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Hood or overhood: key differences to help you choose?

Author : Team NOPé

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Published on

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Time to read 2 min

At NOPé, two of our bestselling pieces are battling it out for the top spot on the mountain: the hood and the overhood.

Both are warm, comfy, and designed to take on the kind of real-deal cold we know and love during winter. But each one brings something different to the table. Here’s how to pick the best one for your activities, your style… and your head.


The hood: Everyday warmth, made to adapt

The NOPé hood, also known as balaclava, is your go-to for days when anything can happen. You can wear it on its own, with a hat or toque, pulled up over your head or down around your neck, it’s just as great for grabbing a coffee downtown as it is for a snowshoe trek through the woods.


  • Available in two sizes (S or M) to fit heads of all shapes and sizes, kids and adults alike.
  • Made from a soft, breathable, windproof, quick-drying fabric, because moisture is public enemy #1 when dressing for winter.
  • Perfect for urban walks, winter biking, cross-country skiing, or playground time.

In a nutshell: This one’s your best bet when your level of effort varies. Its snug fit around the face helps manage moisture and breathability, even when you're working up a sweat. It lets air flow naturally while still blocking the wind, no damp face, no foggy goggles, no chilly drips.

Adventure inspo with a ski hood on: A family-friendly winter walk to the top of Montmorency Falls near Québec City, where the mist freezes into sparkling frost on the trees. Or a gentle nature stroll through Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park in Montréal, where snow-covered woods meet icy shores. The perfect way to catch some daylight, rosy cheeks, and a warm neck.

👀 Psst… the INTENSI-T hood is now available in limited edition : lighter, more breathable, and perfect for high-intensity activities.

modèle capuche nopé

The overhood: Made for skiing, built for wind

The overhood was born for long days on the slopes. It slips over a ski or snowboard helmet and wraps your head in a cocoon of ultra-soft insulation. Our new adjustable drawcord hugs your face to block gusts of wind, without ever getting in your way.

  • One-size-fits-most, compatible with most adult and kids’ helmets
  • A must for downhill skiing, snowboarding, ski touring, or anything exposed at higher altitudes
  • Just as comfy as a hood, but with full coverage all the way to your forehead, even with layers underneath

In a nutshell: Prioritizing insulation and full-face coverage before, during, and after your runs, especially when the wind picks up. Worn over a helmet, it creates a protected air pocket around your face, ideal for chairlift rides or cozy breaks at the chalet.

Adventure inspo with a snow overhood on: A weekend at Bromont or Tremblant, with your hair neatly tucked under your helmet and your head warm ‘til the very last run. A must-have for those who want to stay out on the slopes all day, no matter the wind.

modèle surcapuches nopé

Two styles, same NOPé DNA

What do these two pieces have in common? Tried-and-true comfort, thoughtful design straight from Québec, and long-lasting quality. Both are easy to care for, breathable, and available in a wide variety of prints and colours, to match your jacket, your vibe, or the weather. Whether you’re more into slow, cozy strolls or first-up-the-lift, last-down-the-slope adventures, there’s a NOPé hood made for you.

So, hood or overhood?

Whatever your winter style, what matters most is keeping your head held high and your neck nice and warm. Take a look at all our adult and kids’ models, and don’t forget to tag us in your best outdoor snaps on Instagram @nope_libre, we love seeing where your gear takes you!