Tag Archives: Reviews

The best ski masks let you blast down the slopes in the warmest winter gear

Published Dec. 22, 2021

Keeping yourself warm and protected from nature’s frigid elements is a key part of an enjoyable ski. Depending on the type of skiing or cold-weather activity you’re planning, you will want the best ski mask ready to protect.

Ski masks come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most intense skiers will want as much face coverage as possible made from breathable materials that let you work up a sweat without overheating. For more casual trips, you may consider a ski mask that offers minimal coverage that still gets the job done while not being itchy, hot, or burdensome.

Without proper protection, your ski trip can take a sharp turn for the worse with bad sunburns as a result of the high levels of UV radiation reflected in the snow or windswept dry skin. Get the best ski mask and you’ll be cruising down the slopes with pleasure (and you can check out our roundups of the best snow boots, heated socks, ski goggles, winter gloves, and winter hats to help you stay extra cozy).

Be prepared for the slopes and frigid weather with the best ski mask

Cover your face to ensure maximum enjoyment on the slopes. With the best ski mask, you can get to the bottom of the mountain with ease.

What you need to know to purchase the best ski mask

What exactly makes a great ski mask? Quality snow gear needs to be both technically sound and comfortable. As you pick up speed skiing or snowboarding down the mountain, not only is wind pounding your face, but the UV radiation levels are at nearly 90 percent. This means you need to get proper protection to avoid looking like a lobster after a day in the alps.

Balaclavas are a great choice for those looking for maximum face coverage. With their all-encompassing design, you will have minimal exposure to harmful UV rays. Full-face-cover balaclavas are some of the best ski masks due to their ability to keep in heat and keep you toasty on frigid days. Half balaclavas are a good compromise if you’re looking for less heat capture or have a separate hat or helmet that is sufficient in itself.

Picking the right material is another important consideration. While thin and breathable materials are great for sports, knitted ski masks are an affordable option for those that frequently get cold. If you’re out in the countryside going for a cold-weather walk or hoping to escape the urban wind, a full-face-covered knit balaclava will certainly meet your requirements.

Best full-cover balaclava: Oakley Men’s Backwoods Balaclava

A full balaclava offers UV and wind protection from the top of your head to the upper chest region. This is great for skiers and snowboarders who need something that meets high technical requirements. Made of 53-percent Polyamide, 30-percent Polyester, and 17-percent Elastane, this balaclava has a lightness that is perfect under ski gear. The slot opening at the eyes will give you room to properly apply ski goggles. The long neck covering means you can tuck under your layers easily which will offer extra warmth.

Do you need a ski mask for maximum warmth?

The material used in a great ski mask will inform the kind of performance you can expect to receive from it. Light materials like polyamide and polyester give breathability while knitted woolen fabrics offer supreme warmth. If you’re looking to wear a mask that keeps you warm at all costs, a knitted mask will do the job. What you lose in technical performance abilities (knit doesn’t fit well under a ski helmet) you gain in thickness and all-around coziness.

Best knitted ski mask: AcademyFits Knit Ski Mask

The warmth this full-face-cover ski mask offers is second to none. A flexible fabric means that not only is it toasty, but it’s also super comfortable as well. Its full coverage on the top of your head keeps body heat from escaping, so you won’t even notice the frigid weather. It’s not very breathable, though, so don’t expect it to work for most sports.

Ski masks can be used for all sorts of purposes if they’re adjustable

Adjustable ski masks are great for those who want a multipurpose face-covering suited for cityscapes and ski slopes alike. Adjustable masks can become neck gaiters (commonly known as buffs) that offer neck protection as a scarf or a sports wrap. Pull it up above your nose and you have a more classic-looking mask. Pull it over your hair and it can become a handy bandana.

When packing light, an adjustable ski mask means you’ll save space by using one item that can be used for multiple activities.

