Fishing Neck Gaiters and Face Masks

Face masks has taken on a new meaning in 2020. The ones we anglers use however had long been a necessity especially when fishing out at sea.

Known as neck gaiters and sometimes by the popular brands name, Buffs, they are meant to shield our face and neck from from the harmful UV rays.

It’s especially important to wear one when fishing in the saltwater as UV rays get reflected off the waters and it’s like a double-whammy effect coming in from all directions. Plus the often hot humid salty air conditions accelerate any potential harmful damage the elements can cause to our skin.

More reasons to wear a neck gaiter or face mask:

Protection from UV rays
Prevent sunburn
Soaks up perspiration
Can be used as face cover, scarf, headband, balaclava, beanie, bandana, and more!

Can it be used to prevent spread of virus and disease?

Neck gaiters are not medical grade but if that’s the only thing you have then it should be better than nothing if caught in a situation.

What to look for in a neck gaiter?

As anglers, we tend to wear our neck gaiter for a prolonged period of time often under either extreme heat or cold windy conditions so comfort is top priority.

Neck gaiters should not be too loose or too tight to be comfortable. Although over time and with use they all tend to become loose, that’s when we should consider replacing them.

Materials can vary depending on their intended environments.

Some neck gaiters are fleece type or are meant to keep us warm.

Most neck gaiters are available for sun protection and they can be made from various layer(s) of cotton or synthetic materials or a mix of materials.

I personally prefer neck gaiters made of polyester and elastane or polyester and spandex (lycra) as they have the benefit of being light, highly breathable, moisture wicking – quick drying and offers some stretchability.

There are just so many neck gaiter designs in the market that it is difficult to say which would fit the best.

I know of people who does not like to wear face coverings due to discomfort. All I can say is they should keep shopping for one that they are most comfortable in, as the consequences of not wearing one could potentially be much more uncomfortable.

And I know wearing neck gaiters are just a matter of getting used to. Initially it may feel uncomfortable for most but if we persist and understand the benefits we may soon forget we are wearing one.

Do I really need a neck gaiter?

Well, I’d say you need more than one!

You see, neck gaiter is one of those things that can go missing quite easily and they can become quite compact in size.

I know of some that gets blown away after being hung for drying after a day’s use and leaving said angler potentially neck gaiterless for their subsequent fishing days.

It can be handy to have a few to minimise the chances of forgetting to bring one, not finding our when packing last minute, and not having to wash the same one daily on a multi-day fishing trip