We all know running outdoors can be a lot of fun. Still, it can be annoying when it’s cold outside, and your forehead starts sweating.
You feel both hot and cold at the same time.
To avoid sweat dripping into your eyes, you can try a cold-weather running headband.
So, let’s look at cold weather running headbands and some of their key features.
What Is a Cold Weather Running Headband?
When you’re going out in the cold, one of your main priorities is to stay warm.
This can prove a little tricky when you’re going out for runs. Running burns off a lot of calories and warms you up. It can lead to sweating, which can make you cold again.
So, it’s better to be prepared with an attire that can handle these shifts in temperature.
This doesn’t only apply to your body; your head can get cold too! To keep their heads warm, many people choose to wear a beanie.
However, a beanie may not be the most suitable option when you’re running.
While a beanie can keep your head warm, it doesn’t allow any heat to escape.
When your body temperature rises as you run, your head will keep getting warmer, which can be a huge issue if you’re prone to excessive sweating.
So, the solution for that is wearing a cold-weather running headband.
It looks like a beanie, but with the top cut off.
This way, it exposes the top of your head to the outside. That may seem counterproductive to keeping warm, but it’s actually quite the opposite.
The open end of the headband allows your body to regulate its temperature.
Since the warm air isn’t trapped inside the headband, you can keep producing heat, and it’ll escape through the top.
How to Choose the Best Cold Weather Running Headband
There’s nothing better than a long run in the open air. However, there are many times when running outdoors can be difficult.
This is especially true during winter times. One way you can help fight off the cold is by using a cold-weather running headband.
There are a couple of factors you should consider when buying cold-weather headbands. These factors include:
Materials
You can get cold weather running headbands in a few different materials.
Polyester
When it comes to headbands, many manufacturers use polyester. Polyester is an excellent insulator and can help keep you warm.
It does that by completely trapping warm air particles between the band and your head.
No matter how cold the weather gets, polyester should be able to keep you warm. It can be useful if you’re running in harsh, cold environments.
However, the biggest issue with polyester is that it can make you sweat a lot. Polyester also can’t absorb any of the sweat and instead traps it.
This can lead to serious rashes after prolonged use. So, if you already sweat a lot, a polyester headband might not be for you.
Wool
If you’re worried about sweating, then wool can be your best option. As we all know, wool is amazing at keeping you warm.
In addition, it can also absorb sweat, making wool an ideal material choice for a cold-weather running headband.
Wool can even dry out as you run, so it isn’t going to be soaking wet at the end of a long run. The only major issue with wool headbands is maintenance.
When it comes to upkeep, wool products can be demanding. They need special care when washing them, and they don’t last as long as polyester products.
Cotton
Cotton is also quite common when making headbands. It has the durability of polyester with the absorption of wool. This makes cotton the safe choice.
If you’re not sure what type of material would feel more comfortable, cotton is a great place to start.
However, even though cotton can absorb sweat, it doesn’t dry out as quickly. That means that after a particularly long run, you’ll likely have a soaking headband.
This can be a huge issue if you plan on doing anything after your run. You’ll need to take the time to dry your headband before putting it away.
Comfort
Another incredibly important factor to consider is comfort. The best thing about headbands is that they’re easy to use.
Most of the time, all you have to do is slip the headband on. However, because of its simple nature, many people don’t focus on fit and comfort.
Many cold-weather running headbands are one size fits all. This can make finding your perfect fit a little tricky.
You want a headband that won’t slip off your head. It also shouldn’t be too tight, or it can cause a tension headache.
Depending on the material you choose, the headband should have different stretching properties.
So, before you go on a long run, it might be a good idea to try on your headband and do some daily chores.
Top 5 Best Cold Weather Running Headbands
Let’s take a look at some of the best cold weather running headbands on the market.
Tough Headwear Sports Cold Weather Running Headband
The Tough Headwear Sports Headband is one of the most versatile headbands out there. It mostly consists of polyester, which makes it incredibly durable.
In addition, to fix the sweat problem, the headband has a sweat-flicking border.
Other than the polyester, the headband does also contain spandex.
