Best winter hats for toddlers

Toddlers ( 1–4 years old) are notorious for yanking off hats the moment you turn your back. They cry when fabric touches their face and somehow lose their hat between the car and the front door. Finding the right winter hat for your toddler means choosing one they'll actually keep on, while still protecting them from cold and winter sun exposure.

The best toddler winter hats balance:

• Secure fit that stays put during active play
• Soft materials that don't irritate sensitive skin
• Easy-on design that survives toddler resistance
• Sun protection for delicate, developing skin

SwimZip makes UPF 50+ winter hats that combine cozy warmth with year-round sun protection.

Best toddler winter hats compared

Types of winter hats for toddlers

Some types of winter hats stay put, don’t irritate, and provide sufficient sun and cold protection, while others are too complicated for little hands or cause sensory discomfort that causes toddlers to take them off.

Convertible earflap hats with chin straps

Convertible earflap hats with chin straps (also called trapper hats or bomber hats) are the most popular choice for toddlers because they address the biggest parenting challenge: keeping the hat on. These hats feature flaps that cover your toddler's ears and include a chin strap that fastens under the chin.

Toddlers can't easily remove a fastened chin strap, which means the hat stays on during playground time. Look for adjustable chin straps with easy-release buckles, such as our Arctic Chill convertible hats for kids, or velcro closures that you can fasten quickly.

Earflap hats protect your toddler's ears, which are vulnerable to cold weather and frostbite. The flaps block wind and keep warmth trapped around your child's head. Many versions let you tie the flaps up on top when your toddler doesn't need full coverage.

Beanies

Beanies are simple to put on but also easy to pull off. They are best for toddlers who cooperate during dressing and for situations where you need quick head coverage.

Classic knit beanies fit snugly on your toddler's head and typically extend down to cover the ears. The stretchy knit material accommodates toddler heads without feeling too tight. Choose beanies that sit low enough to fully cover your child's ears. Partial coverage means your toddler will constantly pull the hat down, which gets frustrating fast.

Cuffed beanies feature a folded brim that adds extra warmth around the ears. The cuff also lets you adjust how low the hat sits. Some toddlers like playing with the cuff, which can be either entertaining or a nuisance depending on your perspective.

Slouchy beanies have extra fabric that drapes at the back. These relaxed styles are best for older toddlers (3–4 years) than younger ones because the extra fabric can shift forward and cover your toddler's eyes.

Pom-pom beanies add a playful element that many toddlers love. The decorative pom on top makes the hat feel like a toy, which sometimes increases cooperation with wearing it. Choose pom-poms that are securely attached; toddlers will pull on them.

The main drawback of beanies for toddlers is that they don't have chin straps. They aren’t secure enough for restless toddlers and active snow games.

Fleece winter hats

Fleece hats are soft and comfortable against toddlers’ sensitive skin. Unlike wool hats that can feel itchy, fleece provides warmth without the irritation that makes toddlers pull hats off.

Fleece beanies offer simple pull-on styling that works for toddlers who cooperate with dressing. The stretchy material accommodates toddler heads without squeezing too tight. Choose beanies that extend low enough to cover your toddler's ears. Partial ear coverage means your child will be constantly readjusting or playing without proper protection.

Fleece winter hats with ear coverage combine the soft comfort of fleece with more structured ear protection. These hats often include built-in ear flaps or extended sides that cover ears without requiring chin straps. They work well for toddlers who resist chin straps but need ear protection.

Our Frosty Fleece winter flap hats provide cozy warmth alongside UPF 50+ sun protection. The weather-resistant outer shell handles snow and moisture, while the fleece interior keeps your toddler comfortable during extended outdoor play.

Wide-brim winter sun hats

Wide-brim hats aren't just for summer. Winter versions made with fleece lining and weather-resistant materials protect your toddler's face from cold wind and intense winter sun exposure.

Snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation back onto your toddler's delicate skin, and developing skin is more vulnerable to sun damage than adult skin. Wide-brim hats shade your toddler's face, ears, and the back of their neck, areas that get the most sun exposure during outdoor play.

Look for wide-brim winter hats with chin straps. The brim catches wind like a sail, so without a chin strap, the hat might blow off, or your toddler will remove it. Adjustable chin straps also let you get the right fit as your child grows.

Balaclavas

Balaclavas cover your toddler's entire head and neck, leaving only the face exposed. These work best for extremely cold and windy conditions, or extended time outdoors when maximum coverage matters.

The full coverage prevents any gaps where cold air can sneak in. Toddlers lose body heat quickly, and their necks are particularly vulnerable. A balaclava eliminates the gap between hat and coat that lets warmth escape.

However, balaclavas can cause sensory issues for some toddlers. The fabric touching their face may feel uncomfortable, and putting one on requires more cooperation than a simple hat. Save balaclavas for truly cold days when the coverage benefits outweigh the potential resistance. And opt for styles that leave the mouth and nose exposed if your child has sensory issues.

Features to look for in toddler winter hats

Beyond hat style, specific features make the difference between a hat your toddler keeps on and one that ends up lost in the snow.

Chin straps and secure closures

Chin straps are non-negotiable for most toddlers. A hat without a chin strap will end up on the ground within minutes. Your toddler can't remove a properly fastened chin strap, which means the hat stays on during playground time and sledding adventures.

Ear coverage

Toddlers' ears are vulnerable to cold and wind. Frostbite affects the ears quickly because they have less protective tissue than other body parts. Your toddler's winter hat should completely cover their ears.

Check that the hat sits low enough on your child's head to cover the ears fully. When your toddler moves around, jumps, or bends over, the hat should stay in place without exposing ears. Hats with built-in ear flaps provide the most reliable coverage because they won't shift upward like regular beanies can.

