A neck gaiter or warmer can give you an added measure of protection against the snow and cold. It’s not always necessary to wear one of these when you ride, but they are cheap and easy to have in a pocket, just in case you need it.
I’m an avid snowboarder who has spent hundreds of days out in the snow. I always carry a neck gaiter with me for those days when the weather is freezing and I want to keep my face more comfortable.
The Blackstrap the Tube is my pick for the best snowboard neck gaiter and warmer. This is a dual-layer option that will give you excellent protection from the snow and cold. It’s also super comfortable.
There are a few other solid options out there to choose from, and in this post, I’ll show you all of my favorites. They are all affordable, and I recommend having at least one gaiter sitting around for those colder days.
Let’s bundle up and get going.
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Who Should Get This
Neck gaiters are best suited for boarders who need a bit of extra help staying warm out on the slopes. While the items aren’t quite as insulated as balaclavas or face masks, they help lock out cold air from getting to your neck or body.
If you’re someone who constantly runs cold while they ride, or if you want to add a bit of insulation to your ensemble without putting on another layer, a warmer is the way to go. They are cheap and small, so I recommend every rider get one.
Top Snowboard Neck Gaiter/Warmer
Here are my top picks for the best snowboard neck gaiter/warmer.
1. Blackstrap the Tube
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Dual-layer construction, comfortable, UV protection, four-way stretch fabric, seamless inner lining
- Material: Synthetic
- Cost: $$
The best overall neck gaiter or warmer for snowboarding is the Blackstrap the Tube. This is a great item that will work for just about any rider. You can easily buy this one and have it last for the next twenty years.
It has a dual-layer construction that sets it apart from the competition to provide all sorts of warmth and comfort. This feature will keep your face reliably warm, and the added layer of insulation is nice to have when you need it.
The Tube is made out of a lightweight synthetic material that does an excellent job blocking the snow and cold. It’s durable but also soft and comfortable. It has four-way stretch properties, so you can adjust it however you like.
The fabric is also UV resistant with protection of UPF 50+. This means you can wear it on bright and sunny days to keep your skin protected from harmful radiation and sun exposure. It’s also very breathable, so your goggles won’t fog up on warmer days.
The Tube is also moisture-wicking and quick to dry. If you work up a sweat or happen to drop it in the snow, it will still be usable and effective. The material is also soft enough to work as a lens cleaner.
It’s slightly expensive for a gaiter but still very affordable.
==> You can also get it on Backcounty or Evo or DICK’S.
2. Buff Lightweight Merino Wool
- Best for: Cold Weather
- Key features: Warm, comfortable, soft, multiple colors available, wind-resistant, lightweight, versatile
- Material: Merino Wool
- Cost: $$
The Buff Lightweight Merino Wool is the option to use when the weather gets cold. Merino wool is an excellent material that gives serious insulating properties while also blocking out the wind and cold very effectively.
This one is made of 100% Merino wool for quality construction that will deliver when needed. I already mentioned how well this keeps you warm, but it is also very soft and comfortable to wear all day long.
It’s very lightweight and won’t feel stiff or thick, like some other more heavy-duty gaiters available. You can still easily wear this with a helmet or stuff it in your pocket and save it for those very cold days.
It also comes in multiple colors, so you can pick an option that matches your style out on the slopes. The natural fibers are moisture-wicking and odor resistant, which are both a must for a good neck gaiter.
You will need to follow some specific washing and care instructions to prevent shrinkage and get a good lifespan out of the item.
==> You can also get it on BUFF or Backcountry or MEC.
3. Hurley Multipurpose Neck Gaiter
- Best for: Budget Pick
- Key features: Affordable, durable, moisture-wicking, machine washable, multifunctional, comfortable
- Material: Polyester
- Cost: $
If you want a budget gaiter without sacrificing much performance, check out the Hurley Multipurpose Neck Gaiter. It’s a high-quality option that comes in a little cheaper than the other top options mentioned on this list.
A 100% polyester construction gives you a solid barrier of protection against the snow, wind, cold, and sun. It has a seamless construction that makes it very durable and comfortable as well.
The gaiter is also very breathable and will let moisture escape as you breathe without getting soggy or wet. This is a great consideration on warmer days when you need a little extra airflow.
It’s also very easy to care for and can be washed in the machine without worry.
This isn’t the warmest option around and has little insulation.
4. Exio Winter Neck Warmer
- Best for: Fit
- Key features: Elastic closure, warm, comfortable, seamless design, multiple color options, quick-dry, moisture-wicking
- Material: Nylon/Polyester/Spandex
- Cost: $
The Exio Winter Neck Warmer is one of the best fitting neck gaiters and warmers around. It will sit comfortably over your face without sliding down and has a soft and stretch construction that is just nice to wear.
An elastic enclosure helps to keep the gaiter securely in place when you ride. It’s made of a combination of nylon, polyester, and spandex for a comfortable fit that will stretch around the shape of your face without being too tight.
It also comes with a seamless design that is intended to enhance comfort and fit as well. You won’t have any rubbing or chafing issues when wearing this.
Another great feature is strategically placed air holes that help the gaiter be very breathable, allowing air to come in easily. It’s also swift to dry if you do end up getting it wet.
Some people might not light the elastic fit, and it can take a little getting used to if you are accustomed to looser gaiters.
How to Choose Neck Gaiter or Warmer for Snowboarding
Here are some important things to keep in mind when choosing a gaiter or neck warmer for snowboarding.
Comfort
Before anything else, your gaiter needs to be comfortable. There are two parts to this.
First, you want one made with soft materials that feel good against your skin. Second, it also has to fit correctly in a way that will lock out the cold without being too tight.
That balance of fit and function is incredibly important for a neck warmer because ones that don’t sit right won’t be as effective.
Durability
As with any other piece of snowboard gear, your neck warmer must be durable. Winters can be pretty harsh, especially in colder environments where you need extra insulation. Do your best to get a well-made model with tough insulation.
The better the construction, the better it will be at locking out the cold. A tough build will also last much longer, giving you better results over a longer period.
Design
When getting a neck gaiter, pay attention to the design. Some models can only be worn in one way, while others are much more versatile in what they cover. This consideration relates to how much warmth you need.
If you’re someone who only wants a bit of extra insulation, a strict neck warmer is the way to go. If you need options, get one that also can cover your mouth and nose.
Useful Tips
Neck gaiters go a long way towards keeping you warm.
However, staving off the cold is not easy out on the mountain. You don’t just need the right clothes, you need to wear them in the right way. If you want to know how to make that happen, check out the tips outlined here.
Layering is also important, but it’s far from the only way to stay insulated. Many small things can help you keep warm while you’re boarding. This article from REI, while tailored towards skiing, has some excellent suggestions.
My Verdict
The Blackstrap the Tube is my pick for the best neck gaiter or warmer to use for snowboarding. This warm and comfortable option utilizes a dual-layer construction to keep the snow and cold away from your face.
Every snowboarder can use some extra warmth from time to time. Neck gaiters are a great way to keep warm, especially if you’re someone who gets cold often while out on the slopes. All of the options you’ll find here will work well to keep your face protected.
About Lorraine