Whether you’re hitting the ski slopes, ice fishing in frosty Minnesota, or strolling through a winter wonderland, the perfect hat is your ultimate ally against the chill.
But what exactly makes a winter hat warm?
It all depends on your activity.
For the active adventurer, a thin merino wool beanie fits snugly under a helmet, wicks away moisture, and keeps you warm without overheating.
If you’re braving the icy winds while staying stationary, like on a fishing trip, a down-insulated hat with ear flaps and a neck warmer is your cozy companion.
- AERIS insulation keeps you warm in -35 to 50 degrees
- Wind skirt prevents cold air intrusion
- Extra-long neck cuff for added protection
- epguy15 for a 15% discount
- Ultralight and warm, suitable for -20℃
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell
- Versatile for various outdoor activities
- 250g polyester, polar fleece, and faux rabbit fur
- Windproof and water-resistant
- Adjustable fit
Fit is everything, a hat that’s too tight or too loose won’t do the job.
The ideal hat covers your ears and stays put, locking in body heat where it belongs.
And guess what?
Keeping warm doesn’t have to break the bank. Some of the toastiest winter hats are budget-friendly, often around $20.
So, why settle for chilly ears when you can find the perfect hat without splurging?
Grab one (or two) and gear up for the season.
Who’s ready to go shopping for the warmest winter hats on the market today?
The 23 Warmest Winter Hats in 2024
1. Fortress Classic Balaclava
- AERIS insulation keeps you warm in -35 to 50 degrees
- Wind skirt prevents cold air intrusion
- Extra-long neck cuff for added protection
- epguy15 for a 15% discount
PROS: Well made, special AERIS insulation, comfortable, wind skirt, keeps you warm- even when wet.
CONS: Bulky
Fortress is making waves in the outdoor gear industry and their Classic Balaclava is no exception.
This face mask is made with the company’s special AERIS foam insulation. The insulation keeps you really warm in temperatures ranging from -35 to 50 degrees.
The face mask will also keep you warm, even if you get wet. The extra-long neck cuff, make it possible to tuck this into your winter jacket for extra protection from the cold. It’s called a wind-skirt and it also keeps wind from stealing all your precious body heat.
Check it out here: Fortress Classic Balaclava
2. Fortress ‘FR’ Balaclava
- Fire-resistant materials for hazardous work environments
- AERIS insulation keeps you warm even when wet
- Designed for severe weather and long outdoor exposure
- epguy15 for a 15% discount
PROS: Made for severe weather, wind skirt, warm
CONS: Expensive
This Fortress ‘FR’ balaclava is treated with fire resistant materials- to protect those working outside in precarious situations. It’s made for the hard worker who spends hours at a time outside in the oil fields or other intense work.
Like the other Fortress balaclava, this version is made with AERIS insulation. This insulation will keep you warm, even if you get wet!
These Balaclava hats are designed for people working out in the bitter cold for long periods of time. A lot of the people who purchase these work on things like oil rigs or other jobs where they have to stand outside.
Check it out here: Fortress ‘FR’ Balaclava
3. Botack Duck Down Winter Hat
- Ultralight and warm, suitable for -20℃
- Waterproof and windproof outer shell
- Versatile for various outdoor activities
PROS: Really warm with down, water-resistant, comfortable, fleece lined
CONS: Sells out quickly
This hat is like a ski beanie, but not. It is filled with a thin layer of down with a fleece lining. It is machine washable and will be a great find for people who live in cold climates and just always have trouble keeping their head warm. It is not as stretchy as a typical wool beanie however so it fits some heads better than others. But for people that it fits well, it gets rave reviews.
The ear flaps are a great feature. They are warm enough you won’t need ear muffs. This hat will keep your ears warm in cold winter climates.
It’s also a great hat for everyday errands, especially if you live in Alaska, Minnesota or other cold climate locations.
