FACEMASKS

Facemasks are important to have on very cold days to prevent frostbite. (Many of us have a specific temperature – including wind-chill – that we know is our cutoff point when a facemask is needed.) If your helmet is not full-faced, a facemask is a must. If not normally worn when riding, a facemask is always important to have stored in an inside pocket, where it will stay warm, in case the weather worsens. Balaclava facemasks made of thin polyester, silk or other synthetic fabrics are lightweight, less bulky, more comfortable, and often preferred over knit stocking cap style facemasks. Technology is coming up with some very effective and comfortable facemasks for cold weather travelers.

Neoprene face masks are also useful, particularly when combined with another thin facemask. Some varieties have a “snorkel-nose” to deflect exhalations from goggles, helping to minimize fogging problems. The neoprene masks work much better against the wind also.

Photos of guys wearing misc. facemasks: neoprene, head sock, mask, wool, no-fog -- Coming Soon.