A neck warmer will seal any draughts getting through the space between your jacket and helmet, making a massive difference to your winter riding.
It can also help with wind noise by reducing the air swirling inside your helmet. (Read more about how to make your helmet quieter.)
We’ve compiled a list covering a range of price points. If you’re on a budget, dip your toe (or neck) in with one of the cheaper options – you’ll immediately notice the difference.
Alpinestars Neckwarmer
Cheap and Warm
This tried and tested fleece neck warmer cannot be beaten at this price. A no-brainer!
Things To Consider
The key thing to consider here is whether you want a thermal layer, a windproof layer or both.
Some of the higher-end options will insulate you and protect you from windchill (some are even water-resistant), while generally, the cheaper ones are simply a layer of fleece/cotton to help keep you warm.
Your choice might depend on your existing gear. If your jacket has a high, windproof, waterproof collar, a cheaper fleece neck tube to seal gaps and keep you warm is likely all you need.
If you’re experiencing a lot of windchill, a windproof membrane might be a better choice.
Reviews
Let’s dive into our favourite picks
Alpinestars Neckwarmer
This one-size-fits-all, unisex fleece neck warmer is cheap as chips but will still keep you very warm.
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Many riders wear this one tucked over the chin instead of over the nose. The material feels good against the skin but is not nearly as windproof as the more expensive examples.
Excellent quality for the price, but may be more suited to Spring and Autumn riding.
Pros:
- Warm and comfortable
- Great quality for the price
Cons:
- Not very windproof – better suited to Spring/Autumn or insulating a high-collar jacket
Held Gore-Wind Stopper Neck Tube
This polyamide-outer, polypropylene-lined neck warmer is perhaps the warmest and most windproof on our list. It’s also water-resistant and will remain warm even when wet.
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All of this comes at a small price, as the Held Windstopper also has the largest profile.
It’s thin enough to fit between my mid-layer and winter jacket. But, if your outer layer is already a snug fit, you might struggle to close your jacket.
The wide and low cut ensures there’s no possibility of wind getting through, and the large zip makes it easy to get in and out of.
Pros:
- Windproof, toasty and water resistant
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons:
- Thicker than some of the other options
Gear Gremlin Patterned Neck Tube
Gear Gremlin produces decent-quality, budget-friendly, no-frills kit. These patterned neck tubes tick all of the previously mentioned boxes.
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A quick glance at these, and it’s clear they are not intended for winter riding. The material is the thinnest of any neck warmer on our list but feels good against the skin and will survive many washes.
You’ve probably seen similar products in outdoor shops before. They can be worn as a neck warmer, beanie, bandana or face mask.
Perfect for summer/late spring riding and can be used for hiking, cycling and any other outdoor activity you can think of.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly and comfortable
- Can be worn in a variety of ways and suited to lots of activities
Cons:
- Not suited to winter use
MotoGP Bandit Mask
This thing looks super cool. Not just because it makes us feel like the bad guy in a western film – the grey trim and MotoGP decal are also a nice touch.
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It delivers in terms of warmth and quality too. The drop-down bib neck extends out onto the shoulders and down onto the chest, sealing in warmth and blocking draughts.
It’s a 95% cotton, 5% lycra mix designed to stretch to fit your face. This is where the one caveat comes in. Many UK riders report this as too tight, even after multiple wears.
Looks great and will keep you warm in winter, but it may only be suitable for those with smaller heads.
Pros:
- Looks great and won’t break the bank
- Warm enough for UK winters
Cons:
- Size comes up small for lots of people
- Not particularly windproof
Knox Neck Tube
This high-end neck, face, chest and back warmer is priced appropriately to its quality. The flat-locked stitching, contoured fit, fleece-lined collar and mesh nose panel make this a very comfortable piece of gear.
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Knox has opted for a softshell construction with a 10k-rated windproof, water-resistant, breathable membrane, which creates a thin profile that sits flat against your mid-layer, making it easy to close your jacket.
Their one-size-fits-most seems to work for the majority of UK riders.
Pros:
- Windproof, warm and water-resistant
- Really comfortable
Cons:
- Not the cheapest (we still say it’s worth it)
Rev’it Urbano WB Windcollar
This is a unique take on the neck warmer. A modular, two-layer system means you can be fully insulated on your morning commute and then roll down the windproof outer layer for riding back home in the warmer afternoon sun – sweet!
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Both layers are super stretchy and will fit most head sizes. The stretchiness also means this will sit comfortably over the nose or chin, depending on how much protection you need.
Pros:
- Two-layer system is a good idea and works
- Comfortable enough for all-day use
Cons:
- Expensive for what it is
Conclusion
If your neck feels cold and stiffens up after riding, a neck warmer can make a world of difference. If you’re still building up your first set of gear, go in at one of the lower price points. We’re sure you’ll notice the difference.