10 Best Neck Gaiters for Runners Reviewed
By Taren Weidaw
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A neck gaiter, for the unacquainted, is a single piece of cloth constructed in a ring to be worn around an area that needs extra protection, usually the neck. Typically they are made to be elastic for a more comfortable and versatile fit. They also tend to be well insulated since they are most often made to be worn in cold weather.
One of the great things about neck gaiters is that their design gives them a wide variety of uses. They can be wrapped around the head in different positions to cover ears, nose, mouth, anywhere that sever cold might cause considerable problems for a runner.
Many gaiters are constructed from specialized cold weather materials. Well padded or insulated materials are important to keep the runner warm, but high-quality gaiters also need to emphasize wicking. It is important for winter wear to dry as well as warm. We know that running in cold weather already provides a long list of additional challenges. Our hope is that we can make choosing the right winter gear that much easier so you can focus on the important part of winter running: the running.
- Columbia Fast Trek
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Our rating - 100% Polyester
- 250g microfleece
- Machine Wash
- Versitle Warmth & Softness
- Price: See Here
- Buff Original Headwear
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Our rating - 100% Microfiber
- One size fits all adults
- Moisture wicking
- Polygiene active odor control
- Price: See Here
- Carhartt Fleece Neck Gaiter
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Our rating - 92% Polyester
- 8% Spandex
- Hand Wash
- Wind/Cold Restistant
- Price: See Here
10 Best Neck Gaiters for Runners
1. Columbia Fast Trek
Moisture wicking materials are important for runners, because the more moisture builds up, the more the weather affects negatively the runner. Also, wicking materials help in odor reduction.
Some reviewers noted that the tag was itchy and the fit was pretty loose.
Cost/ Value
For the Columbia Unisex Fast Trek Neck Gaiter is an excellent deal.
- Comfortable, snug fit
- Small, compact size
- Durable 100% polyester
- Machine washable
- Breathable
- Warm
- Scratchy tags
- Rather tight for some users, may be too small for others
3. Buff Multifunctional
Lightweight and compact – this is important because it’s small enough to fit into your pocket without being too bulky.
Extremely versatile. While many of the neck gaiters are extremely adaptable, the Original Buff is ideal for many uses. There were some complaints about the durability and loose fit, but overall, was considered a good product. If you need something for extremely cold weather, you might want to consider another option.
Cost & Value
If you’re looking for a lightweight starting neck gaiter that’s easy on the pocketbook, the Original Buff headwear is the way to go.
- Cool Design
- Easy to hand wash, dries easily
- Durable
- Versatile
- Frays (“pills”) with age
- Can be a little too loose
4. Carhartt Fleece
The fact that the gaiter is made of a stretchy polyester and spandex blend is an important factor for runners to consider when examining this product, because some of the other brands out there are too tight.
Reviewers complained about the breathability.
Cost/ Value
This is the cheapest of all the selections on this list and not that bad for the price.
- Sturdy construction that doesn’t “pill” like some of the other ones out there
- Comfortable
- Stretchy
- VERY Warm
- Snug fit for the lower half of the face.
- Good price
- Hand wash only
- Delicate
- Irritating tag
- Muffles voice of over mouth/ can chose the user
2. Turtle Fur Heavyweight Neck Warmer
Double layered construction is an important feature for runners because it’s vital for cold weather conditions, to be able to not worry about getting cold easily. The material is moisture wicking.
Cost/ Value
This is a good price, but may not be a good value, as it may not be as durable as you would like. If you’re looking for a specific color, you may find that the colors are not true to what you see on the computer screen.
- Soft, luxurious texture
- Microfleece material
- Stretchy material which pulls over the user’s head easily
- Machine washable (according to users), air dry.
- Warm
- Moisture wicking (dries quickly)
- Colors not true to photographs
- Not super breathable
- Size variable, according to some users.
5. Smartwool Merino 250
You’re able to use this neck gaiter to cover your face, or just your neck, it’s your choice since this gaiter is very adjustable to your needs. The double layer knitting system of this gaiter is excellent to keep you warm, no matter how you chose to wear it.
This gaiter also fits most people who have an average neck size, but make sure you check the sizing since the back part tends to have extra material.
You also have an option of getting it in black or white.
Cost & Value
Not the most economical gaiter, but definitely one of the best when it comes to value. If you’re looking to invest in a great product, the Smartwool Merino 250 is the way to go.
- Wicking fabric
- Odorless
- Very adjustable
- A little more costly than other products
- Only available in 2 colors
6. Arc'teryx RHO LTW
The fabric used in making the gaiter a durable merino wool and elastine blend. The wool is stretchy by itself, but the elastine gives it a more of a spring so that it can "hug" the user’s face.
Cost/ Value
This is a more costly option than some of the other neck gaiters available for purchase, but many say it’s well worth the extra price paid in terms of durability and warmth. The price is the sole reason why it’s not higher on the list.
- Soft, stretchy, non-itchy material
- Warm & wind resistant (though not too warm)
- Tight Fitting
- Durable
- Too thick/ hard to breathe in
- Some users think it’s too tight of a fit
7. Arctic Extreme Thick Heat-Trapping Thermal Insulated Fleece
The neck gaiter keeps you warm and keeps moisture out. It’s a great option for those looking for an economical solution. Keep in mind that some reviews have warned about the size. It might work great for men, but not so much for women since women have smaller necks. You might also not be able to fully cover your face because it might be too big, but for those looking to cover just your neck and stay warm, it might be a great solution.
Another great feature is that the material is very soft and feels great on your skin and you have the option of buying it in 3 different colors.
Cost & Value
One of the most economical gaiters out there because you’re purchasing 2, not just one. Many people take advantage of it and buy one for themselves and one for someone else.
- Great price
- Very soft material
- Sizing might be an issue
8. WoolX Unisex Merino Wool Neck Gaiter
Even though it runs a little small, it still has 10” in length, so for those with small necks, you’re able to wear it in any way you like. The gaiter is a great option because of the Merino Wool. This fabric not only keeps you warm, it also has no odor. The fabric also is ideal with those who have sensitive skin.
You have many options to choose from, as the gaiter is available in 10 colors and many of them are reversible. It should last a long time as it is safe in washer and dryer.
Cost & Value
A little pricey, but you’re not going to break the bank. This gaiter will be valuable in the long run as it’s supposed to last a long time.
- Amazing material in Merino Wool
- Great breathability
- Runs a little small
- Great colors to choose from
9. Smartwool NTS Mis 250
This gaiter is constructed from merino wool fabric and is fire retardant, odor resistant, and naturally moisture wicking.
Not machine washable (at least according to the label – do so at your own risk). Some reviews have stated that it can be machine washed, but air dried, by laying it flat.
Cost/ Value
This is one of the more costly options, but for what you’re getting, it’s not a bad deal. The reason why it’s not higher on the list is because of the fact that it wears poorly.
- Made of 100% merino wool
- Clean finish seams
- Very warm, even in the coldest conditions
- True to size fit
- Moisture wicking/ dries quickly
- Contains natural anti-odor properties
- Irritating tag and/or seams
- Not machine washable
- Not as good of quality as some other gaiters on the market, fabric tends to “pill” as it wears.
10. Oakley Factory
It's fabric component is very soft, durable microfleece polyester. It is also form fitting which is an important factor, because some of the other brands on the market tend to fall off the face.
Cost/ Value
This is one of the cheaper choices out there, without complaints in regards to quality of construction. The reason it isn’t higher rated is because of the rough seams that bothered a lot of reviewers.
- Soft & comfortable
- Form fitting (doesn’t fall off face)
- Made of Durable 100% polyester
- Seam somewhat rough
- Imported
Neck gaiters are a very versatile piece of equipment able to be used in both hot and cold weather can be used in a variety of ways. Among these are:
- Scarf or neckerchief
- Standalone turtleneck
- Hat (beanie or skull cap) or hat liner
- Hood
- Face mask or breathing protection device (keeps out the cold and, depending on the make and model, dust and insects as well)
- “Ninja’’ face mask hood for under a helmet. Also called a balaclava.
- Headband, saharine, bandana, or sweatband
- “Do-rag” or “pirate rag”
- Water bottle holder
- Alice rag or headscarf – away to keep hair out of your face
- Tube top
- Ponytail accessory
- Wristband (twisted back onto the wrist) or a makeshift pair of gloves/ mittens if you have a pair of them (Useful if you have sweaty hands, but don’t need fine motor control)
- Earmuffs
The Criteria Used When Looking For The Best Neck Gaiters For Runners
Many runners are intimidated by the idea of running in the winter time, which is fair. Running in cold weather isn’t just an inconvenience, it can be dangerous. But many runners see running in inclement weather as a challenge and are undeterred by the risks. Which is why we stress how important it is to keep warm. This is a simple idea if you aren’t planning to exert yourself but the needs of athletes make it complicated. Keeping warm while running means you have a dozen or so other factors you need to account for, from wicking to ventilation.
On top of keeping warm, running in inclement weather endangers something else as well: your skin. Runners already have a plethora of skin concerns, blisters, and infections that can develop from an excess of heat and moisture. The cold weather adds on the factor of damage to the skin, blistering and chaffing caused by the low temperature and the wind. Not to mention the dangers of frostbite and exposure.
All of this is the reason we are so keen to offer a list of high-quality neck gaiters. This little piece of cloth can be a shield from a large number of uncomfortable issues, not to mention its ability to manage moisture. A neck gaiters wicking ability can pull sweat from the neck and face to prevent rashes, irritation, and infections. Its insulated construction doesn’t only protect you from the cold, it can prevent cracking and blistering from the wind as well as sunburn which is just a big a concern in the winter as it is in the summer.
We take into serious consideration all of the criteria that we use to determine the high-quality neck gaiters that end up on this list. It is these criteria that we have also chosen to explain below so that our readership will understand what we use to determine our candidates. It is our hope that this insight will allow our readership to make more sound decisions and properly prioritize when choosing gaiters that will suit them best.
Overall Features to Look For
Neck gaiters have different features that make them stand out and also make them function more effectively. Some of these features are:
Attachment
Many necks running gaiters are made in a way that when worn they can comfortably fit around the neck and hence be able to keep the neck warm always. This means that you need to have the perfect fit for your neck gaiter. Something to lose will mean that it cannot cover your whole neck and it will loosely hang on the lower part of your neck, making you get overheated on that particular part of the neck. Something too tight will make you uncomfortable and probably cause a skin rash and make you feel too much heat. The best fit is something that you can comfortably move your neck without any feeling of discomfort.
Weather resistance
If you plan to run in the snow, or in wet, muddy conditions, you’ll want to get a gaiter that provides you with some weather resistance. Make sure that your neck gaiter is definitely wind resistant and water resistant. This will guarantee that you are always warm regardless of the cold weather. Keeping your neck warm is very important as this will not only keep you warm but also prevent any infections that you may get when running in a cold weather. Make sure that the neck gaiter you get is weather resistant.
Fit
This is one of the most important factors when looking for a neck gaiter as fit will determine your whole running experience. Make sure you try the neck gaiter out before making any purchase, also take into consideration the material used whether it stretches or not. When you have the perfect fit you will be able to enjoy comfort and hence make your running experience more enjoyable. Also, you can always inquire from the salesperson if you are making a physical purchase in a store, but if you are doing an online purchase then you can always refer to buying guide charts provided by most online shopping platforms.
Breathability & Comfort provided by the Neck Gaiter
The same way you want comfort and good running pants or vests so do you need a neck gaiter that both comfortable and breathable. Comfort will be achieved by getting the right fit and also picking the right material that doesn’t affect your skin. The breathability of the gaiter is also a vital criterion when shopping for your next pair of neck gaiters, this means that there will be great air circulation around your neck that will enhance. Good material will ensure that you enjoy comfort and breathability. Ask about the material used in making the neck gaiters. Some neck gaiters use a fabric that is double weave and a little stretchy that offers good breathability around the neck. It is an ideal hard to get a neck gaiter that is full-length and not very stiff as this will make your neck to overheat.
Weight
Light is right when it comes to sporting gears and accessories. Most athletes make the mistake of ignoring usability and durability of sporting gears and concentrating more on the weight. And a neck gaiter isn’t supposed to be so thick that it overburdens your neck regardless of the quality but then this doesn’t mean that you should sacrifice all the other important factors when considering the weight of your neck gaiter.But then with the current technology, you will definitely find a durable neck gaiter that offers amazingly lightweight features but then they tend to be a little more expensive.
Other factors to consider
Abrasion resistance
All gaiters will feature some degree of abrasion resistance, providing high durability to prevent your gaiter from tearing should it catch on an obstacle along the trail. The Inov-8 Debris Gaiter has the lowest level of abrasion resistance that we carry, as the material is softer and more sock-like than the others. Since it does not provide durable protection for the others, it is best for simply keeping debris out.
Durability
Most athletes desire to own or have sporting apparel and accessories that are able to withstand wear and tear. It’s important that when you buying any neck gaiter you consider the durability of the product. A durable product means you have a good value for your money. Most people face a dilemma when thinking of weight and durability of a gaiter. Many opt for lighter gaiters and ignore durability, but then the idea is not to go for something that will be able to shred just after a few runs. Look for durability second to comfortability in order to avoid spending more money on getting new gaiters each season.
