Why Wild Swimmers Wear Woolly Hats - Even in Summer!
Ever wondered why cold water swimmers wear woolly hats?
You’ve probably seen them, the bold bobble hats bobbing above the waves, the flashes of colour in the sea. But have you ever wondered why so many wild swimmers wear woolly hats, even when the sun’s out?
It’s not just a style choice (though let’s be honest, they do look cool in photos). There’s a very good reason behind this cold-water ritual….and it all comes down to warmth, comfort and a little bit of common sense.
Why Your Head Matters in Cold Water
When you swim in cold water, you lose heat fast and one of the quickest places to lose it from is your head. A woolly hat acts like a thermal barrier, keeping the chill at bay so you can enjoy your dip for longer and recover faster afterwards.
Wearing a hat helps prevent that intense post-swim “afterdrop” feeling, where your body temperature keeps dropping even after you’ve left the water. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.
Woolly Hats vs. Swim Caps - What’s the Difference?
Swim caps are great in the pool or for serious swimmers and triathletes. But out in the wild, in sea lochs, tidal pools and chilly beaches a woolly hat is the real hero! It’s warm, it’s breathable and you can put it on before and after your dip without faffing around. Plus, it gives fellow swimmers an easy way to spot you in the water….extra points for visibility AND style.
Cold Water Crew Hats — Wear Your Wild Swim Spot with Pride
At MELLA, we have a special range of fleece-lined woolly hats for wild swimmers….soft, warm, colourful and made for sea-drenched adventures.
Each hat comes stitched with one of our exclusive embroidered patches, designed to rep your favourite wild swimming spot:
Shetland - where the sea is bracing and the views are unforgettable
Orkney - wild, beautiful and full of hidden bays
Fife - home to tidal pools, sandy beaches and some of the best dips on the east coast
They’re warm enough for post-dip walks, breathable enough for coastal wanders, and stylish enough to wear year-round….whether you’re swimming or not.