Can I wear a windproof balaclava for backcountry touring?

Yes, but choose carefully. Backcountry touring involves high exertion on the ascent where breathability matters most, followed by cold and often windy descents where wind protection is critical. A convertible windproof balaclava is ideal—you can drop the face section during climbs to maximize breathability, then pull it up for the descent. Alternatively, a hybrid multi-zone design with breathable mesh at the mouth and windproof panels elsewhere provides a good compromise for both phases. Pure full-face windproof models without breath management features will likely cause overheating and fogging during ascents.