Top-Rated Running Hats Consistently Worn by Coaches and Regular Joggers throughout the Year
every winter, runners dedicated to their fitness routine have a decision to make: opt for the familiar treadmill or brave the elements and log miles outdoors. If you belong to the latter group, featuring the right hat in your winter running ensemble can make a significant difference.
Gemma Ward, a certified coach by the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) and a product specialist for New York Road Runners, explains that running in cold weather without proper head protection can lead to heat loss and an uncomfortable experience. The optimal selection, she suggests, should enable warmth while preventing overheating.
Specifically designed running hats can keep you more comfortable during long-term runs, even when swapping out your cotton hats commonly reserved for casual use. In our exploration, we consulted running experts to discover what factors should guide you as you seek the perfect hat for your winter running journey.
What to Look for in a Running Hat
Materials
For a running hat to be ideal, the fabric must retain heat but still allow for breathability. According to Ward, Merino wool is an excellent choice because it naturally regulates body temperature and absorbs moisture. Synthetic materials, such as polyester, fleece, and spandex, can also possess sweat-shedding qualities and offer warm coverage. On the contrary, avoid hats made exclusively of cotton, as it can become heavy with moisture and cause a cold sensation on your head.
Fit
While fashion often leads us to love slouchy beanies, a running hat must fit securely around your head. It should snugly but not excessively tightly, ensuring it does not shift or fly off. The coverage provided by the hat is another consideration: a good hat should extend over the ears and offer neck protection on particularly frosty days.
Additional Features
Optional design elements like waterproofing, windproofing, reflective details, or ponytail compatibility increase a hat's effectiveness in specific scenarios. These features can make a good hat stand out while helping you narrow down your selection.
In the following section, we have rounded up leading running hats recommended by experienced coaches. Pair these recommendations with a pair of gloves, and you will be armed with optimal winter running gear.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Smartwool Thermal Merino Reversible Cuffed Beanie
Featuring lightweight warmth, temperature regulation, adjustable cuff length, and machine washability, Smartwool's Thermal Merino Beanie has proven itself a winner among experienced runners like Katie O'Reilly, a runner and supporter of Girls on the Run International. Its reversible design provides double layering for optimal insulation.
Materials: Merino wool
- Runner-Up: The North Face Oh Mega Beanie
A chunky, cable-knit hat is a winter running staple, and this selection from The North Face fills the role nicely. It provides ample insulation and offers a secure fit without absorbing excess wind. One Amazon reviewer notes, "It's nice and warm, and there's plenty of space for all my hair."
Materials: Recycled polyester
- Best Budget Pick: Levi's All Season Leather Logo Patch Beanie
This budget-friendly option from Levi's offers coverage, machine washability, and multiple color options, all for under $30. While it may not excel in wind resistance, it is a practical choice for those seeking a cost-effective solution.
Materials: Acrylic
Running enthusiasts crave functionality and style in their gear. With these top picks, you can elevate your headwear, resulting in a more comfortable and effective winter running experience.
A runner considering the cold weather's impact on their health should invest in a suitable running hat. Gemma Ward, a certified coach and product specialist, highlights the importance of selecting a hat that maintains warmth without causing overheating, materials such as Merino wool and synthetic materials being viable choices. The perfect running hat also needs to fit securely and provide coverage over the ears to prevent heat loss and discomfort. Additional features like waterproofing, windproofing, and reflective details can further enhance the hat's effectiveness. To enhance your winter running gear, pair these recommended running hats with appropriate winter news—a pair of gloves.
