Wool may seem an odd material choice for a running cap. But anyone who’s followed GearJunkie knows our love of sheep fuzz for outdoors performance wear.
That said, the Woolen line from Jackrabbit Caps, a new brand out of California, was a bit of a mystery to us at first inspection.
We’re used to running in lightweight synthetic caps from brands the likes of Head Sweats. Jackrabbit’s wool offerings are a bit heavier than a normal cap, including a thicker ply of material than what you get with many synthetic models.
The bill is heavy and thick, too. It’s extra-long for the “cycling-style” hat design, which is nice for sun protection but makes the cap look a little odd from some angles.
Quality is good with these caps, which are made in the USA. The price is average, starting at about $30.
On the run, the wool material is nice for spring days or summer runs up to about 70 degrees. It’s too warm a material for hot summer days. However, the wool breathes nicely in all conditions.
Jackrabbit Running Caps are made in San Diego by the same small company that runs Walz Cycling Caps, a sister brand. We like these guys and appreciate the handmade look and feel — it’s great to see caps coming out of a U.S. plant, and the designs make them unique among a field of hats made overseas.
Take a look at Jackrabbit if you’re a runner in search of something new. Beyond the wool line, the brand has synthetic (polyester) hats for warmer temps, as well as men’s and women’s styles and custom designs.
—Stephen Regenold