Best adjustable ski mask: N-Mengge Adjustable Fleece

With 16 different uses, this ski mask can be used as a hood, bandana, wristband, beanie, and more. Microfiber materials are great at dealing with sweat, which makes this the perfect winter sports gear.

Looking for top performance gear that’s breathable?

The best material for a mask for sporting use is one that allows you to stay dry while working up a sweat in the cold. Working up a sweat in frigid temperatures can cause a chill as the wind hits your body. Dri-fit polyester blends make a great ski mask due to their stretchy, breathable material.

Best breathable sports mask: Nike Therma Sphere

Nike’s full-face ski mask is one of the best due to its Dri-Fit design that allows you to be as active as you’d like without worrying about the sub-zero temperatures. It’s warm, comfortable, and good value for a performance-based winter ski mask. It’s also a great mask for more casual wear, as it’s so light you can easily keep it in your pocket when heading indoors.

Worried about overheating in your ski mask?

A half-face mask will allow heat to escape from the top of your head while keeping your neck, mouth, and nose, and ear region protected and warm. While this may not sound ideal, as temperatures rise throughout the day, you may not want something that keeps your head bundled. A half-balaclava is a must for full flexibility on cold days.

When heat is trapped, your body will keep its core temperature relatively high. If you’re working up a sweat, you will want some body heat to release so you don’t feel overheated. Skiers that wear heavy-duty helmets may love the half balaclava’s ability to protect without wrapping up your entire head.

Best half-balaclava: Tough Headwear Half-Balaclava

Sometimes you don’t need to cover it all. A simple and effective design makes this half-balaclava a great ski mask. It protects from the cold, dust particles, and UV rays while providing ultimate comfort and is large enough to be pulled up over your ears.

What is the best cheap ski mask?

You can still stay pleasantly warm and protected from UV rays without spending very much. You may not have the technical performance needed for alpine skiing, but if your needs are simpler, then a budget mask is a great option.

Best ski mask under $10: Achiou Winter Ski Mask

Basic and great—made of 90-percent polyester and 10-percent spandex—this full balaclava ski mask is a simple and effective piece of winter gear. The hooded top can be pulled down making this mask adjustable. When you’ve really worked up a sweat, you can simply toss this mask into the laundry to freshen up.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a ski mask for other activities?

Ski masks are highly adaptable winter items that can be used on runs, outdoor sports, or pretty much any outdoor activity. If you’re looking for a sporty winter cover, a great mask will ensure you’re warm.

Q: What is the best kind of ski mask?

Full balaclavas are an excellent option for maximum warmth and protection. For more breathability, you may opt for something simpler and smaller, like a half-balaclava or adjustable ski mask that can be turned into a scarf or bandana.

Q: What are the best materials for a ski mask?

For performance and breathability, polyesters make great masks. Dri-fit polyester blends will allow you to stay the most comfortable while exercising. Wool is a great option for those not looking to be super active, but who still want to stay insulated.

A final word on shopping for the best ski mask

The best ski mask will allow you to withstand nature’s toughest elements with style and comfort. Protect from harmful UV rays by finding a mask that covers your skin properly, leaving you comfortable in the cold.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Mercedes check out Mercedes of Flagstaff TODAY!

The best keyboards to upgrade your computer setup

Published Oct. 1, 2021

The best keyboards make typing more comfortable, whether you’re working, gaming, or just messing around online. The right pick can make a world of difference to your desktop setup, especially if you spend a lot of hours typing away. 

A good keyboard will reduce discomfort and make your workspace more ergonomic. More than that, the ideal input device should provide a satisfying experience under your fingers. But with several types, different ergonomic features, wired and wireless options, and a range of price points to consider, it can be hard to find the best board for your needs. We’ve narrowed down the top designs for a variety of uses, so you can find your ideal match. The best keyboards fit your body and your workflow.

Methodology 

As writers and editors, we spend a lot of our time typing. We know that a good keyboard is important. Beyond feeling nice, the right keyboard can improve wrist alignment, and encourage better posture in turn.   

