What Is a Toque Hat?

Hats have been a wardrobe staple for hundreds of years. From high fashion to high function, there is a hat to suit every style and need. In the beginning, of course, hats were designed to keep the wearer's head warm, and the utility of the piece was the main goal. Such a hat is the toque hat: a hat designed to keep out the cold.

The Toque Hat

The toque hat is a Canadian innovation, and is a type of hat designed primarily for the purpose of keeping the head warm.

Design

The toque is a closely fitted cap that sits tightly on the head. It frequently can have some excess space at the top of the hat, allowing the hat to fold over a little bit at the crown.

Brim Optional

Some toques have a small brim, or a band at the bottom that can be folded over for double thickness.

Fabric

The toque was traditionally knit from wool, but now can be made with synthetics such as acrylic as well.

Extras

Sometimes, a toque might have a pom-pom at the crown for decoration, and occasionally a toque is made with ear flaps for warmth, but the basic shape of a close fitting cap remains consistent.