Selecting the Right Neck Gaiter
Like many decision when getting a running clothing, getting the perfect neck gaiter to suit can turn out to be a very complicated task. With the wide collection and variety in brands, it’s easy to get a neck gaiter that will be able to keep you warm during the cold season and also provide the comfort that you are looking for when running in a cold or windy weather.
Price
Just because you want a good neck gaiter doesn’t mean you should not consider the price of the neck gaiter. The price doesn’t mean that it relates to the quality of the neck gaiter, though the price might be a good factor to consider. It’s good to look into reviews that are given to a particular product before making a purchase. Neck gaiters are a good investment that should be given great consideration before making the purchase.
While picking out the best neck gaiters other factors were also considered like:
Their durability, and, of, course you will not waste your money buying a neck warmer that will never last for the expected months/years
Moisture-wicking ability, it is not funny to find some neck warmers that doesn’t wick moisture.
Versatility; you need to be economical; the best neck warmer should have the ability to be used in wide range of activities like skiing, hunting, snowboarding, and riding.
Breathability; will you buy a neck warmer that doesn’t allow your skin to breathe? Of course, don’t even attempt.
FAQ
Q. What is a neck gaiter?
A. A neck gaiter is a singular loop of cloth that is designed to be worn around the neck for added protection from cold weather. Gaiters are usually insulated, elastic, and moisture resistant to provide the best comfort and protection.
Q. Are neck gaiters useful in warm weather?
A. Normally neck gaiters are designed with insulation in mind, so very few of them would be comfortable in warm weather. If you have issues with excess moisture or skin that is particularly sensitive to sunlight or wind, there are thinner options available that can be used for the sake of protection.
Q. Would this be good to wear when riding a bike in the cold?
A. Neck gaiters can be especially useful on a bike ride when it comes to wind protection. The rapidly moving air you have to deal with while riding a bike can worsen the problems caused by the cold and wind. The protection provided by a neck gaiter can minimize this issue.
Q. How important is it for a neck gaiter to be water repellent/ water resistant?
A. Cold weather is not inherently wet weather. It is important to take into account the region you live in and where you will be running when shopping for a neck gaiter. If your area has a lot of cold weather precipitation then it is better to favor a model with some level of water resistance.
Q. Are neck gaiters machine washable?
A. With any clothing you will be wearing while sweating excessively, washing is important. We always recommend reading the tags or included care instructions when it comes to athletic wear. Especially since the improper washing of specialized clothing can cause excessive wear and shorten the life of your clothes.
If your neck gaiter isn’t machine washable the care instructions will provide a breakdown of how to wash them in other ways.
Q. How do I best use my neck gaiter?
A. Neck gaiters are most effective when fitted snugly but comfortably against your neck. Gaiters will yield the best results when paired with other, layered winter wear.
Q. How does neck gaiter work?
A. They are just like a scarf, and when worn, they wick moisture and dries quickly to retain heat. They are designed & made from fleece-like fabric, and so they are perfect for keeping the body warm. Since they are wind and water resistant, they are ideal for blocking away cold.
Other Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Neck Warmer
- It should be affordable
- Able to wick moisture and it is wind and waterproof
- Made from high-quality material and able to retain its original size even after multiple washes
- Fits comfortable and keeps the body warm
- Breathable and able to retain warmness
We all know that the primary sources of heat loss are the head and hands, but what many don’t realize is that a tertiary, yet significant location for heat loss is the neck. Wearing a simple neck gaiter is extremely helpful because not only can it keep your neck warm, but it ought to be pulled up over your chin and mouth if it’s brutally cold. I prefer lightweight gaiters that still keep you warm without causing excessive sweating.
Here are some sources we used while conducting our research
Sources
- , Pactimo Neck Gaiter, Sporting Website,
- , Buff Review: Does the Buff Headwear Live Up to the Hype?, Consumer Website,
- , Gear Review – Buff Original Headwear, Consumer Website,
- , Columbia Youth Fast Trek II Full Zip Fleece Review, Consumer Website,
- , REVIEW: Arc’teryx LEAF Rho LTW Neck Gaiter, Sporting Website,
- , DIY Basic Double Layer Neck Gaiter, Consumer Website,
- , 5 Unlikely Tips for Winter Running, Running Website,
- , A Buff Is A Versatile Piece Of Gear Every Runner Should Have, Running Website,
- , Winter Running Gear – Reviews of Personal Favorites From Head-to-Toe, Sporting Website,
- , What is a Neck Gaiter?, Running Website,
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