Women's Outdoor Headwear: Bob hats, beanies and caps
In terms of women's outdoor headwear, the bob hat takes the spotlight: Aigle made from Gore-Tex, collapsible, UV-C for sun protection, and the Aigle x MNHN printed bob hat from the Jardin des Plantes. The Aigle cable knit beanies, in mesh or Fair Isle jacquard, along with the caps from Circle Sportswear and Parel Studios round off the collection.
Protecting Your Head, No Matter What
Your head loses heat quickly in the cold and gets sunburnt fast in the summer. A suitable hat makes a difference in comfort during outings, whether it's raining, windy, or hot.
The section offers three types: the bucket hat, beanie, and cap.
The Bucket Hat, the Star of the Section
The bucket hat covers the entire head, including the neck, thanks to its brim that goes all the way around. It can be easily folded into a pocket and pairs well with both casual and city outfits.
The Gore-Tex Bucket Hat
With its Gore-Tex membrane, the Aigle bucket hat keeps rain out while allowing your head to breathe. It takes the place of a hood when walking in the rain without obstructing your view.
The Foldable Bucket Hat
The foldable bucket hat can be rolled up and slipped into a jacket or bag pocket. You can pull it out as soon as the weather changes.
The UV-C Bucket Hat
Designed for sunny days, the UV-C bucket hat protects your face and neck during summer hikes, beach days, or festivals.
The Aigle x MNHN Bucket Hat
Born from a collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History, this waterproof bucket hat features a print inspired by the Jardin des Plantes in Paris and its Greenhouses. A message for biodiversity, to wear on your head.
The Aigle Beanies
For winter, Aigle offers the beanie in several knits: cable-knit for a classic, warm look; in solid knit, simple and easy to wear; in Fair Isle jacquard, with its traditional patterns; and in blended wool for softness.
A turned-up beanie covers the ears better in strong winds.
Running Caps
Circle Sportswear, a French running brand, offers the Run and the Run Planet, both lightweight and breathable five-panel caps. The Core Cap by Parel Studios, more urban in style, can be adjusted with a cord at the back.
Which Hat for Which Outing?
- Rainy Hike: Gore-Tex bucket hat.
- Summer Hike: UV-C bucket hat, which protects the neck.
- Running: lightweight five-panel cap.
- Winter Stroll: cable-knit or Fair Isle beanie.
- Travel: foldable bucket hat, always in the pocket.
Bucket Hat or Cap?
The cap shields your eyes from direct sunlight, but leaves the neck and ears exposed. The bucket hat covers the entire head, a real advantage in the heat of summer or during rain.
For running, the cap is lighter and more stable.
Wearing the Bucket Hat in the City
The bucket hat has become part of urban outfits. Paired with a trench coat, straight jeans, and sneakers, it adds a casual touch. A printed model, like the MNHN bucket hat, can stand out in a simple outfit.
The Bucket Hat at Festivals and While Traveling
At festivals, on the beach, or during a day of sightseeing, the bucket hat provides sun protection without being as hot as a thick cap. Foldable, it fits into a bag and reappears at the first rain. It's often the most useful hat in a summer suitcase.
Coordinating Your Beanie
A solid-colour beanie goes well with a patterned puffer jacket; a Fair Isle or cable-knit beanie looks better with a solid jacket. Repeat a colour from the scarf or gloves for a harmonious outfit.
Choosing the Size
Measure your head circumference above the ears, at the forehead level. A bucket hat should fit snugly without being tight, so it won't fly off at the first gust of wind. A knitted beanie adapts to most head sizes.
A Hat in Your Bag
In the mountains, the weather changes quickly. Always keep a lightweight beanie and a bucket hat in your bag, even in summer: at the summit, the wind can cool you down in just a few minutes.
Maintaining Your Hats
A Gore-Tex bucket hat should be hand-washed in lukewarm water, with no fabric softener. A wool beanie should be washed in cold water, with a gentle detergent, and then laid flat to dry to maintain its shape. Avoid the tumble dryer, as it will felt the wool.
See Also
For bags and socks, check out the outdoor accessories; for head and shoulders, look at women's outdoor jackets. All the style is also found in the women's headwear section, and on the Aigle page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Gore-Tex bucket hat waterproof?
Yes, its membrane keeps rain out while allowing breathability.
What is a foldable bucket hat?
A bucket hat that rolls up and fits in a pocket, to be taken out when the weather changes.
Which beanie is best for extreme cold?
A cable-knit or wool beanie, preferably with a turned-up cuff for better ear coverage.
What is the Aigle x MNHN bucket hat?
A waterproof bucket hat printed with designs from the Jardin des Plantes, created in collaboration with the National Museum of Natural History.
How do I wash a wool beanie?
In cold water, with a gentle detergent, then dried flat.
