Bergans Tine Beanie (Striped)

Bergans of Norway's Tine Beanie: One of the best winter beanies on the market

Over Scramble's numerous kit tests the two stand-out cold weather beanies have been Mountain Equipment's Plain Knitted Beanie and this one by Bergans of Norway. The reason the Mountain Equipment beanie got the nod was due to its value score (being £15 cheaper at full price) - at the same price it's a much harder choice. For this reason Scramble offer this high-end winter beanie at a comparable price. So for those who like a little extra wool and are after a classic top quality beanie from a company known for their excellent winter wear, this could be for you.

The ideal mix of materials for a cold weather beanie are wool + acrylic (see below). The Tine Beanie has a greater ratio of wool (70%) to acrylic (30%) than the 50/50 mix of Mountain Equipment's Plain Knit, making it a little heavier (85g vs 57g, and a fraction warmer). The extra wool content provides a little more insulation and elasticity.

The Tine has a very soft and comfortable lining made of mainly polyester with a little wool and elastane thrown in, this gives it a more luxurious feel against the skin and helps wick moisture away from the head, keeping you both warm and dry. The Tine Beanie provides ample coverage for the ears and upper neck.  

An outstanding winter hat for all active cold weather pursuits. A little pricey at £35 (RRP) but under £20 an absolute steal.

Acrylic and Wool: An Ideal Combination

Acrylic

Acrylics are generally characterised by having high loft and resilience. The fibres are durable, soft, and remain resilient on contact with moisture. Acrylic fibres are hydrophobic, so don't absorb sweat; instead moisture is pushed away from the source to the surface where it evaporates. Acrylic is lightweight, warm and quick drying.

Wool

Wool is an excellent insulator with one of the highest insulation to weight ratios of any natural or man-made fibre. It insulates when wet, it's breathable, moisture wicking, temperature regulating, resilient and elastic (maintains shape over time). It doesn't retain odours and will freshen with a simple airing. The outer layer of wool fibres have a high concentration of fatty acids with anti-bacterial properties.

Blended

Acrylic and wool each have properties ideal for a warm winter hat. Combining the two materials aids fibre stability, elasticity (maintains shape), loft, durability and enhances insulation. The warmth and wicking capabilities of wool are retained, while the acrylic keeps the weight down, resilience up and reduces moisture absorption and thus quickens drying time.

Features

• Outer Fabric: 70% Wool, 30% Acrylic
• Inner Fabric: 83% Polyester, 11% Wool, 6% Elastane
• Size: One Size
• Weight: 85g

Sizing

The sizing is very similar to Mountain Equipment's Plain Knit Beanie, due to its wool content and use of elastane the hat has plenty of flex and retention and will fit most head sizes.