We started our search by considering the main reasons for a new keyboard. Are you looking for an ergonomic work companion? A gaming keyboard for fast-paced play? Or maybe a wireless model to reduce cord clutter? We kept those categories in mind when choosing our picks, narrowing down our list from over 30 products to find the best keyboards for the most common uses. 

Through extensive product research and scouring editorial reviews, we found high-quality designs that make typing feel enjoyable and comfortable. By choosing products from reputable brands, we ensured there is an intentional design, ergonomic features, and brand authority behind each product on this list.  

We also kept price in mind. You can find models starting at around $20 and ranging upwards of $200, but a suitable daily model is usually under $100. Serious writers or gamers likely want to splurge (pricier models can have more features). But for the most part, we stuck to a more accessible, sub-$100 price range so you feel good typing, without breaking the bank. 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Keyboard

The best keyboards feel nice and work well. But since these two criteria are rather subjective, the best keyboard for you will depend on your needs. 

What will you use it for?

Different keyboard types have design features that suit their intended use. For occasional browsing and casual computer use, a budget-friendly find might be more than good enough. Gamers might look for customizable lighting and keys. Travelers and digital nomads will likely opt for a lightweight and wireless portable keyboard. And if you’re outfitting a work desk or home office setup like most people, look for an ergonomic keyboard. 

How do you want your keyboard to feel? 

Keyboards can feel and sound very different, depending on their design. When shopping, consider your ideal typing experience. For example, you may prefer smoother, quieter keys for working in a shared office, or opt for clickier, louder keys if you like that typewriter feeling.

Membrane keyboards are most common; these feature a silicone dome or plastic membrane, which makes typing quiet and gives it a soft, mushier feel. For those who prefer a more haptic typing experience, consider buying a mechanical keyboard. Mechanical models feature a key switch (usually spring-loaded) under each key. This design usually gives these more tactile and auditory feedback—think the clacking keys of a keyboard from the 80’s. 

Wired vs. Wireless

Choosing between a wired and wireless keyboard comes down to personal preference—and both categories have plenty to choose from. Wired keyboards are a classic choice that provides reliable connectivity and in many cases, a lower latency (the amount of time a computer takes to register a keypress). Lower latency means less lag time, an important spec for gamers and the speedy typists amongst us.

A good wireless keyboard can still have low latency, though wired versions tend to be more reliable. But for use in your work or home office, style, convenience, and size are likely higher on your priority list than latency. In these cases, a wireless keyboard might be a better choice; it looks nice, is easy to move around your desk, and won’t contribute to extra cord clutter. Wireless models connect to your PC either via Bluetooth or using a 2.4GHz radio-frequency (RF) connection via a USB dongle (some have both). 

Consider Comfort and Ergonomics 

While a basic keyboard will get the job done, your hands and wrists will thank you for investing in a better pick. Ergonomic keyboards can include split keyboards, curved designs, adjustable angles, and added wrist pads or palm rests. These are designed to better support your natural wrist and hand posture to prevent aches and pains. Ergonomic features are nice to have on any product, but are particularly important if you spend a lot of time typing. 

Best Wired Keyboard: Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard

Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard is the best wired keyboard

Reliable and Comfortable

This form factor and feature set works just as well in an office as it does in front of a gaming rig.

Check Price

Why it made the cut: Our pick for the best wired keyboard, the Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard, has the tactile feel and fast processing time of a gaming keyboard, but with an understated design suitable for everyday use. 

Specs:

  • Connectivity: Wired USB
  • Key type: Membrane
  • Size: 8.58 inches x 17.8 inches x 1.3 inches

Pros:

  • Integrated palm rest 
  • 5 lighting zones with over 16 million color options
  • Mech-Dome keys mimic a mechanical keyboard, while keeping quiet

Cons:

  • Large footprint

Wireless keyboards are convenient–until the battery dies or the connection drops. Wired keyboards don’t have those issues. The Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard is a dependable choice for any typing task. Since it’s designed for gaming, this full-size keyboard promises an excellent feel and very little lag. But what sets it apart from clunky gaming keyboards is its subtler look, which makes it ideal to use as an everyday keyboard. 

