10 Best Neck Gaiters for Runners Reviewed
Taren Weidaw
Marko Ivanoski
One of the great things about neck gaiters is that their design makes them really versatile. They can be wrapped around the head in different positions to cover your ears, nose, mouth, and pretty much anywhere else you may get cold from the neck up.
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WoolX -
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Arc'teryx RHO LTW -
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Smartwool Merino 250 -
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Smartwool NTS Mis 150 -
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Buff Multi-functional -
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Columbia Fast Trek -
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Oakley Factory -
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Arctic Extreme -
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Carhartt Fleece -
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Turtle Fur
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
10 Best Neck Gaiters for Runners
1. WoolX
The amazing material in Merino Wool
Great breathability
Runs a little small
Great colors to choose from
A very lightweight option for you. This gaiter is one of the best gaiters when it comes to breathability and fabric. Since it’s made with very high-quality Merino wool which is a soft and warm material that keeps away moisture and keeps you warm.
Read moreFeatures
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 the 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.
2. Arc'teryx RHO LTW
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
Made of natural merino wool and elastane, the Arc'teryx RHO LTW Men’s Neck Gaitor is a piece of equipment designed for winter wear. It is a non-bulky, durable piece of equipment that is designed to eliminate odors as well as wick moisture away.
Read moreFeatures
The fabric used in making the gaiter a durable merino wool and elastane blend. The wool is stretchy by itself, but the elastic 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.
3. Smartwool Merino 250
Wicking fabric
Odorless
Very adjustable
A little more costly than other products
Only available in 2 colors
This neck gaiter is great for those people who are looking to keep away moisture from your body. The main characteristic of this product is the wicking fabric of wool that naturally removes moisture from your skin and still keeps you warm. It’s great to find a product that stays dry as well and doesn’t even have an odor.
Read moreImportant Features
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.
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.
4. Smartwool NTS Mis 150
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, the fabric tends to “pill” as it wears.
The Smartwool Unisex NTS Mis 150 Reversible Neck Gaiter is a soft double-layered gaiter designed for winter use.
Read moreImportant Features
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 that of the fact that it wears poorly.
5. Buff Multi-functional
Cool Design
Easy to hand wash, dries easily
Durable
Versatile
Frays (“pills”) with age
Can be a little too loose
Lightweight and thin, the Original Buff is a versatile, durable and compact piece of clothing.
Read moreFeatures
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.
6. Columbia Fast Trek
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
The Columbia Unisex Fast Trek Neck Gaiter is a comfortable, albeit tight fitting winter wear neck gaiter. It is made of a moisture wicking, durable, and breathable polyester.
Read moreFeatures
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.
7. Oakley Factory
Soft & comfortable
Form-fitting (doesn’t fall off face)
Made of Durable 100% polyester
Seam somewhat rough
Imported
The Oakley Men's Factory Neck Gaiter is made of comfortably soft, stretchy, and durable 100% polyester microfleece material.
Read moreImportant Features
Its 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 due to the rough seams that bothered a lot of reviewers.
8. Arctic Extreme
Great price
Very soft material
Sizing might be an issue
This neck gaiter keeps you warm with insulated fleece. It has a thermal yarn so that it can keep the heat inside and it’s also breathable. When you purchase this gaiter, you get a pack of 2, not just one.
Read moreFeatures
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.
9. Carhartt Fleece
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
The Carhartt Men's Fleece Neck Gaiter is made of a soft and warm, super-stretchy 92% polyester and 8% Spandex blend.
Read moreImportant Features
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
10. Turtle Fur
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.
The Turtle Fur Heavyweight Neck Warmer is double layered gaiter made of a specially processed 100% acrylic material that gives it a soft feel.
Read moreImportant Features
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.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features 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 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.
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.
Size 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.
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.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Size Weather Resistance Weight Features 
Although compression gear can be very helpful when it comes to improving circulation and keeping your body warm, the last place you want to provide compression to is your neck. Make sure that any neck gaiters or neck warmers that you purchase fit you loosely enough to allow you to breathe normally, especially while you are running!
Some of the products listed here are made from Merino wool. Any type of wool, Merino included, can potentially trigger an allergic reaction in an individual with the predisposition towards textile allergies. Extra care must be taken when it comes to allergies around the neck, because any swelling or irritation can lead to restricted breathing and turn into a life-threatening situation.
Other Factors to Consider
Versatility 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
Breathability The same way you want comfort and good running pants or vests so do you need a neck gaiter that both comfortable and breathable. 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.
Comfort Comfort will be achieved by getting the right fit and also picking the right material that doesn’t affect your skin. 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.
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.
Bottom Line 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.
Value 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sources
- , Road.cc, Sporting Website,
- , Thither, Consumer Website,
- , Going Awesome Places, Consumer Website,
- , Wyatt Maktrav's Adventures, Consumer Website,
- , Grace and Thane, Consumer Website,
- , Women's Running, Running Website,
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