“Trailhead” is a top-down, seamless balaclava designed for maximum warmth. It’s an ideal gift knit for winter walks, snow days, and bundled-up commutes. Stripes in two coordinating colors add rhythm and play, while contrasting ribbing gives a crisp edge and snug structure.
The design begins with a square-shaped top panel worked flat in garter stitch, forming a structured crown. From there, stitches are picked up and worked downward in garter stitch to shape the sides of the hood. Short rows gently shape the back for a comfortable, close fit around the neck and shoulders. The neck ribbing is picked up and worked in the round, and a ribbed face opening completes the piece for extra stretch and definition. Simple and stash-friendly, “Trailhead” is quick to knit and easy to personalize, making it a go-to project for gift-giving, last-minute knitting, or cozy layering.

Sizing: Adult S (Adult M, Adult L)
To fit a head circumference of approximately: 51-56 (53-58.5, 56-61) cm.

Materials
Yarn: Aran-weight yarn (160 m / 100 g) in 3 colors, approximately 60 (70, 85) meters of each color.
Yardage may vary if your gauge/yarn is different.
For the sample used: 3 colors of Donegal Kilcarra Tweed, 100% Pure New wool, 160 m / 100 g.

Gauge: 16 sts & 28 rows = 10 cm in garter stitch, worked flat on gauge needles.

Needles:
5 mm (gauge needles), 80 and 40 cm circular needles, or longer circular needles for the Magic Loop method.
4.5 mm or half size smaller than gauge needles, 40 cm circular needle, and DPNs (or longer circular needle for Magic Loop method) for small circumference knitting, for ribbing.
Or adjust the needle size to meet the gauge.

Other Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle, stitch holders (or scrap yarn), measuring tape.