Winter running is something I love, but finding the right gear can be a real challenge, especially when it comes to headwear. I have curly hair, which adds another layer of complexity to the equation. A beanie that's too tight can flatten my curls and leave me feeling uncomfortable. Finding the right balance between warmth, comfort, and hair-friendly design has been a journey, and I'm excited to share what I've learned.
For a long time, I struggled to find a good solution for keeping my head warm during winter runs. Lightweight merino wool beanies were okay, but sometimes I needed something warmer. The midweight merino or Thermonet options were definitely warmer, but not always ideal. My biggest problem was always my hair. Most beanies just didn't accommodate my curls, leaving me with flat, sad hair after a run. It wasn't a good look, and it made me dread taking off my hat.
My first attempt at solving this problem was using a headband or ear warmer. If you're okay with not covering the top of your head, this can be a great option! I would wear it over my ears and tuck it under my hair to keep it in place. This worked surprisingly well, especially when I wanted to "save" my hair after a run and avoid a full shower. It's a quick and easy solution for milder winter days.
However, on colder days, a headband wasn't enough. That's when I discovered the magic of a polar fleece buff. With a larger head and lots of curls, I needed something more substantial than just an earband. A polar fleece buff, like the one I saw online, offered more coverage and warmth without completely flattening my hair. It's incredibly versatile and can be worn in many different ways, providing excellent protection from the cold.
Then, I got really creative and started thinking about making my own beanie. I don't knit, but I wondered if I could learn to crochet. A friend suggested that beanies are super easy to make, and you can customize them to any size. The best part? It's really easy to leave a hole at the top for a ponytail! This seemed like the perfect solution for my curly hair woes. It would be a fun project, and I could create a beanie that perfectly fits my needs.
While exploring other options, I stumbled upon a satin-lined beanie with an adjustment strap. This seemed like a game-changer! The satin lining would help prevent frizz and keep my curls from getting too tangled, while the adjustment strap would allow me to customize the fit. I even considered getting one for running and one for sleeping!
I found Outdoor Research (OR) makes a good one too. It's designed for active pursuits and provides excellent warmth and breathability. Patagonia also makes a cool fleece cap with earflaps and a ponytail hole, combining warmth with hair-friendly design. It's great for those extra-cold days when you need maximum protection.
Another good option I've found is to combine a cap and a buff. Buffs are incredibly versatile and can be worn in many different ways, providing extra warmth and protection for your neck and face.
While searching online for unique winter headwear, I came across Wholecustomdesign and their amazing selection of berets. I was particularly drawn to the "17 Colors! New Women Beret French Artist Warm Wool Winter Beanie Hat Cap Vintage Plain Beret Hats Solid Color Elegant Lady Caps Red-56-58cm".
What I loved about this beret from find it here is that it offered a stylish alternative to the traditional beanie. It's made of warm wool, perfect for winter running, but it also has a vintage, elegant look. The variety of colors available is fantastic, allowing me to choose one that matches my running gear. I tried it out and was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it was, even with my curly hair. It didn't flatten my curls like some beanies do, and it kept my head warm without feeling too bulky. It became my go-to option for those days when I wanted to look a little more stylish while still staying warm and comfortable.
I found that the beret from Wholecustomdesign was especially useful when running errands after my workout. I could easily transition from my run to a coffee shop or grocery store without feeling self-conscious about my hair. It's a versatile piece that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Here are some tips based on my experiences to help you find the perfect winter running beanie, especially if you have curly hair: