Hats often get overlooked in the world of gym wear. We spend ages choosing the right tee, the right trainers and the perfect hoodie, then we walk out the door with nothing on our heads. But a good hat does a surprising amount of work, whether you're training indoors or braving the great outdoors.

Here's why it's worth adding a cap or beanie to your gym bag, and how to pick the right one for the job.

The Benefits of Wearing a Hat in the Gym

You might think hats are just for style, and they do look great. But there are practical reasons to wear one on the gym floor too.

• They keep hair and sweat out of your face. 
• They help you get in the zone. 
• They're a handy shortcut on bad hair days.
• They finish off your outfit. 
• They go from gym bag to everyday wear. 

The Benefits of Wearing a Hat for Outdoor Workouts

Take your training outside, and a hat suddenly goes from a nice extra to a proper piece of kit.

Sun protection for your face. On bright days, a cap with a peak helps shield your eyes and face from glare, so you can see where you're going on a run or a bike ride. A Trucker Cap is a popular choice for warmer conditions, and trucker caps usually have a mesh back panel for extra breathability.

Shelter from drizzle. This is the UK, after all. A peaked cap can help keep light rain off your face on a damp morning jog, which makes the whole thing a lot more bearable.

Warmth when it's cold. This is where beanies come into their own. Heat escapes from your head, so covering it up makes a big difference on a freezing morning. Our Ribbed Knit Beanie and Cuffed Beanie are great for running, walking or warming up outdoors before you head inside.

Comfort during your warm-up and cool-down. Your body temperature drops quickly once you stop moving. A beanie is an easy way to stay cosy while you stretch, walk home or wait around after your workout.

Cap or Beanie? How to Choose

It mostly comes down to the weather and what you're doing.

Go for a cap or snapback when:

• You're training indoors and want to keep hair and sweat out of the way
• It's warm or sunny outside
• You're running, cycling or doing any outdoor activity where glare is an issue
• You want something lightweight and easy to wear

Go for a beanie when:

• It's cold, whether you're outside or in a chilly gym
• You're warming up or cooling down
• You're walking or running in autumn and winter
• You want something cosy that you can pull straight on

If you train all year round, you'll probably want one of each. Pack a cap for the summer and a beanie for the colder months and you're covered.

Understanding the Different Styles

It helps to know the difference between the main types, so here's a quick rundown:

Baseball and gym caps: Classic, lightweight and comfortable. Try the Vintage Gym Cap in Pink or the Vintage Gym Cap in Red if you fancy a bit of colour.

Snapbacks: Structured caps with an adjustable snap closure at the back, which gives a classic, uniform look. Take a look at the Snapback Hat in White and Black or the Classic Snapback Hat in Black and Pink.

Trucker hats: Similar to a snapback but usually with a mesh back panel for extra airflow. A great option for warmer days.

Beanies: Cosy, snug and perfect for cold weather. Choose from ribbed, cuffed or fisherman styles. The Fisherman Beanie in Black is a stylish pick that suits just about anything.

A Colour for Every Mood

Gym hats come in a wide range of shades, from classic black and navy to standout pink and red. Black goes with everything, so it's a safe bet if you only want one. If you'd like a pop of personality, a brighter colour can lift your whole outfit. Want to match your hat to your gym kit? Browse by colour: Black, Pink, Red, Blue or Grey.

Getting the Most from Your Hat

A few simple tips will help you enjoy your hat for longer:

1. Check the fit. A hat should feel secure without being tight. If it gives you a headache, it isn't the right one.
2. Match the hat to the conditions. A beanie in a hot gym or a peaked cap on a freezing morning won't do you any favours.
3. Keep a spare. Sweat happens, so it's handy to have a clean hat ready to go.
4. Layer it up. In colder weather, combine a beanie with a gym hoodie or jacket for the walk to and from your session.

Top Of Your Training

A hat might seem like a small thing, but it can make your workouts more comfortable and keep distractions away. Indoors, it keeps sweat and hair out of the way. Outside, it shields you from sun, rain and cold. And whichever you choose, it adds a bit of style to your look.

Ready to top off your training kit? Browse the full Gym Hats collection to find the perfect cap, snapback or beanie for your next session.