Skiing is an equipment-heavy sport that provides businesses with ample profit-making opportunities. Consumers engaged in this sport require everything from ski outdoor masks to windproof jackets.
However, ski masks are not limited to the sport. They look fantastic in other activities and will also come in handy during summer. Here are five ski outdoor mask trends that will rock 2023.
Table of Contents
Overview of the ski equipment and gear market
Ski masks: 5 key trends for the colder months
Bottom line
Overview of the ski equipment and gear market
Globally, the ski equipment and gear market reached US $1.4 billion in 2018. Moving forward, experts estimate the industry will maintain a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.7% from 2019 to 2025 and grow to US $1.64 billion.
The global market owes its expansion to the rising number of participants in skiing. Some favorable government grants also help drive this market’s growth. The expanding tourism industry is also motivating consumers to participate in snow activities — hence, helping to drive demand for ski equipment.
Although clothing dominated the 2018 market, experts predict that headgear will experience the fastest CAGR of 3.3% over the forecast period. Men also hold a dominant position by accounting for over 42% of the total revenue in 2018.
The female segment did not fail as it generated over US $478.8 million in 2018. Regionally, North America took the lead and accounted for over 42% of the 2018 revenue. However, experts expect Asia-Pacific to close the gap over the forecast period at a 3.4% CAGR.
Ski masks: 5 key trends for the colder months
1. Solid-front balaclava
As the name implies, the solid-front balaclava provides a rigid frontal part, securing the nose and mouth. Although the mask’s body features similar fabric, it’s easy to distinguish the area covering the mouth and nose.
In addition, solid-front balaclavas use thicker materials like cloth or plastic to make incredible designs. But that’s not all. These ski outdoor masks come with benefits consumers can’t resist. For starters, the mask protects all parts of the face prone to injuries—like the soft nose and mouth.
Solid-front balaclava also feels and looks more structured. Making the entire piece from cloth could get material into the consumer’s mouth. Such situations are irritable and will disrupt the wearer’s agility and mobility.
These units feature incredible meshwork details with holes that prevent fogging and increase mask breathability. Solid-front balaclavas are unisex items and are great for skiing competitions and other advanced activities.
Consumers who don’t fancy cloth folding and entering their mouths will love these ski masks. They’re also ideal for those that can’t bear fogging.
2. Hooded ski masks
Hooded balaclavas are incredibly common. They can provide impressive overall cold protection due to the hood covering the head. Consumers can easily slip one under their helmets when skiing.
However, wearers may avoid bulky designs and opt for thinner yet warm variants. Jumbo-sided hooded ski masks would make wearing helmets uncomfortable. Hence, sellers must ensure they stock up on sleeker models.
Some variants have neckwarmers that provide wearers with extra warmth while covering their noses and mouths. Consumers can fold neckwarmer hooded ski masks up when it’s freezing and down when indoors.
Interestingly, consumers can blend them with their outfits for a more stylish approach to functionality. Hooded ski masks are perfect for wearers looking for total cold protection. Customers who don’t want helmets will also fancy this piece.
3. Windproof designs
Windproof ski masks are the go-to for extremely windy weather conditions. Usually, these pieces fit tightly on the wearer’s head and face, preventing wind from penetrating the facemask. Some variants have elastic linings that adjust to the wearer’s face for a tighter fit.
Additionally, the mask’s material determines if consumers can wear them in hot or cold weather conditions. For instance, windproof designs made from hot weather-friendly materials will protect from hot winds.
In a nutshell, windproof balaclavas come in handy for skiing, off-roading, and casual wearing regardless of the weather condition. Consumers into off-road races and skiing in windy places will love these units.
Adding the right fabric can make these items water-resistant. Although they won’t be waterproof, they will give the wearer enough time to reach for cover. On this note, these units may also be dustproof with the right fabric.
4. Heated balaclava
With several technological advances popping up these days, there’s no limit to what consumers can wear on their heads when skiing. And the heated balaclava proves this point. Businesses can now dive into battery-operated balaclavas that replicate an electric blanket’s warmth.
Interestingly, consumers can adjust these advanced ski masks via the on-off and temperature control mechanisms. Heated balaclavas will provide enough heat, regardless of the material and heating capacity.
However, wearers must don these high-tech balaclavas according to weather requirements. They may also use heated balaclavas on trips to regions with varying cold levels. These ski masks are ideal for skiers who travel frequently.
Regardless of the name, heated balaclavas are breathable items. Some variants may have slight mesh features making them perfect for all kinds of chilly weather conditions.
5. Half-balaclava
Helmets are handy additions to an average skier’s outfit. They can protect the head during a fall and even add some style. Hence, some consumers will prefer hoodless balaclavas.
Since they cover only the nose and below portions, half-balaclavas are the most helmet-friendly units. They will provide more room for a perfect helmet fit and eliminate having to adjust the balaclava now and then.
Although they lack head support to secure them to the wearer’s face, half balaclavas feature Velcro or snap closures to provide the perfect fit. In addition, some variants come with ear covers that rest at the top of the ear, preventing the ski mask from moving during activities.
Half balaclavas strongly appeal to consumers who love wearing helmets and other protective gear. They may also double down as neck gaiters when necessary.
Bottom line
Ski masks are popular items that move beyond the sport, dominating other activities and even making a name in the fashion world. They can offer various cold and heat protection levels ranging from full-head to half-face balaclavas.
Although many ski outdoor mask trends exist, this article explores five top variants with enough potential to rock the market when 2023 sales start. So, businesses must leverage solid-front balaclavas, hooded ski masks, windproof balaclavas, heated balaclavas, and half balaclavas to avoid missing out.
