and affordable) knit balaclava that you can cop right now. The style is 100 percent acrylic and comes in khaki and blue colorways that each feature contrasting black and white stripes sandwiching the eye opening. Some of the knit balaclavas can get a bit pricey. This is a great option for anyone who wants to try out the style on a budget.

Elexiay Balaclava

Elexiay Balaclava

If you are in the market for a stylish and sustainable option, look no further than this one from Elexiay. The brand’s pieces are produced without machines in an effort to cause less harm to the environment. Each balaclavas is hand knit by female crocheters in Nigeria, which means no two masks will be exactly alike. There’s a handful of colors to choose from too: white, black, light green, and blue. 

MoMa Verloop Balaclava Ski Mask

MoMa Verloop Balaclava Ski Mask

Everyone is familiar with the MoMa Yankees caps by now, but that’s far from the only accessories that you can cop from the MoMa Design Store. For instance, they also sell two colorways of these colorblocked balaclavas by Verloop. Whether you want a vibrant color palette or prefer earthier tones, both options are up for grabs here. If you are someone who doesn’t have a lot of color in their wardrobe, this makes for a perfect accessory to add a little something extra next time you step outside in the blistering cold.

Prada Cashmere Knit Ski Hood

Prada Cashmere Knit Ski Hood

If you have the budget for it, this ski hood from Prada should be on your radar. Available in black or white, the cashmere hood fits snugly around your face and extends down to a bib that drapes across your chest and back for additional warmth and comfort. Prada’s logo is stitched across the bib in case you plan on showing it off. You can’t go wrong with cashmere.

Come Back as a Flower Forest Moss Balaclava

Come Back as a Flower Forest Moss Balaclava

A favorite of ASAP Rocky—you may have seen him rocking it while out with Rihanna recently—is this forest camouflage option from Come Back as a Flower. The Los Angeles-based brand has put its own spin on the spandex style with this outdoorsy all-over print. Due to the pattern used, no two masks are the same. Like other options on this list, Come Back as a Flower uses recycled materials and ethical practices to make all of its pieces, which is yet another reason to consider shopping with the brand. Whether you decide to pair it with a full camo fit like ASAP Rocky or not, this is one of the better styles on the market today. And it being from an independent designer who is doing their best to limit the impact on the environment makes it even better.

Aries 'No Problemo' Balaclava

Aries No Problemo Balaclava

Aries is known for its frequent use of colorful and attention-grabbing prints throughout all of its collections. Couple that with its signature “No Problemo” slogan in giant lettering and this balaclava is certainly guaranteed to turn some heads. The rib knit style features a multicolored recycled cotton base with the aforementioned phrase running down the left side of the head in neon green letters. This one is actually on sale right now too if you need more reasons to add it to your cart. Just make sure to be quick though. It looks like there are only a few left in stock.

Stella McCartney Intarsia Wool Balaclava

Stella McCartney Intarsia Wool Balaclava

One of our favorites on the list is this wool style from Stella McCartney. The Ecru mask is covered in black and blue patterns that make for the perfect finishing touch. Worried about staining a white mask you just spent $425 on? There’s also a black and white boucle option that is worth your consideration. 

Supreme Polartec Tiger Balaclava

Supreme Polartec Tiger Balaclava

Supreme pretty much makes everything. So, of course they have some solid balaclavas in the archive. One of our favorites comes from the Fall/Winter 2021 collection. The orange and black tiger stripes make for a bold statement piece. Its Polartec construction also means this thing is going to keep you extra warm whether you plan on throwing it on to walk your dog around the block or hit the ski slopes.

Stingwater Heavy Chain Knit Balaclava

Stingwater Heavy Chain Knit Balaclava

You may remember Stingwater from its mushroom-inspired Nike SB Dunk Low collab that dropped back in 2021, but the New Zealand-based skate shop makes other items too. This balaclava covered in a chain link print is a standout. It’s available in four colors depending on your personal taste. It’s also double-layered, which means it will be that much warmer when you have it on. A balaclava that doubles as a beanie for just $68? You can’t beat it. 

Zegna Black Techmerino Wool Balaclava

Zegna Black Techmerino Wool Balaclava

Zegna is a luxury label known for its suiting, but tailoring isn’t the only thing it can do. Case in point, this wool balaclava. The mask is constructed using Techmerino, a material exclusive to Zegna that makes the premium textile more functional with features like quick-dry breathability and added elasticity. The black style is completed with two orange stripes running down the back of the head and orange stitching for anyone looking to add a subtle pop of color to their snow day attire.

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