Hickey Freeman 100% Italian Cashmere Hat for Men – Ultra-Soft Men’s Knit Luxury Beanie

Seems like a nice enough hat, however 3 stars as it is advertised as being made in Italy, and this hat is made in China. Returned.

Pros -- Warm and breathable. Actually, more so than my old one made in italy. Wider than many one size fits all hats, just like old one -- 20" diameter, rather than 18" done in a lot of hats. This is nice for my big head. Soft.Cons -- It pills readily. My old hat never pilled. Soft. May have been treated, pre-damaging fibers. Not a big concern for a hat, but may decrease longevity compared to old hat made from obviously longer fibers.Neither pro nor con -- About 1" inch shorter than my old hat. Still fits fine, and can have a small double fold at bottoms of my ears. Just not quite as much as my old one.

So I bit the bullet and bought this Hickey-Freeman woolen knit watch cap for close to $40. I was leery of getting something less expensive but maybe not real wool, not well made, not well fitting. There are lots of these other watch caps out there at cheaper prices, but also with lots of reviews from unhappy purchasers. This cap is exactly what I wanted: real wool, very warm, well-fitting, and good looking. I wear it with my parka that has a hood, in case I need to pull the hood up. It's perfect for working or walking in cold weather. Incredibly warm. Fits perfectly, doesn't distort or lose its shape, and is very comfortable.

Hickey-Freeman has a fantastic history that hasn't always been well-maintained, but my goodness, if this is the quality they're turning out now, things are very much looking good! Superb mid-to-heavy cashmere that's perfect for winters in the mid-atlantic and new england. Both the fabric and finishing appear flawless. Fit is excellent, as is the feel -- as soft to the skin as you'd ever want, without the slightest sense of fragility. What can I say? In love with a really, really, really well made darn hat!

I know hickey freeman suits and blazers and their quality. This beanie is of high quality and feels good on head. It is cashmere, soft, and sturdy. Thick enough to keep you warm and comfortable in windy cold winters.

Hat is very thick. The fit is not too snug. Hat is NOT made in Italy like my old one. This one is made in China.

The knit hat is just what I was looking for to give to my husband. Michigan Winters...it is not itchy fits well and looks so much better than his old standby. Would be able to wear this anywhere and look good.

Warm, well-fitting, soft, great for sleep wear on cold nights;promptly delivered at a reasonable price

Great quality.