Balaclava

A balaclava is a knitted or fabric head covering designed to protect the head, neck, and most of the face, with openings for the eyes and often the nose and mouth. It is worn in cold weather to shield against wind and cold and is commonly used under helmets or as a standalone layer in winter conditions.

The garment is named after Balaklava, a town on the Crimean Peninsula, where British troops wore such coverings during the 1854 Battle of Balaklava. The term has since become generic for full-head knit coverings, though regional usage varies: some places distinguish a balaclava (covering the head and neck) from a ski mask (typically full-face).

Design variations range from full-face balaclavas that expose only the eyes to open-face designs with larger eye holes. Materials include wool, cotton, acrylic, and synthetic fleece, with some versions lined for extra warmth or moisture-wicking. Uses include military, police or security contexts in cold environments, as well as outdoor sports such as skiing and cycling. Because balaclavas can conceal identity, their use in public spaces is regulated in some jurisdictions.

Care and maintenance: follow fabric guidelines; wool may require hand washing and air drying; machine washing on gentle cycle is common for synthetic versions. Proper drying prevents shrinkage and distortion.