Have a Warm head and be happy
by Michael Smith (Veshengro)
With the approach of winter a good hat is a very important in vestment and there are enough good “woolen” skullcap types of hats available, some which are even designed to be worn under a helmet, whether ballistic or other.
It is a well known fact that a good head cover is the best insurance against problems in cold weather (and not only in cold weather as another type of hat will help in heat). Most of the body's heat is lost via the head and a good woolen hat – it does not have to be wool and we me personally it cannot, as I am allergic to wool – is an absolute must in cold weather.
The best hats for cold weather, as far as I am concerned are those that lie tight enough of the head, in fashion of the old “bobble” hat, and my favorite is the good old watch cap. You can pull it over your ears, if need be, but can also wear it without covering the ears. And, if you take it off you can, basically, stuff it into a pocket.
What is a watch cap?
A watch cap is a tight-fitting knit cap worn in cold weather, typically issued to navy personnel, and the name originates from the naval term “watch” which has nothing to do with a timepiece.
The watch cap is usually brimless, but some models include a small front brim. In the US Army this one was known as the Jeep cap. Government issued watch caps used to be 100% wool but because of issues with wool allergies, such as the one I suffer with, mostly now it is an acrylic fiber, or fleece material made from recycled PET.
The watch cap is often made so that the bottom part is folded up, though it can be pulled down low over the ears. Alternatively, the watch cap may simply cover the head without being folded over; this is typically the case with watch caps featuring a brim or visor. Some watch cap models are made to fit the top of the head snugly, while others leave a bit of material loose on the top of the head.
The look of the watch cap is most often associated with sailors, but the headgear is probably the most popular head wear in cold areas. It is the unofficial national headgear of Canada, where it is called a tuque or toque
A warm head and warm and dry feet = a warm body (as long as you do wear general clothing too). Please do not expect to stay warm as toast with just a woolly hat and warm footwear while being bare.
There is also nothing wrong with wearing a light woolly hat indoors; I do for much of the cold season. That way you can keep the thermostat on the heating down or keep your wood stove just ticking over and you are still comfortable.
There was a time when it was common for people to have a head covering on even indoors and in bed also.
When it comes to the outdoors, even if it is not the great one, a hat is essential to retain the body's heat and to prevent problems.
© 2011
