Introduction to Men's Beanies

As someone who spent half a decade in New York City, I know how cold it gets commuting in the city and being outdoors in those winter months. Finding the perfect beanie that is naturally breathable but keeps your head warm and looks good can be tougher than you think.

Finding a stylish men's beanie for my partner that also had insulating properties but looked good when stepping out for lunch at work with co-workers had me do some research online to gather the top brands and the best beanie for this type of men's hat.

Read on to see how we break down materials like polyester fleece, knit, cashmere, nylon bend and other beanie fabric to find the best beanie to keep your head warm.

 

Why Every Man Needs a Beanie

If you're wondering why you should own a beanie, let’s break it down. There are many use cases for having a beanie in your wardrobe capsule. First, beanies provide warmth and protection, especially in cooler months. But they’re not just for the cold; lightweight beanies made from breathable fabrics are great for transitional weather, too.

Beyond practicality, beanies are a great way to elevate your look. Whether you're going for a rugged, casual vibe or aiming for something more smart casual, a well-chosen wool beanie can complete your outfit with a simple touch.

 

Materials Used in Beanies

Not all beanies are made the same. When shopping for men's beanies, the material matters because it affects comfort and functionality. The right fabric can make a difference in how warm, naturally breathable, or durable your beanie is. From Merino wool beanies to knit blends, we'll cover them all.

Whether you're looking for something to keep you cozy in your winter looks or a lightweight option for milder weather for fall outfits, understanding the materials will help you make the best choice.

 

Wool Beanie

Wool is one of the best materials for a beanie hat due to its excellent insulation properties. It naturally traps heat, keeping you warm even in frigid temperatures. A wool beanie can absorb sweat and moisture without feeling damp, making it perfect for cold, wet conditions.

Awool beanie is durable and can maintain its shape over time, though it may require some extra care when washing. Merino wool beanies are sought after and highly regarded.

Cotton Beanie

Cotton beanies are a great choice for mild weather or indoor wear. Unlike a wool beanie, cotton is lightweight and breathable, which helps regulate temperature, preventing overheating.

It’s also softer on the skin, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or who prefer a lighter fabric. While cotton doesn’t provide as much extra warmth as wool, a cotton beanie is still a comfortable and stylish option for cooler days.

Acrylic Beanie

Acrylic is a synthetic fiber that mimics the softness of wool but is generally lighter and easier to care for. It’s also quick-drying and resistant to fading, making it a great choice for everyday wear.

Blended Materials

Many are made from a blend of materials like wool and acrylic or cotton and polyester, offering the best of both worlds. Blended fabrics combine the warmth and durability of wool with the lightweight, easy-care properties of acrylic.

 

Best Beanies for Men

We scoured the internet to find the beanies men love the most. These beanies offer extra warmth and are soft while durable. Whether you're braving the elements or just looking for a stylish winter staple, here are some of the best beanie hats and product recommendations to keep you cozy.

 

Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie

It's not a surprise Carhartt sits on top of this list as one of the best winter beanie hats for men. Redditors and online reviews continue to sing high praises for the overall durability and comfort of Carhatt products.

The Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie is a popular choice for men, praised for its comfort and reliability in cold weather. With thousands of 5-star reviews, it’s a go-to for both outdoor work and casual wear. It features:

• Made from 100% acrylic rib knit for warmth and durability

• Fold-up cuff design featuring the iconic Carhartt patch

• Highly rated for its comfort and long-lasting quality

 

Smartwool Cozy Cabin Beanie Hat

The Smartwool brand comes up repeatedly by online reviewers as a company with products that are comfortable, warm and lasts a while. It also is committed to environmental sustainability and inclusivity in outdoor apparel.

The Cozy Cabin Hat is designed to keep you warm during outdoor adventures or while relaxing by the fire. It features:

• Made from a blend of Merino wool and recycled polyester for durability and sustainability

• Lightweight and soft, making it comfortable to wear against the skin

• Merino wool beanies effectively regulate body temperature and wick moisture away as vapor

 

Kangol's Merino Wool Rib Beanie

Here's another to add to our merino wool beanies! The Merino Wool Beanie by Kangol is a timeless winter essential because of its chunky, soft knit which provides warmth. The unique knit darts create a flattering shape at the top.

Decorated with Kangol's signature embroidered kangaroo logo at the center front, this merino wool beanie is designed as a fitted style, making it perfect for autumn and winter wear.

• Crafted from a Merino wool blend (50% wool and 50% acrylic) for softness and durability

• Features a wide cuff that folds up beautifully for a snug fit

 

Wool Knit Quality Patch Beanie by Carhartt

The Wool Knit Quality Patch Beanie by Carhartt offers a cozy and stylish option for winter wear. Made from 80% wool and 20% nylon knit, it provides excellent warmth and durability. The fold-up cuff ensures a secure fit, while the Carhartt Quality patch sewn on the front adds a signature touch.

 

Compared to the first Carhartt beanie mentioned earlier (which is made from 100% acrylic), this wool beanie offers more insulation and a more luxurious feel due to its wool composition. Both beanies feature the iconic Carhartt style, but the Wool Knit version provides added warmth for those particularly cold days.

• Crafted from an 80% wool and 20% nylon blend for optimal warmth and durability

• Fold-up cuff design for a snug fit

• Features a Carhartt Quality patch

 

Fjallraven 1960 Logo Hat

The Fjallraven 1960 Logo Hat is a stylish and comfortable option for those seeking warmth and quality. Made from 100% cotton, this hat features a pull-on design for easy wear.

Unfortunately, it recommends dry cleaning which may not be as convenient as other men's beanies. Its soft, warm lambswool construction ensures excellent insulation, making it perfect for cold weather.

• Made from 100% cotton for comfort and breathability

• Rib-knitted in two layers for enhanced insulation

• Features a wide folded edge for a classic design

• Care instructions: Dry clean only for optimal maintenance

 

Kangol Twist Stripe Slouchy Beanie

We added this slouchy beanie to include one that suits a casual look. The Twist Stripe Beanie by Kangol is a trendy slouchy option that adds a stylish touch to your winter wardrobe.

Featuring a unique twisted stripe pattern created with a two-color jacquard knit, this beanie is crafted from super soft acrylic for comfort and warmth. The fitted design offers the perfect cuff and slouch fit, ensuring it stays securely in place.

• Made from 100% acrylic for a soft and warm feel

• Rollable design for easy storage and versatility

• Bold statement piece

 

Carhartt Fleece Beanie

 

Rounding out this list with a fleece option for men. This Carhartt Fleece Beanie is designed to provide warmth and comfort when icy winds blow. Made from cotton-ball-soft fleece, it is lightweight and snug, making it ideal for layering under a hard hat or wearing on its own.

• Crafted from 100% polyester fleece for superior warmth

• Lightweight and snug for easy layering

 

Conclusion

Beanies are a versatile accessory every man should own. Whether you need warmth, style, or both, there's a beanie out there that will suit your needs. So, grab a few different styles and colors to complete your wardrobe and stay both fashionable and comfortable.

 

FAQs about the best beanie

Which brand has the best beanies?

The "best" brand for beanies largely depends on your needs and personal style. Carhartt is known for durable, rugged beanies that are both functional and fashionable. Patagonia and The North Face offer high-performance beanies, great for outdoor activities and extreme cold.

For more affordable, minimalist styles, Uniqlo is a popular choice. Ultimately, it comes down to what you’re looking for in terms of warmth, durability, and style.

Are Carhartt beanies still in style?

Yes, Carhartt beanies are still very much in style. Known for their simplicity and versatility, they’ve become a staple in both workwear and street fashion.

You’ll often see them worn by everyone from construction workers to trendsetters in urban settings. Their timeless design ensures that they remain popular year after year.

What kind of beanie is warmest?

Merino wool beanies, especially those that are insulated or lined with fleece, tend to be the warmest. Merino wool naturally traps heat while wicking away moisture, making it ideal for cold climates.

Beanies made from blended fabrics, like wool combined with acrylic or polyester, can also provide excellent warmth without being too bulky.

How are men supposed to wear beanies?

There’s no one "correct" way for men to wear beanies—it depends on your style and the look you’re going for. For a casual, laid-back vibe, a slouchy beanie worn loosely towards the back of the head works well.

For a more snug, practical fit, you can wear a cuffed beanie pulled down to cover your ears. A fisherman beanie that sits just above the ears is popular in streetwear, while a watch cap can give a rugged, outdoorsy look. Read our detailed guide about ways to wear a beanie for men.