What Is a Fisherman Beanie?

The History of Fisherman Beanies

Fisherman beanies originated in the 17^th century as functional and thick woollen headwear for North Atlantic fisherman. Designed for harsh maritime conditions, fisherman beanies are worn above the ears so as not to interfere with hearing or vision while still providing warmth and durability. At this time they were usually hand-knitted by family members using thick wool that would keep the head warm even when wet from the spray at sea.

It wasn’t until the 1990s that fisherman beanies became a modern streetwear staple, popularised by grunge, skate and hip-hop subcultures and the resurgence of nostalgia and workwear inspired trends.

Fisherman Beanie Key Characteristics

• Shallow Fit: The defining feature of a fisherman beanie is how, unlike slouchier beanies, it sits high on the head, usually above the ears.
  
  
• Rolled Cuff: Traditionally, the brim of the beanie would be rolled up to allow fisherman to hear better, but could be rolled down to keep the ears warm when needed.
  
  
• Ribbed Knit Texture: Typically made from thick, ribbed or cable knit wool, providing stretch, warmth and breathability.
  
  
• Versatility: The minimalist, simple design of fisherman beanies makes them suitable for both outdoor activities like hiking and everyday urban wear.