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Toques (a.k.a. tuques) are great. We love us some reliable Canadian toques! But sometimes cold weather necessitates warming winter gear that works a little harder to, say, keep your hairdo looking good, or make a bold statement, or cover your sensitive bits (ew, not those ones—we mean the ones on your face). Example? Several years ago, the CL team tested out Beardski, a combination neck gaiter-fake beard (“Saving Face,” Waterfront, Winter ’18). The beards range in style. Wanna look like a pirate? Done. A Viking? Cool. Santa? Ho ho, heck yes. And, while we can confirm that a Beardski will keep you warm, long artisanal facial hair isn’t for everyone. So here are five other alternatives to a humdrum toque.
Courtesy Amazon
Women's winter balaclava hat
Finally! A balaclava that protects your face without making you look like you’re about to knock over a 7-Eleven. This ultra-toasty, windproof version comes in eight different colours.
Courtesy mec
Chaos Dylan trapper hat
This trapper-style hat is 50 per cent wool and 100 per cent awesome. The ear flaps come with a buckle, so you can secure them under your chin.
Courtesy Amazon
Children's bearded knit cap
These kid-sized knit caps come with a detachable beard (in different styles) to keep small faces warm. And…for jokes. C’mon.
Courtesy Etsy
Ponytail/bun hat
A regular toque is an up do’s mortal enemy in the winter. This hat’s dedicated bun/high ponytail opening means you can keep your hairstyle in place while also keeping warm. Win.
Courtesy Amazon
Long-eared knitted skull cap
This fitted hat will make you look a little “like a rabbit all day, bouncing around,” says the cap’s maker, ZUYYON. Or…it’ll make you look a little like the main characters in Sia’s music video for “Cheap Thrills.” Bouncing around.
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