Winter is always approaching, so now is the best time to stock up on luxuriously warm winter hats. Though it is a medical misconception that we lose half of our body heat through our heads, wearing a hat helps retain heat and protects our extremities, such as our ears, which are the first to suffer when it comes to the cold. Allowing your noggin to be uncovered can cause your body’s blood flow to become even more restricted. Because the head lacks subcutaneous fat to keep it warm, an extra layer of protection will insulate your noodle and keep you from shivering on your next stroll home, unlike other parts of the body.
To ensure that you order the perfect winter hats for yourself, there are a few things to consider. So, before you hit “add to cart,” we’ve put together this handy guide to help you answer all of the key questions. Here’s to staying warm — and looking nice — throughout the season.
There are so many types of winter hats; here’s how to find your perfect fit
There’s more to consider than the weather and your particular taste when choosing the perfect winter hats for you. We’ve got your back.
Do you need extra insulation in your winter hats?
If you spend a lot of time outside in the cold, you’ll want to invest in warm winter hats with extra insulation, especially around the ears. We’re talking about ear flaps, often known as trapper hats. Trapper hats were created for hunters who spent long hours out in the field attempting to capture sustenance for the harsh winters on the American frontier. Trapper hats, which were originally constructed of various furs and leathers, have become a staple for individuals battling an extreme cold. While there are many hats like this on the market, construction is the most crucial factor to consider. When the sun sets and the temps drop, a poorly built trapper hat won’t keep you warm. As a result, it’s critical to examine the hat’s internal and external materials. Look for a wool exterior if you live in a somewhat dry, chilly climate; this will block any heat from escaping. If you’re in a particularly rainy environment, go for a trapper hat with a waterproof covering. You have more alternatives when it comes to the interior; some hats still use real fur or shearling to keep you warm, while others use faux fur and polyester blends to drain moisture away while keeping you warm. Both will keep you warm, but for high-quality materials, we recommend going with a mid-to-high-end design rather than a budget one.
Best trapper hat: Canada Goose Aviator Hat
Fight The Coldest Of Cold
This traditional-style fur trapper hat, trimmed with coyote fur, will keep you warm all season long.
When it comes to insulation, Canada Goose’s trapper hats are the ultimate winter hats. You’ll never want to take it off thanks to the buckle closing, waterproof Arctic-tech shell, and coyote fur interior. This type is available in three colors and, despite the fact that it is labeled “for males,” it may be worn by anyone. If this particular model isn’t for you, there are plenty of other Canada Goose styles to choose from.
Are you looking for something simple that won’t disappoint?
Consider the simple beanie if you want to be warm but the trapper hat’s general structure doesn’t quite fit your sense of style. Beanies are often slimmer and more fitted, making them not only practical but also fashionable. This hat style is suitable for men and women of all ages and comes in a variety of fabrics, colors, and price points.
In America, the beanie as we know it began in the early 1900s and was popular among blue-collar workers and college freshmen (for a brief period in the 1950s, they were a strange sort of hazing). These hats, which were mostly fashioned of wool, kept employees warm while keeping their hair tucked away. They didn’t gain popularity until the 1990s, and they’ve remained a winter wardrobe staple ever since. Other types of knitting hats, such as the toboggan, have roots in French, South American, Scandinavian, and British cultures and date back to the 17th century.
Nowadays, “beanie” is a catch-all term for hats that fit over the ears and have no brims or flaps. Tight skullcaps, pom toppers (traditionally known as bobble hats), slouchy styles, and more are all readily available. Wool, cashmere, and rib-knit are all popular fabrics for winter hats. Some are fleece-lined for extra warmth, and a couple even includes unique features like built-in headphones.
Best beanie hat: Patagonia Wool Pom Beanie
Fun Design, Ultimate Warmth
This pom-topped beanie will look great and insulate. Patagonia
Patagonia, one of our favorite brands, makes these adorable beanie winter hats. Patagonia is well-known for its outdoor apparel and ethical manufacturing practices. This beanie is made from recycled wool and nylon that has been manufactured according to Fair Trade standards. The knit fabric is naturally elastic, and the cuff can be folded up if the temperature warms up.
Runner-up beanie: North Face Shinsky Beanie
Stylish And Slouchy
Look cool while keeping warm with this relaxed fit beanie.
If pom-poms aren’t your style, this North Face beanie is a good alternative. It’s constructed of soft acrylic fabric and comes in seven solid colors. It’s available in two sizes. This hat is perfect for a more laid-back style that goes with almost any outfit.
Best wide-brimmed winter hats: Lack of Color Rancher
Lack of Color’s wool rancher fedora is a perennial favorite. It comes in eight various colors and may be worn in any season, though we think it’s best for a winter occasion. It has a 10-centimeter brim with a bow ribbon accent and a hat rim with a rough grain edge. Check out Laulhere’s 100 percent wool berets if you’re seeking a little more warmth.
Best winter hats for exercise: Smartwool Merino Sport 150 Beanie
Smartwool’s winter hats are composed entirely of tight-knit Merino wool, thick enough to keep you warm without making you sweat. The cuff is thin enough to go beneath a helmet and adjusts to limit your exposure depending on the conditions. Plus, because it’s reversible, you’ll get two hats for the price of one.
Best winter hat for kids: ViGrace Winter Hat Set
This set of beanies includes three hats with a delicate braided design made from elastic acrylic yarn. There are seven different color possibilities and four different combinations, so your youngster will have a choice and you will have a backup. This hat will accommodate a child’s head circumference of 7 to 12 inches and will grow with them.
Best budget winter hat: Carhartt Acrylic Beanie
Carhartt beanies are constructed of 100% acrylic and come in a variety of colors. These hats, which are created in the United States and have a rib-knit construction, are the one-size-fits-all solution for keeping your head toasty on a budget without losing elegance.
FAQ: More tips on shopping for the best winter hats
What is the best material for winter hats?
While there isn’t one material that is unquestionably the greatest, there is a handful that will undoubtedly keep you warm. When it comes to insulation and heat retention, wool, fur, polyester fleece, and shearling are excellent choices. Wool mixes are also extremely useful and can be acquired at a lower price point on occasion.
How do I style a winter hat?
Styling winter hats should be enjoyable and straightforward. Make sure you have a hat that goes with your favorite winter coat, whether it’s a beanie or a thicker ushanka. You’ll be fine if you stick to similar, complementary hues that won’t crash. For a complete winter outfit, you can even go all out and try to find something that’s an identical match. All you need now are some matching gloves.
A final word on shopping for winter hats
Hopefully, you’re getting psyched about picking up a new winter hat. Always keep in mind the temperature, style, and activities that your hat must be able to take, and you will not be disappointed. There are a plethora of options available, and you can never have too many hats.
