Tactical Summer Balaclava: CoolMax, Cotton, Viscose

Summer Balaclava: How to Choose a Lightweight Model for the Warm Season

A summer balaclava is for those who spend long periods outdoors in the sun and on the move: on duty, at a training ground, in airsoft, on a hike or on a motorcycle. What sets it apart from winter and fleece models is a thin fabric that doesn't trap heat, releases moisture faster and doesn't get in the way under a helmet. At the same time, it covers the neck, ears and part of the face from the sun, dust and rubbing from gear. When choosing, the most important thing is the fabric, and only then the cut and the way you wear it.

Which fabric to choose for a summer balaclava

CoolMax is a synthetic fabric for active movement: it wicks sweat away from the skin and dries quickly. A CoolMax balaclava is a good fit when you move a lot and sweat, and can't take your headwear off for long. The downside of synthetics is that people used to natural fabrics may find it less pleasant to the touch.

Cotton knit is soft and doesn't irritate the skin, but it absorbs sweat and dries slowly: after intense exertion, the damp fabric stays on your head for longer. Such balaclavas are convenient for a calmer pace — standing watch, working at a position, traveling. Viscose is smooth and light; the description of the viscose balaclava in pixel camouflage mentions a cut with a minimum of seams and flat inside seams, so the fabric doesn't chafe the scalp.

Rib knit is a fabric with a textured ribbed pattern that stretches well and fits the head snugly. It is chosen when it's important that the balaclava doesn't slip or bunch up under a helmet or headphones.

Single opening, open face or 3-in-1 model

A balaclava with a single opening covers almost the entire face and leaves only the eye area, or part of it, exposed. It camouflages well and protects from the sun and dust, but moisture builds up under the fabric near the mouth and nose, and breathing is harder when running. For intense movement, a large opening is more convenient: for example, on the colored balaclava with an animal print, an oval opening exposes the face from forehead to chin, and the extended lower part forms a neck gaiter. The UPF 50+ UV protection is stated in the description for this model only; no such rating is given for the others.

The 3-in-1 model is a convertible: it can usually be worn fully covering the face, with the lower part pulled down under the chin, or folded into a hat. Check how exactly a particular balaclava transforms by looking at the photos and description. A fold-down mask is handy when conditions change during the day: you cover your face from dust or sun, and uncover it to drink, talk or during a break, without taking your helmet off.

How to wear a balaclava under a helmet and in the sun

A thin balaclava under a helmet should fit snugly, without wrinkles on the crown or thick seams that press under the suspension system. Try it on together with your helmet: if the fabric bunches into wrinkles, shifts, or the helmet sits higher, choose a different size or a fabric that stretches better. Tuck the lower part under your collar — this way it doesn't ride up and protects the neck from rubbing by straps and body armor.

In the sun, the balaclava shields the neck, ears and cheekbones, which are the parts that most often get burned. Dark fabric heats up noticeably more under direct sunlight, so choose the color not only to match your uniform but also with regard to how much time you will spend in the open sun. Keep a spare: wearing the same balaclava several days in a row in the heat irritates the skin. Don't expect a thin summer balaclava to protect against rain or strong wind — other items are needed for that. Look for models for the colder season among all tactical balaclavas.

Frequently asked questions

What is better in summer: CoolMax or cotton?

For active movement and prolonged exertion, CoolMax is better because it dries quickly. Cotton feels nicer to the touch but stays damp for longer. If you don't sweat much and move at a calm pace, a cotton balaclava will do just fine.

Do summer balaclavas protect against ultraviolet radiation?

The UPF 50+ rating is stated only for the colored balaclava with a print. It is not stated for the other models, so they protect simply by covering the skin with fabric.

How much does a summer balaclava cost?

Prices range from 120 to 570 UAH. Compare models by the fabric and cut that you need. We deliver across Ukraine.