Let's take a look at the Sealskinz waterproof beanie hat. I've owned a couple, using them on several cycling trips now all over the world. Here's my review after using them for a few years.
The Sealskinz Waterproof 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 owned a couple over the years. The first one was this orange waterproof knit hat you see in this photo. Now, I own a black Sealskinz waterproof beanie. So yes, they do come in different colours!
Using the Sealskinz Beanie
I've used the waterproof cycling beanie 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!
** Click here to check out the waterproof cycling beanie on Amazon UK site **
** Click here to check out the waterproof cycling beanie on Amazon US site **
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 the Sealskinz beanie throughout winters and when it's raining, 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 originally 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 certainly was 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 at the top for a more accurate impression!). Because of the colour, dirt did show up on it a bit though.
There are a range of other colours to choose from, and after I lost the orange one, I replaced it with a black waterproof cycling beanie.
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 it's 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!
Warm Waterproof Knit Hat
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. I cycled in some pretty torrential rain in England and elsewhere over the years, and they always stand up to the test admirably.
The beanies are also surprisingly windproof, and pull 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.
It's 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 cyclist's kit for those times when the weather turns for the worst.
It's ideal for cycling in wet conditions and helps you stay warm at the same time. It's a great product, and due to it being made from quality premium materials is likely to last for years.
It always accompanies me now on my bike tours, and will do for the foreseeable future! Having this hat even for just cold weather conditions without rain is a blessing – especially if you have no hair like me!
I also have a pair of waterproof socks by the same company that provide the same warmth and comfort in wet weather as the hat. I might do a review of them in the future!
You might also be interested in these other bike touring gear reviews:
- Steel Touring Bike Review: Stanforth Skyelander 700c Touring Bicycle
- Stanforth Kibo+ Expedition Bicycle – Travel The World by Bike
- Stanforth Kibo Expedition Bicycle – 26 Inch Wheel Steel Frame Touring Bike
- Dawes Sardar Touring Bicycle
- Brooks C17 Review | Is the Brooks Cambium C17 good for bike touring?
- Brooks B17 Saddle – The Best Brooks Touring Saddle For Your Butt!
- Butterfly Handlebars – Are Trekking Bars The Best for Bicycle Touring?
- Topeak Mini Dual DXG Pump – Bicycle Touring Gear
- Bike Touring Tools – Best Bike Multi Tool for Bicycle Touring
- Swiss Army Knife – Never Travel Without One
Sealskinz Beanie Review
I hope you found this Sealskinz product review useful! Do you already have this in your outdoor accessories or are thinking to add it? Do you have any questions about its layer construction or durability?
Leave a comment below, and I'll get back to you!
David Tobey says
I came across your sight when looking for opinions on touring tires – thank you. Your pillow article brought to mind my essential luxury when camping, a long handled bath brush and Dr. Bonners peppermint soup, they provide relief from mosquito bites, insect stings, and hot humid weather.
Have you tried a Brooks Swallow saddle? I sold one with a college commuter in 1964 and regretted it since finally bought another and right out of the box it seems softer than my well used Brooks pro.
Great reading. Keep up the good work.