11 Best Beanies for Men of 2024, Tested by Editors and Buyers

Winter caps from Huckberry and Carhartt were tops in our testing.

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IN COLD WEATHER seasons, beanies become the icing on the cake for your wardrobe. With your boots and jacket serving as your armor, it’s only right to find a winter hat that completes your defense against the cold. The best beanies for men will warm your head and ears on those baltic mornings while offering an easy style solution on bad-hair days. Our editors have done extensive research and hands-on testing on over 40 beanies since 2020, wearing them in sub-zero temps, during various cold-weather sports, and through snow storms across regions in the States.

We narrowed down our list of the best beanies based on fit, quality, comfort and of course, warmth. The best beanies for men should be made in materials that provide insulation like wool, cashmere, alpaca, and cotton to keep you feeling toasty. In addition, they should feel snug enough on your head to wear all day. Whether you're hitting the slopes or navigating freezy commutes, the best beanies for men will cater to your usual environment.

When it comes to choosing the best beanies for men, the material is key to how it feels, performs, and looks. Here’s a breakdown of the most common materials to keep an eye out for.

Wool is a classic choice for beanies because it’s naturally warm and insulating. It has great moisture-wicking properties, meaning it can pull sweat away from your skin and still keep you warm, even if it gets a little wet. Wool is also durable and has a bit of stretch, so it keeps its shape well. The downside? Some types of wool can feel itchy, though many beanies now use softer, fine wool like Merino to avoid that issue.

Cashmere beanies are all about luxury. It’s incredibly soft, lightweight, and warm, making it one of the most comfortable materials you can wear. Cashmere comes from the undercoat of goats, and its fibers are finer than regular wool, giving it an ultra-soft, plush feel. While it’s pricier than other materials, cashmere beanies are breathable and provide excellent warmth without the bulk. They’re great for both function and style, but you might want to save them for everyday wear rather than rugged outdoor activities since they’re more delicate.

Cotton beanies are lightweight and breathable, making them a good choice for transitional weather or if you’re in a mild climate. Cotton is soft and comfortable, and it doesn’t have the same itch factor that wool might. However, it’s not as warm as wool or cashmere, and it lacks moisture-wicking abilities. Cotton beanies are perfect for casual wear or if you want a thinner option for layering, but they won’t keep you as warm in freezing temperatures.

Many beanies, especially performance-oriented ones, are made with synthetic materials like acrylic, polyester, or nylon. These materials are affordable, durable, and often mimic the warmth of wool without the itch. They’re usually machine-washable and hold their shape well, making them low-maintenance and long-lasting

Beanies come in a variety of styles, each offering its own vibe and function.

This is a classic style, usually made of thicker wool or knit material, with a fold-up cuff that adds extra warmth around the ears. The watch cap gives off a rugged, utilitarian look and pairs well with workwear, peacoats, or military-inspired outerwear.

This style is shorter, often sitting higher on the head and leaving the ears exposed. It has a roll-up brim and is popular in streetwear and casual styles. Fisherman beanies give off a modern, minimalist vibe and are great for layering with hoodies, casual jackets, and slim-cut coats.

Known for its relaxed fit, the slouchy beanie has extra fabric that creates a looser, draped look toward the back of the head. It’s ideal for a laid-back, effortless style and works well with oversized outerwear or streetwear-inspired looks.

A traditional style with a fold-over cuff, similar to a watch cap but often softer and with a more casual fit. Cuffed beanies are versatile and can be worn high on the head for a relaxed look or pulled down to cover more of your forehead and ears for warmth. This style works with almost any outfit, from casual jackets to tailored wool coats.

Featuring a textured, vertical ribbed knit, this beanie style adds a bit of dimension to your look. It’s usually fitted but can vary between structured and slouchy. Ribbed knit beanies are stylish yet functional, and they pair well with smart casual outfits like tailored coats or wool jackets.

Neutral shades like black, gray, navy, and brown are always solid choices for a beanie. These colors are incredibly versatile and pair easily with pretty much any outfit, making them a go-to for everyday wear. If you’re looking to add some personality to your outfit, bright colors like red, mustard, or forest green are a fun way to mix it up. These colors can make your beanie the focal point of your look and add a pop of color to the often dark and muted shades of fall and winter. Pastel-colored beanies (like soft pinks, baby blues, or light lavenders), are for those who want a more subtle pop of color. These shades feel fresh and modern, giving your winter outfit a lighter, brighter feel in the colder months.

To find the best beanies for men, we consulted with Men's Health fashion director Ted Stafford, who has more than 20 years of experience trying and testing men’s beanies. Our style editors and writers have personally tried over 40 options since 2020, wearing them through spring, fall, and winter in regions from the Northeast to the West Coast. We tested each of them for at least two weeks whether we were braving the city's snow and rain, enjoying mild cold weather in the suburbs, or traveling in the backcountry. (You can read more about our testing process here.)

To get a feel for how these beanies really felt and how they held up over months of hands-on testing, we vetted our options by taking notes of their fit, comfort, warmth, materials, versatility, price point, style details, and performance such as moisture-wicking and breathability. We examined whether they fit well, whether their materials could withstand hours of being out in the cold, and whether they could be worn for more than one occasion.

