Used it for snowboarding. Fits well under a helmet, and breaths great. Kept the wind of my chin a bit. Just didn't really offer much protection for my neck

jcat

Billings

Fits like a glove

Mr.LeWhite

Montreal

Excellent balaclava for layering when windy or cold (below -10C). Can be easily used as a stand alone if above -10C.

JG

Quebec

Aawesome

Yan

Quebec

As always, OR made an excellent fitting product at a good price

Anton

New York City

I misplaced the balaclava I've had for years and after shopping various models made by cycling companies, I settled on the Option Balaclava. I've had great luck with other OR products, so I figured I may as well give their balaclava a try. It's working great for me. It breathes so much more effectively than my old balaclava. Even though it feels thinner than the old one did, I don't feel like I've lost any insulation. Very pleased with the purchase.

Rock Chalk

US

Awesome lightweight balaclava. Fits perfect under a helmet and is surprisingly warm for how light it is. Fit is great, no riding up on back of neck.

DS

CA

I've had this Balaclava for some time now and had had it through it's paces, as far as use goes. From, in and out of the Cat while guiding in British Columbia's interior, to pre-dawn sled rides in -25 without the wind. It's compressible, versatile (doubled up into a beanie, or down for full protection) and warm and wind resistant. The brushed outer blocks a surprising amount of wind, keeping me warm in -25 (-30 or lower with wind chill) This is the ideal back up layer for any trip, any season, anywhere. And at 51g thinking or a reason not to bring it is next to impossible. kiwi (Ice climbing, glacier and ski guide, avalanche professional.)

kiwi

CA

I find I'm carrying this everywhere with me -- it gets me through those first 10 minutes of a chilly early morning run and has been fine to sleep in during winter camping trips. I think it has some sort of thin wind-resistant layer inside it that makes it much warmer than other balaclavas with such a light weight. For the minimalist or ultralight type that deals with cold weather, this is a great gift.

Part businesswoman, part backpacker

US

I use this product on all of my outings. I even take it with me during summer backpacking (you never know when you will need some extra warmth). If you are looking to go light and take as few items as possible, the Option Balaclava is perfect. It provides plenty of warmth and can be used in a variety of ways. It is also thin enough to fit under a helmet (biking or climbing).

Jack Dawkins

Seattle, WA