Living on a homestead, I've learned that having the right gear can make all the difference, especially when it comes to battling the cold. One of the most important pieces of gear? A good hat. I've spent years figuring out what works best for me in different weather conditions, and I'm excited to share my experiences with you. Staying warm and comfortable is key when you're working outdoors, and the right hat can be a game-changer. From chilly mornings to freezing afternoons, I've tested various styles and materials to find the perfect headwear for every situation. This guide is all about what I've learned, the challenges I've faced, and the solutions I've discovered along the way.
For a long time, I was pretty basic with my hat choices. I started out mostly wearing a ball cap. I'd rock the trucker style until the temperatures started to drop. Then, I'd switch to a regular (full back) cap. But once it got to around 0°F, I knew it was time to bring out the beanie. It was a simple system, but it wasn't always the most comfortable or practical. I realized I needed a more versatile solution for the ever-changing weather conditions on my homestead.
I remember one particularly brutal winter when I was struggling to find the right hat. My ears were always freezing, and my hair was constantly getting in my face. I knew I needed something better, but I wasn't sure where to start. That's when I started asking around and doing some research.
Talking to other people who work outdoors, I found out that many swear by wool beanies. One person mentioned that their uncle, a farmer/rancher his entire life, would switch between a cowboy hat and a baseball hat in the summer and then just wear a wool beanie (watchman's cap) in the winter. This seemed like a solid starting point. I decided to invest in a good quality wool beanie and see how it worked for me.
I also used to work outside all day (12 hours) in the summer, and I wore a bucket hat mostly to keep the sun off my neck. It wasn't great for warmth, but it gave me an idea about different styles that could work for different situations. I realized that layering might be the key to staying comfortable in the cold.
Then, I stumbled upon the Stormy Kromer. Someone suggested it, saying it lasts forever and has a great warranty. I was intrigued, so I looked into it. While I haven't personally tried one yet, it's definitely on my list of hats to check out. The ear flaps seem like a great feature for those really cold days.
Living in a colder climate, I learned that a good quality toque is often all you need. Right now, I use a Carhartt brand one, often with a ball cap underneath. This layering system works well for me. Since I have long hair, I generally braid it and pin it up or tuck it into my toque. I do prefer just the ear-bands sometimes, especially when I'm doing more physical work and don't want to overheat.
Dealing with long hair in the cold can be a real challenge. I found that I have to double French braid it to keep it manageable while working outside. I also wear a hat/neck combo, or a wool beanie with a beaver fur insert and a neck piece to stay toasty. This combination has been a lifesaver on those extra cold days.
Ultimately, I've found that either a beanie or a baseball cap works well for most situations. With long hair, you can ponytail or braid it to do most things. It's all about finding what's most comfortable and practical for you.
Recently, I was browsing www.wholecustomdesign.com and found a really interesting product that caught my eye: the New Brand Winter Knitted Hat Beanie Men Scarf Skullies Beanies Winter Hats For Women Men Caps Gorras Bonnet Mask Hats. It looked like it could be a great all-in-one solution for cold weather. I liked the idea of having a hat and scarf combo to keep my head and neck warm. The variety of styles and colors also appealed to me. I'm thinking of ordering one to try it out this winter.
What really stood out was the potential versatility. Being able to use it as a beanie, scarf, or even a mask could be incredibly useful on the homestead. It seemed like a practical and stylish way to stay warm and protected from the elements. Plus, the price was reasonable, making it an attractive option. I’m always on the lookout for gear that can serve multiple purposes, and this beanie seemed to fit the bill perfectly. I'll have to report back on how it performs once I get a chance to test it out in real-world conditions. I have found that Wholecustomdesign often has exactly what I need to get through the winter!
Over the years, I've learned a few key things about choosing the right cold weather hat. Here are my top tips: