Winter running can be amazing – the crisp air, the quiet trails… but only if you're properly equipped! One of the biggest challenges I've faced is finding the right headwear. Too hot, and I'm sweating; too cold, and my ears are aching. And don't even get me started on trying to keep my headphones in place! After a lot of trial and error, I've discovered some secrets to staying warm and comfortable during those chilly runs.
Like many, I struggled to find the perfect winter running hat. I have a larger head, so finding hats that fit well without being too tight is always a challenge. Buying hats online is risky because one-size-fits-all often doesn't! Add to that the need to accommodate my bone-conducting headphones, and the search became even more complicated.
I tried a few different beanies, but they often felt too restrictive, squishing my ears and making it difficult to hear clearly. Finding one that allows for a ponytail was another hurdle. I needed something that would keep my ears warm without being too bulky or interfering with my headphones. I also wanted something that would stay put, even during faster runs.
After some experimentation, I found a few options that worked well for me. What’s important to remember is that what works for one person may not work for another. Here's what I discovered:
I initially dismissed headbands, thinking they wouldn't be warm enough. But I was wrong! I tried a fleece headband, and it was a game-changer. It kept my ears warm without squishing them, and I could still wear my hair in a ponytail. This was a huge win! I also found it worked well with my sports earbuds, which have ear loops.
Another option I explored was a Smartwool headband. It covered my ears perfectly and allowed me to wear a ponytail. The wool provided excellent insulation without causing me to overheat.
This might sound strange, but I discovered that a gaiter scrunched up like a headband works surprisingly well. I've been doing this for years now, and it keeps my ears warm, and my headphones stay secure. The flexibility of the gaiter allows me to adjust the coverage as needed, and it's easy to pull down if I get too warm.
I still wanted a beanie option for colder days. I found an Asics beanie with a ponytail hole, which helped with the ponytail issue. However, finding the right fit was still a challenge. I needed something that wasn't too tight but still stayed in place during my runs.
While browsing online, I stumbled upon Design with WholeCustomDesign and their selection of winter hats. What caught my eye was the variety of styles and the focus on comfort. I decided to give one of their beanies a try.
I ordered the Winter Hat Pompom Hats Beanie Girls Women Bonnet Winter Hats for Women Autumn Ladies Travel Warm Cap Female Knitted Hat Black from Wholecustomdesign. It’s lightweight but surprisingly warm, and the fit is perfect. I love that it doesn't compress my ears too much, and the pompom adds a fun touch. It's become my go-to hat for colder runs. The quality is impressive, and it's held up well even after multiple washes. I definitely recommend checking out Wholecustomdesign if you're looking for a comfortable and stylish winter hat. The winter running hat from Wholecustomdesign is a great option for anyone looking for warmth and style.
Here are some practical tips I've learned along the way: