For the Field Mag crew, our default method of keeping heads warm once the cold weather arrives is long hair and a beanie until spring brings some relief. When it comes to a winter hat, wool is preferred, cotton is acceptable, and acrylic is less than ideal, though it’ll do the job in a pinch. But despite the variety of materials and color options in the beanie bin, there’s plenty of room for more variety, and outdoor gear makers offer a range of unique, high-quality caps, hats, and hoods to do the job just as well.
The question is, then, what makes a hat good for winter? Well, we look for fleece or wool (or a wool blend) to provide insulation and extra warmth—natural fibers like merino wool are optimal for antibacterial, moisture-wicking, and heat-regulating properties. Soft, stretchy wovens don’t typically offer much in weather protection, so we also look for a pairing with nylon or other versatile, weather-resistant materials that are sometimes treated with DWR. Earflaps are super valuable for the bitter cold, and the ability to flip them out of the way extends the hat’s seasonal wear. Brims are great for blocking sun, wind, and precipitation, but they're not always necessary. Reversible is nice, but not a must.
So, without further ado, here are our picks for the best winter hats (that aren't just several types of beanies).
