The 10 Best Winter Running Hats of 2021

Best Overall for Women: Lululemon Run for It All Beanie

Buy on Lululemon

This durable and soft beanie from Lululemon will quickly become one of your winter running wardrobe favorites. Made of a sweat-wicking fabric that has shape retention, it won’t get stretched out after lots of wear and trips through the washer and dryer. The reflective detailing in the stitching will help you be seen in low-light conditions, and the opening in the back is comfortable and convenient for your ponytail to stick out. Versatile and comfy, this beanie is also easy to tuck into a pocket or your waistband in case the weather changes mid-run. 

Best Overall for Men: Nike Men’s Dri-FIT Running Beanie

Buy on Dick's

This lightweight beanie delivers everything runners want in a winter running hat. With exceptional wicking capability, the Dri-FIT technology keeps your head dry. The thermal lining feels warm and soft against your skin, while the perforations allow excess heat to escape. Made of a stretchy material, the hat stays put, so you won’t be pulling or adjusting it during your run. Reflective elements help to increase your visibility when running in the early morning or evening.

Best Odor-Fighting: Smartwool Unisex Cuffed Beanie

Buy on Amazon Buy on Zappos

This double-layered beanie from Smartwool is made with merino wool and naturally repels odor, so you don’t need to wash it after every wear. It’s soft, not at all itchy, and wicks away moisture, keeping your head dry and comfortable. Versatile and comfy, this beanie can be cuffed up for milder days or pulled down low over your ears when the temp drops or the wind picks up.

Best for Reflectivity: TrailHeads Men’s Power Cap

Buy on Amazon

The ring of reflective lines around this beanie makes you visible during early morning and evening runs. With a brushed thermal lining that retains heat and a breathable, wicking outer layer, the hat keeps your head warm, dry, and protected. It’s made of a stretchy polyester/Spandex blend and can comfortably accommodate all size heads, making it a good choice for both men and women.

Best Budget for Women: New Balance Lightweight Running Hat

Buy on Amazon

When you want a quality, lightweight beanie but don’t want to spend a lot, you can’t go wrong with this hat from New Balance. Designed with 3D stretch technology, it stretches to fit but still maintains its shape, even with repeated wear and washings. The moisture-wicking material keeps your head dry and comfortable, and the fit is snug enough that the hat won’t migrate up as you’re running. Cyclists and winter sports enthusiasts will also appreciate that it can easily be worn under a helmet. 

Best Budget for Men: Tough Headwear Running Beanie

Buy on Amazon

For a versatile and inexpensive running beanie, you can’t beat this stretchy, comfy hat from Tough Headwear. Made of a breathable, wicking fabric, it keeps your head warm and dry, while providing excellent head coverage, especially over the ears. It’s thin enough that it can be worn under a brimmed hat for running or a helmet if you want to also use it for cycling or snow sports.

Best for Ponytail: Turtle Fur Ponytail Beanie

Buy on Amazon

Anyone with longish hair knows how uncomfortable and annoying it can be when their ponytail gets bunched up and tangled under a winter hat. This beanie hat has a small slit to put your hair through, so your ponytail is free to easily and comfortably swing. Made of a soft, stretchy technical fabric, it effectively wicks away moisture, and also provides anti-microbial and sun protection. The thoughtful design lets heat escape through a single top layer, while a double-layer band provides extra warmth and protection for your ears.

Best for Extremely Cold Weather: Nike Pro Hyperwarm Hood

Buy on Dick's

Be ready for frigid temps and blustery conditions with this versatile Nike Pro Hyperwarm Hood. Made with Hyperwarm fabric, it’s designed to keep you toasty and dry throughout your run. You can wear it over your head, nose, and mouth for full facial protection, or as a neck gaiter as you warm up and need more ventilation. The flatlock seam construction prevents any annoying irritation or chafing on the run.

Best for Running in Snow: TrailHeads Fleece Cap With Drop Down Ear Warmer

Buy on Amazon

Running in the snow can feel invigorating, but getting pounded in the face with snowflakes can also make it annoying and even dangerous. With a small brim, this winter hat from TrailHeads keeps snow or rain off your face, so you’re ready for any kind of conditions.

The innovative design also features drop-down ear covers for additional protection. If the weather changes or you start to warm up, simply flip up the ear covers for more ventilation. The elastic inner band stretches to accommodate different sizes, allowing for a snug, comfortable fit.