A flame resistant balaclava that is worn when conducting Direct Action tasks that will provide user protection from flame/incendiaries. An ergonomic design and flat seam construction techniques allow for enhanced comfort when worn in conjunction with a helmet, eye protection, ear protection and/or O2 mask. FR mesh materials and construction techniques, allowing the balaclava to be worn in either an eyes exposed only or full face exposed manner, allows for enhanced ventilation that mitigates overheating and undue fog/moisture build-up on eye protection.