jaydog
Ski Diva Extraordinaire
In response to Snowhot's request, here is my take on a couple different balaclavas. Both of these are nose/mouth/chin/ neck coverage only, not the whole head. I don't actually remember the names of the models-sorry about that! Hope this helps!
Seirus: didn't like it. The thick neoprene is stiff and not very form fitting. If your face doesn't fit its contour exactly, it slides around. This led to the top edge digging uncomfortably into my cheek. Also, the top of the nose part pinched the bridge of my nose. But the neoprene was a good insulator and wind blocker, and if you can get it to fit properly, it ought to be a good choice.
Outdoor Research: much better fit! The material is thin and flexible, fit snugly around my face and nose. The fabric is smooth and comfortable, with a nylon-y feel, and holds up well to bitter cold wind. Rolls up really small to fit easily in a jacket pocket. One gripe: the mesh covering over the mouth gets wet and cold really quick and stays wet and cold. This was not a problem on the Seirus, which had small holes to breathe through.
Seirus: didn't like it. The thick neoprene is stiff and not very form fitting. If your face doesn't fit its contour exactly, it slides around. This led to the top edge digging uncomfortably into my cheek. Also, the top of the nose part pinched the bridge of my nose. But the neoprene was a good insulator and wind blocker, and if you can get it to fit properly, it ought to be a good choice.
Outdoor Research: much better fit! The material is thin and flexible, fit snugly around my face and nose. The fabric is smooth and comfortable, with a nylon-y feel, and holds up well to bitter cold wind. Rolls up really small to fit easily in a jacket pocket. One gripe: the mesh covering over the mouth gets wet and cold really quick and stays wet and cold. This was not a problem on the Seirus, which had small holes to breathe through.
