Just Buy a Balaclava
Long the domain of skiers (see Olympic medalist Lindsey Vonn and Jackie O. on the slopes), wool and cashmere balaclavas have popped up more and more on the streets over the past few years — and by now it’s fair to say they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. And I’m not complaining: As temperatures continue to drop, I’ll take all the extra face coverage I can get. Balaclavas are basically a scarf and hat in one and are all the warmer for it — plus it’s one less thing to lose.
As a longtime Chicagoan turned New Yorker, I consider myself somewhat of an expert when it comes to staying warm without forgoing my sense of style. Balaclavas are essential to that formula, so I set out to find the best ones on the ever-expanding market — from striped hoods from Damson Madder to Anthropologie’s take on the faux-fur headwear taking over the city. Here, you’ll find balaclavas that add something to even the most dreary of winter puffers — so if you’re looking for something to simply stuff under your ski helmet, I’m afraid you’re out of luck.
Updated on January 16, 2026
With more cold weather ahead, I gathered a new bunch of balaclavas from some of our favorite knitwear brands. I also double-checked stock and pricing for each one.
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Damson Madder — the London-based brand known for its leopard print — has a whole collection of colorful (and distinctly un-medieval-serf-like) “hoods.” I’m partial to this striped number, which you can tie in a bow under your chin.
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They’ve added a handful of hooded scarves to the collection this year, too, including this striped number that would count as a pop of red for any winter outfit.
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If you’re feeling medieval, Paloma Wool’s hood would fit right over a suit of armor (or a cashmere crewneck).
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Organic Basics makes some of our favorite, well, basics. Its affordable balaclava holds true to the brand’s Copenhagen roots, where balaclavas have become one with street style.
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A faux-fur bonnet will stand out from the sea of faux-fur hats around town.
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Since I bought this balaclava last year, it has been my go-to (non-itchy) layer whenever temperatures drop below freezing. At the front, you’ll find functional buttons that’ll blend right in with your cardigan of choice.
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The bona fide zipper on this one, though, makes it a compatible accessory for our sweatshirt (and quarter-zip) enthusiasts.
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According to stylist Lilli Millhiser, & Other Stories is a reliable place to find high quality yet affordable balaclavas. Here’s a neutral option with a snug fit designed to frame your face. It’s made from recycled cashmere that’ll feel soft against your cheeks.
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There’s also a brushed version if your New Year’s resolution is to add more texture to your wardrobe.
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Dôen Deneige Hat
An homage to après-ski styles of the 1960s, according to Dôen, this hand-crocheted cotton-alpaca-blend hood looks right out of Jackie O’s wardrobe. (It’s not too far off from a Taylor Swift outfit change, either.)
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Tie these adjustable drawstrings into a neat bow to keep the elements out (and add a little personality to your ankle-length coat).
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For a Fair Isle knit that’ll fit right in with your après-ski getup, try J.Crew’s lambswool balaclava. There’s a matching sweater for anyone who’d like to complete the ensemble.
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Consider this a (relatively) affordable introduction to activewear brand Varley.
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Forget those failed crochet projects: This chunky option is crafted from alpaca and merino wool — no crochet hook required.
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I found a variety of solid-color options for those who like a no-frills balaclava. Layer it under your North Face Nuptse (or any puffer, for that matter).
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The tasseled scarf ends on this hood are long enough to cover everything from your neck to your ears.
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It doesn’t get more affordable than H&M’s ribbed hood (meaning you won’t need to feel guilty if you leave it in a cab).
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Here’s Ganni’s petal-pink balaclava for anyone who identifies as a ski Barbie (or simply wants to trade their Pilates wrap top for a wrap balaclava).
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Last year, we pleaded: Bury us in Gap’s CashSoft. This drawcord hood that you can tuck into your chunky cardigan is no exception.
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Made of the same wispy alpaca fiber as Sezane’s ever popular Othello cardigan, this adjustable hood is a more affordable option from the brand.
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Finally, a more slopes-adjacent balaclava. Definitely a step up from the shellaclava I wear while skiing.
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