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  • Outdoor

Best Neck Gaiters in 2021

Andrew Marshall
This product guide was written by Andrew Marshall
Published April 9, 2020
Support us! GearHungry may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

If you are a fan of any kind of active outdoor pursuits, whatever the weather conditions you choose to perform in, chances are you either own or are looking into purchasing a new neck gaiter. The name is slightly misleading. They’re not just worn around your neck and they certainly won’t be holding up your socks! They are instead, a completely versatile and multi-functional, must have accessory, protecting your head and neck from the elements; come wind, rain or shine! Let’s look at some of the best of the bunch when it comes to a badass bandana.

The Best Neck Gaiter

1
Achiou Neck Gaiter

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When you try the Achiou Neck Gaiter on for the first time, the soft feel of the material will strike you immediately. Unlike cheap neck gaiters found in outdoor shops, this one is designed for long-term comfort. Whether you’re doing a multi-day hike or going for a long bike ride, this neck gaiter will stay comfortable for the duration. This is thanks to the high-quality, elastic ice silk fabric that Achiou has chosen. 

Users have also commented on how well stitched this neck gaiter is. It only comes in one size (10” x 17”) but the stitched seams do a good job of keeping it securely attached to your face. It has an impressive ability to wick the sweat away when you’re exercising and it’s UV-proof, dust-proof, sand-proof, and windproof. It would also make a cool style gift under $25 for someone special in your life.

Key Features:

Made from ice silk fabric 

Stitched seams 

UV protection 

Available in four colors 

One size fits most

Specification:
  • BrandAchiou
  • Weight1.44 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
AIWOLU Neck Gaiter

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As we’ve already established, a neck gaiter can keep out the cold, hold in the heat but also keep you cool and protected from dust and the environment. That can be especially important if you spend a lot of time out on the open road in the summer months, cycling or running where there’s going to be a fair amount of dust getting kicked up. No-one wants a face full of dirt but you still want to be able to breathe naturally and get into the flow of your sports. That’s where something like this Aiwolu Neck Gaiter comes into play. It’s been specifically manufactured to easily pull on and off when you need it and to be comfortable and breathable. This makes it the best neck gaiter for running, cycling, and other sports. It does the job of keeping you cool whilst protecting your face. It also makes a great accessory and extra layer of protection for anyone working in the construction industry too as it’s lightweight but offers ample protection from flying dust and debris.

Key Features:

Constructed out of windproof and dustproof fabric

Long length for full coverage

Breathable and comfortable but plenty of protection

Versatile and suitable for a host of outdoor summer sports

Keeps you cool when you are under pressure

Specification:
  • BrandAIWOLU
  • Weight3.52 ounces
Pros

Windproof

Dustproof

Breathable

Lightweight

Comfortable

Versatile

Seamless

Moisture wicking

One size fits all

Cons

Cooling effect only

Doesn’t offer thermal protection

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
NEXTOUR 12-in-1 Neck Gaiter

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This neck gaiter from Nextour is one of the best-reviewed products in its category on Amazon. It has nearly 2,000 reviews and has maintained an average review rating of 4.3 out of 5. That’s basically proof that the product works well and is high enough quality for the price. If it wasn’t, customers wouldn’t be giving it such good reviews consistently. 

This neck gaiter is made from a soft and durable polyester microfibre. It has an impressive ability to wick moisture away from your skin when you’re sweating. Plus, it keeps wind, dust, and other particles away from your face. The only downside is that there’s no mention of UV protection on the Amazon listing. It will provide some protection but perhaps not as much as other neck gaiters on this list.

Key Features:

Made from polyester microfibre 

Moisture-wicking 

12-in-1 design 

Available in 14 different designs

Specification:
  • BrandNEXTOUR
  • Weight7.2 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
Sunmeci Neck Gaiter

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The Sunmeci brand is all about performance under pressure, providing accessories to help you succeed and survive no matter your chosen extreme sport! All Sunmeci products are manufactured to exceptionally high levels using only the best fabrics and unique designs. This cotton velvet neck gaiter has been designed to offer warmth and comfort with a luxurious and plush look and feel. Its wind proof and cold weather proof making it the ideal snow neck gaiter. Super stretchy and super comfy too its incredibly versatile and can be worn as a face mask or even as a beanie. It’s great for all kind of outdoor activities including cycling, hiking, fishing and mountain and rock climbing as well as skiing and snowboarding. Quality construction and carefully sewn, the Sunmeci neck gaiter has been created to be durable and dependable.

