About Polar Fleece Hats
Polar fleece, also known as microfleece, is the term used to describe a synthetic, petroleum-based fabric alternative to wool and cotton. In recent years, popularity of polar fleece has grown for the making of outerwear, including hats, gloves, jackets and scarves.
Colorful, and sometimes wildly designed, polar fleece hats are among the most widely-used winter items in the United States and Europe.
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Comfort
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Polar fleece is soft, lightweight and comfortable to wear. It conforms easily to the head shape, and is not scratchy like traditional wool. These are important features for those involved in snow sports, which explains its popularity with ski and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Hydrophobic
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Polar fleece is a petroleum product. Like other petroleum products, it is hydrophobic, meaning it doesn't hold water. At the same time, it allows water to pass through it easily. When the wearer perspires, the moisture passes through polar fleece material and is not retained next to the skin. Polar fleece hats also maintain their abilities to hold in heat even when the fabric is wet. The fabric dries quickly.
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Cost
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The cost of polar fleece hats varies. Simple designs by little-known manufacturers in lower density versions of polar fleece can cost between $3 to $5. Popular manufacturers with trendy designs can charge between $30 to $45 for similar-looking products. Many of these higher-priced hats are fitted with a plastic liner or are made with a grade of polar fleece that is much more dense than cheaper alternatives. Thinner polar fleece does not repel wind, so by adding a plastic liner or using higher grade materials, the wearer can keep his head a little warmer in breezy climates.
Animal-free Fabric
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Polar fleece is considered a "vegan" fabric, meaning no animal products are used to make it. It does utilize natural resources, however, because it requires petroleum to make.
Many manufacturers are getting around this issue, however, by utilizing recycled plastic soft drink bottles to make polar fleece. As a result, environmental groups have become one of the most vocal advocates of polar fleece.
Disadvantages
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Polar fleece is highly flammable. Some manufacturers treat polar fleece with fire retardants for this reason.
It generates a significant amount of static electricity, which attracts hair, dust and other lightweight particles. This makes polar fleece appear dirty quite quickly, although it is also easily washed. Polar fleece should only be washed at low temperatures, because it can be damaged when exposed to very high temperatures.
Lower quality polar fleece pills easily, and tearing is often an issue. The same low-density properties that allow moisture to pass through also make the fiber easier to damage. Damage can be minimized by purchasing higher quality polar fleece.
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