Beanies and Caps
Used MTB beanies and caps from Fox Racing, Troy Lee Designs, Dakine and Santa Cruz are a cut above generic alternatives, with proper fit, quality materials and designs that actually look good. Wear them under a helmet for warmth, in the uplift queue, or out and about — trail car parks in winter are a sea of Fox, TLD and Fasthouse beanies.
What makes a good MTB beanie?
A good MTB beanie fits snug enough to work under a helmet without bunching. Fox Racing and Troy Lee Designs make cuffed and uncuffed versions in acrylic and acrylic-wool blends. For riding, thinner beanies that sit flat under a lid are better — thick knit beanies push helmets up and affect fit.
Which beanie for cold UK rides?
Merino options from Mons Royale wick sweat on cold climbs. For standing around rather than riding, thicker beanies from Fasthouse and Loose Riders keep you warm without riding compromises, much like a heavyweight post-ride hoodie.
Snapback or flexfit trucker?
Trucker caps are the default MTB headwear — mesh back for breathability, structured front for the brand logo. Fox, TLD, Santa Cruz, Yeti and Commencal all produce them. Snapback versus flexfit is personal preference.
Can I wear a cap under my helmet?
Some riders wear caps under helmets for sun protection and sweat management. For this, unstructured soft-bill caps work better than stiff truckers, and Dakine and Race Face make cycling-specific caps with shorter brims designed for helmet compatibility.
What should I check buying used?
Caps and beanies are straightforward used buys. Check snapback closures still click, as they wear out, and remember embroidered logos hold up better than screen-printed ones. Beanies shouldn't have felted from hot washing, and trucker cap mesh can stretch and lose shape over time — check it springs back when squeezed. The same print and shape checks run across MTB casual clothing, including used t-shirts and vests.