If you're anything like me, having long hair and trying to find a comfortable hat for running or any kind of activity can be a real struggle. I’ve spent countless hours fiddling with my hair, trying to make it work with different styles of hats. It seemed like everything was either too tight, slipped off, or just plain uncomfortable. But don't worry, I'm here to share what I've learned through trial and error, and hopefully save you some of the frustration I experienced! Finding the right headwear can make all the difference in enjoying your activities.
For years, I avoided hats altogether. I just couldn't seem to find one that would stay put, especially when I was running. It was incredibly annoying to constantly adjust my hat or have it slide off my head, taking my hair with it. I even considered chopping off my hair just to solve the problem! I tried various styles, from baseball caps to visors, but nothing seemed to work. The problem wasn't just the fit; it was also how my hair interacted with the hat. It would either get tangled, matted, or create pressure points that gave me a headache. It was a real challenge.
One of the biggest issues I faced was finding a hat that wasn't too big. I have a smaller head, and many standard hats just don't fit snugly enough. This is especially true when my hair is pulled back. The extra space inside the hat makes it even more prone to slipping. I also found that the material of the hat played a significant role. Stiff, inflexible fabrics were a nightmare, while softer, more stretchy materials seemed to work better. The adjustable strap in the back is crucial, but even with that, getting the right fit felt like an impossible task.
After much experimenting, I finally started to discover some solutions that worked for me. The first game-changer was finding hats with a soft, stretchy fabric and an adjustable back. I found that these types of hats, like the ones from Headsweats, were much more comfortable and stayed in place better. The stretchy material conformed to my head shape, and the adjustable back allowed me to customize the fit. These hats became my go-to choice for running and other outdoor activities.
Another trick I learned was to use a headband in conjunction with a hat. I know someone who uses a headband over the hat to keep it in place. This adds an extra layer of security and prevents the hat from slipping. It's a simple but effective solution, especially on windy days or during high-intensity workouts. The headband also helps to absorb sweat, keeping my forehead dry and comfortable.
I also explored different ways to manage my hair under the hat. I'm currently growing my hair out, but I can't stand running with it loose. I discovered that wearing a headband to soak up the sweat and keep my hair out of my face was a great solution. I started using headbands from Junk Brands; they’re lightweight and soak up a lot of sweat. This not only keeps my hair out of my eyes but also prevents sweat from dripping down my face and into my ears.
I also thought about using a buff to keep my hair together. Then I could put a hat or visor on over it. Maybe the issue was that I just needed a bigger hat, to fit on my head more fully and then adjust it down to be snug? This worked well for shorter runs, but I found that for longer distances, the bun would sometimes become uncomfortable. I also experimented with different types of elastics and hair ties to find the ones that held my hair securely without causing breakage or discomfort.
Speaking of staying warm, I recently tried a beanie from Wholecustomdesign's homepage during a chilly morning run, and it was fantastic! It's the New Winter Solid Color Knitted Beanies Hat. The soft, elastic cap kept my head warm without feeling too tight, and it was easy to pull my hair back into a low ponytail. Plus, it comes in a bunch of colors! It's a great option for colder weather. It's become my go-to for winter runs. The elastic material ensures a snug fit, even with my long hair tucked inside.
Here are some practical tips I've gathered along the way to help you find the perfect hat for your long hair: