Last Updated: October 1, 2021
When winter comes, you know what that means – planning fun winter activities with friends and family. If going on a ski trip is on your schedule this winter; and you are wondering what kind of ski hat to get then you have come to the right place.
Unfortunately though, many skiing enthusiasts also sometimes tend to forget the importance of carrying a good ski hat. But only the most prepared of us acknowledge the upside of having one. Not only does your ski hat keep you warm and cozy, but it also keeps you comfortable enough to keep skiing for longer.
In this guide, I explore the best ski hats to help you reach a decision quicker. After all, you don’t want to be stuck in a landslide of options, do you?
Best Ski Hat Review – Top 8 Options
1. Carhartt Men’s Knit Cuffed Beanie
The Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie earns its spot on the top because of its unique design and material. Made of pure acrylic, this beanie will keep its shape and color. It is imported thus high quality is guaranteed. The stretchable rib-knit fabric makes it totally comfortable to wear for extended periods. And that is exactly what you need when you are out on your ski trip.
However, you can only hand wash it because of its fabric.
What’s more is that it has the unique Carhartt logo sewn on the front. Thus, it looks very stylish. You have numerous colors to choose from. This hat is the one to get for your ski trip as it has everything you need in a beanie. Plus it will keep you warm and well protected from the harsh cold.
- Pure acrylic material
- Stretchable fabric
- Unique design
- Hand wash only
2. Ergodyne Balaclava Ski Mask
This Balaclava ski mask is ranked so high up because it is wind resistant. This is a very important factor to consider when you are going on a ski trip. It is also adjustable and can be worn in different ways. Made of pure polyester, which is a strong and long-lasting material.
It contains pull-on closure and can also be worn as a full ski mask, a neck gaiter or just an open face mask. The hinged design makes it easy to adjust. You can adjust it based on your needs for that particular day.
The high-quality thermal fabric keeps you warm in cold temperatures. Also, you can breathe easily with this mask on, as it contains a mesh panel for airflow. However, it can only be hand washed.
- 100% pure polyester
- Pull on closure
- Wind resistant
- Breathable
- Adjustable
- Can only be washed by hand
3. Tough Headwear Skull Cap Helmet Beanie
Made from 100% polyester, the Skull Cap Helmet Liner Running Beanie is a classic, stylish hat with a pull on closure making it look like a perfect skull cap. It is perfect on its own or worn comfortably underneath your ski helmet.
It is great to wear while running, riding a bike, snowboarding, or even skiing. As a winter hat, it has a thermal lining that retains heat, keeping your head and ears warm as you enjoy the winter outside.
It is super lightweight, very comfortable to wear and the stretchy, breathable fabric is a piece of art. It has even been recommended by the Runner’s World magazine and Gear Hunt.
- Moisture wicking
- Effective thermal retention
- Made of pure polyester
- Breathable
- Very affordable
- Not very stylish
- Not warm enough for freezing cold
4. Carhartt Men’s Woodside Acrylic Hat
The Carhartt woodside acrylic ski hat is made of pure acrylic material with a pull on closure. It will last a long time, retain its shape as well as color too.
With the thin lining and material this hat is guaranteed to keep you warm. It has a unique sewn design of the Carhartt logo that looks very stylish. You don’t have to worry about receiving a hat too big or small for your head, as it is one size fits all.
It is not recommended for dry cleaning and washing machines, but overall, this might be perfect as a ski hat because it is thick yet comfortable. Nothing fancy and no added features on this one aside from its thick acrylic material.
- Very good, thick material
- 100% acrylic waffle
- Very stylish and perfect for winter season
- Not many color variations
- Hand wash only
5. The North Face Jim Beanie
The North Face is popular for its countless sports apparel and so much more. This Jim Beanie is made of pure synthetic material. It is a soft ear fleece headwear with a classic fit, made out of a heathered knit wool that can be used in every winter outdoor activity.
The hat provides decent protection for a classic beanie and pull-on closure makes it comfortable. The embroidered logo gives the design a unique feel.
- 70% polyester and 30% wool
- Lifetime warranty
- Machine wash
- Fleece ear band
- Available in various colors
- One standard size only
- No thermal lining
6. Tough Headwear Knit Beanie Winter Hat
This knit winter beanie is made of pure acrylic material, so it will last a long time. You can also choose colors that are bright and lively because they won’t fade.
It has a stylish design, while also keeping you warm and cozy. This is the hat to get if you want to impress your friends and family with your fashion sense.
It is extremely comfortable and soft, so you will barely feel like you are wearing a hat. With the one size fits all type of hat you don’t have to worry about receiving a hat too big or too small.
- Made of pure acrylic material
- Long-lasting
- Cozy and warm
- Very comfortable
- Quite short, so not for big heads with thick hair
- Hand wash only
7. LETHMIK Fleece Lined Beanie Hat
The LETHMIK beanie made of imported quality pure acrylic material is a good cozy winter hat. For those who are not used to wear a ski hat when going out on a winter day, this hat may be perfect to start with.
The item weighs 2 oz. with a good quality material that stretches to fit most head sizes. It is soft knit so it keeps you warm and cozy on your ski trip. However you can also get a custom fit.
It is a good knitted skull cap with a fashionable but simple style, best for skiing with no fancy and useless features. You will surely get your money’s worth for an affordable price.
- 100% soft acrylic
- Machine wash or brush wash
- Provides good warmth
- Comfortable and stretchable
- Not unisex
- Can only be washed by hand
- Only available in two colors
8. Tough Headwear Helmet Liner Skull Cap Beanie with Face Mask
For those who want a full on protection and warmth, this one may be the best ski hat for you as it contains ear covers and maximizes thermal retention. You stay warm and protected at the same time.
This skull cap may be worn on its own or under a helmet. Great when cycling, running, snowboarding and most importantly skiing. It is popular for its lightweight and comfortable feel.
Very stretchable and breathable fabric that wicks sweat makes it optimal for any outdoor activity in the winter and fall season. This means you are not going to feel uncomfortable with this hat on.
- Stretchable and sweat wicking
- Thermal lining
- All around face protection
- Made out of 89% polyester and 11% spandex blend
- Warm ear flaps
- Only available in one color
- Weak stitching on the face cover
What to Look for in a Ski Hat
Ski hats were often considered to be worn during ski adventures. The best ski hats are offered by good companies to ensure that skiers and winter outdoor activity enthusiasts have enough protection and safety.
However, there are several factors you need to keep in mind while shopping for a ski hat, regardless of individual preferences.
If you are interested in getting a great skiing hat for yourself, these are some points you should keep in mind.
Comfort
Some might give up comfort for style, but comfort should not be forgotten because winter outdoor activities are already tiring, strenuous and may pose a threat to your health, so the least you could do is make your accessory comfortable.
You don’t want to feel any itchiness, tightness or general discomfort while you are skiing.
The material of a hat will greatly influence how comfortable or uncomfortable you feel wearing it.
Material
The most common misconception on choosing the best ski hats would be to pick on a high-priced one made from expensive materials. Sure, you are getting the quality you want, but the most important features are commonly not offered by these expensive hats. Choose on whether it is Polyester, Acrylic or Cotton.
Materials like pure acrylic and pure polyester are ideal choices. It is because they trap heat so that you stay warm. But they are also light, comfortable, and breathable. They are warmer than hats made of nylon or cotton.
Design and Style
You will surely not buy a ski hat that has no thermal lining or is not thick enough to protect you face, neck and ears. Hypothermia is something serious when dealing with the cold harsh, dry winter winds.
Always opt to get ski hats with thick material, thermal lining and sweat wicking features. You do not want to be freezing while your head is wet. The thicker the material it is made of, or the better the design, it can provide you with enough protection.
Hats are extension of your wardrobe and can accentuate your fashion, so the better the design, the more appealing will it be. There are hat companies who offer wide array of color variations just so the wearers can have a lot to choose from and can pair it up with their other clothing.
Adjustability and Size
Most ski hats have adjustable mechanics. You can decide exactly how you want to use them. You can choose to adjust the hat based on the weather conditions of the day or according to your own comfort.
For example, you can choose to cover your face when it is extremely cold. Or you can simply wear it as a beanie when the weather is a little less harsh. Adjustability is a very important factor, because it will determine the freedom you have to adjust the hat according to your comfort.
Also the ski hat you are wearing must be the correct size. If it is too tight, it might affect your blood circulation. On the other hand if it is too loose you might lose it. And even if you don’t, it will not be able to properly keep you warm.
Ski hats that come in one size fit are ideal, because then you won’t have to worry about it being too big or too small.
FAQs
Why do I need a ski or winter hat?
- Protection from the cold – Just like UVA/UVB rays from the sun that can damage your skin in the long run – too much cold and freezing wind can really damage your skin as well. It is important to protect your head, face and neck by wearing hats specifically made to withstand these extreme conditions. It is better to be careful than sorry.
- A good pair with your overall skiing apparel – Sometimes, suiting up for skiing and putting on clothes and gear is not enough when hitting the slopes. Some would mind their fashion and style on whether the hat would be a perfect match for their outfit as a whole.
Why is acrylic the best material for a ski hat?
This is because it is extremely soft and lightweight. It has all the qualities you need in a ski hat. Acrylic is a perfect wool substitute. But it lasts much longer because of its ability to retain its shape despite being highly elastic. The elasticity is convenient because it ensures that the hat is tight on your head. But it also does not stop your blood circulation. It will also retain its color and it is stain and wrinkle resistant.
Conclusion
After carefully evaluating the ski hat options, it is safe to conclude that the Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie is the one to get. It contains all the important features a ski hat should have. It is comfortable to wear, plus it will keep you sufficiently warm and cozy while on your ski trip. It is also adjustable and comes in many different sizes and colors. With this hat, you get both – practicality and style.
If your ski hat is comfortable and warm enough, you won’t have to worry about anything except making memories with your friends. So what are you waiting for? Go get one of these hats and make your next ski trip one to remember!