We’ve tested more than 40 different beanies over the past few winters, but Huckberry’s Beanie takes the cake. Made in Japan, this classic fisherman beanie’s wool-blend fabric will ensure your noggin stays warm. For a fail-proof look, try this marbled navy colorway with a printed button-down and a solid contrasting tee underneath—you’ll be best dressed for casual Zoom meetings.

Crafted from a blend of soft acrylic and warm wool, we love that the Huckberry beanie is warm enough for winter cold in the city (or even in Alaska, as one of our writers tested out) but also breathable for shoulder season weather in fall and spring. Combined with the stretch of the material, we found that this beanie will fit most types and shapes of heads. None of our testers has reported any itching by the way, and each commented on how soft and thick it is for colder days. It is also very well designed—no unsightly seams sticking out.

Overall, the Huckberry beanie is delightfully soft, made of a perfect blend of comfort and warmth, and the fit is snug without feeling restrictive. No frills, no dangly things—just a warm, stylish, durable beanie that’s affordable.

Read More: Best Winter Hats

Carhartt’s Knit Cuffed Beanie has always been a stalwart, but it blew up again recently because it’s the ultimate mix of cool and practical. First off, it’s simple, affordable, and looks good on just about everyone—whether you’re working on a construction site or just grabbing coffee on a chilly morning. Now it’s a must-have accessory that’s part function, part fashion. Plus, it’s got that iconic Carhartt patch on the front, which instantly gives off those rugged, no-nonsense vibes.

The beanie is also super warm, but not too thick, so you can rock it in winter without overheating. We especially love how snug the acrylic rib knitting cuff fits on our heads—not too tight or loose. Better, the acrylic materials have kept us warm against elements in the fall and mild winter, and kept us dry during outdoor activities and daily commutes.

The best kind of thermal regulation comes from Uniqlo’s signature HEATTECH. For those who aren’t familiar, the special fabric blend is infused in the brand’s apparel including this ribbed beanie to trap heat and generate warmth. It’s also designed to be breathable, fight bacteria to prevent bad odor, and wick away moisture to keep you as comfortable as possible.

Based on our testing, we found it kept us dry and toasty, without overheating, in some nasty weather in the city as well as in the backcountry. The fit around the head felt pretty snug, especially since the brim is made with a slightly narrow rib. Best of all, Uniqlo’s beanie is super affordable compared to others on the list, which does not mean it’s cheaply-made. That is to say, you can rack up a few different colors to pair with your cold-weather fits.

A cashmere beanie is soft as a cloud, so when you put it on it’s pure luxury for your head. That's why we love Peter Millar’s Cashmere Rib Beanie. Unlike wool that can sometimes be itchy, this one feels velvety and super gentle on the skin while keeping you feeling toasty. In our testing, we found that it is rather lightweight, but definitely warmer than the Merino wool hats we’ve tested.

Our team also noticed that the outer of the fabric will shed off moisture on lightly snowy or rainy days, but the interior will absorb sweat, making this beanie a versatile option to have on your head when you’re traveling outdoors. It only arrives in gray or navy, but those classic colors pair with anything in your closet—whether you’re wearing a casual fit or performance gear.

For those who cycle or jog in brisk temps, Lululemon designed a beanie for performance that blends warmth, breathability, and a snug fit. In other words, all the things you want as you’re on the move. And since it’s made from a Merino wool-blend, you’ll also feel the softness and get thermoregulation up top. Our testers also appreciate how the material is moisture-wicking, which keeps sweat under control and ensures you feel fresh following any exercise.

Initially, we thought this beanie would run small, but it in fact fit our heads comfortably because the fabric is strategically knitted to maintain a closer fit and feel thick—and not tight or suffocating. Aside from outdoor sports and workouts, the beanie also looks great with casual looks, whether you’re gathering around a bonfire or going to a holiday festival. From baby blue to fuschia to teal, there’s a number of cool colors that can really make your outfit pop.

This Paul Smith beanie gives designer style without flashy logos. The head accessory is adorned with the brand’s signature multicolor striped pattern that feels playful, yet still subtle. We found it’s a great option for creative professionals and style mavens alike, who want to express their individuality and stand out from the typical solid-colored beanies.

Since it’s already full of different hues, our fashion editors suggest wearing it with a minimal or monochromatic fit to prevent any sort of clashing. Think; a cream sweater and chinos completed with a simple sneaker. It’s a little thinner than the other merino wool types we tried, but it still packs warmth over your noggin. Plus, the material feels like a dream against the skin, especially when pulled over the ear.

The North Face’s Jim Beanie is a single-layer knitted type that easily slides on your head without feeling extremely bulky. Compared to heavier double-cuffed options, this beanie feels barely there, but holds in heat like a pro. It’s made with a heathered knit, which gives it a cool, textured look, mixing in subtle color variations that make it more visually appealing.

The best part? We found that the fleece ear band provides a double dose of insulation and warmth for our lobes, against both the cold and the wind. Plus, it fits well on most heads too, especially with a hint of stretch.

