Stay warm with the best winter hats
Which winter hat is best?
While you only lose 10% of your body heat through your head, you still want to cover up your noggin while temperatures are on the colder side. Even if you think you have all the winter hats you need, you might find something that piques your interest here.
The beanie is the most popular type of winter hat, but there are several other styles to add to your winter wardrobe. For a classic that never goes out of style, the Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie is the top choice.
What to know before you buy a winter hat
Styles
Here are the most popular styles of winter hats:
Beanie: The beanie is a cold-weather staple. Unisex and simple, you can wear it with any casual outfit. It pulls close to your head, making it of the warmest options, especially if you invest in one made of wool or fleece.
Bobble beanie: Bobble hats feature a ball of yarn or fur attached to the top, also known as a pom-pom. Some bobble hats feature a tassel. The bobble is decorative, and this casual style is popular with kids and adults alike.
Flat caps: The flat cap is an outdoorsy but dressy hat that features a small, stiff bill. It is also called a newsboy or golf cap. It comes in traditional materials, such as wool tweed.
Warm baseball hat: If you can't part with your baseball cap in the winter, consider one made of materials that will trap heat, like tweed, flannel, corduroy or wool. These warmer materials elevate your look while still being sporty.
Trapper or aviator hat: Possibly the warmest winter hat available, the trapper or aviator hat features earflaps that secure under your chin with straps. They're typically lined with fur, sherpa or flannel for extra warmth. The shell can be made from a range of materials such as cotton, polyester, flannel, fur or leather.
Material
The biggest factor of warmth in a hat is the material used.
Cotton is an inexpensive, lightweight and breathable material. However, it's not insulating enough for freezing weather and doesn't repel moisture.
Acrylic is an affordable alternative to wool and is often used in beanies. The synthetic material is soft and easy to clean, but it's not as warm as wool.
Quilted nylon or polyester are more water-resistant than natural materials and are often used in the shells of winter hats.
Wool is a naturally insulating, warm material that also has moisture-wicking and water-repellent properties. It's not as easy to clean as cotton or acrylic hats.
Felt is used in more fashionable styles of winter hats. You'll typically find it in hats that have brims. Felt is made from pressed fibers, either wool or synthetic.
Fur is used in traditional, trapper-style hats or cossack hats, which are all-fur hats without ear flaps. Real fur is warm, but it requires professional cleaning. You can find faux fur alternatives that are easier to clean and less expensive.
Fleece is either made from wool or synthetic fibers and features a thick pile that's soft and stretchy. Fleece is warm, retains body heat and is relatively easy to clean.
What to look for in a quality winter hat
Lining
Lining serves as an extra layer that can provide added insulation to retain body heat. Depending on the material, a lining can also wick sweat away from the body. Plush, cozy lining, such as sherpa, provides extra comfort.
Ear flaps
Lined ear flaps are a feature found on all aviator and trapper-style hats. They provide warmth and protection from the elements. Most ear flaps flip up and attach to the hat when not in use, or you can fasten them under your chin to keep out the wind.
Cuff
Beanie-style hats can come with a cuff that folds up for extra warmth around your ears. They can also be uncuffed for a slouchier appearance. Some cuffed beanies are sewn in place and are less versatile.
Texture
Winter hats vary in texture from smooth felt to chunky knits. Beanies are often ribbed, though you can find cable-knit ones. Tweed and corduroy hats have distinct textures. Fur and faux fur hats are fluffy and soft.
How much you can expect to spend on a winter hat
Pricing entirely depends on the material, style and brand name. For example, an off-brand beanie will be cheaper than a name-brand fur cap. More affordable winter hats start at $7, but they can cost upwards of $70.
Winter hat FAQ
What kind of hat will keep me warm throughout in the winter?
A. A wool or felt fedora hat can keep your head toasty in mild winter weather. Bucket hats made from sherpa or quilted nylon are a winter-friendly variation of the typically warm-weather style. Both these hats feature brims to keep the sun out of your eyes, too.
Do winter hats come in different sizes?
A. Typically, beanies come in one size for adults. Some winter hats are designed for men or women, and sizing may vary. It's always best to check the measurements of a hat before purchasing.
What's the best winter hat to buy?
Top winter hat
Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie
What you need to know: This cult favorite beanie is durable and attractive — and comes in a wide range of colors.
What you'll love: You can fold the extra-long length (around 12 inches) up into a thick cuff to keep your ears warm. The cotton material is thick, high quality and doesn't make you itch. If you live in a particularly cold climate, you're sure to stay warm all winter wearing this beanie.