Check it out here: Botack Duck Down Winter Hat/Beanie
4. Unigear Trapper Hat
- Made with 250g polyester, polar fleece, and faux rabbit fur
- Windproof and water-resistant 400T nylon exterior
- Adjustable fit with removable face mask for versatility
PROS: Versatile, durable, water resistant and windproof, shearling ear flaps, warm.
CONS: Not intended for extreme activities.
This is a great hat that mixes the style of baseball cap with a warm winter trapper hat. Think Elmer Fud and Babe Ruth. This is the hat if you want to be really warm while running errands around town or working outside on your house, shoveling snow or chaining up over a mountain pass. The exterior of the hat is lined with artic tech material which is designed to keep wet weather away!
The fabric blend blocks the wind, rain- keeping your head really warm at all times. The shearling ear flaps added extra warmth and comfort. You can snap the ear flaps up or keep them down, depending on the conditions.
Check it out here: Unigear Trapper Hat
5. Mountain Hardware-Dome Perignon
- Blocks 100% of the wind for maximum protection
- Helmet-compatible, low profile design
- Full ear coverage for maximum warmth retention
PROS: Well made, blocks wind, great for everyday wear and on the mountain, full ear coverage.
CONS: Limited sizes.
Mountain Hardware knows how to keep you warm in all sorts of conditions. This hat is a top seller because it’s lightweight, comfortable, blocks the wind and keeps your ears covered at all times! The hat is made with Polartec Windbloc- a trademarked product that literally stops wind in its tracks.
If there’s going to be wind, this hat will keep you warm and protected. Plus, the fleece panel around the forehead, keeps the hat in place, all while staying comfortable.
Check them out here: Mountain Hardware Dome Perignon
6. Carhartt Wool Blend Cuffed Beanie
- 80% wool/ 20% nylon knit fabric
- Carhartt label sewn on front
- Imported
PROS: Wool, well made, warm, wicks away moisture.
CONS: Limited sizes.
This is a great lightweight, warm hat that you can wear from October to April. It’s a multi-season hat, depending on where you live- of course. This hat is made by Carhartt, one the world’s best outdoor gear brands. Carhartt doesn’t make anything unless they make it right!
This hat is made out of Wool, which naturally wicks away moisture, dries quickly and keeps you really warm and comfortable.
Check it out here: Carhartt Wool Blend Cuffed Beanie
7. Turtle Fur Midweight Multi-Season Beanie
- One size fits most adults, juniors, and teens
- Made of midweight Chelonia 150 fleece, 100% polyester
- Soft and warm, ideal for various outdoor activities
PROS: 100% polyester fleece, double fabric around the ears, thin, easily fits under a helmet or hood and it’s affordable.
CONS: One size fits all, isn’t waterproof.
Do you remember when fleece neck warmers debuted in the later 80s early 90s? You can thank Turtle Fur for that.
This company has literally revolutionized the way we think about fleece. Turtle Fur fleece is warm and it keeps wind away all at the same time.
Plus, this hat is super cozy and it comes in a variety of colors.
Check it out here: Turtle Fur Beanie
8. Original Turtle Fur Fleece
- Crafted from 100% acrylic high loft fleece for softness
- Double-layer fabric provides all-day warmth, especially for ears
- One size fits most with versatile cuff design
PROS: Made with original Turtle Fur Fleece, multiple layers for lots of warmth, comfortable and comes in a variety of colors.
CONS: One size fits all, too bulky for ski helmet.
This hat is a heavier/thicker version of the multi-season hat. This fleece hat has four layers of soft fleece polyester to keep your head nice and warm on the coldest of days.
You can roll the cuff up or down to make sure it covers your ears at all times.
Check it out here: Original Turtle Fur Fleece Beanie
9. Turtle Fur Midweight Fleece Beanie
- One size fits most adults, juniors, and teens
- Made from 100% polyester, double-layered at ears
- Ideal for various outdoor activities like skiing and hiking
PROS: Fleece and fun Nordic design, well made, durable and keeps moisture away.
CONS: Hand wash only.
This hat combines the incredible the unique Turtle Fur fleece with a classic design. Does it get any better than that?
This unique blend of warm fibers earns this hat a spot at #10 on this list. The hat is made out 100% polyester – Chelonia 150 fleece. The fleece is super soft, naturally wicks away moisture, incredibly warm and has anti-odor properties.
The band of fleece on the inside keeps your head warm at all times. That special, soft fleece also keeps your head from getting to hot and prevents the hat from shifting while in motion.
Check it out here: Turtle Fur Midweight Fleece Beanie
10. Turtle Fur Lambswool Fleece Lined Knit Beanie
- One size fits most adults, juniors, and teens
- Made from 80% lambswool, odor-resistant and hypoallergenic
- Fully lined with 100% polyester micro fleece for comfort
PROS: Incredible ear coverage, wind blocking material, warm and very comfortable.
CONS: Sounds can be muffled by wind blocking fleece.
Do you want to defend your ears from the bitter cold wind? Okay, then. This is the hat for you! Made with Windbloc fleece this hat conforms nicely to your head and shields your ears from fierce wind no matter where it’s coming from. The hat features two layers, lambswool and turtle fleece for added warmth and protection.
It’s also coated with a special durable water repellent finish to keep snow and rain away.
Check it out here: Turtle Fur Lambswool Fleece Lined Beanie
11. Outdoor Research Wind Warrior Hat
- Windproof for enhanced protection
- Wicking properties to manage moisture
- Hybrid mapped construction for optimal comfort
PROS: Windproof, trusted brand, high quality.
CONS: Odd style, one size fits all, too bulky for helmet.
The wind warrior hat does just what you think it would do: make you a warrior! Okay, it won’t give you super powers, but it does a super job at keeping the wind away from your precious body heat. The hat is made with 100% windproof fleece.
It’ designed to fit snug around your head, while keeping the back of your neck and ears covered. It’s slightly odd looking- but hey, if you’re warm, who cares, right?
Check it out here: Outdoor Research Wind Warrior Hat
12. SmartWool The Lid
- Made from a blend of Merino wool and recycled polyester
- Lightweight and comfortable, ideal for cold days
- Merino wool regulates temperature and wicks moisture away
PROS: Trusted brand, high quality, blend of wool and synthetic material, applicable to a variety of activates.
CONS: One size fits all.
SmartWool is by far one the most trusted winter hat brands on the market today. The company is known for making high quality products, designed to hold up to the coldest of temperatures. This hat is a blend of wool and acrylic material. This combination of fibers gives the hat extra warmth and stretch to fit almost any head size.
This is a great hat for skiing, climbing mountains and running to the grocery store for eggs. It’s breathable, warm and wicks away moisture! Plus, merino wool naturally keeps odors on the down low.
Check it out here: Smartwool ‘The Lid’ Beanie
13. SmartWool Merino 150 Beanie
- Odor-resistant for prolonged freshness
- Temperature regulating for comfort
- Minimizes chafing during high-intensity activities
PROS: 100% merino wool, cozy, breathable and can fit under most helmets.
CONS: May be too bulky for some.
Another high quality SmartWool winter hat. This hat is mid-weight, which means it’s a little thicker than The Lid. The hat also made with 100% merino wool, which gives you added warmth and protection from bitter cold temperatures.
Check it out here: SmartWool Merino 150 Beanie
14. Smartwool Merino 250 Cuffed Beanie
- Roll cuff provides added warmth over ears
- 100% Merino wool for breathability and thermoregulation
- Double-layered and reversible design for versatility
PROS: Thin and lightweight, wool/synthetic blend, keeps you comfortable when exerting a lot of energy.
CONS: May shift around the ears. One size fits all.
This is the perfect hat for the winter athlete on the go! Great for cold weather bike rides, cross country skiing or downhill. The hat is super thin, lightweight and can be worn under any hood, bike helmet or ski helmet. The hat is also made out of 100% merino wool.
This combination of materials makes this hat comfortable, warm, breathable and keeps moisture at bay.
Check it out here: SmartWool Merino 250 Cuffed Beanie
15. The North Face Jim Beanie
- Classic fit and silhouette
- Heathered knit for a stylish look
- Fleece earband for added warmth
PROS: Reversible, wool and synthetic material give it warmth and softness, covers ears and is breathable.
CONS: Cotton blend, one size fits all.
The North Face is a trusted brand in the outdoor gear world. Just about anything The North Face makes will keep you warm and make sure you don’t get soaked to the bone.
This hat is reversible- so you basically get two hats in one! How about that? It’s made with a cotton/wool and acrylic blend of materials. Because of the cotton, you may want to wear this hat around the house or around town.
It’s not suited however for back-country adventures.
Check it out here: The North Face Jim Beanie
16. The North Face Bones Beanie Hat
- Made from 100% polyester fleece for warmth
- Windproof and breathable with double-layer design
- Variety of bright colors available
PROS: Fleece, windproof and breathable. Variety of colors to choose from, adequately covers ears for maximum protection from the cold.
CONS: One size fits all.
This hat is made out of 100 % polyester fleece. It comes in a variety of bright colors and it’s really comfortable to wear all day. Double layer of fleece will keep you warm no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
The durability of this hat and its incredible warmth capabilities rank this hat at #18 on this list.
Check it out here: The North Face Bones Beanie
17. Dale of Norway Moritz Hat
- Made from 100% Merino wool for warmth and comfort
- Norwegian design with breathable, itch-free lining
- Available in multiple colors with a timeless look
PROS: Super fine merino wool, wicks moisture, well made, trusted company.
CONS: One size fits all.
This Norwegian based company has been mastering the art of beautiful, warm clothes since 1879. The company knows a thing or two about living and playing in harsh weather climates. The Stjerne Hat is made with 100% extra fine and extra soft merino wool. Merino wool works wonders at keeping you warm no matter what!
This hat is perfect for a quick trip to the grocery store, Saturday morning runs and walking your dog in the park. It’s stylish and warm!
Check it out here: Dale of Norway Moritz Hat
18. Arc’teryx Rho Lightweight Wool Toque
- Fair Trade Certified for worker well-being
- Lightweight Merino wool with moisture management
- Versatile design suitable for various activities
PROS: Made from a trusted outdoor gear brand, merino wool blend, soft, keeps moisture away, breathable and comfortable.
CONS: Runs small.
This hat is wonderful to wear in the back-country, on the slopes or running errands around town. It’s versatile and keeps you warm in a variety of temperatures and weather conditions. This hat is made out a 50/50 blend of super fine and soft merino wool and synthetic materials.
It’s lightweight and can be worn under most fitted hoods and helmets.
Check it out here: Arc’teryx Rho Lightweight Wool Toque
19. Wigwam Wool Ribbed Cap
- Handcrafted in Sheboygan, Wisconsin since 1905
- Made from durable worsted wool for strength
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
PROS: Made from a well trusted company, 100% wool, warm, manages moisture and breathable.
CONS: One size fits all.
Wigwam is a wool sock company, now making wool hats. It’s mastered the art of wool socks for more than a century- so it knows how to keep people warm. It’s about time it added wool hats to its collection. This hat is a basic warm winter hat made out of 100% wool. Yes. That’s what I like to see. It’s stretchy too, which means it will stay in place and keep your ears covered at all times. Plus, if something happens to it or it’s in need of repair- it comes with a two-year warranty.
Check it out here: Wigwam Wool Ribbed Cap
20. Cascade Mountain Tech Merino Wool Beanie Hat
- One size fits most with a form fit design
- High-quality Merino wool/acrylic blend for breathability
- Includes two beanies: one grey and one dark grey
PROS: Affordable, warm, mix of wool and acrylic, soft.
CONS: One size fits all.
This is a great hat to wear all season long. It’s made with a stretchy mix of acrylic and wool- making it easy to wear and really warm. This hat is also budget friendly!
At $15, you don’t have to break the bank to find a really nice, warm and high quality warm winter hat. It’s also breathable, so you don’t have to worry about getting too sweaty.
Check it out here: Cascade Mountain Tech Merino Wool Blend Beanie
21. Northern Knitwear Beanie
- Made from a cozy 60% acrylic and 40% recycled wool blend
- One-size-fits-all unisex design for versatile wear
- Hand-sewn in the USA, ensuring quality and warmth for cold weather
PROS: Warm, 60% Acrylic 40% Recycled Wool Blend, moisture management, great design.
CONS: May not cover ears adequately.
The 60/40 wool blend ranks this hat #27 on the list of the warmest winter hats. The more wool in a hat, the warmer you are going to be. It’s lined with soft fleece, giving you added warmth and comfort for those long days outside. The Canada based company knows how to keep you warm and stylish all winter long.
Check it out here: Northern Knitwear Beanie
22. Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Hood
- ColdGear Infrared lining retains body heat
- Lightweight, breathable form-fitting design
- Full facial protection converts to a neck gaiter
PROS: Stretchy, warm and keeps moisture away. Can be worn alone or with a helmet.
CONS: One size fits all.
This is another great layering piece to add to your outdoor gear collection. This is made with synthetic materials, designed to stretch and fit to your head and over your ears. This beanie is ultra-soft, brushed fleece for comfort all day.
It’s ColdGear Infrared technology uses a soft, thermo-conductive inner coating to absorb & retain your own body heat
Check it out here: Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Hood
23. Buff Thermal Hat
- Made from warm, soft merino wool
- Unisex design, one size fits most
- Ideal for mountaineering, hiking, and urban outdoor use
PROS: 100% merino wool, warm, soft, wicks away moisture, fun style.
CONS: Sell out quickly.
Buff is a UK based company making incredibly durable and warm hats for all sorts of outdoor activities. This thermal hat is made out of 100% merino wool. It’s rated to keep you warm to -10 degrees. It’s the perfect hat to keep you warm and dry while working out or hiking up a big old mountain.
The fun colors and slouchy fit also make it ideal for every day wear as well. We’re big fans of Buff.
Check it out here: Buff Thermal Hat
What Makes a Hat Warm?
Choosing the right winter hat involves more than just picking a style you like.
By considering factors like performance layers, hypoallergenic materials, reflective details, and essential features such as windproof and fire-resistant properties, you can find a hat that not only keeps you warm but also enhances your safety and comfort during the coldest months.
Remember to prioritize durability, packability, and an adjustable fit to ensure your hat remains a reliable companion throughout the winter season.
(Quick side note: Here is my article on the very best survival winter clothing that will keep you warm in sub-zero temperatures even if you get wet.)
Okay. So, the right warm winter hat for you will vary depending on your activity.
If you’re skiing and wear a helmet, a warm winter hat will most likely be made out merino wool. A thin wool hat that fits under a ski helmet will wick away moisture and keep your head dry and warm all-day long.
However, that might not work if you are ice fishing in Minnesota in January. A warm winter hat for you might be down insulated, with ear flaps and neck warmer to keep you nice and toasty while sitting on the ice all day.
With ice fishing you’re probably not going to be working up a sweat, so you need a winter hat that is well insulated.
Regardless of the hat you choose, you want to make sure it fits properly. May seem obvious to point this out, but you’ll be amazed at how many people are wearing hats that are too small or too big.
The proper fitting that will fit over your ears and stay put, regardless if your hiking a glacier peak or talking a walk in the park. If your hat is too big, all the body heat you are trying to keep, will disappear into thin air.
What’s the point of wearing a hat then? Try on a couple hats before you settle on the ONE.
Better yet, buy a couple hats and keep one in your pack or pocket in case you need more protection or your friend forgot their hat at home.
In general, you don’t have to pay and arm and a leg for a high quality, well insulated, warm winter hat. In fact, some of the most popular warm winter hats run around $20 or so.
