Balaclava

A balaclava (play /ˌbæləˈklɑːvə/), also known as a balaclava helmet or ski mask, is a form of cloth headgear that covers the whole head, exposing only part of the face. Often only the eyes or eyes and mouth are left exposed. The name "balaclava" comes from the town of Balaklava, near Sevastopol in Crimea, Ukraine

History

During the Crimean War, knitted balaclavas were sent over to the British troops to help protect them from the bitter cold weather. British troops required this aid, as their own supplies (warm clothing, weatherproof quarters, and food) never arrived in time.[2] It should be noted that the references to these hats were not written during the war itself; according to Richard Rutt in his History of Handknitting, the name "balaclava helmet" first appeared much later, in 1881.[3]

This type of headgear was also known in the 19th century as an Uhlan cap or a Templar cap.[3]

In modern American English, when made for those serving in the armed forces, they are usually known as "helmet liners".[4] They are traditionally knitted from wool, and can be rolled up into a hat to cover just the crown of the head, or folded right down as a collar around the neck.

Modern balaclavas can also be made from silk, cotton, polypropylene, neoprene, acrylic or polar fleece.