Neck Warmers

[Isk8NYC]

You know it's winter when I start doing research.  It must be cabin fever after being homebound for the weekend.

This is about neck warmers.  I've worn scarves, but I hate the wrapping and the bulk.  Several years ago, one of my adult students gave me a slightly-oversized headband that she had knitted with a beautiful, soft yard. She told me it was a neck warmer - like a Dickie, but without the bib part. 

I wear it all the time in the winter at the rink.  It's not bulky at all and it keeps me warm.  My turtlenecks are good, but this fills the air space between the turtleneck and the jacket/vest collar.  When I get warm, I can just pull it over my head and tuck it in my pocket.

I've tried this with fleece headbands in a pinch - works good, but the knitted one is better.

This is what the one she made me looks like:



There are a different type on this page, but they're waaay beyond my knitting skill set:
http://adworks.pk/fashion/latest-knit-neck-warmer-winter-collection.php
(Someone blogged how to make these here: http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-a-Neck-Warmer-with-Buttons )

For those of you who knit, there are some free patterns here:
http://www.knittinghelp.com/free-patterns/categories/cowls-neck-warmer


Side note: when I have a student who can't remember to look up, not at the ice, wrapping a scarf around their necks helps as a reminder.

[davincisop]

I use infinity scarves. But I don't mind the bulk bc it keeps me from looking at my feet. I have one that is 100% wool for super cold days and others that are jersey knit for warmer sessions.

[Christy]

Thanks for posting. I found some wool the other day and I've been thinking about making myself a couple of neckwarmers with it. I'd planned to just make it wider than a scarf then sew the ends together, which may be my best option as I'm not good at following a pattern and scarves are my limit these days (used to do sweaters but that was a long time ago!).

[Query]

I've worn balaclavas (ski masks).

Light and not at all bulky. Such a great way to scare your students! 

Neoprene models, used for watersports, are really warm.

[AgnesNitt]

A friend gave me a hand knit headband for Christmas. I have a small head, so I'll try wearing as a neck scarf.

[lutefisk]

Turtle neck shirts seem to work for me.  I don't know if I'd want an itchy-wooly strangler thingy around my neck!

[dlbritton]

If you are anywhere near a ski resort, or just somewhere cold, you may be able to find fleece neck warmers. They aren't extremely bulky and can be pulled up over your chin and even nose if necessary.
I use a cotton bandanna around my neck to cut the wind when I am skiing. That may give enough extra warmth by blocking air/wind and providing a layer to trap warmth.