Outdoor Research Peruvian Hat

If you like a separate hat/ jacket combo this hat's pretty awesome. I've edited my original review because I'm becoming a hoody convert (flip on/off climate control and loss prevention).

Over ten years with still little of signs of wear. Worn midwinter on watch in the Sea of Japan also near Korea, in bitter Upstate NY winters, early spring on the Puget Sound for training ops, and in New England for mountain and urban use in winter. For a modular hat system found nothing better for the price, weight, warmth, coverage, and wind stoppage.

Worn with a neoprene face mask provided the best coverage that stayed put without becoming annoying this combo was better than the OR Gorilla Balaclava and compared the setups on two sub-zero windy days. Rolls up using the neck cord for easy stowage in a pocket.  Still rates 5 stars.

Multiple hooded garments now make up my quiver these days, but if I'm wearing the Montbell U.L. Thermawrap or other hood-less jackets I certainly have the Peruvian Hat.

There aren't many pieces of gear I'll give a 5-star review. I simply love this hat. I looked long and hard to find it on sale, just like I do for all my gear. I found the sizing chart was a bit too small... I had to send mine back for the next biggest size.

This hat is very thin and light, but as warm as my heavier and fluffier hats. It really is windproof, but the ear flaps really make the difference in cold weather. I've also worn it in the rain, and my head stayed dry, even though it isn't listed as a waterproof item. You can wear the drawstring on top of your head instead of under your chin, which holds the ear flaps up during warmer weather.

The only thing about this hat that I don't like is that it makes it noticeably harder to hear with the ear flaps down. I did not knock any stars off for that, because I think that is too much to expect for a hat that is actually covering your ears.

Also, in my opinion, this hat looks a bit goofy, so it's not something I would plan on wearing in your everyday activities, but that's not an issue on the trail.

In the Adirondacks it gets very cold, wet, and windy during the winter. This hat is a blessing. It covers all the way down the back of my neck and keeps the sides of my face protected as well. The cinch cord is great to seal in warmth.

If there is a downside it may be that the hat is too warm for mild (20-32 degrees) winter temperatures. Doesn't bother me though as I will wear just a beanie while hiking / snowshoeing and then pop this baby on and be cozy comfortable when the temps dip or the wind picks up.

I bought the large and it fits slightly loose but that's what I wanted to accommodate a liner cap or my beanie.

This hat is one of my favorite pieces of gear. It’s too hot to wear while you are hiking unless it’s really cold out but when you get to camp and start to cool off it is most welcome. I cinch the chin straps up, snuggle down in my bag and my head stays nice and warm all night without breaking into a sweat. Breaths good and keeps your head warm. What else could you ask for?