Key Features:

Versatile and adaptable face scarf for multi wear use

Constructed from premium wind and dust proof fabric

High quality manufacturing design and process

Multi-purpose sports mask

Wear as a mask, bandana, beanie, balaclava or neck gaiter

Specification:
  • BrandSUNMECI
  • Weight4.2 ounces
Pros

Versatile

Windproof

Super soft

Quality manufactured

Comfortable

Stretchy

Warm

Cons

Doesn’t offer cooling effect

No built-in UV sun protection

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
JOEYOUNG Skull Face Mask

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Whoever said that you’ve got to choose a boring neck gaiter? We’ve seen enough neck gaiters in dull colors that it was time for a change of pace. The JOEYOUNG Skull Face Mask comes in 22 amazing designs ranging from a skull to a cat throwing up a rainbow. There’s nothing dull about this neck gaiter. Fortunately, though, it’s much more than just a gimmicky face mask. 

It’s made from a polyester microfibre, a fabric known for its moisture-wicking and absorbing qualities. That means, when you’re out in the hot sun, the fabric isn’t going to get drenched in your sweat. This is important if you’re hiking or cycling in the hot sun when you need to be able to breathe easily. In addition to the moisture-wicking ability, it also blocks out 95% of harmful UV rays, as well as protecting from dust and wind. 

Key Features:

Made from polyester microfibre 

Available in 22 designs 

Blocks out 95% of UV rays 

Moisture-wicking 

Protection from dust and wind

Specification:
  • BrandJOEYOUNG
  • Weight0.05 pounds
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
QCQHDU – Sun Protection Neck Gaiter

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Whether you’re protecting yourself from sun, dust, or saliva, the QCQHUD Neck Gaiter is one of the best products out there. It’s currently ‘Amazon’s Choice’ in neck gaiters, which means it’s selling fast and gaining a lot of positive reviews. This pack of four neck gaiters is the perfect way to protect you and your family. As neck gaiters go, it’s one of the most lightweight products we could find, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking to go on a ski holiday. This is what we’d call a fairweather neck gaiter. 

There’s no need to worry about the neck gaiter coming loose when you’re wearing it because there’s a stitched seam on the top and bottom. It hugs your face, without cutting off your blood supply. Made from a mixture of polyester (95%) and spandex (5%), it feels soft, stretchy, and super breathable. The fabric is also impressive in a few other ways. For example, it protects against UV rays and has amazing elasticity. It also has an amazing ability to stop eyewear from fogging up, making it the best neck gaiter for glasses on this list. 

Key Features:

Pack of four neck gaiters 

Available in six colors 

Made from polyester (95%) and spandex (5%)

Provides UV protection 

Stitched seams

Specification:
  • BrandQCQHDU
  • Weight1 pound
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
ROCKBROS Half Face Mask

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The ROCKBROS Half Face Mask is one of our favorite lightweight neck gaiters. It’s also one of the best-selling half-face masks on Amazon and has a bunch of positive customer reviews to back it up. Made from Lycra fiber, it weighs just 0.2 pounds making it one of the lightest face masks on the market. The material is also super stretchy and comfortable. You’ll probably forget that you’re wearing it. 

A lot of neck gaiters claim to provide UV protection, but don’t have the stats to back it up. Fortunately, we can confirm that the ROCKBROS Half Face Mask provides UPF50+ protection, the maximum rating of sun protection a piece of fabric can have. It’s basically like covering yourself in strong sunscreen every half an hour. This material will also provide decent protection against dust, saliva, and other particles in the air. Plus, as the model in the product pictures demonstrates, you can wear this neck gaiter in several different ways. Even as a blindfold. 

Key Features:

Made from Lycra fiber 

Provides UPF50+ protection 

Only available in black 

Lightweight and breathable

Specification:
  • BrandROCKBROS
  • Weight0.2 pounds
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Turtle Fur Neck Gaiter

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If you love outdoor pursuits, especially winter ones, then this is the perfect neck gaiter to provide plenty of thermal protection from the elements. We’re talking skiing, snowboarding, and being up a chilly mountain face! This Turtle Fur fleece is incredibly soft and warm whilst also coming in a range of stylish colors too. It has a double layer and is comfy and cozy against the skin, keeping you snug as a bug from the elements outside. It’s 100% acrylic so shouldn’t cause any chafing, itching, or allergies either and can be easily popped into the washing machine to keep it clean. If you are all about heat retention, then this is a great budget-friendly choice. You could even buy one in a couple of colors to coordinate with your collection of outerwear.

Key Features:

Soft and luxurious feeling fleece construction

Incredible thermal properties for excellent heat retention

Colorfast and fully machine washable

Moisture-wicking, sweat-resistant and quick drying

Conforms to all shapes and sizes

Specification:
  • BrandTurtle Fur
  • Model10101
  • Weight2.4 ounces
Pros

Luxury soft feel

Double layered

Exceptional heat retention

Moisture Wicking

Quick Drying

Machine washable

Color fast

Itch resistant

Cons

Doesn’t offer cooling effect

No built-in UV sun protection

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
Arctic Extreme Neck Gaiter

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As you’ve probably already guessed from the name, this neck gaiter has been designed to keep you warm and dry, especially during the cold weather months or when you are on that expedition to the North Pole! What, you’re not going this year? Ok, well it’s just as good for that snowboarding trip with the boys instead. It’s all about comfort and warmth. Constructed from a high-quality thermal yarn for maximum heat retention. That doesn’t mean you’ll get all stuffy and sweaty though either. Arctic Extreme Neck Gaiter has an incredibly soft and fleecy interior which is cozy but at the same time breathable. When that biting wind sets in, pull up your neck gaiter and ensure that your neck, mouth, ears, and face are all fully protected. There’s nothing worse than having cold ears. There are plenty of color options too and it’s one size fits all. This piece of extreme cold weather gear really comes into its own when you are outdoors participating in pursuits such as skiing and mountain climbing but it’s equally as good to wear on a cold winter’s day run. With its moisture management system, also known as “wicking” it takes the sweat away leaving you warm and dry.

Key Features:

Quality thermal yarn for maximum heat retention

Soft, breathable and comfortable to wear

Moisture management system

Perfect for all cold weather outdoor sports

Easily slips over the head to cover neck, mouth, ears and face

Specification:
  • BrandArctic Extreme
  • ModelDG-1128
  • Weight8.8 ounces
Pros

Thermal

Maximum heat retention

Moisture wicking

One size fits all

Warm

Breathable

Non itchy

Cons

Doesn’t offer cooling effect

No built-in UV sun protection

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Smart Wool Merino Neck Gaiter

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Knitted from luxurious and ultimately soft and cozy Merino wool you’ll adore the sensation of this neck gaiter against your skin. Whatever the weather, wind, or rain, this makes a stylish alternative to a scarf and looks equally as good with your overcoat for work as it will for a weekend’s outdoor active pursuits. It’s double-layered for maximum heat protection and comes in black and winter white. The Smartwool story was developed on the slopes of Colarado where the inventor realized that the merino socks that were keeping ski enthusiast’s feet toasty and warm, could also be applied to other outdoor accessories. The beauty of Merino wool is that it’s naturally breathable and moisture-wicking whilst being supremely soft and sumptuous. This gaiter is certainly going to keep you feeling warm but also stylishly protected from the ravaging elements.

Key Features:

Stylish and functional alternative to a winter scarf

Made from 100% luxuriously soft Merino wool

Double layered thermal protection with interlock knit design

Sumptuously soft and comfortable against the skin

Breathable and moisture-wicking

Specification:
  • BrandSmartWool
  • ModelBSC953001
  • Weight2.1 ounces
Pros

Thermal

Supremely comfortable

Maximum heat retention

Moisture wicking

100% merino wool

Warm and cosy

Breathable

Non itchy

Cons

Doesn’t offer cooling effect

No built-in UV sun protection

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

11
FKGOING – Sun UV Protection Neck Gaiter

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There are two things that made us choose the FKGOING Neck Gaiter for our list – simplicity, and value. This listing is for a four-pack of the most basic and affordable neck gaiters on the market, so you can keep your family protected from UV rays, dust particles, and much more. Made from a super soft mixture of polyester (95%) and Spandex (5%), these neck gaiters feel great on your skin and are stretchy enough to be worn in a ton of different ways. 

