The 5 Best Beanies

Not only does a beanie keep your head warm and toasty when the temperature dips, but it's an adorably cozy accessory that's universally flattering (and how many accessories can you say that about?) Beanies are the ultimate addition to any winter look, whether you're sporting a parka and snow gear or a slouchy cashmere sweater and leggings around the fire. Of course, you have to find the right beanie: Some beanies are warmer and better-fitting than others (and not to mention more stylish). Whether you're looking for a functional winter hat for an upcoming hiking or camping trip, a fashion-forward beanie for all your winter outfits, or just a cute knit cap to cover up your bad hair days, chances are good that you'll find what you're looking for on this list.

QUEENFUR Women’s Slouchy Beanie with Faux Fur

Stay warm, stay cute

It doesn't get much cozier or cuter than this QUEENFUR beanie.

Best Overall

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You won’t have to sacrifice style for warmth when you get the QUEENFUR Slouchy Beanie with Faux Fur. Crafted from buttery-soft, stretchy acrylic fabric, this super-cute hat checks all the boxes when it comes to quality, comfort, and fashion. It has an oversized, slouchy fit that looks good on just about everyone, while the warm fabric and (detachable) faux fur pom pom keep your head feeling nice and comfy, even in the coldest temps. Unlike with other beanies, the band doesn’t start to hurt your head after you’ve been wearing it for a few hours, which is a huge plus. And, this QUEENFUR beanie comes in an incredibly wide range of colors, so you can more easily customize your look. In fact, you’ll probably want to order more than one.

Pros:

Slouchy, oversized design looks good on everyone and fits most people.
Made from soft, stretchy, warm acrylic fabric.
Band doesn’t hurt your head.
Available in a wide range of colors.

Cons:

You might break the bank ordering several of these at once.

Brook + Bay Slouchy Cable Knit Beanie

A slouchy, perfect fit that looks good on everyone

This Brook + Bay hat is the answer to all your winter clothing woes: Put it on, and you're bound to instantly feel cuter.

Best Slouchy Fit

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If you’re looking for that perfectly casual, stylish beanie to pair with all your cold-weather looks, the Brook + Bay Slouchy Cable Knit Beanie has a slouchy, loose-knit design that’s both cute and functional: This beanie is roomy enough to cover every inch of your ears and head, while adding a touch of wintry elegance to any outfit. In short, it’s basically the perfect fashion beanie. The Slouchy Cable Knit Beanie is also warm yet lightweight, unlike other knit hats that can be just a tad too bulky. Take your pick from one of several attractive colors, like Mustard, Pink, Navy Blue, and Black Gray. Seriously, we won’t blame you if you never want to take this Brook + Bay beanie off.

Pros:

A stylish, slouchy fit that’s not too bulky.
Covers your whole head and ears.
Easy to clean.
Comes in several cute colors.

Cons:

It’s not the warmest option (more of a fashion statement); if you live in a super-cold climate, this probably isn’t the best option.

Carhartt Women’s Rib Knit Acrylic Hat

Sporty gals, take note

If you're the outdoorsy type, this Carhartt cap is the ideal hiking or camping accessory that you'll never want to leave home without.

Best for Outdoor Activity

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Designed for outdoor living, the Women’s Rib Knit Acrylic Hat from Carhartt is definitely what you’ll want to wear on your next cold-weather camping trip. It’s made from 100 percent acrylic that’s thick, soft to the touch, and so warm that your head will feel like it’s wrapped in a heating blanket (in a good way). This Carhartt hat is no-frills and no-nonsense, just pure and utter warmth, regardless of how low the temperature drops outside. Plus, the fold is adjustable, so you can customize this hat as you wish.

Pros:

Locks in warmth like no other, so it’s the perfect hat to wear outdoors if you’ll be in a cold climate.
Acrylic fabric is soft to the touch.
Adjustable fold.

Cons:

Only comes in three colors.

Loritta Women’s Winter Beanie Hat with Visor

Elegant and winter-chic

For a different kind of fit, the Loritta Winter Beanie with Visor offers serious style and comfort.

Best Visor Fit

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The Loritta Winter Beanie with Visor offers something a little different in terms of fit and style. Equipped with a cute visor, this beanie provides protection from the sun and a serious boost of warmth (thanks to the fuzzy lining), and not to mention, it’s just plain fabulous. One size fits most, and it comes in a handful of eye-catching colors like Burgundy Red, Dark Gray, Purple, and Beige. Made from premium-quality, thermal-spun acrylic, the Loritta Winter Beanie will carry you through several winters and have you looking (and feeling) glammed-up and protected from the elements.

Pros:

Thanks to the visor style, face stays protected from the sun.
Soft, hand-knitted feel that’s perfectly warm.
It’s a fun, fashionable statement piece.

Cons:

You have to be extra-careful when washing this beanie (hand-washing is best); otherwise, it’ll shrink.

Alepo Women’s Winter Beanie with Pom Pom

Every color of the rainbow

This Alepo hat comes in every color imaginable, and all of them are adorable.

Best Color Selection

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A fantastic choice for everyday wear, the Alepo Women’s Winter Beanie is fluffy and warm, and it’ll definitely keep you nice and toasty all winter long. The style is timeless and classic, with cozy acrylic fabric, an intricate twist-knitted pattern, a ribbed cuff, and a thick pom pom atop the head. Best of all, this Alepo hat comes in a vast, unique variety of colors and styles, like Chenille-Oatmeal, Black and Pink, Chenille-Olive, Mint, and so many more.

Pros:

Classic, sophisticated style, with a twist-knitted pattern and faux fur pom pom.
Super-soft fleece lining.
Awesome variety of colors, materials, and styles.

Cons:

Fits a little snug, so you may need to size up.

Frequently Asked Questions

My head is on the large side. Can I still wear a beanie?

Of course you can. You’ll just want to make sure that your beanie of choice comes in a L/XL size and that it doesn’t run snug, as some tend to do.

If my skin is sensitive, are there any fabrics I should steer clear of?

If the skin on your scalp tends to get itchy easily or is sensitive, you may want to choose a beanie with a fabric other than wool (which is notoriously scratchy). Instead, opt for a hat made from soft, comfy rib-knit acrylic fabric.