Best Motorcycle Balaclavas

This balaclava from PX is available as either a full face or an open face (as shown) and comes with a deep collar that extends down into the jacket to prevent draughts and chills from entering. The front and back are formed in a windproof membrane to keep you warm while the main section is in cotton and polar fleece for comfort and cosiness.

A comfortable, thermal balaclava to keep you nice and warm riding in the winter months. This very affordable 100% cotton balaclava offers additional protection from the elements and assists with helmet fitting; keeping everything nice and tight so you can easily slip your helmet over the top. Whilst the balaclava may seem a bit tight at first - it does stretch to fit and is well worth shelling out the cash if you're on a budget.

Another fine example of a comfortable balaclava - tight and thin enough to easily slip a helmet over and insulated enough to keep your head and neck warm on a cold winter's ride. Like the MotoGP Balaclava, the Spada Thermal requires a bit of getting used to - yes it is tight to get on at first but it will stretch to fit and offers the necessary protection from the elements.

This short balaclava from German manufacturer Held is made from Dryarn, the same material many manufacturers employ in their summer base layers. A man-made material and comprising polypropylene, polyamide and Spandex, one size fits all and it is designed to sit snug against the head and wick moisture away from the scalp. There is open mesh at the ears for hearing and the mouth for dissipating breath and the detailing reminds us of a certain web-slinging hero...

A serious piece of kit for serious conditions, like most of Rukka's clothing. The Coolmax hood section that covers the head helps insulate it and dissipate moisture in all weathers while the Gore-Tex throat, neck and chest cover prevents wind from cooling the neck and also stops water from getting in, which can ruin a ride very quickly.

The Alpinestars Open Face Balaclava is a bit pricier than some of the others on the list but with good reason. Not only does it keep your head and neck warm during a winter motorcycle ride but it's moisture wicking technology also means that it will wick away sweat and moisture; keeping you dry and comfortable during the warmer months. In addition the balaclava has a dual-seam construction at the top of the head - ensuring a better fit as well as an extended neck coverage, making it easy to wear under your jacket collar.

The most expensive balaclava on the list that boasts a number of benefits lacking in some of it's cheaper competitors. The Rev'It Maximum WSB Balaclava is windproof, water resistant and includes a windproof chest panel. It also has a number of features to keep you dry and comfortable whilst riding, including a moisture managing upper face-mask, open-knit panels for ears and mouth - for breathability and hearing respectively. The balaclava comes in a variety of sizes - to fit several head sizes and thanks to it's technology will keep you warm on cold days and cool and dry in warm weather. An all-round great balaclava.

Forming part of Knox's winter Cold Killer range, this open-face balaclava with a deep neck features a mesh panel on top of the head to allow airflow for moisture dissipation and a windproof neck - front and back - to prevent chills and draughts. Flat seams are used for comfort and the neck is lined with velboa fleece for a smooth feel.