A balaclava, also known as a balaclava helmet or Bally or ski mask, is a form of cloth headgear designed to expose only part of the face, usually the eyes and mouth. Depending on style and how it is worn, only the eyes, mouth and nose, or just the front of the face are unprotected.

What is the origin of Balaclava?

The name comes from their use at the Battle of Balaclava during the Crimean War of 1854, referring to the town near Sevastopol in the Crimea, where British troops there wore knitted headgear to keep warm. Handmade balaclavas were sent over to the British troops to help protect them from the bitter cold weather.

What is a Balaclava?

What exactly is a balaclava? It's a close-fitting hood that combines the warmth of a beanie with the protection of neck gaiter in one sleek, low-profile piece. Some balaclavas cover the entire face except for the eyes, while some have an opening for the whole face and others have separate vents for the mouth and nose.