Skida Nordic Hat Review
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Skida Nordic Hat
Skida Nordic Hat initial impressions
Skida has many outdoor products including hats, headbands, neck warmers, and even a colorful kids line. The Nordic Hat was actually one of the first and original Skida designs. Its origins lie within the cross-country skiing community, but with the wonderful diversity of outdoor winter sports this hat is truly multi-functional. It is lightweight with a breathable fabric and wicks away moisture to stay dry while exercising. Made in the great State of Vermont. This is a fact that Vermonters take a lot of pride in!
Package in the mail, and it is says “TREATS” plus a personalized note. How cool is that?!
Technical material details
The Skida Nordic Hat is made with a Poly-spandex jersey with MAX-Dri moisture management technology with a blend of 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex. Technical jargon aside, I saw it as a piece of finely textured cloth cinched together at the top and held together with a single bead. The cloth then wraps at the hem/edge, but never quite returns all the way back to the top. This means that there is a 4-5” circle on top with only 1 layer of cloth providing great venting.
Interior Close up near the top where the single layer allows for venting and breathability
Skida Nordic Hat Performance
The Skida Nordic Hat stems from the need to create a warm yet breathable hat in the cross-country skiing community. I’ve been cross country skiing, and can attest to the fact that it’s a serious workout! Being out in winter’s wonderland can of course bring a host of elements which will need to be dealt with. Now, I prefer snowshoe running myself, but the premise is the same. It requires a whole lot of energy and perspiration all while trying to move through various snow and weather conditions. What I look for in my headgear is that it provides warmth and protection from the elements while still allowing some of the sweat to wick from your head. The Skida Nordic Hat’s technical and design elements go a long way in meeting my winter endurance goals.
I received my Skida Nordic hat at the beginning of October. The ability to take them out into the mountains for a snowshoe or run was probably still a good month or two away. Hence, I decided to test this hat while participating in some of my other passions; running and cycling. The perfect morning presented itself. 37 degrees, and what would certainly be a hammerfest with a local ride called FDR (Frustrated Dad Ride). When the temperatures dip like that, and there are still 25-30 riders that show up. You know it’s a going to hurt, because only the really hardcore (or slightly nuts) cyclists come out to play. The first few miles are a warm up, but even at 15 mph the wind makes things uncomfortably chilly. Initial feedback on the hat; my ears and head never got cold.
At first the fit wasn’t quite right with my helmet, so I had to make some adjustments. Once situated, I never had to mess with it again. When we reach a State Park the hammer comes down and things get grippy. Average speeds of 26-30 mph obviously creates a lot of wind, but the work effort quickly had my heart rate in the red. I was definitely warmed up and sweating, but the sweat wicked away through the top of the hat nicely. To be honest, I never even gave the hat a second thought until I got home. Job well done Skida Nordic hat!
Temperatures in the teens, and able to enjoy a beautiful winter run.
During my morning runs, the hat came in super handy. The Nordic Hat’s warmer cousin, the Skida Alpine Hat (tested on Active Gear Review as well) has a fleece lining suited more for the skier or snowboarder. My Nordic hat was great for running. It keeps the initial chill out, but allows for ‘steam’ to escape through the chimney so to speak. As my run progressed, and the sun came out there were times when I did have to shed the hat. Due to it’s compact nature, storing it away in my coat pocket or even carrying it for a few miles was not an issue. As the sun would disappear behind a cloud, I would put the hat on to prevent that little bit of wind to chill my head.
The Skida Nordic hat is a perfect option for blazing a trail while snowshoeing.
Final Thoughts on the Skida Nordic Hat
This is one serious piece of equipment that cannot be left at home when tackling your favorite athletic outdoor endeavor in winter time. The Skida Nordic hat provides warmth and coverage from the elements. As you warm up, or temperatures increase, the hat breathes nicely through the top to help maintain a cool head, so to speak. I am a fan, and I absolutely love the awesome designs that Skida has come up with. For more information, a chance to peruse those amazing designs, and purchase please visit www.backcountry.com/shopskida.