They aren’t the tightest neck gaiters on this list but they do have stitched seams on either side to keep them in position on your face. You can also buy them in a pack of six for even better value and they tend to arrive in 10-20 days. These aren’t the highest quality neck gaiters on the market, but they do provide excellent protection and moisture-wicking ability for the price.

Key Features:

Four pack of neck gaiters

Made from polyester (95%) and Spandex (5%) 

Stitched seams on both sides 

Natural dimensions – 17.75” x 9.75”

High UV protection

Specification:
  • BrandFKGOING
  • Weight0.16 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

12
UHEREBUY – Summer Neck Gaiter

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Neck gaiters are selling out super fast at the minute. That’s why there are so many new products making their way onto Amazon, filling the gap in the market. The UHEREBUY – Summer Neck Gaiter is one such product.

This sun neck gaiter is designed mainly to protect your skin from UV rays, dust, and wind when you’re outside. It can be worn in a number of ways including as a headband, a scarf, or a traditional neck gaiter. Made from polyester, it’s very comfortable on your skin and stays in place thanks to the stitched seams.

Key Features:

Made from polyester 

Protects against UV rays 

Stitched seams

Available in 14 different colors

Specification:
  • BrandUHEREBUY
  • Weight0.64 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

13
Ababalaya – Sport Headband Neck Gaiter

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Ababalaya – Sport Headband isn’t a traditional neck gaiter. It’s really more of a scarf than anything else, but you can use it in the same way if you know how to tie it properly. The reason we decided to include it on this list is that it comes in an awesome selection of different colors and styles. From American flags to a lion’s mouth, this scarf is a real statement piece. 

Admittedly, it’s not as good as protecting you as a standard neck gaiter but it still offers some level of protection. The lightweight and breathable fabric will provide some protection from UV rays as well as keeping out dust, mud, and wind. It also has impressive moisture-wicking abilities thanks to the quick-dry fabric technology.

Key Features:

Made from lightweight and breathable fabric 

Moisture-wicking 

Multi-functional design 

Available in over 20 designs

Specification:
  • BrandAbabalaya
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

14
Doerix Skull Face Mask Bandana

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If you wanna turn heads when you’re out in your neck gaiter, then you’ve got to choose the Doerix Skull Face Mask Bandana. Adorned with a striking image of a painted mask, this mask is sure to impress a few people, whilst keeping you protected. It’s available in five different designs, each as striking as the last. 

This mask bandana isn’t all style over substance though. Made from a polyester microfibre, it provides UPF 20 protection, wicks moisture away from your skin, and keeps out dust and other particles. It also has a four-way stretch, which makes it both comfortable and versatile. If you’re not 100% convinced though, you get a three-month money-back guarantee.

Key Features:

Made from polyester microfibre 

Four-way stretch 

UPF 20 protection 

Available in five striking designs 

100% money-back guarantee

Specification:
  • BrandDoerix
  • Weight2.4 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

15
Retail Sign Systems 5 Pack Summer Neck Bandana

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Next up, we’ve got another multi-pack of neck gaiters. Retail Sign Systems 5 Pack Summer Neck Bandana has five different colored neck gaiters in, which you could use to protect your family or just have a bunch of spares for yourself. This product is quite new to Amazon, which is why it doesn’t have a whole lot of reviews yet. However, on first impressions, it seems like a really high-quality product. 

Made from superfine fibers (95%) and Spandex (5%), this product has a comfortable and stretch feel to it. They don’t state the level of UV protection it provides, but it’s definitely better than wearing nothing at all. It also protects against dust, wind, and other particles in the air.

