What Kind of Snowboarding Facemasks Covers the Nose?

Some snowboarders and skiers look primarily for utility in the snow gear they take to the mountain; others are obsessed with the fashion statement they'll be making. The former camp looks for a face mask, for instance, that covers not just the mouth, but the nose and even forehead too for optimum comfort; the latter camp has its eyes peeled for a style that best conforms to their personal taste. But you can belong to both camps.

  1. Bandanas

    • Allowing for the most ventilation and versatility among face masks, heavy-duty bandanas, tied or affixed with hook-and-loop or touch fasteners across the face, allow for air flow around the neck and ears when they are worn in two ways -- over the mouth but not the nose, or over the nose and mouth together. These types of masks also are easy to adjust on the fly when colder conditions arise, like after the point when your face meets that pile of snow.

    Balaclavas

    • Balaclavas function as a partial face mask and hoodie combined, providing protection from the cold for your mouth, ears and head. You'll need to find a special type of balaclava that covers the nose.

      Made of fleece, cotton and/or special microfibers like Gortex, balaclavas have been keeping soldiers warm worldwide for decades. Luckily for your fashion sense, balaclavas -- nose-covering or not -- are made in a wide range of colors and styles beyond the military's olive drab.

    Mouth and Nose Scarfs

    • Attached with straps of touch fasteners or latches at the back of the neck, special masks for snowboarders or skiers are made with added ventilation under the nose and over the mouth that keeps condensation from forming inside the mask. These masks are made to be windproof, waterproof and moisture resistant, with durable fabrics like neoprene that can trap body heat and resist extreme elements.

      This modified scarf is an effective complement to a balaclava without nose protection.

    Style, Style, Style

    • Though many manufacturers of specialized masks for snow sports limit their colors to black, other face mask makers seek to attract as many style- or impact-minded people as possible. Some humorous nose-and-mouth coverings include the hockey mask that Jason wore in "Halloween" or full face covers with eye holes and nose/mouth vents that also make your face look like an eagle, rat or clown. More inconspicuous varieties are made in a variety of color combinations to add flair and blend into your ski outfit scheme -- if that's your thing.