Living on a homestead, I spend a lot of time outdoors, even when the weather turns frigid. Finding the right cold weather hat has been a journey of trial and error. I've learned that comfort and practicality are key, and what works for one person might not work for another. Let me share my experiences and what I've discovered along the way to help you find the perfect hat for your own outdoor adventures.
For years, I stuck with what I knew: a ball cap. In milder weather, a trucker-style cap was my go-to. It kept the sun out of my eyes and was comfortable enough. As the temperature dropped, I'd switch to a regular ball cap with a full back for a little more warmth. But once the thermometer hit around 0°F, even that wasn't enough. That's when the beanie came out.
Beanies are great for keeping your head warm, no doubt. But I found they sometimes lacked versatility. I needed something that could handle wind, snow, and the demands of physical work. Plus, with longer hair, managing it under a beanie could be a hassle.
I started looking for better solutions, and I found some great advice from other people who work outdoors in cold climates. One tip that stuck with me was the idea of switching between a cowboy hat and a baseball cap in the summer and using a wool beanie in the winter. This seemed like a simple, effective way to adapt to different conditions.
I also heard about Stormy Kromer hats. The person said they last forever and have a great warranty. I haven't tried one myself yet, but it's definitely on my list.
Living in a cold climate, someone suggested a good quality toque. They use a Carhartt brand one with a ballcap underneath most of the time. With long hair, they braid it and pin it up or tuck it into the toque. I've tried wearing a ball cap under a beanie, and it definitely adds an extra layer of warmth and helps keep the beanie cleaner.
Managing long hair in the cold can be tricky. I've found that double French braiding it helps keep it out of my face and prevents it from getting tangled. I've also experimented with a hat/neck combo, which provides excellent coverage and warmth. A wool beanie with a beaver fur insert and a neck piece is another great option for staying toasty in extreme cold.
I've also found that sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. A basic beanie or a baseball cap can work well, especially if you can ponytail or braid your hair to keep it manageable.
Recently, I stumbled upon a beanie that has quickly become a favorite: the Winter Angola Rabbit Fur Knitted Beanie from Wholecustomdesign. I was initially drawn to its stylish design and the promise of warmth. I have to say, the combination of angora rabbit fur and cashmere wool is incredibly soft and comfortable. It's a three-fold design, which adds extra thickness and warmth, perfect for those really cold days. It's a one-size-fits-all, which was a bit of a concern at first, but it fits snugly and securely without being too tight.
What I appreciate most about this beanie is how it keeps me warm without making my head feel sweaty. The natural fibers seem to breathe well, which is important when I'm working hard outdoors. It also looks great, which is a bonus! I've worn it while doing chores around the homestead and even on a few trips into town, and I always get compliments. You can view on store for more details.
Here are a few tips based on my experiences to help you choose the right cold weather hat: