Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas

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Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas
MPS photo studio

clothing

Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas

Product test: neck warmer
Weather protection for the head, neck and neck

Balaclavas, face masks and neck warmers in the driver’s equipment play a subordinate role. Protection for the head and neck is not only a hot tip in cold weather, but also proves to be very helpful when you have money problems.

Thorsten Dentges

10/22/2009

Iris is about the money. Or what you get for it. Iris is 19 years old, a great intern at MOTORRADonline, models (see product images), is blonde, but by no means blue-eyed. Because Iris, a new high school graduate, is chronically clammy and still has the common sense that some product developers have apparently lost. “Before spending any money on some of the items here, I’d rather take my grandma’s hand-knitted scarf”, explains the enthusiastic motorcyclist after the test laps. She is right: a good woolen scarf warms the neck, neck and face at least satisfactorily. Even though, as with some of the products tested, the wind blows in from the left and right and from above and below.

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So why should you leave your coal in a specialty shop? Because it’s worth it. A good or even very good functional part protects and warms thanks to windbreaking layers even in rainy weather, applies thinly so that there are no annoying bulges under the jacket and does not flutter in the wind. As a rule, neck and face protection provides the best service on the motorcycle from spring to autumn, is slipped over with a handle and can be easily stowed away from the motorcycle in the jacket pocket. For the really cold days, this desired textile should have extensive insulation in the chest and neck area and insulate with high-quality fleece material. Open face helmet wearers need particularly good face protection, so in summer they prefer wind-repellent masks instead of bulky, fluttering cloths. If the functional part proves to be a reliable partner in addition to motorcycling in outdoor activities such as cycling and winter sports or when walking around with the dog, Grandma’s scarf has finally had its day. Then the money is well invested. The products presented cost between eight and almost 40 euros, money that, when things go bad, you also spend on cough teas and nasal drops. Therefore: do not save at the wrong end! Cotton balaclavas for 1.99 euros from the grab table are just about keeping the helmet clean and flowing hair under control. A simple cotton cloth, on the other hand, is only suitable for holding a chinstrap rubbing off your neck better. But these are also popular side effects with significantly more expensive, specially tailored balaclavas, neck warmers and face masks. Iris would do well to question exactly how much function such a textile part offers in return.

Bikers: Summer Tube


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

Nice idea to equip a tight-fitting tubular cloth with a fine Gore wind stopper membrane. In practice, however, it is only of limited use. When you breathe, the cloth sticks to your mouth, so it is only suitable as a thin neck protection.

Price: 24.95 euros

Sizes: S to L


H. A. D .: Multituch Original


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Folded up, it is hardly bigger than a matchbox, very versatile and with great features
Carrying comfort – the H.A.D. is great under the open face helmet. However, only in summer, because the insulation performance is rather modest.

Price: 13.95 euros

Sizes: universal size


Hero: Face Shield 9843


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: sufficient

Just the thing for bad boys and girls – at least when it comes to fashion requirements. Functionally, however, the mask is less inspiring because it does not fit well on the face and drafts are freely admitted. Moderate comfort.

Price: 19.95 euros

Sizes: S and L


IXS: Toldo


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Easy to put on, best quality and good weather protection. You like to have the Toldo on your skin and in your luggage so that you don’t have to suffer under a jet helmet even in bad weather. Not exactly cheap, but really good.

Price: 27.50 euros

Sizes: S / M and L / XL

Louis: Leather cloth


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: sufficient

The fit is moderate, but the weather protection is okay. The huge, new, somewhat strongly smelling leather cloth is awkward to use. Okay for stylish retro bikers and chopper drivers, but nothing more.

Price: 19.95 euros

Sizes: universal size

Polo: neoprene mask


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: poor

The mask is preformed, but the question arises as to which species the product should fit with. At least all of the test subjects quickly declined when it came to fit and comfort. The neck is also poorly protected.

Price: 7.95 euros

Size: universal size

Restless: Facemask


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: good / MOTORRAD test winner

A very breathable microfiber keeps the wind out, but lets out moist air so that the glasses don’t fog up. The large mask also adapts perfectly to the face and neck. That is enough for the category victory.

Price: 29.90 euros

Sizes: S to L

Scott: Wind Warrior


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

Exemplary as face protection thanks to the great windbreaking material, but the neck lacks the necessary length to efficiently protect against cooling. High-quality, compact mask that can be easily stowed in a jacket pocket.

Price: 19.95 euros

Sizes: M to XL

Bikers: Bike Pit


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: very good / MOTORRAD test winner

First-class fit, high-quality material with an absolutely tight windstopper membrane, easy to use – the almost perfect solution to efficiently protect sensitive areas on the head, neck, neck and chest.

Price: 37.50 euros

Sizes: universal size

BMW: Neck warmer


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Well thought out and very neatly processed. The neck warmer not only protects the neck, but also the neck in an exemplary manner against cold airflow. The fleece inside is fluffy, but unsuitable for very warm summer days.

Price: 28 euros

Sizes: S to L

Germas: Taslan neck warmer


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: sufficient

Drafts occur on the neck and neck while driving, and the face is completely exposed. Fortunately, the material and price are only thinly applied, but there are significant functional weaknesses in terms of fit and weather protection.

Price: 15.95 euros

Sizes: S to XL

H.A.D .: multi-cloth fleece


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORCYCLE verdict: very good / MOTORCYCLE buyer’s tip

Uncomplicated, versatile, ingenious! The thin, very elastic tubular cloth adapts to every head and neck shape and can be easily stowed away. The lower part of the fleece provides adequate weather protection and the price is fair.

