The 13 Best Neck Gaiters for Running and Outdoor Workouts (2025)

Face coverings are an essential part of preventing the spread of COVID-19, and many public establishments won't let you inside unless you're wearing one. (Wear the mask. Just do it.) But face coverings have been around for a minute, and they do more than just protect you and others from spreading disease. (Which they do, so for the love of god, just wear the mask.) They can also keep your face protected from bugs, your neck protected from burns, and your mouth and chin from freezing over when it's cold.

Take the neck gaiter, for example. You might have one for wintertime activities, like skiing and snowboarding, where some functional protection is necessary. But there are lightweight ones, too, for activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. Although they aren't quite as heavy on protection as masks can be, they are certainly better than nothing. And if you need something that can do multipurpose work while you're socially distanced in the great outdoors, then these are all the better. Here are 13 of the best neck gaiters to wear now.

Helly-Hansen is an absolute outdoor staple when it comes to gear that holds up. Don't let "merino wool" scare you; merino wool is naturally very breathable. This gaiter in particular islightweight enough for adventure any time of the year.

"This lightweight and moisture-wicking gaiter is soft enough that it won't irritate your skin on long runs. And at only $15, you can safely stock up on 2 or 3 to put into regular rotation." - Michael Darling, Executive Editor

What can we say? Buff knows what its doing. This extra-long gaiter won't fail you, no matter what you're using it for. Most importantly:It's built with bothwater-repellent and odor-preventing materials.

Neck gaiters are great because they are made to be breathable. (This is, of course, also why they aren't as powerful in protecting transfer of germs.) This one is made with a nylon core that helps maintain its breathability while on the move.

For cold weather protection, it doesn't get much better than Columbia's... anything. This gaiter is lined with the brand's signature Omni-Heat thermal reflective, which feels like a built-in face warmer.

And for warmer months, Hurley's neck gaiter is made with moisture-wicking materials that will keep your face dry, even as you sweat. Wear it as a mask, scarf, or headband.

If your No. 1 priority is staying cool, Mission's neck gaiter was engineered to do just that: Dip it in water to activate its cooling properties.

If you're going on a hike—or any other kind of adventure where you might come into more than one type of weather—it's essential to have gear that can see you through the changes. This multi-tube is super protective but still lightweight.

If you're looking for something a little less sporty and little more everyday life, Banana Republic's stretch-cotton gaiter is great for wearing on long walks or to the park.

Bamboo is one of the most breathable materials out there and anything made with it is great for people who run hot. This one is made to make sure your skin stays safe from the sun and can't be beat for warm weather wearing.(Hot tip:Get bamboo sheets for your bed. They will change you.)

For cooler days, Carhartt's fleece is a no-brainer. Wear it for preventing everything from germs during COVIDto wind burn on the slopes.

Buff is makingthegaiters of COVID-19 and rightfully so. They are easily pulled up, down, worn around the neck, face, or head. Plus, this one has built-in UV protection for protecting your skin.

There are a lot of elements that make a face covering effective, but one of the most important ones is how snug a fit it has. ThisSunday Afternoons gaiter has a tight but comfy fit.