Outdoor men's headwear: caps, bucket hats, and beanies

The headwear, a piece of equipment in its own right

We often think about jackets and shoes, and forget about the head. However, a cap that blocks out the sun or a beanie that keeps in the warmth makes going out much more enjoyable.

The range features models designed for the outdoors, which can also be worn in the city.

The cap, a central piece

Aigle in Gore-Tex

The waterproof cap Aigle incorporates a Gore-Tex membrane: rain slides off, and heat from the head escapes. A popular piece among fishermen, walkers, and urban cyclists.

Aigle embroidered

More classic, the embroidered Aigle cap features the brand's logo and is worn daily, with a canvas jacket or a fleece.

Gramicci Guide

Gramicci, a brand born from climbing in California, offers the Guide, a simple and lightweight cap, in the spirit of its climbing trousers.

Circle Sportswear Run and Run Planet

Designed for running, the caps from the French brand Circle are lightweight and breathable. The Run Planet adopts a five-panel construction, sitting lower on the head.

Parel Studios Core

The Core from Parel Studios, a brand from Copenhagen, is made from a thick twill, with six panels, and is adjustable with a cord at the back.

Five panels or six panels?

A six-panel cap, the most common, has a tall and structured crown. A five-panel cap, with a single front panel, is lower and lighter: it's often found among runners and climbers.

The bucket hat, for rain and sun

The bucket hat protects the neck and ears that a cap leaves exposed. Aigle offers one in Gore-Tex, a compactable version that rolls up into a pocket, a UV-C for sunny days, and a printed model born from its collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History.

The beanies

For winter, Aigle beanies in blended wool or Fair Isle jacquard keep your head warm. The Fair Isle pattern, coming from the Scottish islands, adds a cozy touch to a plain parka.

Choosing based on activity

• Fishing and walking in the rain: cap or bucket hat in Gore-Tex.
• Running and trail: lightweight five-panel cap.
• Climbing and bouldering: flexible cap, like the Guide.
• Summer hiking: bucket hat to cover the neck.
• Winter: wool beanie.

The cap while camping

At the campsite, a lightweight cap protects from the sun during tent setup, swimming in the lake, or evening walks. A version in Gore-Tex is useful in storms. Slip a beanie into the bag for chilly nights at altitude.

A cap for cycling

Under a helmet or for city bike rides, a thin five-panel cap shields the eyes from the sun and rain. Its short brim doesn't obstruct vision.

Adjusting your cap

A cap should fit snugly without compressing the forehead. Tighten the strap or cord until it stays in place when leaning forward, then loosen it a notch for comfort.

The cap in town

A simple outdoor cap in khaki, navy, or black pairs well with a hoodie, cargo pants, and sneakers. Mountain style blends into daily life without being over the top.

The brim, a friend to the eyes

In bright sunlight, the brim reduces glare and complements a pair of sunglasses. In rainy weather, it keeps drops away from the face and lenses.

Washing a cap

By hand, with lukewarm soapy water, using a soft brush for sweat stains. Let it dry on an overturned bowl to help it keep its shape. For a Gore-Tex cap, avoid softeners.

Washing a beanie

A wool beanie should be washed in cold water, with a gentle detergent, and then dried flat. The tumble dryer would cause it to shrink.

See also

For bags and socks, check out the outdoor accessories, and for the rest of the outfit, the outdoor jackets. More caps are available in the men's headwear section, and the brand can be found on the page Gramicci.

Frequently asked questions

Which cap is good for running?

A lightweight and breathable five-panel cap, like the Run Planet from Circle Sportswear.

Does a Gore-Tex cap protect against rain?

Yes, its membrane blocks water while allowing heat to escape.

What's the difference between five and six panels?

The five-panel is lower and lighter, the six-panel has a taller and more structured crown.

How to wash a cap without damaging it?

By hand, in lukewarm water, and then dried on an overturned bowl.

Bucket or cap for summer hiking?

The bucket hat, which also protects the neck and ears.