Price: 19.95 euros

Size: universal size

IXS: Zamora


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: very good

Just have to be the test winner of Bikers give up. The concept is right: thin, but perfectly windbreaking material, great workmanship and a cut that simply fits. Also fits in every jacket pocket.

Price: 35 euros

Size: universal size

Restless: tourist


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Very decent neck and face protection, which is recommended as an integral part of the equipment from spring to autumn. The chest and neck area are covered over a large area,
the tourist is still very compact in its pack size.

Price: 29.90 euros

Size: universal size

Vanucci: Windmaster Quickwarmer


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: sufficient

A good example of how a bad cut can ruin the weather protection. The actually windproof material is unfortunately of little use if the airflow is passed on to the throat as a draft like a funnel.

Price: 19.95 euros

Size: S to XL

Buse: Tactel neck warmer


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

Bears striking similarities to the restless classic. Unsuitable as face protection, but due to the thick fleece lining a decent, albeit not particularly versatile, neck protection.

Price: 26.95 euros

Sizes: S to XL

Dainese: Sottocasco


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: good

Top workmanship and quality. Wears thin and is very comfortable to wear. However, only average warmth and is therefore more likely intended for Italian winters. Would fit well in the 3-season league too.

Price: 29 euros

Sizes: M, L

Germas: tubular fleece


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

Is easy to put on and can be easily stowed in the jacket. Only moderately protects the neck and face from the cold. The fit would be better if the tube had been longer. Inexpensive in price, therefore still recommended.

Price: 15.90 euros

Sizes: universal size

Hero: Polar Fleece 6541


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

Unfortunately, a lot doesn’t always help a lot. Zipper and Velcro, extremely large insulation for the chest area and neck. Makes good weather protection, but is annoying to use. And the face is hardly protected.

Price: 14.95 euros

Sizes: S to XL

Restless: Classic neck warmer


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

It is suitable for everyone for whom the wind whistles into a textile or leather jacket that is too wide at the collar, otherwise rather bulky and one-sided in function. Plus points: The fluffy inner fleece and the wide range of sizes.

Price: 29.90 euros

Sizes: XS to XXL

Reusch: Stormhood


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: very good / MOTORRAD test winner

Consistently developed for the cold season. Top weather protection paired with a good fit – that’s what makes you want to go on a big motorcycle tour during the Christmas holidays. The price is absolutely fair for the good quality.

Price: 24.95 euros

Sizes: universal size

Thermoboy: ruff


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORRAD verdict: satisfactory

In direct comparison with the balaclava from the same company, the ruff cannot keep up due to its one-sided weather protection for the neck area. Worthwhile for jackets with wide collars.

Price: 14.95 euros

Sizes: S to L

Thermoboy: balaclava


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

MOTORCYCLE verdict: good / MOTORCYCLE buyer’s tip

If there is weather protection, then all around. With the inexpensive balaclava with large chest and neck protection, there is little to complain about apart from minimal pressure points. Provides a good climate under the helmet when it’s cold outside.

Price: 19.95 euros

Sizes: universal size

Final scoring


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


BILLION

* 100 to 95 points = outstanding; 94 to 80 points = very good; 79 to 70 points = good; 69 to 60 points = satisfactory; 59 to 50 points = sufficient; 40 to 0 points = unsatisfactory.

watch out, trap!


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


MPS photo studio

Lots of space with Thermoboy so that there is no pulling force in the neck area. Perfect for the cold season.

Risk of catching a cold

In spring and autumn, when the weather changes quickly, and even in summer, when you come from the football field sweaty, for example, a motorcycle ride can end up in a sick bed without an accident. Background: In the neck area, the carotid artery and the jugular vein run just below the surface of the skin. As with an oil cooler on a motorcycle, an enormous amount of heat is dissipated in this area by the airstream, which can lead to hypothermia with cold consequences within minutes. Something similar happens through punctual drafts that are directed through the helmet ventilation to the forehead and temples. Therefore, good balaclavas are recommended in cold weather. But watch out: the helmet should not be sealed off from the fresh air supply. Gradually the carbon dioxide content in the helmet would then increase with every breath, which in extreme cases leads to dizziness and massive concentration problems. Neck warmers, balaclavas and face masks reduce the chances of catching a cold, but they should be used wisely.

Conclusion


Product test: neck warmers, balaclavas


Dentges

Say cheeeese! Face masks like the one from Polo (right) can hardly be seen to smile.

CONCLUSION
A good functional part is affordable even without going to the bank. From around 20
Euro, the trade offers first-class balaclavas, neck warmers and face masks. Modern neck ruffs (Bikers, BMW, IXS, Restless) are closed and close-fitting, but thanks to the elastic, windbreaking material they allow breathing air to escape and protect the neck and face perfectly from the cooling wind. That seems to be the silver bullet. Manufacturer H.A.D. (“Made in Germany”), on the other hand, weights the weather protection somewhat less, but relies on the best comfort and ease of use – also very successful. Fluffier (but thicker) neck warmers are still useful if the jacket does not have a collar designed for cold days. At note “sufficient” By the way, a simple shawl or scarf usually works just as well.

The providers

BMW, phone 089/9500850, www.bmw-motorrad.de

Buse (Scott), phone 02471 / 1269-0, www.buese.com

Dainese, phone 089/35396766, www.dainese.de

Germas, phone 0911/635008, www.germas.de

Held, phone 08321 / 6646-0, www.held.de

IXS, phone 07631 / 1804-0, www.ixs.de

Louis (Vanucci), phone 040/73419360, www.louis.de

Polo (Bikers, Reusch, Thermoboy),
Telephone 02165 / 8440-200, www.polo-motorrad.de

Pro Feet (H.A.D.), phone 09721/509870, www.profeet.de

Restless, phone 089/7608703, www.restless.de

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