Neck gaiters are built to handle tough climates by protecting against sun, sand, wind, dust and more — all while remaining breathable. Their versatility comes from the seemingly endless ways you can wear one depending on what the situation calls for. In this step-by-step guide we've outlined twelve of our favorite ways to wear a neck gaiter.

• Neck Gaiter

  

  A standalone neck gaiter protects against sand, wind and bugs all while promoting breathability. Just wrap it around your neck!

• Face mask

  

  Place the gaiter around your neck, and pull it over your mouth and nose.

• Bandana

  

  Fold the gaiter into thirds, and wrap it around the top of your head.

• Wristband

  

  Wrap the gaiter around your wrist.

• Headwrap

  

  Once the gaiter is wrapped around your neck, pull it over your head and align it around your face.

• Balaclava

  

  Start off by wearing the gaiter the same way you would a hood, then pull the fabric up from below your chin and cover your nose.

• Sahariane

  

  Turn the gaiter inside out and lay it flat over your head. Make sure the openings are faced towards the front and back. Place your hand over your head and inside the tube, then pull the top layer down with your other hand.

• Do-rag

  

  Wrap one gaiter opening around your head.

• Pirate

  

  Put both arms through the gaiter and grab each end. Then pull the gaiter together, and wrap one end over your head.

• Beanie

  

  Turn the gaiter inside out, spin in the middle and fold one side over the other.

• Headband

  

  Fold the gaiter into thirds and wrap it around your head, completely covering your ears.

• Ponytail

  

  Scrunch the gaiter and wrap it around your hair, tying it in place.

There are definitely many more creative ways to wear a gaiter, but you just can't go wrong with these fan-favorites. Gaiters are the perfect everyday carry essential since they're so handy, lightweight and easy to store. Regardless of whether you need protection from the elements or you just love the look, you can't go wrong with a neck gaiter.