Both beanies and toques are types of winter hats that are worn to keep the head warm. Though they are similar, there are some key differences between the two.
What is a Beanie?
A beanie is a soft, close-fitting hat that covers the head and ears. Beanies are typically made of soft, stretchy material such as knitted wool, cashmere, or acrylic. The defining feature of a beanie is that it does not have a brim or fold-up edge. Instead, it sits closely on the crown of the head.
Beanies are designed to provide warmth while allowing some breathability. The stretchy fabric hugs the head for insulation while not being too thick or heavy. This makes them popular for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and other cold weather sports.
Beanies come in all kinds of colors, patterns, and styles. They can be plain and simple or have decorative elements like pom poms or tassels on top. Beanies are commonly worn by both men and women and are quite casual.
What is a Toque?
A toque is a type of knitted winter hat with a narrow brim that folds up around the crown. The word toque comes from a French word meaning “cap.”
Toques are traditionally made from wool but can also be made from fleece, cashmere, acrylic, or other synthetic materials. They feature a ribbed knit pattern that provides stretch and insulation. Toques are designed to keep the entire head warm, covering the crown, ears, and forehead.
The ribbed knit pattern allows the toque to stretch and conform closely to the head for a snug fit. The brim of the toque can be worn flipped up to provide even more protection and warmth to vulnerable areas like the ears and neck.
Toques often come in solid, neutral colors but can also have stylish patterns and details. Toques for women may have decorative elements like flowers, bows, or fur pom poms. Men’s toques tend to have more simple, minimalist designs.
Key Differences
While beanies and toques are similar winter knit hats, there are a few key differences:
- A beanie sits closely on the crown of the head while a toque also covers the forehead, ears, and back of the head.
- A toque has a folded up brim while a beanie does not have a brim.
- Beanies stretch to fit snugly on the head while toques are more structured in shape.
- Toques are traditionally made of wool while beanies can be wool, cashmere, acrylic, or other materials.
- Beanies have a more casual, relaxed look compared to toques.
The main purpose of both hats is to provide warmth during cold weather. However, their construction and fit differ slightly based on intended use. Understanding the key differences can help you decide which option better suits your style and needs.
History of Beanies
The origins of the beanie can be traced back to medieval ages in Europe. At the time, peasants wore simple, skullcap-style hats called “coifs” made of wool felt to keep warm.
In the 20th century, these caps evolved into more modernized versions that we now know as beanies. The term “beanie” first emerged around 1890 referring to the cap style. “Beanie” may have derived from the term “beanhead,” a nickname given to freshmen college students required to wear caps.
Beanies became popular among college students and young boys in the 1920s and 30s. In 1922, a British designer named Jacob created the first knitted wool ski cap with a pompom on top, launching a trend. Beanies became widely popular after World War II, becoming associated with the preppy Ivy League fashion style.
Over time, beanies have evolved from a plain utilitarian cap to a fashionable accessory. Today they come in an endless array of colors, fabrics, and embellishments though the classic cuffed knit cap remains iconic. Celebrities like Justin Bieber have popularized beanies in the 2000s.
Key Moments in Beanie History
- Middle Ages – European peasants wear wool skullcaps called coifs.
- Early 1900s – The term “beanie” emerges referring to college freshmen caps.
- 1922 – First pompom beanie designed by Jacob in the UK.
- 1930s/40s – Beanies gain popularity among Ivy League students.
- Post WWII – Beanies become a trendy fashion accessory.
- 2000s – Celebs like Justin Bieber make beanies cool again.
History of Toques
Toques have been around for centuries since medieval times. English, French, and Russian peasants wore basic stocking caps during the Middle Ages to keep warm in winter.
The word “toque” comes from Middle Breton, the Celtic language of Brittany, France. In the 12th century, women wore a type of close-fitting hat called a “toque” with a narrow brim. Over time, the word became associated with several types of brimmed or top-crowned hats.
Toques were eventually brought to Canada by French settlers. The earflap toque became popular with indigenous Canadian people as well. This style provided maximum warmth for frigid winters.
By the 20th century, toques became widely embraced as winter wear by all Canadians. Today the Canadian toque is seen as a national symbol and popular souvenir item.
Key Moments in Toque History
- 12th century – Women in France wear close-fitting hats called toques.
- 1600s – French settlers bring toques to Canada.
- 18th/19th century – Toques adopted by indigenous Canadians.
- 1900s – Toques popularized as Canadian winter wear.
- Today – Canadian toques are a cultural symbol.
Beanie vs. Toque: Which is Warmer?
When it comes to keeping your head toasty, beanies and toques are both great options. However, toques tend to provide better insulation and retain more heat than beanies.
There are two main reasons why toques are the warmer choice in extremely cold conditions:
- More coverage – Toques cover more surface area including the forehead, ears, and back of the head. Beanies only sit on top of the crown.
- Thicker material – Toques are traditionally made of thick ribbed wool rather than thin stretchy fabrics. The extra bulk locks in heat.
However, beanies can still be quite warm too. The difference is most noticeable in places where the temperature dips well below freezing. For milder climates, a beanie may be plenty sufficient at keeping you cozy.
Some key factors that affect warmth for both hats include:
- Thickness – Choose a tighter knit with thicker yarn.
- Material – Wool and cashmere are warmest. Acrylic is less insulating.
- Fit – A stretchy close fit creates less airflow.
- Color – Dark colors absorb more heat from sunlight.
In the end, the warmest hat is the one you will actually wear consistently! Choose the style you find most comfortable and appealing.
Beanies vs. Toques: Fashion and Style
When it comes to fashion, beanies and toques each have their own distinctive look and style.
Beanies are associated with more casual, urban outfits. They have a relaxed, youthful vibe and come in endless trendy colors and patterns.
Toques have more of a classic, rustic feel. They look great with winter activities like skiing and snowboarding. Toques also have a bit of a preppy look.
Here’s a breakdown of how beanies and toques fit into different fashion aesthetics:
Style | Beanie | Toque |
---|---|---|
Streetwear/Skater | ✔ | |
Casual Cool | ✔ | |
Preppy | ✔ | |
Sporty | ✔ | |
Rustic | ✔ |
Beanies work well for relaxed casual outfits like jeans, hoodies, flannels, and sneakers. Toques complement sporty winter gear and lumberjack-inspired looks.
Choose your hat based on the image you want to convey. Both can look hip and stylish if worn intentionally.
Conclusion
Beanies and toques share similarities as winter headwear, but some key differences set them apart. Beanies have a close-fitting, stretchy design optimal for casual wear. Toques offer more warmth and coverage suited for frigid conditions. In terms of style, beanies skew casual and youthful while toques have a classic, rustic vibe.
There’s no right or wrong option – choose whichever hat suits your personal needs and preferences. No matter which you choose, you can stay both cozy and fashionable all winter long!