Whether you're braving the snow-capped mountains or navigating the urban jungle, finding the right hat is essential to protect yourself from the cold and make a fashion statement.
Some of us love winter, others hate it. But regardless of how you feel about the season, one thing is clear– staying warm is essential! And no matter your style or what you’re doing, a winter hat is one of the best ways to keep cozy.
Why Wear a Winter Hat?
Wearing a winter hat is more than just a fashion statement; it's a crucial step in protecting yourself from the harsh winter weather. Your head is one of the most vulnerable areas to heat loss, and a good hat can help prevent that. By keeping your head warm, you not only stay comfortable but also maintain your overall body temperature.
A winter hat also protects your ears, which are particularly susceptible to frostbite. Exposed ears can become painful and prone to chapping in cold and windy conditions. And, if your hat has a larger brim, it can protect you from both windburn and sunburn. Many of us forget about sunscreen once the temperature cools down, but the harsh light of winter can actually be quite dangerous. Wearing a UV-rated winter hat is a crucial element of any skin-safe toolkit.
Different types of winter hats
Winter hats come in a wide variety of styles, each offering its own unique blend of fashion and functionality. When picking yours, consider the times and places you’re most likely to wear your winter hat.
- Beanies: Beanies are a classic winter hat option that provides excellent warmth and versatility. They are typically made from knitted or fleece materials and come in various lengths, from snug-fitting skull caps to slouchy styles. Beanies are perfect for casual, everyday wear and can be easily paired with any outfit. However, they’re hard to style for more formal occasions, so if you’re looking for one hat that can handle any situation, stay away from this one.
- Outback Hats: Originally designed to protect farmers and ranchers from the harsh conditions of the Australian Outback, this style has no problem handling harsh winter conditions. The mid-sized brim and crown are universally flattering, and with a slight dip in the front and back, the brim will keep rain and snow out of your face. This style is commonly made from wool, which makes it a fantastic option for nearly any occasion.
- Fedoras: If you're looking to elevate your winter style, fedoras are the way to go. These timeless hats are made from wool or felt and feature a wide brim and a creased crown. Fedora hats are perfect for those who want to make a sophisticated fashion statement while keeping their head warm.
- Berets And Newsboy Caps: Looking for something that fits close to your head like a beanie, but can be styled up or down like a fedora? Berets and Newsboy styles are just what you need! The classic French beret is an iconic symbol of style, and it’s often made from cozy wool. Newsboy caps feature a small brim that’ll keep rain or snow out of your eyes, and they offer a refined look that’s impossible to replicate with a more casual winter hat style.
- Cowboy Hats: For the winter adventurer, a cowboy hat is the perfect choice. This style features a wider brim that is curved on the sides. Not only will this style ensure that you’re always safe from snow and rain in your face, but it’s also highly UV protective when made with UPF-rated materials such as wool or leather.
Factors to consider when choosing a winter hat
Choosing the right winter hat goes beyond just picking a style that looks good on you. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting the perfect hat to keep you warm and stylish:
Material
The material of your winter hat plays a significant role in its warmth and comfort. If you have a material that’s not well-suited for cold weather, you’ll end up cold, wet, and unhappy. But choose well, and you can stay cozy for the whole day. Our favorite cold-weather hat material is cruelty-free wool. This 100% natural material is uniquely suited for variable winter weather because it wicks away wetness and regulates temperature.
Fit
No one wants to wear a hat that’s too tight or too loose, and it’s particularly important in winter weather. If your hat gets easily blown away in every gust of cold air (or is so tight your head aches), you simply won’t wear it. Your hat should fit snugly around the circumference of your head, about one inch above your ears.
Functionality and Style
Lastly, make sure you pick a hat that fits the activities you like to do in colder weather. If you plan to spend prolonged hours in the sunshine, make sure you pick a winter hat with UPF protection. And of course, don’t settle until you find a design that fits your personal style.
Winter hat care and maintenance
To ensure your winter hat stays in excellent condition and provides long-lasting warmth and style, follow these care and maintenance tips:
- Spot clean as needed: If your hat gets stained or dirty, spot clean it immediately to prevent the stain from setting. Use warm water or a mild soap and gently blot the affected area with a clean cloth or sponge.
- Dry properly: It’s expected that your hat will be exposed to snow and rain in the winter. If your hat gets wet, gently reshape it. Then, let it air dry in an open environment away from direct sunlight.
- Store properly: When not in use, store your winter hat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of your hat, as this can cause it to lose its shape. Consider using a hat box or a hat rack to maintain its structure.
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your winter hat remains in pristine condition for many seasons to come.
Winter weather is the perfect time to experiment with new hat styles, so don’t be afraid to try something new. When you pick a hat that’s well-made from quality, weather-appropriate materials, you can’t go wrong!
Ready to update your cold-weather wardrobe? Check out our selection of UPF-rated winter hats.