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Stay warm with our favorite beanies, bucket hats, and more.
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Its a mantra I tend to live by because most of my favorite pastimes take place outdoors.
I especially love fabrics like Merino wool and cashmere that offer impressive warmth while keeping bulk to a minimum.
The oversized pom-pom may not appeal to all tastes.
Credit: SmartWool
Several seasons after purchasing the Smartwool Isto Retro Beanie, it remains our go-to pick for winter fun.
In terms of aesthetics, the beanie makes a statement with a chunky ribbed cuff and an oversized pom-pom.
The large logo may be a downside for those who prefer subtle branding.
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You may need a lint roller to keep the fleece free from fluff and pet hair.
The fit can be adjusted slightly using the tab installed along the inside rim.
Our bucket hat has held up well after several seasons use, including packing it for the occasionalski trip.
Choose yours in black, white, gray, taupe, or dark olive.
The vibrant print is definitely a standout design that may not be suitable for all.
Its also naturally moisture-wicking, provides insulation even when wet, and odor-resistant.
Weve worn ours through four Iowa winters, for everything from cross-country skiing to running errands.
Its become a go-to, both for its warmth and its non-itchy, non-constricting fit.
The fact that it sits fairly loosely is great for long-term comfort and for avoiding hat hair.
We also love that the beanie is thin enough to wear seamlessly under aski helmet.
you’re able to even pair it with Kari Traas matchingbase layers.
The beanie is machine washable, but must be dried flat.
Its a bit impractical to pack.
A smooth, itch-free lining makes it comfy to wear for extended periods.
Having said that, weve also found that its sufficiently breathable to wear inside for short periods without overheating.
Its designed for a specific purpose rather than as a versatile all-rounder.
An added touch of spandex provides four-way stretch for freedom of movement and a secure yet unrestrictive fit.
We particularly like that the panel can be folded up to prevent overheating as you work up a sweat.
All seven colors include reflective accents for nighttime visibility.
If we had one complaint it would be the lack of stretch or adjustability.
After wearing each hat, we also washed them following care instructions to determine their durability and long-term quality.
Thats not to say that all one-size hats will fit everyone perfectly.
When shopping online, read reviews and size guides carefully to get an idea of the fit.
If packability is a priority, Merino offers the best bulk-to-warmth ratio out there.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best material for a winter hat depends on what you want it for.
You should always check the care label carefully for specific instructions.
Shes also packed them for cold-weather trips to places like the Yukon and the Norwegian Arctic.
She also utilized testing results to determine which winter hats were the warmest and best options for travelers.
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