Sportful Edge Windstopper hat

I know winter has arrived when a simple cotton cap isn't keeping my head warm, marking the time to switch to a warmer hat. This Edge Windstopper hat from Sportful provides the appropriate insulation on cold days, and keeps the wind chill to a minimum.

That's because it's made from Thermodrytex PL+ polyester with Gore's excellent Windstopper material in the front panel. Windstopper is used in many garments these days, mostly jackets, but makes a lot of sense to use it in a hat. If you're wearing a helmet, unless it's an aero jobbie, all those huge vents just draw in ice cold air and will rapidly bring the chill.

Designed to be worn under a helmet, the Edge fits comfortably and essentially stops the cold air in its tracks. It fits well - one size fits all - and sits low over the ears. It's a snug fit, yet comfortable. Pull a helmet over it and you only have to make minimal alterations to the helmet's retention system. It doesn't take up much space.

On longer rides it provides good insulation, managing to keep the head warm, yet the breathability is sufficient that it doesn't cause overheating or sweating. I've been using it on mornings as cold as 1°C and it's coped just fine, so it will be good throughout the winter.

It's reasonably well priced, you can certainly pay more for a simple cotton cap, and a lot more for a similar winter-specific hat with a wind-resistant fabrics from other brands.

Verdict

A warm and wind-resistant hat that fits comfortably under a helmet.