The difference between a neck gaiter and a balaclava is that a neck gaiter is a round tube-like accessory made of stretchy material, that is usually worn around your neck for warmth. Due to its tube-like nature, it can be worn in almost 12 different ways. A balaclava on the other hand is a headgear that is meant to protect your head and face leaving the mouth, eyes and nose exposed for ventilation. Some balaclava styles can be pulled up to the nose for extra protection.