How to Buy an Outdoor Hat

In the cold, heat rises out of your head at an alarming rate. Stop the flow with a good hat.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sun hats
• Baseball caps/hats
• Sun visors
• Sporty hats

1. Look for a wide brim that will protect you from both sun and rain.

2. Check for waterproofing; a wet head cools faster than a dry one.

3. Find a material, if you're not looking for a waterproof hat, that will maintain its insulating properties when wet. Wool is OK, but certain synthetics are more comfortable and will insulate better, even when wet.

Tips & Warnings

• Stretch your budget as far as you can for your hat. Heat-retention is of vital importance in the backcountry.
• If you can't find a hat that's both wide-brimmed and made of a good insulating material, then get two hats, one of each kind.
• For hot-weather outings, make sure that your hat is both lightweight and light-colored.
• For winter adventures, consider a balaclava, which covers your face as well as your head.

on 11/22/2005 Have a salesperson help you. Get permission to try on the hat before purchasing.