This keyboard features Logitech’s Mech-Dome keys, which blend the speed and tactile response of mechanical keys, and the quiet presses that come from membrane keys. Since it’s a wired device, there’s no lag time, no connection blips, and no battery to recharge, so you can play or write all day.

Integrated palm rest supports your wrists, while adjustable feet allow you to change the typing angle for long stints at your desk. To brighten up your desk space or for working in the dark, the keyboard has five customizable lighting zones. With an impressive library of 16.8 million colors, you can customize the keyboard to your liking to customize just how much of your secret gaming persona you want to show off.

Best Wireless Keyboard: Logitech MX Keys

Logitech MX Keys is the best wireless keyboard

Full-sized functionality

This keyboard has an ergonomic design that encourages better hand and wrist posture, all without adding an extra cord to your space.

Check Price

Why it made the cut: The Logitech MX Keys—the best wireless keyboard—is comfortable, easily connects to a variety of devices, and offers a full set of features

Specs:

  • Connectivity: Wireless Blutooth
  • Key type: Membrane 
  • Weight: 1.9 pounds

Pros:

  • Full-sized layout
  • Connects to up to three devices
  • Full layout
  • Long battery life

Cons:

  • Bluetooth connectivity not great for gaming

Chances are, many of your devices have a Bluetooth wireless antenna inside. Your computer, your tablet, and even your phone can connect to Bluetooth keyboards like the Logitech MX Keys. This full-sized board can communicate with up to three devices at once so you can easily switch during the day. Want to use two laptops for work and leisure? No problem. Want to take notes in class by typing into your iPhone? Weird, but sure. It even seamlessly works across PCs and Macs. 

The keyboard itself is flat and slick, but offers illuminated keys, which is crucial for some typers. The built-in battery charges via a USB connection and promises up to 10 days of use before it needs to sip off the cable. 

The board itself has reinforcing material in the chassis to make the keystrokes extra quiet. Plus, there’s an option palm rest that keeps a typist’s hands in just the right position as they peck away on the next great novel or angry Facebook comments.

Best Ergonomic Keyboard: KINESIS Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard for PC 

KINESIS Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard for PC is the best ergonomic keyboard

Reduce Typing Strains

A split design and low-force membrane keys make this keyboard a smart choice to reduce wrist, hand, and finger strain while typing.

Check Price

Why it made the cut: A fully split design with a 9-inch cord span makes this board a highly adjustable pick to create a customizable ergonomic setup.  

Specs:

  • Connectivity: Wired USB
  • Key type: Membrane
  • Size: 7.13 inches x 15.38 inches x 0.88 inches 

Pros:

  • Fully split design 
  • Low-force key switches
  • 9-inch adjustment span 

Cons:

  • Tenting and palm support accessories not included 

For anyone that spends lots of time at their desk, getting the best ergonomic keyboard is a worthwhile investment. Contoured keyboards may be good enough for some, but for even more flexibility, reach for a completely split keyboard. With a fully split design, the KINESIS Freestyle2 can help prevent wrist and hand pain, whether you’re typing for a few hours or an entire day. 

The split design features a 9-inch long attachment cord, which gives you plenty of flexibility to move each side to your liking. Another option is to attach both sides of the keyboard completely or use the pivot tether to adjust the splay angle. 

Since fingers can also get sore from typing, this keyboard includes low-force, tactile membrane key switches to help reduce fatigue. With such great customizability, this board is built to reduce wrist, forearm, and hand pain. For even more ergonomic features, consider adding a compatible tenting or palm support (not included).

Best Mechanical Keyboard: Keychron K2

Keychron K2 mechanical keyboard is the best mechanical keyboard

Satisfying and Compact

This no-frills mechanical board offers three types of switches to customize your experience.

