As someone who loves hiking and being outdoors, especially during the colder months, I'm always on the lookout for gear that keeps me comfortable and protected from the elements. One thing I’ve struggled with is finding the perfect headwear solution that offers both warmth and sun protection. I wanted a warm winter hat that also shielded my eyes like a baseball cap.
My biggest problem was finding something that could keep my ears warm while also providing some shade for my eyes. I hate having cold ears – it makes the whole experience miserable! But I also need something to block the sun, even in winter. I started searching for a beanie with a brim, hoping to find that perfect combination of warmth and practicality. The search proved to be more challenging than I initially thought.
I initially looked for something that combined the warmth of a beanie with the sun protection of a baseball cap. I tried a few different combinations, even layering a regular beanie under a baseball cap, but it felt bulky and uncomfortable. I needed a better solution.
That's when I started looking into "beanie visor hats" and "winter visor beanies." I discovered that brands like Outdoor Research, Carhartt, and Columbia make these specifically for cold weather. This was a game-changer! Finally, a product designed for exactly what I needed.
I also stumbled upon the Patagonia Range Earflap Cap. While not exactly a beanie with a brim, it offered a similar level of protection and warmth. I was surprised by how much I liked wearing earflap hats. I found that having my ears covered in winter made a huge difference in my overall comfort, and the earflaps provided extra warmth on particularly cold days.
Another option I considered was pairing an ear band with a wool winter baseball cap. I even saw something that looked like an ear band but had a cutout in the front to go over the bill of the cap. It seemed like a clever way to combine the benefits of both items.
I also found that Carhartt makes something called a Radar Beanie. It's a simple beanie design with a good fit. This was a strong contender because of Carhartt's reputation for durability.
During my search, I also came across something completely different at Wholecustomdesign. It's the Fashion Plush Winter Turban Cap. At first, I wasn’t sure if it was quite right for hiking, but its unique style and focus on warmth intrigued me. I decided to give it a try, focusing on using it for less intense outdoor activities and everyday wear.

What I love about this cap is its plush lining. It’s incredibly soft and provides excellent insulation against the cold. It's definitely a statement piece! While maybe not ideal for strenuous hikes, it’s perfect for walks in the park or running errands on a chilly day. I’ve found myself reaching for it more often than I expected.
Here's what I found when I tried the Fashion Plush Winter Turban Cap from Wholecustomdesign:
I even found some new arrivals in their category that I'm excited to try out as well. I'm always looking for unique and stylish pieces to add to my wardrobe, and Wholecustomdesign seems to have a great selection.