Layla, Georgie and Becky test Sealskinz’s Waterproof Cold Weather LED Beanie Hat.
What is it?
The perfect item for cold, dark mornings and evenings. Not only is it snug & cosy, but it’s 100% waterproof (via a waterproof and breathable membrane in the middle of two other layers), with a built in LED to provide visibility in low light conditions. This beanie is a great buddy for early morning dog walks, evening runs or an adventurous hike.
Who is it for?
This product is suited to anyone that commutes, walks a dog, goes hiking, running or mountaineering.
TESTER:
Layla
VERDICT:
I’ve mainly used the LED beanie for early morning dog walks, evening runs when the sun has just gone down or popping out into the garden after dark. On first look/touch, you can tell it’s extremely good quality and once on, you feel protected and ready to embrace the elements. It’s pretty warm, so best for colder conditions.
The light gives decent visibility (it has 3 brightness settings) and is re-chargeable by USB, with the charge lasting 240 hours. It’s a great alternative to a headtorch in lower light conditions, the simplicity of the ‘all in one’ offering is great.
My 4-year old daughter loved it too and we explored the garden at night looking for foxes!
TESTER:
Georgie
VERDICT:
This tester’s beanie had its work cut out, being put through its paces during zero degree winter runs, early morning wanders, and a particularly bracing beach walk involving rain and 40mph winds. I’ll admit to being sceptical when I first received the beanie, as the knitted design doesn’t look any different to a standard, non-waterproof hat. But I can confirm that remarkably, it’s completely waterproof, as well as having a thick lining that does a great job of keeping you warm and preventing earache when it’s particularly windy. Running-wise, it’s ideal for very cold temperatures (a little too warm for milder runs) and kept my body temperature up, allowing me dress in fewer layers so movement wasn’t restricted. Admittedly I learnt this the hard way after my first run, which resulted in a very warm finish!
The rechargeable LED light has great clarity, is easy to use (simply push the light itself) and the three light settings was a nice touch to ensure misty morning runs and pitch black evening dog walks were both catered for.
The fit was generous and allowed plenty of coverage, meaning I wasn’t constantly pulling it down to keep my ears warm.
TESTER:
Becky
VERDICT:
With the winter mornings still very dark and cold the Sealsinz LED beanie hat has been a lifesaver. I generally tend to head out for a dog walk or morning run well before sunrise, which means previously sticking to the roads or well-lit paths. However, with this beanie I can now venture into my local park and still see where I’m going!
Not only does the beanie fit well, but the roll cuff design stops it from slipping into my eyes and holds it firmly in place, especially whilst running. The hat is extremely warm as well as 100% waterproof and windproof, thanks to its three-layer construction including inner layer, acrylic knit and outer waterproof membrane.
The integrated LED is genius, allowing me to see where I’m going (i.e. avoiding the deer in Bushy Park) but also keeps me visible to others out and about in the dark. Visibility is up to 500m. The LED has 240 hours of battery and can be recharged with a USB. There are three different brightness modes/settings that are easy to change with just a tap of the light.
Another bonus is the beanie is easy to wash too, I just need to remember to remove the LED before popping it into the machine and drip drying.
I’m quite fussy when it comes to hats and don’t like to be too warm but this hat is perfect, both incredibly functional but also stylish and keeps me safe on those dark, cold winter mornings and probably well into the Spring, knowing the UK weather! I’m also planning on taking it on my annual camping trip for those precarious late-night trips to the bathroom…