Key Features:

Pack of five neck gaiters 

Made from superfine fabrics (95%) and Spandex (5%) 

UV protection 

Available in multiple different colors 

Multifunctional design

Specification:
  • BrandRetail Sign Systems
  • Weight7.2 ounces
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Neck Gaiter Buying Guide & FAQ

Features To Look For In Neck Gaiters

You’d be surprised at just how many different variants of neck gaiter you can purchase so it’s crucially important before you invest in one for yourself that you decide what, when, how, and where you’ll be wanting to use yours the most.

There’s no point buying one that’s designed to keep you cool if you are heading snowboarding. Likewise, if you are going dune boarding instead, then you won’t be requiring a double layer of thermal insulation!

We recommend that you consider the checklist below to ensure you pick out a gaiter that meets your specific needs.

  • Material
  • Comfort
  • Face coverage
  • Warmth
  • Fit
  • Style
  • Color
  • Moisture-wicking properties
  • Breathability
  • Durability

neck gaiters

Neck Gaiter FAQ

Q: What is a neck gaiter?

A: Put very simplistically, a neck gaiter is a piece of material, sewn into a tube style, that some people generically refer to as a buff. It’s a very versatile and useful piece of equipment, especially if you participate in lots of outdoor sports.  Neck gaiters are also pretty budget-friendly and super light-weight and portable as well as being supremely versatile. There’s no need to just wear one around your neck even. You could for example where one over your head, as an extra layer of protection under a skiing or cycling helmet.

Q: Why do you need a neck gaiter?

A: A neck gaiter is a great way to protect your delicate neck, face, and ears from the elements. Especially extremes of temperature, both hot and cold. Equally wearable for general day attire instead of a winter scarf, a neck gaiter will keep you snug and those winter chills at bay.

If you do participate in winter sports like snowboarding or skiing or even like to continue your usual activities throughout the winter months (like running and cycling for example) then a neck gaiter will provide plenty of protection from the biting wind and cold.

Neck gaiters don’t just protect from the cold though. If you are in a dusty climate a gaiter will be a godsend pulled up tight about your face. If you opt for one that has UVA protection as well as a cooling activated fabric, you’ll stay cool and comfortable and still be able to breathe easily in heat extremes. A completely versatile accessory for anyone who likes to participate in any form of outdoor activities, a neck gaiter is a smart and budget-friendly purchase. They also make a great layer of protection for anyone working in the construction industry or who regularly works outdoors as they offer vital protection against dust, pollen and general environmental factors.

Q: What are the different ways to wear a neck gaiter?

A: You can pretty much wear it however you want. The only limit really is your own imagination we say! On your head, around your neck of course, over your mouth, even around your wrist! As a headband, a neck band, a bandana, a balaclava, or under a helmet. Why limit yourself? Where it wherever and whenever you need it most. You could opt to replace your winter scarf with a neck gaiter. You can get ones that have been manufactured from merino wool and cashmere, even so, they can look stylish as well as being very functional. Some neck gaiters promote that they can be worn in no less than twelve different ways so whether you wear yours on your head, around your face, to protect your neck, or even on your wrist, a neck gaiter really is incredibly versatile. Just make sure you have bought one that has plenty of stretch like something with a spandex mix.

Q: When do you wear neck gaiters?

A: When don’t you need to wear one might be a more appropriate question! Being used simultaneously as a headband, a neck warmer, a face mask, bandana or even a balaclava, a neck gaiter can protect you from all kinds of extremes of weather, hot and cold. Stave off the wind chill or keep stay safe from the rays of the sun. If you do any kind of outside or especially extreme sports, then you absolutely need a gaiter. They make the perfect accessory for everything from hiking and biking, to running and riding, skiing and snowboarding to hunting or just generally working out. If you are in danger of working up a sweat, then you’ll benefit from the use of a moisture wicking gaiter. Even if you just work outdoors, then a neck gaiter could be a wise investment and provide you with an extra layer of comfort and protection.

Q: How to wash neck gaiters?

A: Depending upon what your neck gaiter has been fabricated from, you should quite simply be able to pop it in the washing machine or rinse it out in a bowl of soapy water. Most are designed to be quick drying plus many also feature special odor resistant fabric too so there’s no excuse for having a sweaty or smelly neck gaiter stuffed in the bottom of a rucksack somewhere. Look after your neck gaiter the way you would any of your other essential accessories.

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