What's an Airhole masks? 

Think geeky scarf of the 80's with a heap of attitude and fun graphics that enable you to express who you are while keeping you warm. Here's how they explain it:

The Airhole Masks expels moisture, retains heat, eliminates goggle fogging, and allows for uninterrupted breathing and hydrating from camel packs or water bottles.

Airhole masks are designed to help protect your face from the elements. Winter sports activities bombard your exposed skin with rain, snow, sun, and wind. The Airhole mask provides a barrier against these forces using a weather resistant outer shell and a warm soft lining against your face. 

Are they a must for backcountry skiing? depends upon the weather and your personality. Personally I don't do scarves, balaclavas or anything else around my neck as I find I run pretty hot, but you may be different?

A few of my favorites…

Check 'em out at airholes.ca if you are interested.