A running hat is a type of headgear that people wear while running, either outside or indoors. Most runners choose between two different types of hat: a sports visor or a baseball cap. For people running in cold climates or conditions, however, there are also thermal beanies designed specifically for running.
Why They Help Performance
The majority of people run outside in warm and sunny conditions. Running hats help keep the sun out of your eyes, while also protecting your face and head from the sun. This is especially helpful in preventing the possibility that you will get sunburnt on the top of your head. For people who are allergic to sunscreen, wearing a hat is also useful, because it protects the face and nose from the sun. For women, running hats are useful because they help keep the hair out of your eyes. If you are running in cold weather, beanies help keep you warm and insulated.
What are They Made of?
Running hats and visors are typically made from either wool or polyester. The visors are usually made from some form of stiff material, typically plastic. The inside of the hat usually has a cotton sweatband. Beanies are usually made of polyester and spandex, and have moisture-wicking and thermal properties. This helps keep your head dry and warm during colder conditions.
Washing and Care Instructions
Running is a very demanding sport which will cause you to sweat significantly. As such, your hat will likely be covered in sweat stains. This means you will have to frequently wash your hat to keep it clean. Luckily, washing your hat is fairly easy if you follow some important guidelines. Always check the tag inside your hat before you do anything, as there may be specific instructions on how it should be washed. If not, it is suggested that you wash the hat by hand to avoid damaging it in the machine. Soak the hat in a warm bucket of water with soap. If your hat has an odor, add baking soda to the mix. Then, use a mild detergent and a washcloth to wipe off any sweat stains. Once you are done, remove the remaining detergent by rinsing the hat in cool water. Let your hat air dry, but avoid placing it in direct sunlight to prevent the color from fading. Never put your hat in the dryer, because the intense heat will likely cause it to shrink.
Who Makes Them?
There are many different brands of running hats. Essentially, any brand of hat can be worn while you run. Certain companies, however, manufacture hats specifically for running, with fabric that helps keep you cool and dry. Nike, for example, has used its Dri-Fit fabric to manufacture hats and beanies. Other popular brands of hat include Reebok, Under Armor, Saucony, and Adidas.
Price Range
The cost of your running hat depends almost entirely on the brand. You can usually find a hat for around $30 to $40, although this price may increase significantly if you go for one of the name brands like Nike. Still, Nike’s Dri-Fit beanies can be found for as low as $25.
