3 Responsible Hat Brands
As the cold months sweep across the Nordic hemisphere, there’s one item that becomes a survival essential, but maybe for some also a style statement: the hat. From crisp morning commutes to frosty weekend walks, a good beanie or wool-free cap keeps us warm, grounded and can also be a statement symbol.
Second-hand first
Before you click add to cart, start where every conscious wardrobe begins: the second-hand market. Hats are one of the easiest accessories to find preloved, from vintage wool berets to knitted beanies, or structured caps with just the right patina. Local thrift stores, second-hand apps, or even your friend’s forgotten drawer may hold a hidden gem.
And if you’re worried about hygiene? A gentle wash or a few days in the freezer works wonders. (Yes, freezing kills potential lice without damaging delicate fibres.) With proper care, there’s rarely a reason a hat can’t live a second life.
When second-hand isn’t an option
Sometimes, the perfect size, colour or fit simply doesn’t appear. Luckily, there are brands that combine sustainability, cruelty-free materials, and ethical production, giving you warmth without compromise. Here are three worth knowing:
The Common Good Company
Australia, founded 2016
Born in Melbourne, The Common Good Company creates timeless streetwear essentials from recycled and organic materials. Their beanies and caps are made from GOTS-certified cotton and recycled PET, produced in ethical factories with full transparency. The brand’s philosophy is simple: fashion should do good, not harm — for people or planet.
Komodo
United Kingdom, founded 1988
A pioneer in sustainable fashion, Komodo has been championing eco-friendly design long before it became a trend. Their vegan-friendly knitwear and accessories use organic cotton, hemp, and Tencel — all produced under fair labour standards. Each collection shows how effortless ethical fashion can look when designed with decades of expertise.
Plant Faced Clothing
United Kingdom, founded 2016
Streetwear with a conscience. Plant Faced produces cruelty-free, vegan-certified pieces that are both edgy and kind. Their beanies and caps are crafted from organic cotton and embroidered with bold, purpose-driven messages — a reminder that activism can also be wearable.
As temperatures drop, your head deserves to be wrapped in something that feels as good as it looks, and knowing that it’s gentle on the planet makes it even warmer. Whether it’s a second-hand find, a recycled classic, or a bold vegan statement piece, your winter hat can be more than an accessory. It can be a quiet declaration of care and an expression of identity! Or you prefer to stay low-key and only want to make a better choice.
Stay warm, stay kind, and always stay sustainable.