The Stratus SureFit Anti-Fog StormCell Balaclava prevents lens fogging when used with a ski mask or glasses. The balaclava is made with merino wool and is available in multiple sizes. It consists of two attached pieces, a regular balaclava that covers your forehead and mouth, and a second ring of wool with a nose wire, like a surgical mask. It is marvelously effective.

Specs at a Glance

• Midweight (190 gsm)
• 100% merino wool
• Handwash

The  Balaclava has two components: a traditional balaclava and a ring of fabric that loops around the front and has a bendable wire sewn into it like an N95 mask. The balaclava covers your head, ears, and neck and can be pulled up to cover your mouth if desired. The extra ring of fabric is attached to the balaclava behind the neck but can pull up to cover your mouth and nose.

The updated balaclava has a longer neck in front and back. Shown pulled down, without nose cover.

This design works well to prevent moist air from fogging up a ski mask or glasses because the nose wire forms a good seal with your face and moist air from your mouth is absorbed by the overhanding ring of fabric, the bottom of the inner balaclava layer, or simply vented below your chin.

The company that makes this balaclava was formerly named North45 but has rebranded as Stratus. I still own the old version of this balaclava (no longer available), but prefer the new one, which has a longer neck in front and rear. Not only is this warmer, but it’s much easier to orient properly when you put it on.

The outer ring of fabric covers the nose and directs exhales away from your glasses or goggles.

The updated balaclava is available in two fabric weights: 190 GSM merino and 240GSM merino. I chose the 190 GSM merino because I like augment with a fleece beanie if I get cold, rather than being too warm and perspiring.

Overall Recommendation

The Stratus SureFit Anti-Fog StormCell Balaclava outperforms all of the other balaclava systems I’ve used for keeping my glasses or ski mask from fogging above treeline when I need face protection. It’s really kind of miraculous. There’s no fogging of my prescription glasses or ski goggles, even when I’m huffing and puffing and climbing to a mountain summit in 0-degree weather and high winds.  If this is something you struggle with, I recommend you get one and try it for yourself.

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