Sealskinz Hat Review – A look at the Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie Hat

This Sealskinz hat review takes a look at the Sealskinz waterproof beanie. I've use this on several cycling trips now, and here's my thoughts.

The Sealskinz Beanie Hat

The Sealskinz beanie hat has to be one of the best purchases I have made in a long while, and it's been a great addition to my cycling gear. I've used it when commuting to work, cycling at the weekends, and on several long distance bicycle tours. I used it several times when cycling from Greece to England, and was glad I had it with me!

Sealskinz Hat Review

Now, you might ask why a man that has no hair needs a waterproof hat, and indeed, that was my own view for many years. After having worn it throughout the winter though, it's difficult to see how I got by without one before. Even without hair, having a warm, dry head on a wet and windy day out on the bike makes all the difference between an enjoyable ride and a miserable one. If only I had taken the Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie Hat with me to Canada when I cycled through there on the way from Alaska to Argentina!

Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie Hat Review

I chose the hi-vis orange from the Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie Hat range, as I wanted to make myself as visible as possible to the tin can drivers on the way to and from work. Believe me when I say, it is certainly hi-viz! (For some reason, probably because I suck at taking photographs, the top picture doesn't show the colour very well. Look at the photo below for a more accurate impression!). Because of the colour, dirt does show up on it a bit though. There are a range of other colours to choose from, and whilst I had considered getting a more subtle colour such as black or olive, I'm happy with the higher visibility the orange gives.

Looking at the Sealskinz Hat

On picking the hat up, it makes a sort of rustling sound if you move it around your hand. In a way, it sounds like there is lining paper or something similar in the hat. To a certain extent this is true, as I guess its the lining making the noise. I thought that this was going to be incredibly irritating if it made this noise when wearing it, but thankfully, it doesn't when its on my head!

The inner of the hat has a micro fleece lining, and its this that keeps the head warm. I've used it in reasonably cold weather, and it does make a massive difference. The Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie Hat is also breathable, which means that moisture doesn't build up inside it to the extent that it might in a regular hat. Now, I would be lying if I said it was totally breathable – Nothing ever is. However, because of the fleece lining, the head stays warm regardless, although at the end of a long days ride, the beanie might be a bit wet on the inside.

How waterproof is the Sealskinz Hat

The waterproof qualities of the Sealskinz hat are also excellent. We have had some pretty torrential rain in England this last month or so, and it has stood up to the test admirably. It is also surprisingly windproof, and pulls down far enough to cover the ears which is a bonus. Cold ears in a driving wind feels horrible when cycling! Some people have commented that the hats are perhaps sized a little small. To a certain extent they are, but its because it works best with a snug fit, although its probably worth keeping in mind if you are thinking of getting one. This snug fit would also allow it to be worn underneath a cycling helmet, which again is worth considering.

Concluding thoughts about the Sealskinz Beanie Hat

Overall, the Sealskinz Waterproof Beanie Hat provides outstanding value for money, and should be a part of every cyclists kit for those times when the weather turns for the worst. If you are thinking of buying one, please click through on the Amazon ad above. You won't be charged any extra for your purchase, and I will receive a small commission to help keep this travel blog funded.