High-visibility colors

Bright, neon colors serve a safety purpose beyond looking cute. During crowded snow days or busy ski areas, high-visibility children’s hats help you spot your toddler quickly.

Crowded skate rinks, large sledding hills, and challenging light conditions can make it hard to spot your child. A bright hat makes it easier to recognize your kid in a crowd or spot them from a distance.

Soft, non-irritating materials

Toddlers have sensitive skin and low tolerance for itchy, scratchy fabrics. If a hat feels uncomfortable, your toddler will pull it off no matter how many times you put it back on.

Fleece linings are comfortable for most toddlers. The soft texture doesn't irritate skin, and fleece provides warmth without the scratchiness of wool. Even toddlers with sensory sensitivities usually tolerate fleece.

Avoid hats with tags or rough seams that touch your toddler's skin. Look for tagless designs or hats where tags are located on the outside. Flat seams prevent irritation that causes hat removal.

Machine washable

Toddler hats need frequent washing. Between runny noses and messy play, that hat will get dirty fast. Choose hats that survive regular machine washing without falling apart or losing shape.

Check care labels before purchasing. Hats that require hand washing or special care aren’t ideal for busy parents and messy kids. Machine washable, tumble-dry-low options make life easier.

Choosing toddler winter hats by activity

Different winter activities call for different hat features. Match your hat choice to what your toddler will be doing.

Snow play and sledding

Choose: Earflap hats with secure chin straps

Active snow play means lots of bending over and potentially falling. The hat needs to stay put through all of it. Earflap hats with adjustable chin straps won't shift or fall off when your toddler builds a snowman or goes sledding.

Stroller walks

Choose: Fleece hats, beanies, or convertible hats

For contained stroller activities, you don't need the most secure chin strap since your toddler isn't actively running around. Comfortable fleece beanies work well for stroller walks, especially if your toddler tolerates hat-wearing better without chin straps.

Convertible hats let you adjust coverage if your toddler gets warm under stroller blankets or bundling.

Car rides and errands

Choose: Easy-on, easy-off styles, like beanies or trapper hats

For quick trips where you're moving between a heated car and heated stores, choose hats that go on and come off quickly.

Safety note: Remove winter hats with straps before buckling your toddler into their car seat. Straps can create choke and pinch points.

Daycare and preschool

Choose: Easy for your toddler to manage independently, like trapper hats with easy-on, easy-off chin straps

Toddlers at daycare need hats they can put on themselves (or that teachers can quickly manage with multiple children). Pick a vibrant color to make it easy to identify if many kids are storing their hats in the same place.

Choose durable hats that survive being stuffed in cubbies and handled roughly. Save special or expensive hats for family outings where you can keep track of them.

Ski trips and winter sports

Choose: UPF-rated wide-brim or earflap hats

Family ski trips expose your toddler to intense sun reflection and high-altitude UV exposure. Combine this with cold temperatures and wind, and you need hats that provide comprehensive protection.

Wide-brim winter sun hats shield your toddler's face from snow glare while keeping them warm. If your toddler will wear a helmet for skiing, choose a thin beanie or earflap hat that fits comfortably under the helmet without creating pressure points.

Our winter sun hats collection includes toddler options for winter sports that balance warmth and secure fit during active movement.

SwimZip winter hats keep toddlers warm and protected

The right hat for toddlers combines a secure fit that stays put, soft materials that feel comfortable, sun protection for delicate skin, and practical features that make your parenting life easier.

Our winter sun hats carry the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation and provide UPF 50+ protection alongside cozy warmth. With adjustable sizing and secure chin straps, SwimZip hats are for growing, active toddlers and safety-focused parents.

❄️ Explore our winter sun hats collection for styles that keep your whole family protected and comfortable all winter long.

Best toddler winter hats FAQ

At what temperature should my toddler wear a winter hat?

Put a winter hat on your toddler whenever the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C). Toddlers lose body heat through their heads quickly, so even moderately cool temperatures call for head coverage. In temperatures below 32°F (0°C), a proper winter hat with ear coverage is mandatory.

How do I keep my toddler from pulling their hat off?

Choose hats with secure chin straps that your toddler can't easily remove. Make sure the hat fits properly and isn't causing discomfort. Use soft, non-itchy materials like fleece, and establish hat-wearing as a non-negotiable part of outdoor dressing. Let your toddler choose between two hat options to give them some control.

Should toddlers wear winter hats in the car?

Remove winter hats before buckling your toddler into their car seat. Bulky layers and chin straps can create slack in the carseat straps or create pinch and choke points.

What's the best type of winter hat for toddlers who hate hats?

Start with soft fleece earflap hats or beanies with comfortable materials. Let your toddler practice wearing the hat indoors to get used to the feeling. Choose hats with a proper fit; too tight or too loose both cause discomfort that leads to removal. Establish consistent routines and use positive reinforcement for successful hat-wearing.

Can my toddler wear their winter hat under a bike or ski helmet?

Pick a style without a full brim, like a thin beanie or convertible earflap hat. The helmet should fit snugly with or without the hat. For skiing, many parents use thin fleece beanies under helmets for warmth without bulk.

How often should I wash my toddler's winter hat?

Wash your toddler's winter hat weekly during regular use, or more frequently if it gets visibly dirty or your child has been sick. Machine-washable hats make this easy, as you can just toss them in with regular laundry. Frequent washing prevents bacteria buildup and keeps the hat fresh.

Further reading

Should I wear sun protection during winter?

What are the best winter hats for men?

What are the best winter hats for women?

Does UPF wash out of clothing?

Sun safety tips for kids