Beanie Vs Skull Cap, Learn the Difference (With Pictures)

Beanie vs Skull Cap, is a common comparison, what is the difference? Although they might look very similar, they have a few very subtle differences. This post tries to cover these differences to help the readers understand the purposes for which they both are used. Usually, Skull caps are a little less on the fancy side, while Beanies can have highly attractive patterns. However, this is not the most prominent difference between the two.

The Main Difference

The main difference between Beanies and Skull Caps lies in the fit of the two styles. This difference in fit makes these appropriate for different purposes.

Skull Caps are worn tight to the wearer’s head. No part of the hat is slack. One can draw an analogy to the running tights, which stick to the legs and take their shape.

Beanies, on the other hand, can have a circular but pointed top that hangs a little. Beanies don’t fit as tightly as skull caps; however, they are not too loose either. If they are too loose and hang in an inverted u-shaped manner, then they are termed as slouchy beanies.

Therefore, beanie vs skull cap has a subtle difference that is often ignored but is quite relevant when it comes to usage.

What’s Warmer Beanie or Skull Cap?

It entirely depends on the material used in the Beanie or the Skull Cap to compare which is warmer. However, Beanies are more frequently made from wool, while Skull Caps from polyester or other stretchy materials. This indicates that most Beanies are warmer than most Skull Caps. However, Even Beanies can be made from a material other than wool, while Skull Caps can be made from wool too. In that case, the outcome will reverse in favor of Skull caps. Either way, make sure to take proper care of the wool.

What Is a Beanie?

A Beanie, or Stocking Cap or Knit Cap, is a cap that fits very closely on the top of the head.

Some theorists say that it got its name from the small button at the top of the cap. This button was as little as a bean seed, and therefore, the cap came to be known as a beanie. However, other theorists believe that it is called a beanie because it covers the head, which is at times also referred to as ‘bean.’ Both theories are still prominent, and there is no conclusive evidence of which one is true.

Initially, Beanies were worn by blue-collar workers to protect their heads from cold and sun or to prevent the hair from coming on their face. Also, Beanies were worn by University freshmen due to peer-pressure. Once the students graduated to the sophomore year, they would burn their Beanies as a symbolic gesture.

Nowadays, Beanies have become more common and also fashionable. Many have a folded cuff appropriate to be worn in winters. Many others come with decorations such as buttons, logos, bows, pom poms and the like. They have become popular for all wearers, and many are ideal for any gender. Some Beanies are also reversible and therefore have two designs incorporated in one.

There are many different styles of Beanies, for example, Whoopee Caps, Baseball Beanies, Slouchy Beanies, and many more. Also, a Skull Cap is essentially a Beanie; however, it has a distinctive look and style.

There is a tradition of celebrating the ‘Blue Beanie Day’ on the 30^th of November each year in technology circles. On this day, web developers create and raise awareness about Web Standards of the internet. They wear blue beanies and share their photographs in this process. This event was first celebrated in 2007 and has been celebrated every year since then.

A few key specifications of Beanies are as follows:

• They are generally made using Acrylic, Fleece, Wool, or Cotton.
• They use several knit patterns such as Chunky knit, Crochet, Double Knit, and so on.
• Some even have ear flaps to be used in much colder places.
• Some have an internal liner for softness or additional warmth.
• Some are reversible and can be worn inside out.

Some religions such as Islam and Judaism have very specific designs for beanies to be worn on formal, religious occasions with traditional wear. 

What Is a Skull Cap?

The Skull Cap. or Skully, is a particular style of a Beanie. It fits the head very tightly or snugly and is not lose at the top. It is perfect to be worn under helmets to absorb sweat. Further, some skull caps are also suitable for wearing while swimming. Because of this usage, there is usually little or no decoration on skull caps.

As Skull caps fit so snugly, a common query is whether they are breathable. This depends on what Skull Cap is made of. By using very specific materials such as polyester, spandex, or nylon, Skull Caps will breathe very well. These materials also absorb sweat and don’t create irritation on the skin.

Some skull caps are specially designed to be used in winters to prevent the loss of body heat. These are made from wool or fleece to provide warmth. They are useful in winter sports.

Some Skull caps have a foam lining that adds to the protection for the head. It is an excellent choice to be worn under a helmet. In case of an accident, these will protect the wearer’s head from severe injuries.

Wearers get a variety of colors to choose from to add to their style quotient. Most of the time, one size fits all; however, the sizes might vary for children, teens, and adults.

Beanie Vs Skull Cap

Comparison Properties	Beanies	Skull Cap
Uses (for)	Winter wear, Costume Parties, Solidarity Events, Styling Accessory	Protective gear, Sportswear, Winter wear, Under Helmet Wear
Ideal For	Men, Women, Children, LGBTQ Community	Sportspersons, Bikers, Bike Commuters
Advantages	Stylish, Easy to maintain, Warm, Several Styles	Protects the head from injuries, add style
Disadvantages	Not appropriate for formal usage	Not suitable for formal usage, Might not be warm enough, Uncomfortable for some wearers because of the snug fit
Durability	If made from good quality wool, they are extremely durable	If made from thin material, they can tear easily
Weight	Relatively heavier	Relatively lighter
Waterproof Material	Non-waterproof if made from wool	Waterproof if made from spandex
Reflective Material	Non-reflective	Reflective
Care and Maintenance	As the material is strong, it requires lower care, but it can retain stains easily	As the material is relatively thin, it requires more care, but it can’t retain stains easily
Types and Styles	Slouchy, Propeller, Brimless, Folded Cuffed	Foamed lining, Felt lining, Multilayered
Weather	Mostly Winters	Mostly Summers
Availability	Easily available	Easily available
Prices	$5-$100	$5-$75

What Are Beanies for?

Most of the time, Beanies are used to protect from cold. They are made from acrylic, fleece, wool, and similar materials and are therefore great to be worn in winters. They can be used as casual accessories or sporting headgear in winter sports.

What Are Skull Caps for?

Mostly, skull caps are used as a protective layer to be worn under helmets. They add additional protection, and if they have a foam lining, they protect the wearer from severe injuries. Some might have a fleece lining to be worn in winters.

The Best Beanie

The Best Skull Cap

Final Thoughts

Skull Caps are a subset of Beanies, but in common usage, they each have a specific purpose. If the wearer is looking for a helmet liner to absorb sweat or an additional protective layer, he should go for a Skull Cap; however, if he requires winter protection, then an Acrylic, Wool, or Fleece, a Beanie is a better option. Both can be made from different materials, but the most commonly used materials are spandex and polyester for Skull Caps and wool and its alternatives for Beanies.