Since polyester is a non-stretch fabric, we need a little spandex to help fit the headband. Spandex gives the headband a bit of stretch and extra firmness.
This means that your headband can last for longer and needs much less maintenance.
Features
- Lightweight fabric so you can wear the headband for longer periods
- Made of durable polyester that can last for a long time
Pros
- The headband contains spandex to give it more stretch
- Moisture flicking border to keep sweat out of your eyes
- The fabric is versatile, and you can use it throughout the year
Cons
- Polyester can lead to a rash with prolonged usage
- It may not fit all head shapes
Vinsguir Sports Cold Weather Running Headband
If you want to wear your headband for more than just running, the Vinsguir Sports Headband may be for you.
You can wear it while running or to do tasks around the house.
This headband consists of a blend of spandex and nylon. That makes it one of the most breathable headbands on our list.
Even though it can’t absorb any sweat, it’ll still allow airflow so your head can dry naturally. It’s also lightweight, which makes it ideal for everyday use, even for daily house chores.
Features
- It comes in a pack of four stylish colors
- The 13 cm band can cover most foreheads
Pros
- You can use this headband indoors and outdoors
- Spandex blend allows the headband to stretch and match your head shape
- Breathable material to help you avoid skin rashes
Cons
- Isn’t very good at absorbing sweat
- The one size won’t fit all head sizes
Temple Tape Cold Weather Running Headband
If you want both style and comfort in a headband, the Temple Tape Headband may be for you. This headband is one of the more stylish options on our list.
Not only does it come in 9 vibrant colors, but its shape is also more flattering on most foreheads.
This headband also comes with a non-slip grip. The grip helps the headband stay in place as soon as you place it on your head.
However, the Temple Tape isn’t the best for sweat absorption. Sometimes you can get sweat build-up, which can be uncomfortable.
Features
- The headband consists of sweat-wicking materials
- It has a non-slip grip for extra comfort
Pros
- You have the option of 9 vibrant colors to choose from
- The slim design is more flattering on a wider range of foreheads
- The grip keeps the headband in place no matter how active you are
Cons
- It may be a little too loose on smaller heads
- Some colors can get pale over time when they get washed
Smartwool Merino 250 Reversible Cold Weather Running Headband
The Smartwool Merino 250 Reversible Headband is the most absorbent option on our list. Since it’s made of wool, it can absorb sweat and dry by the end of your run.
Another great feature of this headband is its dual reversible face. This means that you can turn the headband inside out and still have a stylish exterior.
One of the few issues with this headband is that it’s a little more expensive. It’s also not appropriate for all weather conditions.
It needs to be fairly cold for you to wear the headband out.
Features
- Double layer of interlocking wool to keep you warm
- Even though it’s double-layered, the design is not bulky
Pros
- A reversible headband means you can get more wear on a single wash
- The wool is incredibly absorbent, so you’ll stay dry for longer
- The headband is loose fitting and is comfortable for long runs
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than other options
- The wool is too warm for summer and sometimes spring
LuckyGo Sports Cold Weather Running Headband
If you don’t plan on using your headband often, consider the LuckyGo Sports Headband. This headband is excellent for occasional use.
The inner lining is anti-slip, so all you have to do is slip on the headband. You won’t have to worry about adjusting it or the headband moving.
However, its biggest issue is sweat absorption. This headband can’t really absorb much sweat.
So, if you sweat a lot or plan on wearing the headband for a long time, it may not be for you.
Features
- It has an anti-slip inner lining to help secure the headband
- It comes with a reflective logo for visibility at night
Pros
- One of the most stretchy headbands on the list
- Anti-slip lining means you don’t have to worry about readjusting the headband
- The design is versatile so that it will fit more head shapes
Cons
- It doesn’t do a good job of absorbing sweat
- Can lose its stretch over time
Wrapping Up
Our top pick is the Tough Sports Headband. This headband is made of polyester, which means it’s durable.
In addition, it also fixes the sweat problem, thanks to its sweat-flicking border that keeps you dry. As for comfort, it’s made for long runs and can stretch because of the spandex.