Is it warm enough for winter riding?

It handles cool to cold weather well, but the single-layer knit is thin for deep sub-freezing rides. Pair it with a cap or balaclava in extreme cold.

Can it really be worn as a beanie?

Yes. The tube is sized to fold into a beanie that fits under a helmet, and it also pulls up over the face as a mask.

Does it itch like wool?

The blend is mostly polyester with 11% wool, so most wearers find it soft against the skin without the itch of pure merino.

How does it compare with a pure merino gaiter?

It dries faster and resists odor longer, but pure merino is warmer and softer for the same weight.

Not fully. The knit cuts chill but is not windproof, so it works best under a shell or in moderate wind.

What do buyers say about the Specialized Drirelease Merino Neck Gaiter?

Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 17 ratings.

Where can I buy the Specialized Drirelease Merino Neck Gaiter?

13 stores we checked sell it, including Sierra Bicycle Supply, Performance Bicycle, Specialized.com, BikeHub, Berkshire Bike and Board.

Specialized Drirelease Merino Neck Gaiter

Q: Where is the Specialized Drirelease Merino Neck Gaiter cheapest?

At Performance Bicycle, for $7.99, 33% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Best price now

$7.99at Performance BicycleChecked Nov 4

33% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 13 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Performance Bicycle

What reviewers say

4.5 / 517 ratings

Riders rate it highly, praising its warmth-to-weight balance, fast drying and odor resistance on long, sweaty rides. A few note it is thinner and less warm than expected for deep cold.

What people mention

Moisture managementPraisedOwners say it wicks sweat and dries quickly during hard rides.
Odor controlPraisedReviewers report it stays fresh over repeated use.
WarmthMixedSome find it warm enough for cool rides; others say it is thin for deep cold.
VersatilityPraisedBuyers like wearing it as a gaiter, facemask or beanie under a helmet.
Fit and drawcordMixedThe cinch holds it in place, but a few find the cord fiddly.

About the Specialized Drirelease Merino Neck Gaiter

The Specialized Drirelease Merino Neck Gaiter is made for backcountry use, where weather can change quickly. It fits comfortably over the neck. It can also be worn as a facemask or a beanie.

It is knit from drirelease Merino with FreshGuard, a wool blend that insulates for warmth, wicks moisture and neutralizes odor. An elastic drawcord cinches the gaiter to lock in warmth in extreme cold. Deflect UV 50+ protects skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.

The gaiter converts to a beanie for time off the bike or for added protection under a helmet.

Material

Knit 84% polyester, 11% wool, 5% spandex

Fabric

drirelease Merino with FreshGuard

UV protection

Deflect UV 50+

Closure

Elastic drawcord

Season

Cool weather

Sizing