Zero Waste Hats (beanies, baseball caps and straw hats)
Freedom for Animals is a charity that campaigns for zoo welfare (it’s presently trying to rescue 15 penguins stuck in a ‘dungeon’ in a London aquarium, to more suitable habitats. Its organic beanie hats help to raise money for the cause (also in green).
For any hats on the site (not listed here) that contain recycled polyester, launder in a microfiber filter, to stop microplastics escaping washing machines into the sea.
Do you really need to wear a hat?
Not everyone does, but they do provide protection as you lose heat from your head in cold weather. And in warm weather, they can shield your eyes (and protect men with bald heads from getting burned!)
Use wide-brimmed hats to shield the face, neck and eyes from sun damage, and beanies to protect against rain and wind. Many runners like caps to provide a focus shield against distractions.
Hat safety for babies
The Lullaby Trust says that hats (and outdoor layers) should be removed when moving indoors or into a warm car, to prevent overheating (babies regulate temperature through their heads, and keeping them covered inside risks making them too hot).
15°C–16°C) to keep them warm.
Read more on dressing babies safely (and sleeping arrangements) to avoid over-heating, to help prevent SIDS.
8000 Kicks (100% hemp beanie hat)
8000 Kicks (which makes hemp waterproof sneakers) also makes nice hats. Simple yet minimalist, the caps have 6 panels for durability. Hemp is naturally organic and can be locally grown.
Of the Oceans Organic Cotton Beanie Hat
Of the Oceans organic cotton beanie hat is made from 100% organic cotton, so can be safely laundered in the machine, without releasing microplastics into the sea. This hat is from a brand that produces organic cotton and hemp clothing for men, based in Leicestershire.
The beanie is made up of a double layer for style and warmth. The inner layer is a finer weave organic cotton, whilst the outer layer is a chunkier knit. In five colours: black, grey, kelp green, mustard and navy.
Earth Wardrobe’s Organic Cotton Beanie Hat
Earth Wardrobe is a Scottish affordable fashion brand. It also makes nice caps for men and women, and bucket hats to protect you in sunny weather. This one is made from 100% organic cotton
Rapanui Organic and Recycled Cotton Beanies
Rapanui is an outdoor clothing company that use offcuts to make organic cotton or recycled cotton beanies (just check each one, as a few contain recycled polyester). Also for women.
Tilley hemp hats (almost indestructible!)
Tilley hemp hats are known as being of high quality. They have hidden wind cords and are guaranteed for life, with a waterproof coating.
Remove this and the foam crown before washing. Made in Canada, they also make wide-brimmed natural raffia hats.
Tilley Straw Hats (protect your head on sunny days)
Tilley straw hats are lightweight (also made from raffia) and offer breezy sun protection, natural texture and effortless style. Responsibly-made, this hat is made from 100% raffia, with a packable wide brim sun visor to add shade without a full crown.
The wide brim offers comfortable coverage, and the straw construction is lightweight and breathable in the heat. When you’re on the move, it rolls up neatly, so it’s as travel-friendly as the rest of your summer kit. Spot clean with a damp cloth and water.
Read about natural sun protection and pet safety in warmer weather.
