Outdoor Research Equinox Cape Cap
The best ray-beating hat of 2021.
Headwear Reviews
Finding the perfect hats, headbands, face masks, and other backpacking headwear isn’t as simple as it sounds. Learn which features best fit your outdoor needs and which fabrics offer the best protection and provide the most comfortable fit on long treks with Backpacker’s headwear gear reviews.
Weekly Obsession: This Heat-Beating Hat is Ideal For Sun-Drenched Adventures
The Headsweats TruckAir offers breezy protection in a comfortable package.
Latest in Headwear Reviews
Smith Level/Liberty
Feature-rich helmet
POC Obex Spin Helmet
Efficient padding protects noggins from frontcountry snowmobiling to backcountry splitboarding.
Sunday Afternoons Stellar Beanie
Warmth meets style
BUFF ThermoNet Neckwarmer
Most eco-friendly
Skida Alpine Hat
Versatile beanie
Shred Slam Cap NoShock
Best value helmet
Jaybird X2
Bluetooth earbuds
Marker Phoenix
Get extra protection without paying extra.
Icebreaker Nova
Stay comfortable and warm, rain or shine.
Dynafit Performance Dry Headband
There’s no reason not to pack this tiny ear-warmer.
Editors' Choice Snow 2014: K2 Route Ultralight Helmet
At 11 ounces, the Route is the lightest, most inconspicuous snow sports helmet ever made.
Editors' Choice Gold Snow 2014: Wool Buff
This simple, 23-inch tube of supersoft merino wool is so much more than a neck gaiter.
Gear Review: Tilley T5MO Organic Cotton AIRFLO Hat Sun Protection
Stay covered in the toughest of conditions with this Tilley hat.
Fall/Winter Gear Guide 2012: Headwear
Keep your noggin' warm or protected with these three hats and two helmets.
Gear Review: Bollè Synergy Helmet
An all-weather helmet with a unique double venting system.
Gear Review: Bern Macon Carbon Fiber Helmet
A helmet that's tough, but that you can forget you're wearing.
Gear Review: Dale of Norway Weatherproof Hat
A classic Norwegian wool hat with Teflon-treated yarn for enhanced water resistance and the windproof Gore liner.
Gear Review: Outdoor Research Aria/ Transcendent Beanie
"It's a parka for your melon!"
Gear Review: Patagonia Air Flow Cap
Check out Katie Herrel's author page.
Gear Guide 2012: Outdoor Research Revel Convertible Cap
The Revel offers two domes for maximum versatility.
Gear Guide 2012: Mammut El Cap Helmet
A super safe helmet that you forget you're wearing
Fall/Winter Gear Guide 2011: Hats
Cover your head...and ears...even your face, with these cold-weather coverups.
Fall/Winter Gear Guide 2010: Hats, Helmets, Face Masks
Protect your beaner, or just keep it warm, with these headwear options.
Gear Review: 180s Ultralite Gloves
Finally, a glove designed specifically for the text compulsive backpacker
Gear Review: Mountain Hardwear Corvus Dome Hat
This densely woven Mountain Hardwear wool hat comes with with extra face and neck coverage.
Gear Review: Buff Merino Wool
This versatile Buff is soft, warm, breathable, and anti-stink.
Gear Review: Kühl Skull Cap
A perfect fit for a fleece beanie.
Review: prAna Supplex Hat
A quick-drying, simple cap for any global traveler
Review: Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap
For searing sun or relentless rain, pack the Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap.