Why does Lamar Jackson wear a balaclava? Performance, protection, and focus explained

When fans noticed Lamar Jackson wearing a balaclava, one question quickly started trending online: why does Lamar Jackson wear a balaclava?
Is it a fashion statement? A personal habit? Or a performance-driven choice?

The short answer: it’s about protection, comfort, and focus.
Like many elite athletes, Lamar Jackson uses gear that helps him perform at his best, especially in cold and demanding conditions.

Let’s break down the real reasons behind this choice and why more athletes are doing the same.

Who is Lamar Jackson, and when did he start wearing a balaclava?

Lamar Jackson is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, known for his speed, explosiveness, and intense training routines. Playing and training during late fall and winter often means dealing with cold temperatures, wind, and dry air.

Over the years, Lamar Jackson has been seen wearing a balaclava during warm-ups, training sessions, and cold-weather situations, which naturally sparked curiosity among fans and athletes alike.

This choice is not random, it’s a practical response to environmental and performance-related challenges.

The real reasons Lamar Jackson wears a balaclava

1) Protection from cold weather

Cold air and wind can significantly affect an athlete’s comfort and performance. The face, neck, and ears are particularly vulnerable to heat loss.

A balaclava helps by:

• Shielding exposed skin from cold wind
• Retaining warmth around the face and neck
• Reducing the shock of cold air on the body

For athletes training outdoors, maintaining body temperature is essential to prevent stiffness and discomfort.

Better breathing comfort in cold conditions

Breathing cold, dry air during intense physical effort can irritate the airways and make training uncomfortable.

A breathable performance balaclava helps:

• Slightly warm the air before it’s inhaled
• Reduce dryness and throat irritation
• Improve overall breathing comfort during exertion

This is especially useful during high-intensity drills or extended training sessions in winter.

Maintaining focus and routine

Elite athletes rely heavily on routine and mental focus. Wearing a balaclava can help create a sense of isolation from distractions.

Benefits include:

• Reduced sensory distractions (wind, cold on skin)
• A consistent pre-training or pre-game routine
• Improved mental readiness

For many athletes, gear is not just physical protection, it’s part of a performance mindset.

Is it just style? Balaclava vs performance gear

While balaclavas have become more visible in streetwear and pop culture, what athletes like Lamar Jackson wear is not a fashion accessory.

There is a clear difference between:

• Fashion balaclavas (cotton, loose fit, limited breathability)
• Technical balaclavas (designed for sport and performance)

Performance balaclavas typically feature:

• Moisture-wicking fabrics
• Stretch materials for a snug fit
• Ventilated mouth and nose areas
• Compatibility with helmets or headgear

For athletes, function always comes before style.

Why more athletes wear balaclavas today?

Lamar Jackson is far from alone. Balaclavas are now widely used across many sports and activities, including:

• Football and American football
• Winter running and outdoor training
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Motorcycling and motorsports

As training becomes more year-round and performance-focused, athletes look for gear that helps them train longer, stay comfortable, and reduce environmental stress.

Should you wear a balaclava like Lamar Jackson?

A balaclava can be a great choice if:

• You train outdoors in cold or windy conditions
• You want better face and neck protection
• You need breathable gear for intense activity

However, choosing the right type of balaclava is essential. Poor-quality or non-breathable models can cause discomfort and overheating.

What type of balaclava is best for training?

If you’re inspired by Lamar Jackson and considering wearing a balaclava, focus on these key features:

• Breathable fabric to prevent moisture buildup
• Stretch fit for comfort and freedom of movement
• Lightweight insulation rather than heavy materials
• 1-hole or 2-hole design depending on coverage needs

Technical balaclavas designed for sport offer a balance between warmth, airflow, and comfort — making them suitable for high-performance training.

If you’re looking for a model built for real-world use, explore performance-focused balaclavas designed for cold-weather training and outdoor sports.

FAQ

Why do NFL players wear balaclavas?

NFL players wear balaclavas mainly for protection against cold weather, wind, and dry air during training and warm-ups.

Can you wear a balaclava while training?

Yes, as long as it is breathable and designed for physical activity. Performance balaclavas are specifically made for this purpose.

Are balaclavas allowed in football games?

Rules vary by league and situation, but balaclavas are generally used during warm-ups and training rather than during official gameplay.

Do balaclavas help with breathing in cold weather?

They can improve comfort by slightly warming inhaled air and reducing dryness, especially during intense effort.

Final thoughts

So, why does Lamar Jackson wear a balaclava? Because it helps him stay warm, breathe more comfortably, and maintain focus during demanding training sessions.

What started as a simple piece of protective gear has become an essential part of modern athletic equipment, not just for professionals, but for anyone training in challenging conditions.

Choosing the right balaclava isn’t about copying a style. It’s about performance, protection, and comfort.