As the temps gets closer to the 30's, a balaclava is necessary (at least for me). The wind on the face/nose gets pretty cold and fast! I've a smartwool version that I like, my earband and skull cap are both synthetic (Gore) and work fine. It takes time to collect winter riding gear - it took me two seasons to collect what I do have but am set. Now as long as I don't "under-grow" my tights and shorts I will be happy