How to Choose a Hat

If you want to know how to choose a hat, the key factors to consider are;

• What conditions you are likely to be using it in?
• Is the hat to be used as a top layer or is it to go under a helmet?
• What do you want the hat to do? I.e. Keep your head warm, protect from wind chill, keep your head dry, or a combination of a few?
• Decide whether there is a particular style you’d prefer – i.e. A beanie, Took which is cut low over the ears, Headband, Balaclava etc.

Useful Terms

Common words used in hat specifications:

Breathable – the material will allow water vapour to pass through to avoid the build-up of sweat and condensation. Some waterproof membranes are breathable.

Wicking – Material actively transports sweat away from the body to keep you more comfortable/

Taped seams – When a waterproof fabric is sewn, the seams are sealed using waterproof tape that is applied with heat and prevents water from coming through. This makes the garment fully waterproof. Critically, seam-sealed is only applied where waterproofing is necessary.

Thermal hats

Lighter-weight hats can be a useful base layer under a helmet but are also suitable for more aerobic activities. Lightweight thermal fabrics, such as Power Dry® and Power Stretch®, are quick-drying and actively wick moisture away from the skin. This makes them ideal for active sports as well as being a useful layer when the temperature drops.

If the weather is colder, or you are going to be less active, then consider a heavier-weight fabric. Some hats come with a fleece lining for extra warmth in cold conditions too.

Windproof hats

Designed to keep off wind chill, but generally do not have many thermal properties. Some windproof fabrics such as WINDSTOPPER® are also breathable for comfort.

Waterproof hats

These have taped seams to prevent water from seeping through the stitching. Some better-quality waterproof fabrics are also breathable.

View our full range of Extremities headwear here.

If you’re still not sure how to choose a hat that is best suited to your requirements, please contact us and we’ll do our best to help.