Benefits of Wearing a Hat
Choosing the right hat for running in cold weather matters. There are benefits that come with wearing a hat. Since 40-45% of body heat is lost through the head, having a hat can help retain the heat during running in cold weather conditions. Hats provide insulation and keeps the heat locked in the body, making it more comfortable and easier to maintain optimal temperatures. Wearing a hat is great for preventing windburn. Plus, they are highly effective in providing protection against the weather elements and keeping icy air away.
A hat is a good way to protect the skin in cold weather. This helps to reduce the risk of frostbite and is especially important for sensitive skin. Wearing a hat protects the scalp and face from direct UV sunlight. For those living in cold climates, wearing a cap or beanie with a warm inner liner can reduce the risk of snow blindness. A hat also increases the visibility of a person, making them easier to be spotted by other people during exercise in the cold.
The benefits of wearing a hat goes beyond basic protection. Wearing a hat can show a certain style, boost confidence, and even works to control body heat without feeling too cold or too hot. They are also great at keeping sweat off the face and absorbing perspiration. They can even be used to absorb dust, pollen, and other particles in the air. Hats are a great way to accessorize an outfit, adding personality to an otherwise mostly uniform workout ensemble.
Experts’ Perspectives in Wearing a Hat
In general, hats are a great way to make running in cold weather more comfortable. Dr. Jennifer Wu, an Ob-Gyn clinician at Lenox Hill Hospital states, “Hats should absolutely be worn when running in cold weather. Running in cold temperatures can be tough on the body and wearing a hat can provide a level of physical and mental comfort.” Wendy Marshall, head of performance research and development at Chroma Labs, states that the technology in running hats should be important in choosing the right one. She explains, “Look for a hat made with sweat-wicking fabric that can draw the moisture away from the forehead and has good breath-ability.”
Annual races in colder climates also require runners to be dressed appropriately. According to the Big Apple Marathon, “Runners must be prepared to run in cold weather and must dress accordingly. Hats are a highly recommended piece of apparel. At least one item must be worn that covers the head either of a technical material (i.e. wicking) or a cotton blend.”
Personal Insight and Analysis
In general, whether to wear a hat or not when it is cold is a personal choice. For me, a wool running hat is my go-to clothing item to keep my head and ears warm during cold weather running. The fabric is comfortable while allowing air to flow through, and the double-layered covering provides even more insulation. This also helps protect from the sun’s harsh UV rays and shields the eyes from the wind and dust. Furthermore, the material is sweat-wicking and doesn’t weigh me down. This is why I choose to wear a wool running hat when running in cold weather.
In addition, there are lots of options when it comes to the type of hat to wear when running in cold weather. An athletic beanie or beanie with a ponytail hole can be a great choice for running in cold weather. They keep the ears warm and comfortable while also being breathable and lightweight. Hats with ear flaps can be another great option as they provide warmth and are made of water-resistant fabric, making them great for running in wet weather. Hats with a visor can also be incorporated into cold weather running outfits as they offer an extra layer of protection for the face.
Care for the Hat
Besides considering the type of hat, one should also consider the care needed for it. For a hat to retain its waterproof quality and keep one warm, it should be cleaned regularly. This is especially important when running in wet, cold weather. According to several experts, hats should be machine or hand washed with cold water and a gentle detergent such as eco-friendly, fabric-safe detergents. The hat should also be allowed to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight and high heat.
It is also recommended to use a mild bleach solution or vinegar to clean hats when they become stained or start to smell. This will help to extend the lifespan of the hat as well as keep it smelling fresh. To remove salt stains from hats, experts suggest deep washing in a combination of one part white vinegar and two parts hot water. Afterwards, it is recommended to rinse the hat in cold water and then allow it to air dry.
Adverse Effects of Not Wearing a Hat
As running in cold weather can be uncomfortable, it is important to wear layers of clothing that suit each individual. If a hat is not worn, body heat can be lost more quickly, leading to a decrease in performance and energy levels. Also, not wearing a hat in cold weather can lead to hypothermia due to rapid heat loss. Cold temperatures can also affect breathing and increase the risk of dehydration and increased heart rate, leading to physical and mental fatigue.
In addition, hats provide protection from windburn, which can be especially uncomfortable when running in cold weather. Windburn can make the skin feel dry and itchy and can lead to redness, swelling, and blistering of the skin. Without a hat, it is more difficult to avoid this although facial masks and other types of windproof apparel can be used for this purpose.
Protecting Hair From the Cold
The weather in cold climates can be particularly hard on hair. When not wearing a hat, the hair can be exposed to the cold and wind, causing it to become dry and brittle. To reduce the risk of damage to the hair, experts suggest using hair oils and conditioners on the scalp and hair before leaving the house. Also, hats that cover the head to the ears can provide extra insulation for the hair and keep the scalp hydrated.
On the other hand, hats made of cotton or acrylic materials can trap moisture in the scalp, making the hair take longer to dry and increasing the risk of damage. For this reason, experts usually recommend hats made of wool or synthetic fabrics such as polyester as these materials help absorb moisture but also remain breathable. Additionally, hats should fit snugly around the head and not be too tight or too loose.
Types of Material to Look For
When shopping for a hat to wear while running in cold weather, it is important to look for one that is both warm and water-resistant. Merino wool is a great natural fabric choice as it is lightweight, breathable, and very soft. It is also able to insulate the wearer while wicking away moisture and perspiration. Furthermore, this type of fabric is naturally antibacterial and odor-resistant, so it will stay fresh for longer.
Synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon are also good materials to look for on running hats as they are lightweight, durable, and quick-drying. They are also water-resistant and provide good insulation. Hats made with a combination of both synthetic and natural fabrics are also a great option as they offer the best of both worlds. For example, a beanie with a wool exterior and a polyester interior will provide good insulation while also wicking away moisture and perspiration.
Head Size and Fit
The size and snugness of a hat should also be taken into account when choosing one for running in cold weather. A hat should be snug enough so it doesn’t slip off when running but not too tight that it is uncomfortable. It should also fit the head properly and hug the head without leaving gaps or bunching at the top. This ensures that the hat doesn’t blow off while running in windy weather.
In addition, hats should have a tight-fitting band that can be adjusted to the size of the head. This will provide extra security to ensure the hat stays firmly in place. Additionally, hats should be an appropriate length, covering the ears and providing adequate protection from the cold. For hats that don’t cover the ears, this can be supplemented with ear-covers or muffs to provide extra warmth.