Check Price

Why it made the cut: Our pick for the best mechanical keyboard, the Keychron K2 is no-frills board has everything you need, including backlit keys and hybrid wired and wireless connectivity. 

Specs:

  • Connectivity: Wired or wireless
  • Key type: Mechanical 
  • Size: ‎5 inches x 17.12 inches x 0.26 inches

Pros:

  • Compact footprint
  • Choice of switches
  • Backlit keys

Cons:

  • Lacks palm rest

Dig into the world of mechanical keyboards and you’ll notice that it can get out of hand quickly. Enthusiasts often build their own boards and nerd out over things like lubricating the switches for a perfectly silky feel. This 75-percent layout board (84 keys) is a great place to start in the mechanical world. 

When you buy your board, you’ll have to choose between red typically works best for gamers, while blue is better for heavy typing. Brown is a good all-around option if you want a mix. The red also lacks a tactile, audible click so it’s best for office settings. 

The Keychron K8 has a built-in 4,000 mAh battery that will last up to nine days on a charge if you’re not using backlighting. It charges (and connects) via USB-C so you can use it wired if you want. 

The greyscale layout is extremely slick and gets a nice bit of punctuation from the bright red escape key.

Best Gaming Keyboard: Corsair K95 RGB Platinum

Corsair K95 RGB Platinum Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is the best keyboard for gaming

Built for Heavy Users

This keyboard features fully customizable lighting, six dedicated macro keys, and lightning-fast speeds so you can play exactly how you’d like.

Check Price

Why it made the cut: With a range of customizable features in a sturdy aluminum frame, this is the best gaming keyboard around. 

Specs: 

  • Connectivity: Wired USB
  • Key type: Mechanical 
  • Size: ‎18.3 inches x 6.7 inches x 1.4 inches

Pros:

  • High-performance CHERRY MX mechanical switches 
  • Customizable RGB lighting 
  • Six dedicated macro keys 
  • Detachable wrist rest

Cons:

A good gaming keyboard can improve gaming performance and make it more comfortable to play. Corsair has a favorable reputation amongst gamers, and the Corsair K95 RGB Platinum is one of their feature-packed picks.  

This is a bit of a splurge, but with a sturdy aluminum body, it’s built to last a lifetime. It has all the features you expect from a good gaming keyboard, including mechanical key switches, RGB lighting, and excellent speed. 

A few extra features take this gaming keyboard to the next level. It’s lighting is fully customizable, allowing you to set per-key backlighting as well as adjust each key’s color and illumination level. To optimize game play, this model has six dedicated macro keys. Up to three profiles can be stored in the 8MB of onboard storage, so you can save your preferences once you’ve decided on your favorite settings.

Overall, this design is comfortable and reactive, two of the most important features in a gaming keyboard. It’s wired, so there’s no lag time, and it features an ergonomic design with a detachable wrist rest to support your hands for hours of play.

FAQs

Q: What is the most comfortable keyboard?

Choose an ergonomic keyboard for a more comfortable typing experience. For maximum flexibility, consider a fully split keyboard like the KINESIS Freestyle2 Ergonomic Keyboard for PC, which is even more adjustable for your comfort.

Q: Are curved keyboards better?

Curved keyboards feature an ergonomic design that keeps your wrists in better alignment while typing. They can be better for those who type for long periods of time, especially those who are prone to wrist and hand pain while working.

Q: Are split keyboards good for gaming?

Split keyboards are an excellent pick for those looking for an ergonomic choice, as well as for gamers. These keyboards are very customizable; each half of the keyboard can be adjusted separately to suit your ideal position.

Final thought on the best keyboards

The Logitech G213 Prodigy Gaming Keyboard combines a pleasant tactile feel, an ergonomic design, and a sleek look all into an affordable keyboard that is well-suited for everyday use.

For GREAT deals on a new or used Nissan check out Nissan of Costa Mesa TODAY!