What exactly is a balaclava?

Under one balaclava one understands a cap which is pulled over the whole head and partly neck. Depending on the intended use, all or part of the face is open or just eyes and mouth. Since it is used for different areas, it has different terms and names, including:
– storm mask
– ski mask
– hat
– Hatscap
– Owl
– Roger dust cap
The first balaclava was the so-called Balaclava from the military sector, more precisely from the period 1853-1856, where the Crimean War prevailed. Because of the very cold winter that prevailed in Russia, the first balaclavas were distributed to British soldiers who were in the place Balaklava, which gave rise to the term. But already in the High Middle Ages (14th century) similar substances were worn, which called themselves gurgling. But most of their faces were open and the fabric stuck over their shoulders. In addition, the gargle had a tip that fell backwards. He was carried by hunters, farmers or travelers.

In Peru you even wear one today balaclava , which calls itself Waqóllo. This is worn on the occasion of the Snow Festival and covers the whole face. Usually it is very colorful, mostly because of the colors of the rainbow.

Uses and applications

The main uses include cold protection, hygiene, identity protection and fire protection.

In cold weather, the area of ​​use is usually snowy or cold landscapes, such as skiing or in Canada or Russia, when winter breaks in and the temperature is well below the minus range. The balaclavas call themselves in such cases hat and hood and are usually made of synthetic or mixed fibers and wool. Other areas include sports such as mountaineering or motorcycling to protect against strong, cold winds. These balaclavas are often made of insulating fabrics such as fleece, similar to ice diving masks worn by divers.

For hygienic reasons, the balaclava worn by motorcyclists. As the sweat production under the helmet is cranked, the balaclava used to absorb sweat. Thus, the sweat does not get into the padding of the helmet, which is not washable compared to the hood.

Identity protection is another important purpose. Thus, the balaclava is used by special units of the military or the police, so that its identity is not recognized during a mission. However, there is often an opening on the upper side of the head, so that bone microphones enough space can be guaranteed for its function. Likewise, their opponents, such as terrorists or criminals, wear such a balaclava, which was usually made of thin fabric. Autonomous groups made use of balaclavas (which were called hate caps) around the year 1980, that the Vermummungsverbot was initiated in 1985.

Another area is fire protection, where the balaclava is called flame protection hood. It is considered part of the respiratory equipment. It is commonly used in the fire department as well as in car racing to protect the skin from burns caused by heat and / or fire that is generated during work. It is mandatory in both areas. In racing, however, the balaclava is made of fabrics such as Nomex, which are fireproof, and extend over the entire neck.

suggested products

Anyone who wants to buy a balaclava can do so via the Internet or through appropriate commercial transactions, such as sports shops with mountaineering or ski equipment or car dealerships with a motorcycle department. On average, the price is between 5 and 25 euros per balaclava. Decisive are processing and material. For the identity protection, one for 5 euros is enough. For the sporting sector, it can not hurt (or is more necessary) to invest a little more, as they are offered in specialty stores.

Recommended products in the field of balaclava, which are offered on the Internet, would be the following:
– Balaclava by iapyx: 100% cotton. Panoramic field of view. It is suitable for both skiing and motorcycling.
– Hisert balaclava: Thermoactive. Available in different colors. 92% polyester and 8% spandex. Natural heat regulation. Elastic.