Let's be honest, having a larger-than-average head can make finding hats – especially beanies – a real pain. For years, I've struggled to find beanies that not only fit comfortably but also look good. The "one size fits all" claim? Usually a cruel joke. My quest for the perfect big head beanie has been long and filled with disappointments, but I've finally found some solutions worth sharing.
I’m sure many of you can relate. I’d walk into a store, excited to find a cozy beanie, only to be met with disappointment. Either the beanie was so tight it felt like my head was being squeezed, or it would ride up constantly, making me look ridiculous. The worst was when I’d finally find one that seemed to fit, only for it to stretch out after a few wears and lose its shape entirely. It was a frustrating cycle, and I was almost ready to give up on beanies altogether. I really wanted something warm and stylish for the winter months, so I started researching my options.
My search led me down many paths, and I experimented with different brands and materials. Here's what I learned:
Initially, I considered investing in a high-quality wool beanie. I read about the WeatherWool watch cap, which, although a bit expensive, is supposedly made to fit larger heads and comes in various colors. The fact that it's 100% wool and made in the USA was a huge plus for me. It's on my list to try eventually, but the price tag made me explore other options first.
Then, I stumbled upon the REI brand knit beanies. I've had mine for a year, and while I can't definitively say it's a "buy it for life" item, it's proven to be a great value. It fits my relatively large head well and hasn't stretched out too much. You can check it out here: REI knit beanies. The price point is definitely more appealing, and it's a solid option for everyday wear.
Another brand that caught my attention was Turtle Fur. They offer a few beanies in XL sizes, which is a game-changer for those of us with bigger heads. I ordered the "Lars" model, and it fits comfortably without being too tight. Their styles might not be for everyone, but it's worth checking out their homepage to see if they have anything that suits your taste.
For a more classic watchcap style, I heard good things about Stormy Kromer. They make some in ODG (Olive Drab Green) or Copper. While their focus might be more on the traditional watchcap look, they might have some more fashion-forward options now. I haven't personally tried them yet, but they’re on my radar.
Of course, I had to try the regular old Carhartt Watch Cap. Despite the "one size fits all" sizing, it actually fits me well and is surprisingly good quality for the price. The only downside is that it's so common, you see it everywhere. Still, it's a reliable and affordable option if you're looking for a basic beanie.
I also considered Mammoth Beanies. They seem to specialize in beanies, so they might be worth a look if you're still searching. You can find them here: mammoth beanie.
While browsing online, I stumbled upon something completely different: the Full Face Cover Hats Winter Balaclava Ski Mask Knitted Beanie. It might sound a bit extreme, but hear me out. This isn't just a beanie; it's a full-face cover that provides incredible warmth and wind protection. As someone who enjoys outdoor activities in the winter, this was a game-changer for me. I found a great option at Wholecustomdesign, and I've been really happy with it.