The Sitka Core Lightweight Balaclava.
You’re thinking about buying it after this year’s turkey hunt (just between you and me, I’ve got the lowest prices listed below).
Your last balaclava was too hot.
Or it was itchy.
Or you didn’t even have anything to cover your face with.
Well, I’ve got good news my friend. If you’ve thought about buying this piece of Sitka gear but want to hear what others have to think about it, I’ve written the most in-depth review you’ll find (I’m serious about balaclavas man).
Here’s some thoughts.
This Sitka Balaclava Isn’t Super Comfortable
#1: It’s Super Light
Like seriously, so light I barely even know it’s there. This makes it suitable for back country hunts where you’re throwing it in a backpack or a pocket for the long hike to your destination.
The fact that it’s lightweight also makes it suitable for warmer hunts, such an early-season archery hunt, where temperatures climb high during the day.
#2: The Micro-Grid Fleece Material Is Comfortable
Not only is the Sitka Balclava’s material light, but it’s comfortable as well. It’s made from micro-grid fleece, which offers exceptional moisture management when things get hot, and it stretches, giving you a great fit (especially if your head is huge).
The polyester fleece is brushed, meaning loose threads and short fiber ends are removed ensuring it has a nice, smooth feel to it that doesn’t itch. It’s also coated in an antimicrobial Polygiene coating, which helps eliminate bacteria and keeps you smelling fresh.
#3: This Sitka Balaclava Doesn’t Fit Well
Like, at all. If you try to slip a hat underneath it, it’ll dig right into the side of your eyes. Even when I’m wearing it without one, same result. The only way to prevent this is to slip the balaclava underneath your nose to hold it down.
A Few Small Details About This Sitka Balaclava
Seriously, these matter. You don’ want to buy something, only to discover some small, unforeseen detail that bugs the crap out of you.
You know it’s happened before.
After using the Sitka Core Lightweight Balaclava a few times, here some little things I noticed.
#4: It Has A Super Long Tag
Just make sure you cut the tag off of this balaclava before you head out hunting. You might regret it if you don’t, especially when the tag’s hanging six inches out of the bottom.
#5: I Can’t Slip My Head Through The Opening
The opening for your eyes stretches, but not quite enough to fit your head through it. This can be a little irritating if you just want to let it hang around your neck or you’re wearing a hat and slipping it off is a hassle.
The Sitka Core Lightweight Balaclava’s Practical Side
Sure, it’s light.
Sure, it digs into your eyes. We get it dude, your kind of a baby.
If you’re looking through this review of the Sitka Balaclava, you probably want to know that the camouflage actually works. It probably wouldn’t be intact if you took it to hell and back, but it will help you kill something.
Here’s a few more thoughts.
#6: It’s Designed In Effective Camouflage
The Sitka Core Lightweight Balaclava comes in two colors. Sitka Optifade Open Country, and Sitka Optifade Sub-Alpine. The Sub-Alpine coloration works well in greener environments, while the Open Country coloration would work better on a hunt in a gray, sagebrush covered area or during the winter.
The camouflage works well. Billy Kennington, in his article “Sitka Review – 5 First Pieces“, claims game saw “through him” and I’ve had several experiences where deer could hear me, but couldn’t see me in the Optifade camouflage.
#7: It Seems Fragile
I haven’t seen any tears or holes appear in my Sitka Lightweight Core Balaclava yet, but I’m sure it will happen in due time. The material is super thin, and I can only imagine what catching it on a branch would do.
However, after plenty of regular use, I haven’t noticed any real wear. No fraying or loose threads, and the colors haven’t faded.
#8: The Articulated Pattern Helps You See More
This Sitka Balaclava is made in an articulated pattern, meaning it more accurately fits your head. It’s designed to allow you to still see with your peripheral vision, a nice touch considering you never want to miss any sign of movement.
Concluding Thoughts On This Sitka Balaclava
If you’re looking for something to cover your face during warm, early-season hunts, the Sitka Balaclava will work. Although it does like to dig into your eyes, it is super lightweight, breathable, and stealthy.
But honestly, on future hunts I’d prefer to use a face mask or looser fitting balaclava.
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