Warm hats for cold water swimmers
Reflective yarn for visibility, merino wool or fleece-lined for snugness or even a layer of neoprene for added insulation: Omie Dale reviews the best warm hats for cold water swimmers
The best warm hats for swimmers 2023
Best for being seen – Swimzi Fairisle Knit Super Bobble hat, £25. Buy now
Best for staying warm – C-skins Storm Chaser Beanie, £25. Buy now
Swimzi Cream Cherry Fairisle Knit Super Bobble Hat
£25
They say: This Super Bobble Hat with super soft luxury sherpa lining, reflective yarn woven into the headband and pom-pom has proven to be a hit with Swimzi hat fans throughout the British Isles. This luxury beanie with oversized pom-pom fits all from 7-97 years and is for all wearers who love a Big Bobble Hat. Unisex. The ideal gift for family or friends and perfect for keeping warm during the winter months.
We say: A cute and cosy hat with a funky knitted pattern. The sherpa lining means that this hat is a delight to wear – I didn’t want to take it off! This hat also has reflective yarn in the pom-pom and headband for those extra visibility points.
Swimzi Rose Pink Gradient Super Bobble Hat
£25
They say: Chunky cable knit Super Bobble Hat in a gradient of rose pinks. Reflective yarn has been woven throughout this beautiful bobble hat giving you a bonus safety feature along with it being fully lined with luxury sherpa fleece for extra warmth in the depths of winter. A unisex style which fits from age 7-97 years. The ideal gift for family or friends and perfect for keeping warm during the winter months.
We say: While very warm and comfortable, the biggest selling point for this hat is in fact the reflective yarn that runs throughout. Given that in the winter months we’re often swimming in the dark or foggy conditions, having a little bit of extra visibility goes a long way.
C-skins Storm Chaser 2mm Beanie
£25
They say: There’s nothing to suggest you couldn’t wear this 2mm neoprene beanie instead of a knitted bobble hat if you’re a swimriser, swimdowner or an open water swimming dipper. With the aesthetics of a knitted hat but constructed using 2mm free flex neoprene combining Thermotech Polypro lining, the Surf Beanie helps ensure heat retention to help keep you warmer for longer.
We say: I absolutely love this hat. Unlike the other options on this list, this isn’t a traditional bobble hat, but a neoprene beanie. As a result, I was able to dip my head under the water while wearing it. I wore it over my swimming cap, and it kept my head super warm throughout my swim.
Swimbler Waterproof Bobble Hat
£30
They say: A beautifully warm pom-pom hat. This colourful hat has 3 layers, fleece-lined with a second layer of TPU eco-friendly silicone material and acrylic yarn plus a huge 15cm pom-pom, which is also detachable. Possibly the warmest hat you will ever own.
We say: It’s clear a lot of thought has gone into the design of this bobble. It is seriously toasty and snug; ideal to wear for those post-swim natters while warming up over a hot drink. The waterproof lining and detachable pom-poms are great added touches.
Finisterre Fisherman Beanie
£35
They say: A classic ribbed beanie in guaranteed non-mulesed 100% Merino wool. Keeps the wind out and the heat in. Turned up brim with yarn spun and dyed in Italy. All of our wool is produced sustainably with low environmental impact, all coming from non-mulesed sheep.
We say: A stylish hat and a great fit, available in 10 different colours. It’s clear that the hat is a good quality, with the wool being breathable while maintaining warmth. Unlike the other hats featured, the fabric is quite thin and there’s no additional lining; for the open-water swimmer, it’s perhaps more suited to warmer weather.
This article is from the January 2023 issue of Outdoor Swimmer. If you buy a product through a link on this page we may receive a commission.
Looking for neoprene accessories? Click here.
To see all the online content from the January 2023 issue of Outdoor Swimmer, visit the 'Rest & Reflection' page.
Outdoor Swimmer
Outdoor Swimmer is the magazine for outdoor swimmers by outdoor swimmers. We write about fabulous wild swimming locations, amazing swim challenges, swim training advice and swimming gear reviews.
