Words by Peri Roberts
When the water temperature drops, the first thing you feel is the cold creeping in through your head. It’s no secret that a warm head means a longer and more comfortable session, but how much protection do you actually need? For most riders, the choice comes down to two essentials: the Prolimit Team Beanie and the Prolimit Neoprene Hood. Both built for warmth and performance, they offer very different experiences on the water.
Warmth & Coverage
The first difference comes down to coverage. The Team Beanie sits snugly around the head, keeping the chill off while leaving your neck and face exposed. It’s perfect for those in-between conditions when you don’t quite need full winter armour but still want protection from windchill and cold spray.
The Hood, on the other hand, means business. Extending down over the neck and partially across the face, it locks out cold water and wind entirely. It’s made for midwinter sessions and long water time – when comfort depends on insulation as much as movement.
Comfort & Fit
Both use Prolimit’s high-quality neoprene for flexibility and warmth, but how they feel in use is where decisions can be split. The Team Beanie is lightweight and easy to wear – a quick pull-on solution that doesn’t restrict movement. It also fits comfortably under most helmets, making it a great choice for kitesurfers, windsurfers or SUP riders who value freedom of motion.
The Hood, meanwhile, offers a watertight seal that stays put even through heavy wipeouts. Its longer neck panel tucks neatly into your wetsuit collar to block flushing, and vent holes prevent ballooning when duck diving or crashing (because unfortunately, that’s inevitable at some point). It’s more protective and a great way to convince yourself that braving the cold is worth it.
Performance & Practicality
In mild to moderate conditions, the Team Beanie hits the sweet spot between warmth and breathability. It’s ideal for early spring or late autumn when water temps are cool but manageable, or for riders who simply dislike the feeling of a full hood.
If you’re tackling winter surf, cold-water foiling, or long sessions in freezing wind, the Hood takes the win. The difference in warmth is immediate and once you’ve experienced a zero-flush seal on a cold morning, you’ll never look back.
The Verdict
Both options do what they promise: keep your head warm and your focus on the water. The Team Beanie is for those who want simplicity and freedom of movement – a reliable go-to when conditions aren’t brutal. The Hood is for riders who push through winter’s worst and want every bit of warmth they can get.
Explore the Prolimit headwear range and find your perfect winter setup.
