Balaclava is a mask that is also a headpiece. The most common models are with one cutout for the eyes, but there are also products with additional openings for the mouth, nose and ears. It is very interesting to know the history of the origin of this element of equipment, as well as the scope of the balaclava in modern society.
origin of name
Those people who are not very interested in history, but know geography quite well, are surprised by the fact that the
name of the headgear is consonant with the name of the city located on the Crimean peninsula. This can easily be explained, because it was during the
Crimean War that the British first used a similar wardrobe element.
Indeed, during the hostilities on the outskirts of the city of Balaclava, English soldiers were faced with an unusual climate. In order to protect themselves from the cold, they tightly wrapped their faces in scarves, but it was not very convenient. Then one of the officers came up with the idea of creating such an element of equipment as a balaclava. The mask was so liked by the subordinates that it quickly turned into an indispensable element of the traveling form.
Of course, many peoples, such as the Bedouins, have hats with other names, but very similar to the balaclava, which will fulfill the function of protecting from the sun and sand storms. However, many researchers claim that historically they are much older than the English version.
Fields of application
Balaclava (mask cap) is usually used to protect the face and head from adverse weather conditions, such as cold or dust. This is a very important element in the equipment of the military, athletes and rescuers. However, many extremist and criminal groups also use the balaclava. The mask helps them hide their face and provide an additional psychological effect on the enemy.
Fans of skiing, paintball and other outdoor activities also did not ignore the balaclava. This is not surprising, because she is the best balaclava. If we are talking specifically about paintball, then the "knitted helmet" is an excellent protection of hair from paint.
Depending on the specific task, this item of equipment may have a different color. The most common are protective, black and olive colors. Manufacturers also produce special winter models, a feature of which is the use of a warmer and thicker material with the addition of wool in their manufacture.
Exclusive models
Balaclava is a mask that can be used not only for practical purposes. Some of its modifications can be used as one of the elements of masquerade costumes at various thematic events. For example, the mask “balaclava with a skull” is ideal for Halloween.
Many manufacturers today produce such masks. In addition to the skull, images are used as images of superheroes of comics and films. With this kind of thing, you can easily surprise your friends and become the center of global attention.