What you should consider: The hat is hand-wash only.
Top winter hat for the money
Brixton Heist Beanie
What you need to know: A basic beanie that fits snuggly and is comfy.
What you'll love: The length is not too long, not too short: 8 inches when cuffed. The color options are attractive. The acrylic material is thick, quality and comfortable.
What you should consider: The beanie runs small and may be more fitting for women.
Worth checking out
Mysuntown Unisex Winter Trooper Trapper Hat
What you need to know: This trapper hat goes above and beyond with its windproof face mask.
What you'll love: The faux-fur lining keeps users warm in subzero weather. The face mask is removable and washable. The plus faux-fur lining feels very cozy and soft on your skin.
What you should consider: The one-size-fits-all is too large for some.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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National Geographic
05-02-2025
- National Geographic
The best winter hats in 2025
By clicking on the featured links, visitors will leave and be directed to third-party e-commerce sites that operate under different terms and privacy policies. As a participant in multiple affiliate marketing programs, National Geographic will earn a commission for certain purchases. See full disclaimer below.* Whether you're trekking through snow-covered mountains or exploring icy cities, your winter hat should keep you warm (but not hot), stylish, and comfortable. Michaella Kim is no stranger to extreme outdoor activities in frigid weather. 'I did a 100-mile bike ride on New Year's Eve, and it was 30 degrees out and snowing,' says the Alexandria, Virginia-based ultrarunner, mountain biker, and fitness trainer. 'If you're moving and generating heat, you don't want your hat to be too thick or heavy. It's just too hot and uncomfortable.' Materials like wool, cashmere, and alternative down fills are insulating while fleece linings are moisture-wicking. 'Starting with quality materials is a smart move,' explains New York City-based fashion stylist Lucy Armstrong . 'You want 100 percent natural materials that are going to last longer than one season. Once you have a quality material like cashmere or wool, then choose a style and shape that best suits your hair, face, and your coat.' Our top pick, the Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Beanie , balances lightweight materials with a unisex style that looks good on practically everyone. Below, we break down our picks for the best winter hats. Take your pick. The best winter caps The best winter hats marry form and function, so you look stylish while staying warm. Natural and earth-friendly materials cover the bases in our top picks for best winter hats. Read on for all the details. Best winter hat overall: Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Beanie Photograph courtesy Outdoor Research Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Beanie Buy it now at Outdoor Research Why we like it: The Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Beanie stands out for its lightweight and ultra-warm unisex design. Made with responsibly sourced 650-fill power down and a recycled Pertex Quantum shell, according to the brand, this beanie is wind- and water-resistant—especially ideal for extremely cold conditions. 'They're a really reasonable brand with quality products that aren't too expensive,' says James Austin Workman, a ski, snowboard, and mountain biking instructor in West Virginia. Keep in mind: This winter hat may not be ideal for high-output activities due to its insulation, which could cause overheating. Product details: Material: Recycled polyester; 650-fill power down | Size: S/M to L/XL | Colors: Amethyst, Black, Ranger Green ( 12 of the coziest winter gloves for travels near and far ) Best winter hat for men: Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie Photograph courtesy Carhartt Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie Buy it now at Carhartt Why we like it: A staple for men in cold climates, the Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie is a classic. Made from acrylic rib-knit fabric, it's warm, cozy, and looks great. 'Basic knit beanies are what I wear for normal days,' says Austin Workman. We love that you can toss it in the washing machine and that it comes in every color of the rainbow. Keep in mind: The acrylic material isn't as breathable as natural fibers like wool. Product details: Material: Acrylic | Size: One size | Colors: 12+ ( 9 of the best winter boots for men ) Best winter hat for women: Athleta Cozy Hour Beanie Photograph courtesy Athleta Athleta Cozy Hour Beanie Buy it now at Athleta Why we like it: The Athleta Cozy Hour Beanie is stylishly simple. In a mix of wool and cotton, it's supremely soft and warm in go-with-everything colors like cream, gray, and black. 'If your hat is pretty basic and neutral, you can let your outerwear be the outspoken piece to express your personal style,' says Armstrong. You can also throw this one in the washer and dryer. Keep in mind: This hat might not have enough insulation for very cold climates. Product details: Material: Wool and cotton | Size: One size | Colors: Black, Bone, Quartz Heather ( 9 of the best winter boots for women ) Best winter beanie hat: The North Face Beanie Photograph courtesy Amazon The North Face Beanie Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: Somewhere between a skullcap and a beanie, The North Face Beanie is classic and practical. It's made in a stretchy acrylic knit with a foldable cuff that you can adjust for more or less coverage. The jersey lining feels soft against skin for hours of comfort. 'I have sensitive skin so I always look for a lining in my hats and beanies,' says Kim. 'Especially when it's dry and cold outside, skin can get irritated if you're wearing a hat without a lining.' Keep in mind: Acrylic may not be as durable as other natural materials. Product details: Material: Acrylic | Size: One size | Colors: 50+ ( Merino base layers are the secret to staying warm anywhere ) Best wool hat: Fjallraven Byron Hat Thin Photograph courtesy Fjallraven Fjallraven Byron Hat Thin Buy it now at Fjallraven Why we like it: Crafted from 100 percent lambswool, the Fjällräven Byron Hat Thin is a luxe option for cold-weather comfort. Wool naturally wicks away moisture and retains heat, making it ideal for various outdoor activities. Its spare Scandinavian design with a folded leather logo is simple and stylish. Keep in mind: This winter hat can only be handwashed. Product details: Material: 100% lambswool | Size: One size | Colors: Autumn Leaf, Black, Chalk White, Dark Navy, Dark Olive, Graphite, Patina Green Best winter hat with ear flaps: Melin Aviator Infinite Thermal Photograph courtesy Zappos Melin Aviator Infinite Thermal Buy it now at Zappos Why we like it: The Melin Aviator Infinite Thermal hat is designed for extreme cold. The thermal lining, water- and wind-repellent shell, and fold-down ear flaps provide great protection against the elements. 'During the coldest snowstorms, a hat with earflaps and a faux-fur lining is essential,' says Austin Workman. 'The flaps and fur protect my cheeks and face, and it's an easier style for wearing goggles.' Keep in mind: The higher price point may not suit budget-conscious shoppers. This winter hat comes only in one color. Product details: Material: Wool and micro fleece | Size: One size | Colors: Black Most stylish winter hat: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Beret Photograph courtesy Quince Quince Mongolian Cashmere Beret Buy it now at Quince Why we like it: Made from 100 percent Grade A Mongolian cashmere, according to the company, this highly rated beret feels extra soft and warm. We love the laidback style and the array of neutral colors for any outfit, plus the affordable price. Keep in mind: Cashmere requires handwashing with delicate detergent or dry-cleaning Product details: Material: 100% Mongolian cashmere | Size: One size | Colors: Black, Brown, Camel, Heather Gray, Ivory, Navy ( These Antarctica essentials will keep you warm anywhere ) Best winter hat with pom pom: Winuesa Satin-Lined Knit Cap with Pom Pom Photograph courtesy Amazon Winuesa Satin-Lined Knit Cap with Pom Pom Buy it now on Amazon Why we like it: What's more fun than a knit cap with a pom pom? The Winuesa Satin-Lined Knit Cap with Pom Pom has a satin lining that the brand says is designed to help reduce friction and retain moisture, so hair stays smooth with less breakage. We like that the cuff pulls down to keep ears warm. Keep in mind: The pom pom makes the hat more casual than sophisticated. Product details: Material: Acrylic with satin lining | Size: One Size | Colors: Gray, Mint, Oatmeal, Pink, Purple, White How we chose the best winter hat In building this list for the best winter hat, we took several factors into consideration. In addition to adequate coverage and warmth, we looked for winter hats with good construction, high customer ratings, and qualities that contribute to wearability, such as good color choices. Here's what we looked at: • Third-party reviews: We evaluated customer feedback to make sure real-world performance aligns with manufacturer claims. • Material quality: We prioritized hats made with sustainable and natural materials that are not just warm but also durable, stylish, and comfortable. • Expert insights: We asked pros such as outdoor adventurers and stylists for recommendations and shopping tips. Tips for buying winter hats Type Choosing the right winter hat depends on where and how you plan to wear it. Each type offers different levels of coverage and warmth. If you're touring a chilly city, perhaps try a cashmere or wool beret or beanie, like our top pick the Quince Mongolian Cashmere Beret . If your travels take you to wintry landscapes, you may want to go for a winter hat with ear flaps and down insulation, such as our overall favorite Outdoor Research Coldfront Down Beanie or the Melin Aviator Infinite Thermal . Material Choose materials based on warmth, durability, and comfort. Wool and fleece excel in insulation, while cashmere offers luxurious softness. Natural, sustainable materials will last longer than one season. Weather Make sure your hat suits the climate at your destination. Waterproof or windproof options are ideal for harsh and frigid conditions, where you plan to spend lots of time outdoors. Lighter materials, such as acrylic, are better for mild weather. Activity It goes without saying but if you're skiing or snowboarding, you'll need a winter hat that protects your ears and provides a secure fit. At the same time, look for light, breathable materials like merino wool, to prevent overheating. 