Winter is my favorite time for outdoor adventures, but battling the cold can be a real challenge! I've spent years trying to find the perfect winter hat – one that keeps me warm without making me overheat, is comfortable for hours on end, and actually looks good. It's been a journey of trial and error, and I'm excited to share what I've learned so you can avoid some of the mistakes I made.
I used to think any old beanie would do the trick. I had a couple, one from H&M and another I picked up at a petrol station during a road trip. They were okay, but neither was particularly great. They either didn't keep me warm enough during really cold snaps, or they were too bulky and uncomfortable when I was active. Recently, I was planning a trip to Hungary, Bulgaria, and the Southwest Balkans in January, and I knew I needed something better. I needed a solution that was both functional and warm.
I started looking into different types of winter hats. I initially thought about getting a super insulated, heavy-duty hat, but then I realized that might be overkill for most situations. I started thinking about layering. The idea of wearing an uninsulated hat and then adding a beanie on top when needed seemed like a smart approach. The key, of course, is finding a beanie that actually fits comfortably over another hat.
Then, I remembered my trusty Buff! I've found myself using it more as a hat or earmuffs than a traditional beanie, especially when I'm moving around. I often wear a baseball or running cap because I like having a brim to keep the sun out of my eyes. With the Buff, I can easily fold it up for extra warmth or use just a single layer if I'm starting to sweat. It's incredibly versatile.
I also discovered the wonders of a fleece beanie. For me, a fleece beanie is generally the lightest, fastest drying, and warmest-for-weight "all around" warm hat. It packs down small, dries quickly if it gets wet, and provides a surprising amount of warmth. However, when it's really cold, especially when I'm sleeping in a quilt outdoors, I've learned that some sort of insulated head covering, like a weather hat or hood, is absolutely essential.
After a lot of experimenting, I've landed on a system that works well for me. For active use, I prefer a thin wool or fleece beanie. For more serious winter weather, I've found that a fleece-lined hat with a windproof shell, ear coverings, and a peak is ideal. Outdoor Research (OR) makes some great hats like this, but I try to find one with a minimalistic exterior so it doesn't interfere with my hood or other gear.
And speaking of beanies, I recently came across a fantastic option while browsing WholeCustomDesign Review. I was looking for a windproof fleece beanie that would be perfect for cycling and skiing, and I stumbled upon the Fashion Man Hat New Unisex Windproof Fleece Warm Beanie Hat Cap.
I decided to give it a try, and I'm so glad I did! The fleece lining is incredibly soft and warm, and the windproof outer layer really makes a difference when I'm battling the elements. It's also lightweight and comfortable enough to wear for extended periods. I think I found it on WholeCustomDesign.
I've also become much more aware of the different materials used in winter hats. I've even tried making my own! I crochet, and the last hat I made was a merino wool / alpaca / silk blend. I used a sport weight Malabrigo yarn, which is incredibly soft and luxurious. I make hats a lot, so I experiment with different blends, but a high alpaca percentage is a must for cold weather in my opinion. Alpaca is incredibly warm and has a lovely drape.
Here are a few things I've learned that can help you choose the right winter hat: