The Walero Open Face Balaclava (WAL40002) fits under a helmet with the face fully exposed, covering the back of the head, the neck and the chin line in FIA 8856-2000 and SFI 3.3-approved Walero fabric. Motorsport UK requires a balaclava homologated to FIA 8856-2000 or FIA 8856-2018 for stage rally; most circuit regulations at national licence level carry the same requirement.
The same Outlast phase-change yarn used in the Walero tops and long johns is knit into this balaclava. Microcapsules in the fabric absorb heat from the scalp and neck, two high-output areas inside a closed helmet in race conditions, and release it gradually as the wearer cools. A helmet holds heat on its own; this layer moderates the cycle through the stint.
Walero’s Envirotech+ antimicrobial finish is woven in at production, not applied as a surface coating, so it stays effective through repeated washing.
Two colours: Cool Grey and Petroleum. Sizing is Adult S/M and Adult L/XL, covering the majority of adult head circumferences. At £44 it is the least expensive piece in the Walero range. If you are starting a kit and can only buy one piece first, the balaclava is the one most series make non-negotiable. The Walero version gives you the same Outlast temperature management as the rest of the underwear set.
We hold these at the showroom. Lead time is typically 1 to 2 working days. If you need help choosing between S/M and L/XL before ordering, drop us an email or click to open a chat.
Have you written anything about this exact product?
Yes, we have covered this exact product: Open Face Or Full Face? What The Rules Say For Open And Closed Cars, and Open-face FIA motorsport helmet guide. That is first-hand coverage from our own builds and showroom, not brochure copy.
Do I actually need FIA underwear?
If your championship requires it, this is the layer scrutineers ask about, and it is strongly recommended under any suit regardless. These balaclavas are homologated to FIA 8856-2000, the previous FIA standard. Many championships still accept it, but check your regulations before buying for competition. They also carry SFI 3.3 approval. Our guide on whether fireproof underwear is mandatory covers the rules championship by championship.
What size should I go for?
Sizes run from Adult L/XL to Adult S/M. Underwear layers should sit close to the skin without pinching, as loose fabric wrinkles under the suit and gets uncomfortable fast. Between sizes, take the smaller one for a base layer.
Will it fit under my helmet?
Yes, it is cut thin specifically so your helmet still fits as it should. This one is an open-face design, which leaves the face opening clear and works under any helmet, full face or open face. If your helmet is already a snug fit, a thin single-layer balaclava like this changes nothing about the sizing.
How do I wash it?
Underwear layers are the one bit of racewear you should wash after every use: cool and gentle, no bleach or fabric softener, air dry. That keeps the suit itself needing far fewer washes. Full routine in our racewear care guide.
At GSM Performance, our priority is to maintain the utmost hygiene and quality standards for the benefit of our customers. To that end, we have instituted a policy that all purchases of long johns, balaclavas, tops, and underwear are final and non-returnable. This policy is necessary due to the personal nature of these items, which are worn in close contact with the body. This protocol is intended to guarantee the health and safety of all our customers.
This policy adheres to the best industry practices and safeguards both our customers and our staff. It's important to clarify that this policy does not affect your statutory rights as a consumer. This policy does not apply if you receive damaged or defective products. In such cases, our customer service team is available to promptly address your concerns and arrange a replacement or refund. We greatly appreciate your understanding and adherence to our hygiene policy and thank you for your continued confidence in GSM Performance. For further information please see our terms and conditions which are agreed on checkout.