'When you're moving versus being static, you want be warm but not too warm,' says Austin Workman. 'Overdressing, whether it's wearing the wrong clothes or a hat that's too insulated is the biggest mistake.' Frequently asked questions What is a winter hat called? A winter hat is often called a beanie, a cap, or a chapka depending on the style and region. How to care for a wool hat? Winter hats made of wool should be handwashed in cold water with mild detergent, then laid flat to dry. Avoid wringing to help wool hats retain their shape. What is the warmest hat for winter? Winter hats made with down insulation or lambswool typically provide the most warmth due to their superior heat retention and moisture-wicking properties. Maggie Kim is a lifestyle journalist and avid traveler, who spent over a decade living in Paris. Now based in Los Angeles, California, she covers beauty, food, fashion, and travel. Follow her on is a lifestyle journalist and avid traveler, who spent over a decade living in Paris. Now based in Los Angeles, California, she covers beauty, food, fashion, and travel. Follow her on Instagram *Although we are sharing our personal opinions of these experiences or products with you, National Geographic is not endorsing these experiences or products on behalf of anyone. It has not performed product safety testing on any of these products, did not manufacture them, and is not selling, or distributing them and is not making any representations about the safety or caliber of these products or experiences for individual consumers. Prices and availability are subject to change from the date of publication. 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Yahoo
26-01-2025
- Yahoo
I can't go anywhere without seeing this Carhartt beanie — just $20 at Amazon
Snow's falling, but don't let your hat game flake out. This trick, of course, is finding one that doesn't make you want to hide out until April. Lucky for you, we've got just the thing: Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie. Cozy, durable, and stylish, it's the winter accessory for anyone battling the chill, this hat has you covered — and you can get it at Amazon for just $20. You've probably seen this beanie around a lot lately — people can't get enough of it right now. Carhartt has put a lot of thought into the design of this beanie. With a snug and comfortable fit without being too tight, you can expect this acrylic hat to be incredibly durable — toss it in your washing machine and you'll see what we mean. It's a ribbed knit with a cuff that adds a classic look, and the classic logo stitched on the front is a subtle yet stylish detail. On top of that, it doesn't itch or irritate the skin, making it ideal for extended wear. Whether you're doing work outside — early morning construction, shoveling the sidewalk — or you're just taking a stroll, this'll keep your head toasty. Over 140,000 five-star fans swear by this brr-minimizing beanie. "I work outside in below-zero temps as an EMT (and paramedic student) and this hat keeps me WARM," this beanie booster wrote. "The rest of me may be shivering, but my head, face and ears are toasty. Carhartt never disappoints!" "Good for bald guys during the winter," shared one admirer. "This is one of the first beanies I've found that stays on well and keeps my head warm during our windy winters." "I work at a ski lift, and man, when they have snowguns pointed directly at your workstation, the cold weather is no joke," gushed another rave reviewer. "I've had this hat for a while now, and it's always my go-to for work. It keeps my ears and head warm in even the coldest days. It's softer quality than regular Carhartts, not sure why, but I'm definitely not complaining. Not to mention it's my cutest hat, I love love love the color! It's definitely worth the price! I love this hat" "A bit too tight if you have glasses, but it's worth it," a four-eyed fan warned. "Great for working in the cold and staying warm." Want to stay warm from head to fingertips? Carhartt has you covered with these popular cozy quilted gloves. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.) The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
Chicago Tribune
27-12-2024
- Chicago Tribune
Stay warm with the best winter hats
Which winter hat is best? While you only lose 10% of your body heat through your head, you still want to cover up your noggin while temperatures are on the colder side. Even if you think you have all the winter hats you need, you might find something that piques your interest here. The beanie is the most popular type of winter hat, but there are several other styles to add to your winter wardrobe. For a classic that never goes out of style, the Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie is the top choice. What to know before you buy a winter hat Styles Here are the most popular styles of winter hats: Beanie: The beanie is a cold-weather staple. Unisex and simple, you can wear it with any casual outfit. It pulls close to your head, making it of the warmest options, especially if you invest in one made of wool or fleece. Bobble beanie: Bobble hats feature a ball of yarn or fur attached to the top, also known as a pom-pom. Some bobble hats feature a tassel. The bobble is decorative, and this casual style is popular with kids and adults alike. Flat caps: The flat cap is an outdoorsy but dressy hat that features a small, stiff bill. It is also called a newsboy or golf cap. It comes in traditional materials, such as wool tweed. Warm baseball hat: If you can't part with your baseball cap in the winter, consider one made of materials that will trap heat, like tweed, flannel, corduroy or wool. These warmer materials elevate your look while still being sporty. Trapper or aviator hat: Possibly the warmest winter hat available, the trapper or aviator hat features earflaps that secure under your chin with straps. They're typically lined with fur, sherpa or flannel for extra warmth. The shell can be made from a range of materials such as cotton, polyester, flannel, fur or leather. Material The biggest factor of warmth in a hat is the material used. Cotton is an inexpensive, lightweight and breathable material. However, it's not insulating enough for freezing weather and doesn't repel moisture. Acrylic is an affordable alternative to wool and is often used in beanies. The synthetic material is soft and easy to clean, but it's not as warm as wool. Quilted nylon or polyester are more water-resistant than natural materials and are often used in the shells of winter hats. Wool is a naturally insulating, warm material that also has moisture-wicking and water-repellent properties. It's not as easy to clean as cotton or acrylic hats. Felt is used in more fashionable styles of winter hats. You'll typically find it in hats that have brims. Felt is made from pressed fibers, either wool or synthetic. Fur is used in traditional, trapper-style hats or cossack hats, which are all-fur hats without ear flaps. Real fur is warm, but it requires professional cleaning. You can find faux fur alternatives that are easier to clean and less expensive. Fleece is either made from wool or synthetic fibers and features a thick pile that's soft and stretchy. Fleece is warm, retains body heat and is relatively easy to clean. What to look for in a quality winter hat Lining Lining serves as an extra layer that can provide added insulation to retain body heat. Depending on the material, a lining can also wick sweat away from the body. Plush, cozy lining, such as sherpa, provides extra comfort. Ear flaps Lined ear flaps are a feature found on all aviator and trapper-style hats. They provide warmth and protection from the elements. Most ear flaps flip up and attach to the hat when not in use, or you can fasten them under your chin to keep out the wind. Cuff Beanie-style hats can come with a cuff that folds up for extra warmth around your ears. They can also be uncuffed for a slouchier appearance. Some cuffed beanies are sewn in place and are less versatile. Texture Winter hats vary in texture from smooth felt to chunky knits. Beanies are often ribbed, though you can find cable-knit ones. Tweed and corduroy hats have distinct textures. Fur and faux fur hats are fluffy and soft. How much you can expect to spend on a winter hat Pricing entirely depends on the material, style and brand name. For example, an off-brand beanie will be cheaper than a name-brand fur cap. More affordable winter hats start at $7, but they can cost upwards of $70. Winter hat FAQ What kind of hat will keep me warm throughout in the winter? A. A wool or felt fedora hat can keep your head toasty in mild winter weather. Bucket hats made from sherpa or quilted nylon are a winter-friendly variation of the typically warm-weather style. Both these hats feature brims to keep the sun out of your eyes, too. Do winter hats come in different sizes? A. Typically, beanies come in one size for adults. Some winter hats are designed for men or women, and sizing may vary. It's always best to check the measurements of a hat before purchasing. What's the best winter hat to buy? Top winter hat Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie What you need to know: This cult favorite beanie is durable and attractive — and comes in a wide range of colors. What you'll love: You can fold the extra-long length (around 12 inches) up into a thick cuff to keep your ears warm. The cotton material is thick, high quality and doesn't make you itch. If you live in a particularly cold climate, you're sure to stay warm all winter wearing this beanie. What you should consider: The hat is hand-wash only. Top winter hat for the money Brixton Heist Beanie What you need to know: A basic beanie that fits snuggly and is comfy. What you'll love: The length is not too long, not too short: 8 inches when cuffed. The color options are attractive. The acrylic material is thick, quality and comfortable. What you should consider: The beanie runs small and may be more fitting for women. Worth checking out Mysuntown Unisex Winter Trooper Trapper Hat What you need to know: This trapper hat goes above and beyond with its windproof face mask. What you'll love: The faux-fur lining keeps users warm in subzero weather. The face mask is removable and washable. The plus faux-fur lining feels very cozy and soft on your skin. What you should consider: The one-size-fits-all is too large for some. Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change. Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.
