How to choose a hat for cross-country skiing
Choose a cross-country skiing hat with particular regard to the expected intensity of the sporting activity and the weather in which you intend to do the sport. In particular, choose the thickness and level of insulation of the hat accordingly. Remember that a cross-country ski hat should be breathable, wick away sweat, protect the ears well and resist wind. Also pay close attention to choosing the right size.
A good quality hat is a very important piece of equipment for cross-country skiing because a very significant amount of heat escapes through the head, so in the event of a sudden deterioration in the weather or an unexpected injury, for example, the absence of a headgear could pose a serious problem for the cross-country skier.
Thicker or thiner hat?
Of course, choose according to the expected weather and outside temperature, and also according to the level of physical activity. Racers who stay at a high intensity for the duration of the activity and produce a significant amount of heat will get by with a much thinner hat than recreational runners who slow down the pace in places or stop more often.
It is best to bring two hats with you. One thinner hat for when you are in more intense motion, and a thicker hat (perhaps in your pocket or in a running bum-bag) for when you slow down, stop, or when the weather gets worse.
Breathability and sweat wicking
As wet or damp skin cools several times faster than dry skin, it is essential that a cross-country ski hat is breathable and functional. It must take care of the effective wicking of sweat away from the scalp.
Windstopper and ear protection
In addition to humidity, wind, which is a very common phenomenon especially on the mountains, can also reduce the perception of temperature. So be prepared and choose a hat that will protect your head thanks to the windproof membrane and, thanks to the appropriate cut, your ears, which as a peripheral part of the body are very sensitive to frostbite.
Elastic materials for greater comfort
Some cross-country ski hats are made with elastic materials such as elastane or spandex. These increase the wearing comfort and make the hat fit well on the head.
Choosing the right size
For sufficient protection of your head from the cold and wind, but also for your comfort, it is essential that you choose a hat in the appropriate size.
The cap should not be loose and should not fall over your eyes, but on the other hand, it should also not roll up over your ears. The front brim should be held approximately in the middle of the forehead in a horizontal position. The hat should not press anywhere, especially again in the sensitive area of the ears. Remember, what can be endured in a moment of trying on in the store can turn into a very unpleasant experience on a day trip in the cold and inclement weather.
Most beanies are made in one UNI size, some have several sizes to choose from.
If you don't know what to do even then, remember that we are not just an e-shop. We welcome you directly in our brick-and-mortar store, where our ski specialists will help you choose the right model of ski hat for your cross-country skiing. When you buy through our e-shop, you have a 60-day return period, so don't worry if you choose the wrong size in the e-shop.
