16 Best Running Hats to Keep Your Head Warm This Winter

Don’t let the cold winter and darker months stop your evening runs. This comfy running beanie is made of sweat-wicking fabric that contains shape retention, so it won’t get stretched out over time.

Lululemon's products are known to be durable, and this beanie is no exception. There’s reflective detailing in the stitching and, helpfully, an opening in the back for your ponytail to comfortably poke out.

More: The Best Women's Sneakers for Running in Winter

The Tough Headwear skull cap will last you all winter long, from your outdoor runs to your snowboarding trips. This running hat is made of a breathable, stretchy, moisture-wicking fabric that specifically covers your ears, and can be worn under a helmet, too.

We like that it also comes in multiple colors, including one with reflective details.

Made with Thermolite fabric and a microfleece inner lining, this European-made thermal running skull cap is as lightweight as it is hardworking.

The polyester-Lycra blend is comfortably stretchy while also fitting under helmets, giving you a versatile, head-warming option during your cold-weather workouts.

Pearl Izumi is known for its cycling gear — but we see no reason that their thermal hat can't be worn on runs, too. Wick moisture away while keeping your ears covered: What more could you need? (Also, their bright, BioViz colors are super fun.)

Smartwool was our first introduction to wool for winter, and it's not going anywhere anytime soon. This particular beanie, made of 100% merino wool, is double-layered. It will naturally repel odor and wick away moisture, so there's no need for frequent washings — a factor that comes in handy when on-the-go or traveling.

Aside from the fact that hat and gloves both are made from lightweight, sweat-wicking fleece (and look super sleek!), the top of this running hat is also breathable, which will prevent overheating while on your run.

Panther Vision might have the most genius running hat ever: It's equipped with tiny lights that produce 42 lumens! Batteries are included, it comes in a zillion colors (not just camo), and it's washable, too. 

Its newer version even has a rechargeable LED light for more convenience. You'll find yourself reaching for this cap for way more than a run.

“Functional and cute” is only one of many — many — glowing reviews this iconic beanie from The North Face has earned, and we're believing the press. (The outdoorswear brand is named after the coldest side of a mountain, after all.)

The famous Salty Dog beanie features a soft jersey inner lining for maximum warmth and comfort, and comes in two depth options: shallow and deep-fit. We'll take one in each color, please.

For a lightweight running hat, this pick holds up on the coldest of days. It's made of a super soft and warm merino jersey-Lycra blend, which allows for tons of breathability, and it even has a reflective detail at the back for good measure.

Wear this fleece beanie out in the snow and rain without worrying about getting your head wet. The UA Storm technology in the fabric repels water, while the soft interior keeps your head nice and warm without adding bulk. There are even reflective details on the front and back for increased visibility on those dreary winter runs.

This fashionably slouchy beanie doesn't sacrifice warmth at all, thanks to its polyester-spandex blend that wicks away moisture and stays breathably soft.

A practical detail we love: Its fabric is double-layered over the ears to offer up more toastiness where you need it the most — while also serving up major style points, of course.

Although it's both light and packable, Salomon's Active beanie doesn't compromise on warmth and softness, thanks to its fast-drying microfleece. Reflective detailing and a handful of colorways also offer up a (protective) punch of color on those cold winter runs. 

Pull this merino-blend beanie on for an actual run, or wear it over morning bedhead on a coffee run. With its slightly slouchy tip, it looks just as cute paired with winter workout gear as it does with UGGs and boyfriend jeans. 

Buff is super well-known in the running world for its multifunctional headwear — aka mostly neck warmers that can be pulled over your head for extra warmth.

This merino-wool beanie running hat was designed specifically for cooler weather activities. It retains heat, but dries quickly when you start to sweat. The wool is also sourced from humanely raised, non-mulesed sheep.

With two layers of fabric, this beanie does double duty. On the inside, the notched material traps warmth, while on the outside, Brooks’ DryLayer technology wicks sweat away to keep your head warm and dry.

You’re still going to sweat on even the coldest runs, and Mizuno’s Breath Thermo technology takes advantage of that. When your perspiration hits the fabric, it initiates a chemical change that generates heat. The material is also antibacterial and deodorizing, so your head (and hat) won’t stink at the end of a run. Reflective details and a clever ergonomic shape also make this a standout.