Living in a place with seriously cold winters, I've made it my mission to knit the perfect warm hat. I've tried countless yarns, patterns, and techniques, and I'm excited to share what I've learned. If you're tired of hats that just don't cut it when the temperature drops, keep reading!
It all started a few years ago when I realized my store-bought hats weren't doing the trick. I'd find myself constantly shivering, even with a hat pulled down over my ears. Determined to find a better solution, I dove headfirst into the world of knitting. I started by experimenting with different yarn weights and patterns, hoping to discover the magic formula for ultimate warmth. I quickly realized that it wasn't just about the thickness of the yarn, but also the type and the way it was knit.
One of my biggest challenges was dealing with wind. I discovered that wind could easily penetrate through single-layer knits, no matter how thick the yarn. This led me to explore different strategies for blocking the wind, such as using multiple layers and specific stitch patterns that create a denser fabric. It was a journey of trial and error, but each failed attempt brought me closer to finding the perfect warm hat solution.
Through my experiments, I discovered that the yarn you choose is just as important as the pattern itself. I initially thought a bulky yarn would be the warmest, but I soon learned that finer yarns, when layered, could provide even better insulation.
I've found amazing warmth by using a fingering weight yarn held together with a mohair yarn. The mohair fills in any gaps in the knit, which really helps block the wind. The multiple layers are key, especially over the ears. This combination has become my go-to for those brutally cold days.
Living where temperatures can plummet to -15°C (and feel like -30°C with the windchill!), I've learned that layers are essential. More thin layers are warmer than one thick layer, trapping more air and providing better insulation.
After trying several patterns, I've found a few that consistently deliver warmth and comfort. Two that stand out are the Oslo hat and the Musselburgh hat. They both offer excellent coverage and can be easily adapted to different yarn weights and sizes.
I've been particularly impressed with the Musselburgh pattern. You can find it on Ravelry. It's a clever design that allows for a snug fit and excellent ear coverage. I also considered lining a hat with fleece. I haven't tried it myself, but I've heard it's incredibly warm and adds an extra layer of wind protection.
Beyond yarn and patterns, there are other techniques you can use to boost the warmth of your knitted hats. A lined hat, especially one long enough to fold up for covering the ears, is a fantastic option. Thrummed hats, with little bits of roving worked into the stitches, also provide extra insulation and create a unique texture.
Double knitting is another technique worth exploring. It creates a dense, two-layered fabric that traps a lot of heat. I've found it to be just as effective as lining a hat with fleece. And when it comes to fibers, I always opt for non-superwash wool. Superwash wool is treated to prevent felting, but it also loses some of its natural warmth and insulation properties.
I stumbled upon another pattern that has a double brim in squishy garter stitch. It traps a lot of warmth and is easy to adapt to different yarn weights if you want to increase the thickness. The concave shape also helps to keep the hat snug and secure.
Speaking of staying warm and stylish, I recently discovered a brand called Wholecustomdesign. While browsing their site, I found a hat that combines warmth with a touch of Korean fashion. It's the Korean Version Bow Decorative Knitted Hat. What caught my eye was its cute bow detail and the fact that it's made with rabbit hair, known for its softness and warmth.