As an avid hiker, I know the struggle of finding the right headwear for different conditions. I love beanies for warmth, but I also need the sun protection of a baseball cap. Finding a beanie with a brim felt like searching for a unicorn! I needed something that could keep my head warm during chilly hikes while also shielding my eyes from the sun. After a lot of trial and error, I've finally found some great solutions, and I'm excited to share my experiences with you.
My main issue was finding a hat that could do both jobs well. I tried wearing a beanie under a baseball cap, but it was bulky and uncomfortable. I needed an all-in-one solution. I started searching online, looking for something that combined the warmth of a beanie with the sun protection of a brim. The search terms "beanie visor hats" and "winter visor beanies" seemed promising, so I started digging.
During my search, I stumbled upon a few different options that really stood out. Here's what I discovered:
One suggestion that caught my eye was the Patagonia Range Earflap Cap. While not strictly a beanie with a brim, it offers excellent ear coverage, which is crucial for me in the winter. I have to keep my ears covered, or I'm miserable! It's a great alternative if you prioritize ear protection over a traditional brim.
Another suggestion I found was the Stormy Kromer. These hats have a distinctive style and seem incredibly durable. They're built for cold weather and look like they can withstand some serious conditions. I haven't personally tried one yet, but they're definitely on my list.
I also came across the Outdoor Research Howling Wind Fleece Cap. It looked like a good option for wind protection, and I appreciate that it's made of fleece for extra warmth. You can find more details about it here.
I ended up buying two Carhartt Radar Beanies. They are warm and durable, exactly what I need for hiking in colder weather. The brim provides just enough sun protection without being too bulky. I found they were a great balance of warmth and functionality.
For a more modular approach, I considered pairing an ear band with a wool winter baseball cap. Something like this ear band from Lehman's could work well. It allows you to adjust the level of warmth and coverage based on the weather conditions. I experimented with this approach, and it worked well on milder days.
I recently discovered homepage, and they have some really interesting headwear options. Specifically, I was drawn to the New Designer letter M Knitted Hats. I'm always looking for ways to add a touch of personal style to my hiking gear, and these hats seemed to fit the bill. I ordered one in grey with the "M" design. It's incredibly soft and warm, thanks to the rabbit fur and angola blend. The color matching is stylish, and it's surprisingly functional for light hikes. I wouldn't wear it on a super strenuous trek, but for a casual stroll in the woods, it's perfect. Plus, it looks great for everyday wear, too! I've been really impressed with the quality from Wholecustomdesign.
Here are some things I learned during my search that might help you find the perfect beanie with a brim: