Hi All
Since I get hit on the head a lot, <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />I pretty much always wear a helmet when skiing, <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />even cross country, and since I pretty much always Backcountry ski when camping, I am always wearing a helmet when winter camped. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

So anyway I was out in the blizzard in ski gear [including helmet and balaclava] and spent quite a while cruising around the Hood. I was quite comfortable and my face was protected.

A while later [dressed warmly with hat and hood] I went out with the dog for a walk and was not wearing helmet/balaclava/goggles with adjustable neck randonee jacket and it was pretty miserable and cold, with snow blowing into my hood. It was bad enough to make me think twice about hiking out in that storm dressed that way. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif" alt="" />

So a secret - wear a blizzard ready helmet with rose colored downhill goggles and a balaclava when back country ski camping so you can ski out in most any conditions. The neoprene face masks absorb less water.
<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />Jim <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />
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These are my own opinions based on wisdom earned through many wrong decisions. Your mileage may vary.