If you have a larger-than-average head, you know the struggle of finding a cold weather hat that actually fits and keeps you warm. I've been there! For years, I suffered through winter with hats that were either too tight, rode up constantly, or just didn't provide enough coverage. It's frustrating, uncomfortable, and frankly, a little ridiculous. After much trial and error, I've finally found some solutions that work for me, and I want to share them with you.
My journey started with a simple goal: find a hat that would cover my ears, stay put during activities, and keep me warm without making me overheat. Sounds easy, right? Not so much. Most standard-sized hats felt like they were squeezing my brain. I tried stretching them, wearing them over and over hoping they'd loosen up, but nothing seemed to work. The beanies I found either popped off my head with the slightest breeze or left a red ring around my forehead. This led me down a path of trying different materials, styles, and even exploring custom-made options. The ideal cold weather hat felt impossible to find, especially one that was lightweight and practical for outdoor adventures.
After countless hours of searching, reading reviews, and trying different products, I finally started to make some progress. Here are some of the solutions that worked for me:
One of the first things I considered was commissioning a custom hat. I figured if I couldn't find anything off the rack, maybe having something made specifically for my head size would be the answer. I learned that hats are relatively simple to make, and there are many talented individuals who offer custom hat-making services. While I haven't gone this route yet, it's definitely something I'm still considering for the future, especially if I want a specific fabric or style. This is great if you need a specific kind of cold weather hat.
I stumbled upon Black Rock Gear and decided to give their woolies a try. They offer sizes specifically for larger heads. I opted for their large size, which fits heads measuring 23-26 inches. It weighs only 27 grams, which is incredibly lightweight. I also got one of their down beanies for really cold weather. I've been impressed with the quality and warmth of these hats.
Someone suggested searching for "hard hat liners" on Amazon. I was skeptical at first, but I figured it was worth a shot. To my surprise, I found a bunch of options that were designed to fit under hard hats but could also be worn on their own. Many of these liners are made from warm, comfortable materials and are designed to fit larger heads. It's definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a budget-friendly option.
I also discovered alpaca beanies from Hilltop Packs. I got one that fits my XL head perfectly. It's incredibly warm and surprisingly lightweight. Alpaca wool is known for its softness and insulating properties, making it a great choice for cold weather hats. This cold weather hat is a winner.
I'm a big fan of the "North x North Merino Wool Hooded" neck gaiter. It fits my big head well and only weighs 57 grams. I even used it on the PCT. It worked great. It's not the warmest option, so it's best for when you're moving around and generating body heat. The hooded design provides extra coverage for my head and neck, which is a huge plus in windy conditions. You can even watch a video on their site to see the various ways you can wear it: North x North Merino Wool Hooded Neck Gaiter.
Recently, I've been exploring options from homepage and found some great products. I recently tried the 2-pcs Wool Neck Scarf Cap Sets from Wholecustomdesign. It's a designer winter hat for men, warm, thick, fleece-lined, and windproof. I got the Wine red color. It's been a lifesaver during these cold months. It's not just warm; it's also stylish and comfortable. I've worn it hiking, running errands, and even just lounging around the house. The fleece lining is incredibly soft against my skin, and the wool exterior provides excellent insulation. The set also includes a neck scarf, which is a nice bonus for extra warmth and protection.