Arc'teryx RHO AR Balaclava
The Arc'teryx Rho AR Balaclava weighs 150 grams and provides full-face protection in extremely cold weather. Made from Polartec Power Stretch fabric (90% polyester, 10% elastane), it delivers exceptional warmth, breathability, and stretch for all-day comfort. The ergonomic, anatomically shaped design hugs your head and fits easily under helmets. This is my thickest Arc'teryx balaclava, and I reach for it when temperatures drop below 20°F.
I was looking for a balaclava to wear while snowboarding when the temperature was freezing or the wind was blowing. The Polartec Power Stretch fabric keeps me comfortable throughout the day without overheating. The smooth, stretchy binding around the face opening seals in heat, and flatlocked seams prevent chafing against skin.
Why Does the Arc'teryx Rho AR Balaclava Use Polartec Power Stretch?
Polartec Power Stretch uses a dual-surface design with a durable outer layer and a soft, moisture-wicking inner layer. The 4-way stretch ensures flexibility during movement, unlike standard fleece, which restricts motion or loses shape. The fabric wicks moisture away from skin while retaining warmth in cold, wet conditions.
The 90% polyester and 10% elastane blend provides exceptional stretch without losing recovery. Pull it over your head, and it conforms to your face shape, then releases back to its original form when removed. Better durability than pure merino options like the Rho Lightweight Wool Balaclava.
How Does It Fit Under Helmets?
The ergonomic, anatomically shaped design contours to the head's natural shape with no bunching or gaps that let cold air in. The face opening covers the nose for added protection, and extra front length allows layering under collars or jackets. This is one of the few Arc'teryx balaclavas without a hinged design.
The smooth, stretchy binding around the face opening seals against the skin without feeling tight. More secure seal than the hinged design on the Rho Balaclava. The multi-use configuration adapts to conditions: pull it down to wear as a hat when temps warm up, or use it as a neck gaiter during breaks.
When Should I Wear It?
Snowboarding in extreme cold is where this excels. The worst it's been through was Northern Michigan in mid-winter, on a chilly, wet, and windy morning, and I was still warm and toasty. The material is very thick, but it still layers easily under my helmet without pressure points or uncomfortable bunching.
The face opening positions perfectly below the goggle frames, with no gaps for cold air to enter. Vision remains unobstructed in all directions. This piece can handle anything: sustained winds, wet snow, sub-zero temperatures. When conditions require maximum face protection, this is what I reach for.
How Does the Arc'teryx Rho AR Compare to Lighter Balaclavas?
The Rho AR provides more warmth than the standard Rho Balaclava. The regular Rho works for most conditions, but the AR handles extreme cold better. The Rho Lightweight Wool Balaclava offers merino softness but less warmth, better for spring when temps rise above freezing.
The Norvan Balaclava features an open top for ventilation during running. The Rho AR's closed design provides full coverage for static activities like chairlift rides. The Outdoor Research Ninjaclava offers similar Polartec construction at a lower price point. Check the Arc'teryx Balaclava guide for a comprehensive comparison of all models.
Specs
Weight: 150g
Material: Polartec Power Stretch (90% polyester, 10% elastane)
Design: Ergonomic, anatomically shaped, full-face coverage, smooth stretchy binding, flatlocked seams
Configurations: Full balaclava, hat, neck gaiter
Features: 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, breathable, odor-resistant, helmet-compatible, goggle-compatible
Sizes: S/M, L/XL
Best for: Extreme cold snowboarding, skiing, sub-zero temperatures, windy conditions
Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low
Find current availability at Arc'teryx.