Its classic design is versatile enough to wear with almost any winter ensemble. The beanie is available in a range of colors, allowing you to choose one that matches your personal style. We also found that it works well during high-intensity activities like hiking or jogging since it’ll stay on our heads.

A fisherman beanie is one of those understated yet essential accessories that can instantly level up your look. Enter this version from Topo Designs. It’s short, snug, and doesn’t cover your ears fully, giving off a laid-back, effortlessly cool vibe—like you just stepped off a boat or finished a day at a dockyard (even if you’ve never been near water).

It’s perfect for those who want a little warmth without going full-on Arctic mode. It sits higher on your head, so it’s less about having coverage and more about adding that finishing touch to your outfit. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can rock it with streetwear, casual jackets, or even a tailored coat if you’re feeling bold.

Think of the guys who roll up to the coffee shop with a vintage leather jacket, cuffed jeans, and boots. Fisherman beanies are for people who like to mix functionality with style, from urban explorers to creatives, or anyone who likes to keep it minimal yet edgy.

Mack Weldon’s Tech Cashmere Hat uses the perks of both cashmere and merino wool to give you serious heat with that itchy, heavy feel. The blended material is richly soft, naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, quick-drying, odor-resistant, and warm. It has in fact kept us cozy and dry in some nasty weather in the city as well as in the backcountry.

The fabric, by the way, is really high-quality: our testers used it for two straight days during a snowstorm in NYC in late January, and it has kept us warm and snug. They also found that it is not too large, so you can wear it with the brim folded or not. However, if you have a large or long head, you might have to angle it correctly for ear coverage.

Wool is perfect for beanies because it’s naturally warm and doesn’t entirely smother you in cooler weather. Enter Billy Reid’s Wool Ribbon Beanie. Wearing it out skiing and weekend campfires, we found it keeps your head cozy without overheating, as the fibers trap heat while letting air circulate. The fabric is also water-resistant, so it repels light rain or snow, and it’s durable, meaning your hat will last through many winter seasons.

Despite wool getting a bad rap for being completely itchy, this one doesn’t have that same uncomfortable, coarse feeling. Our editors felt this one goes against the grain, and feels rather ultra-soft like a silky pillow. The cream color is the only option, but it’s versatile, neutral, and stylish without being too loud. Plus, it brightens up your look in the colder months when people tend to wear more darker colors, giving a fresh, clean appearance.

Made in a 50/50 blend of cashmere and Merino wool, this Brooks Brothers beanie is all about balance between warmth and breathability, style and comfort. Our tester found that it’s lightweight and warm enough for normal winter days, smooth to the touch, easy to put on, soft, and thinner than expected. We even found that it’s good for braving the wind.

Fit-wise, we love that it is a good size even for our tester with a larger-than-normal head, and overall this beanie is not too snug but not floppy either. In terms of versatility, we think it’s great for casual wear, daily outings, and easy traveling. One thing to note: When uncuffed, there is a bit of a seam that is visible, but just on the cuff section. But overall, this Brooks Brothers beanie has great quality, craftsmanship, a comfortable size, and reasonable price.

Wearing beanies the right way will really round out your outfits. To do so, you need to first find a beanie that is well-fitting, and one that suits your style—from classic to slouchy to cuffed. You should also harmonize the color of your beanie with the rest of your outfit for a cohesive look (or use a beanie as a pop of color). Additionally, play with different angles and positions of the beanies—straight on your head, slightly tilted to the side, or pulled back.

And leverage your hair too: If you have longer hair, consider letting some strands peek out from under the beanie for a relaxed and casual vibe; if you have short hair, the beanie can sit lower on your forehead.

Many menswear and outdoor clothing brands are known for producing high-quality beanies that combine comfort, style, and durability. Carhartt also offers the most popular beanies on Amazon that are warm, affordable, and built to last. Brands like The North Face, Canada Goose, and Patagonia make top-notch winter beanies that are designed for cold weather conditions. Lululemon and Mack Weldon are our favorites for everyday beanies that combine tech-backed performance and versatile styles. For casual beanies, Everlane, Naadam, and Buck Mason are customers’ favorites.

Carhartt's beanies have gained immense popularity for several reasons. One, they’re rugged and durable, as expected of the workwear brand. Secondly, they’re warm, thanks to the insulating properties in the acrylic blends. Thirdly, they’re versatile and can easily transition from daily travels to hiking to casual outings. The workwear, utilitarian aesthetic with the iconic logo is also a nice touch. But perhaps most importantly, the fact that a Carhartt beanie only costs about $20 and yet is arguably the best beanie of all time is what really makes buyers love it.

Having a beanie over your head constantly might have some implications for your hair and scalp health. Specifically, wearing a beanie all the time can limit air circulation to your scalp which could potentially make dandruff worse or prevent hair growth. Friction from the beanie against your hair may lead to breakage and damage as well. And if the beanie is not clean or if you sweat while wearing it, it could cause acne on the forehead. Hence, you should always take a break from wearing beanies on a beanie-wearing day to let your scalp breathe, not to mention clean your beanies appropriately.

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