As temperatures drop, there’s no better time to cozy up your brand with custom winter hats. Whether for employee gifts, team uniforms, or customer giveaways, branded headwear is one of the most practical and stylish ways to keep your logo visible all season long.

But not all winter hats are created equal — and not every embroidery design works on every style. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular types of winter hats and our top tips for creating a standout embroidered logo.

1. Beanies

The classic choice for warmth and style.

Beanies are snug, knit caps made to keep the head and ears warm without extra bulk. They’re versatile, easy to wear, and ideal for both casual and corporate looks.

Best for: Tech companies, outdoor brands, and employee winter kits.
Embroidery tip: Opt for a smaller logo centred for a clean, professional look. If your design is detailed, choose a flat stitch over puff embroidery to maintain clarity on knit material.

2. Toques

The Canadian favorite with endless style options.

A toque (pronounced “tuke”) is essentially a beanie — but with Canadian flair. Often made with thicker yarn and a folded brim, toques are great for bold embroidery and bright colour combinations.

Best for: Canadian brands or any business looking to add warmth and personality to their winter merch.
Embroidery tip: Toques with a wide cuff provide a perfect surface for your logo. High-contrast thread colours make your design pop, especially on darker knits.

3. Pom-Pom Hats

Fun, playful, and perfect for team spirit.

Pom-pom hats add a touch of personality to classic beanies. The pom on top can be customized to match brand colours, making them ideal for sports teams, events, or youth organizations.

Best for: Sports teams, schools, and festive giveaways.
Embroidery tip: Keep the logo placement low and centred on the cuff — the pom naturally draws the eye upward, so a simple, bold logo ensures balance.

4. Fleece-Lined and Performance Hats

Warmth meets function.

For outdoor workers, runners, or winter sports enthusiasts, fleece-lined or moisture-wicking hats offer comfort and performance. These materials require a slightly different embroidery approach to preserve flexibility.

Best for: Construction companies, outdoor brands, or winter event staff.
Embroidery tip: Simplify your logo for maximum stitch efficiency!

5. Beanie with Ponytail Opening

Where style meets practicality.

Our Acrylic Beanie with Elasticized Ponytail Opening is a customer favorite for a reason, it’s designed with a smart, stretchy opening that lets you comfortably pull your ponytail or bun through without sacrificing warmth or style. Made from soft acrylic knit, it’s perfect for active days outdoors or casual wear during chilly commutes.

Best for: Fitness studios, outdoor events, or any brand with an on-the-go audience.
Embroidery tip: Since this style doesn’t have a fold-over cuff, place your logo on the front centre panel for maximum visibility. Simplified, bold designs work best on the smooth knit surface.

Tips to Make Your Logo Stand Out

Even the best-designed hat won’t shine without the right embroidery approach. Keep these key tips in mind:

• Contrast is key: Choose thread colours that pop against your hat’s base colour.

• Mind the texture: Chunkier knits need bolder, simpler logos to stay legible.

• Placement matters: Centred cuff logos are classic; side placements add a modern twist.

• Thread finish: Matte threads look timeless, while metallic or sheen finishes catch extra light and attention.

• Ask for a stitch preview: Before final production, Mapleleaf Promotions can provide a digital proof so you know exactly how your logo will appear when stitched.

Bring Your Brand to Life This Winter

From cozy toques to innovative ponytail beanies, custom embroidered winter hats are a timeless way to showcase your logo and your team spirit.

Let Mapleleaf Promotions help you find the perfect hat style, colour, and embroidery technique to match your brand’s look and feel this season.