Living in a place where rain is more common than sunshine, I've always struggled to find a reliable rain hat. You know, the kind that actually keeps you dry without looking like you're wearing a shower cap. It's been a long and sometimes soggy journey, but I've finally found a few options that work for me. Sharing my experiences, I hope this will help you in your search for the perfect rain hat!
It all started when I was trying to find something that could withstand more than just a light drizzle. I was picturing an old-fashioned rubber rain hat, the kind with a wide brim. Seems simple, right? But finding one proved surprisingly difficult. I needed something that could handle a serious downpour, not just a sprinkle. I needed a rain hat that would keep me dry and comfortable, no matter how much rain was coming down.
My initial searches turned up a lot of flimsy options that wouldn't last a week in a real storm. I needed something durable, something that could stand up to the elements. I started thinking about how much rain exposure I was actually dealing with. Was it a quick dash to the car, or a long walk in a storm? That really helped me narrow down what I was looking for.
That's when I stumbled upon the Outdoor Research Seattle Rain Hat. I haven't tested it in torrential rain yet, but I've been really happy with it so far. It feels sturdy and well-made, and the brim is wide enough to keep the rain off my face. I've worn it in some pretty decent showers, and it's kept my head dry. It's definitely a step up from the cheap plastic hats I've tried in the past.
I also learned about oilskins (waxed cotton) being incredibly waterproof and durable. Apparently, they're still a popular choice for farmers in New Zealand and Australia. I found a great selection at Outback Trading. I haven't personally tried an oilskin hat yet, but it's definitely on my list. The idea of a naturally waterproof material is really appealing.
Another suggestion I came across was a sou’wester. I had never heard of it before, but it looks like a classic rain hat design. I found a good-looking one at Holland's Country Clothing. It seems like a solid option for keeping the rain off your face and neck.
While searching for the perfect rain hat, I also realized I needed something warm for the colder months. I discovered Wholecustomdesign, and they have a great selection of hats. I ended up trying their beanie hat winter options to keep my head warm and stylish at the same time.
And speaking of warmth and style, I recently tried the Casual Woolen Hat from Wholecustomdesign.
The Casual Woolen Hat Women's Ins Winter Cold Hat Warm Hood Rabbit Fur Cashmere Knitted Hats Skullies Beanies in grey (56-62 adult size) from Wholecustomdesign is surprisingly warm and comfortable. It's not designed for heavy rain, but it's perfect for those chilly, drizzly days when you just want to feel cozy. I love the soft rabbit fur and cashmere blend. It's become my go-to hat for running errands on cold days.
Choosing the right rain hat really depends on your needs and how much rain you typically encounter. Here are a few things I've learned along the way: