Hats & Headwear

Recent Headwear Product Reviews

Tilley T3 Wanderer Hat

This is the enzyme-washed version of the legendary T3 hat. A little softer, a little broken in...ready for anything. I bought a slightly smaller Tilley, for those colder, windy days when a snug fit is preferable to the extra comfort of a loose fit in the heat. I have already reviewed the wonderful T3 hat and the design is perfect for my needs, with its round crown and three-inch brim. The Wanderer is great for the days just after I've cut my hair—or for when I would be constantly adjusting the… Full review

Royal Robbins Bug Barrier Convertible Sun Hat

The Bug Barrier Convertible Sun Hat is a unisex sun hat, designed for outdoor activities where bug and sun protection are desired. It is a comfortable and lightweight hat that I have worn canoeing, camping, and hiking. It has a wide 4" brim, and is treated for insect repellency, and also has a 50+ UV sun protection value. A very positive feature is an integrated head net that can be tucked away alongside the crown when not in use. I have enjoyed using this hat, a change from my usual ball cap style,… Full review

Fjallraven Bergtagen Neck Gaiter

Warm, ventilates, does not smell, gets holes real easy. Recommended, but expect short lifespan. I recently bought this as I like my Bergtagen eco-shell jacket and it's really comfortable, made of Merino wool. Fits me well, but seems to be quite fragile, as there is already a hole in it, near the inside tags which I then cut off, as there is a whole book of white label tags in several languages. Most annoying ;) I got it in screaming orange so I can find it in my backpack in darkness a bit easier. Full review

Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca Neck Pipe

Alpaca neck pipe, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways...and that is key, the versatility, the many uses of a good neck pipe (aka buff) are solid gold outside, when every ounce counts. And every item doing multipurpose is my favorite trait. The additional benefits of alpaca fiber make this a step or four above other buffs.   Perfect size for my "luxury" real pillow on trail, much softer feeling to sleep on! Sporting the neck pipe as a beanie (and yes, along with App Gear hoodie in Nightshade)… Full review

Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca Fleece Beanie

The All-Paca Fleece Beanie is a basic but essential accessory. Alpaca wool performs superior over synthetic and cotton, and even slightly better than merino wool. Breathability is supreme and I've also been surprised by how well it keeps my head warm and dry while hiking in a cold drizzle. A cold, windy and rainy day crossing Fontana Dam along the AT in North Carolina Background & Conditions: Please see my previous reviews of the All-Paca Crew Fleece and the All-Paca Neck Pipe. Since I've… Full review

Arctic Lynx High-Performance Infinity Scarf

This scarf is best used as a nursing cover, as it’s a perfect size and fabric, and is easily washable. It’s also a fantastic scarf for all types of outdoor physical activities as it’s composed of a midweight fabric, is comfortable, and wicks moisture. This product is best for coverage during nursing, and for added warmth during outdoor activities in moderately cold temperatures. I would absolutely recommend it for physical activity in the outdoors and for nursing mothers alike. Conditions: … Full review

Appalachian Gear Company All-Paca Neck Pipe

This is a simple neck gaiter, serving a basic but essential part of my various outdoor activities. Alpaca wool performs superior over synthetic and cotton, plus even slightly better than merino wool. Breathability makes it much more tolerable in hot conditions, while it works very well for thermal protection in the cold. It also helps keep the sun off my neck, face, and head.   Background & Conditions: Please see my review of merino wool Buffs for a full discussion of why I like and use neck… Full review

Buff Lightweight Merino Wool Buff

An accessory that earns its keep—whatever you do, outdoors. It's a scarf, a head or wristband, a hat, balaclava, towel, pot gripper...It may be the loose neck covering you want, or tight draught excluder you need—depending on how you wear it. Wash it in the sink, with mild soap, and wear it again tomorrow. I read Twig's detailed (outstanding) review and immediately upgraded my £3 polyester neck gaiter clone. The wool Buff can warm you up, or cool you down, so quickly supersedes cotton bandanas… Full review

Icebreaker Merino Flexi Chute

This small, lightweight bit of clothing makes an amazing difference in warmth and comfort in all outdoor situations. High quality merino and versatility of use make this a great dependable item. I wear  an Icebreaker merino neck gaiter in many outdoor pursuits—backpacking, skiing, trekking, biking, and post cold water swimming. I have used it in the BC Coast range, the Yukon, the Himalayas, and around town when it’s cold, It provides an almost miraculous level of warmth. It is versatile; can… Full review