686 Men's Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I choose between a 686 beanie, balaclava, or the Tarmac Sherpa Hood for all‑mountain skiing and snowboarding?

  Pick by activity and conditions: Standard Roll Up and Big Cuff Beanies are breathable, packable options for layering and high‑output days, while the Bolt Balaclava gives full face/neck coverage for windy, wet conditions. The Tarmac Sherpa Hood prioritizes insulated, cozy warmth with sherpa lining for low‑temperature or après use. Look for fabric notes—Everywear® stretch for sun protection (UPF 40+) or infiDRY®/GORE‑TEX laminates for wetter days—to match the conditions you'll ride.
• What materials and technologies does 686 use in its men's headwear to balance warmth, waterproofing, and breathability?

  686 mixes technical textiles like infiDRY® (10K waterproof/breathability) and GORE‑TEX PACLITE® laminates for wet‑weather protection with Everywear® stretch nylon for breathable, UPF 40+ performance. Insulating options use sherpa or brushed linings, and construction often includes ripstop weaves, strategic Thermagraph® zoning, and PFAS‑free DWRs for water resistance without heavy coatings. These combinations aim to keep heat in where needed while allowing moisture to escape during active days.
• How should 686 beanies and balaclavas fit, and are they adjustable for layering or helmet use?

  Sizes are commonly offered as S/M/L or one‑size adjustable styles; cuff and roll‑up beanies let you customize coverage, and slim balaclavas like the Bolt are cut to fit comfortably under a helmet. If you plan to wear a helmet, choose a lower‑profile or stretchy style for a snug, gap‑free fit; for casual warmth, pick a roomier beanie or the Tarmac Sherpa Hood. Many product pages reference a 6'1" model for large sizing to help gauge fit.
• How does the Bolt Balaclava compare to the Tarmac Sherpa Hood?

  The Bolt Balaclava is a technical, close‑fitting piece designed for face and neck protection during active riding—lightweight, breathable, and easy to layer under helmets. The Tarmac Sherpa Hood is focused on insulated warmth and comfort with sherpa lining and a more relaxed silhouette for colder, less active use or layering over a jacket. Choose the Bolt for on‑hill performance and the Sherpa Hood for warmth and casual coverage.
• What’s the best way to care for and reproof 686 technical headwear to maintain performance?

  Most 686 headwear is machine‑washable; follow the garment label and use a technical cleaner like Nikwax to preserve breathability and DWR performance. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, and reapply a PFAS‑free DWR treatment when water no longer beads on the outer fabric; dry according to the care tag to protect linings and laminates.