Gear

Any strong recommendations for winter hats?

I'm particularly after something that will keep my ears warm as they're the one bit of me that doesn't run hot.

I'll generally be wearing it with a waterproof shell (and hood) so true waterproofing isn't essential, but at least reasonably showerproof would be useful in case I'm just wearing a windproof.

Nothing that restricts upwards or sideways vision please (peaks are okay if they'll stay poppered up) as I'll be wearing it birdwatching. Oh and therefore bright colours are out - green would be grand.

Thanks for thoughts

the Lowe Alpine mountain hats comes in s m l xl and xxl so shoudl fit everyone, it has ear flaps and is fleece lined and its waterproof so should see you through ok

lots of colours too :)

green navy blue and black may be good for you
give te barn door shop a ring on 019467 26384 they have a good selection and will post out, and if you measure your head they can sort out the right size

LA Mountain Hats are excellent, but I find mine can get a bit too warm on occasions, so I also use a Berghaus powerstretch hat. It's one size fits all, but it is a big size, and black in colour.

I use a Berghaus Windpro Hat that I got for £15 and its got excellent shape that descreetly covers the ears and it keeps you nice and cosy but not sweaty. It only weighs 60g aswell.

In fact its only £12 at the mo at Mountain Warehouse...

http://mountainwarehouse.com/shop/product/products_id/2380.html

You can Nikwax it too and make it showerproof!

It might be worth considering using a buff - they do exist in subdued colours and patterns, and you don't have to adopt the pirate style, I just make mine into a simple bob-hat. I've been amazed at just how warm and protective it is for such a light flimsy piece of cloth. I now wear it as standard for Norwegian ski touring and only carry the Lowe Mountain cap for bak-up in extreme conditions (it's great too, used one for years, but it gets too hot!)

Thanks folks - I've ordered a LA Mountain Cap off ebay (various sizes and colours cheap at the moment if you don't mind Triplepoint Ceramic rather than the new Goretex), Gooutdoors also have them cheap in Marine Blue (£15).

Elmer Fudd impression hear I come!