The Wollen Earflap Knitted Hat

From Rihanna’s earflap hat to Bob Marley’s rasta fedora , history has had its fair share of iconic headgear. However, when it comes to hats with a short, plain history, Madeira’s simple wollen earflap knit hat, the Barreto de Orelhas, is in a class of its own. Whether you call it a tuque or just a plain beanie, there’s a straightforward story behind this cold-weather staple. It’s shape protects the head with an appendix that can be pulled up and down to protect the ears.

Traditionally, the Barreto de Orelhas was made from sheep’s wool, knitted with five needles, and worn by peasants in Madeira Island. Nowadays, it is an iconic accessory appreciated by locals and visitors.

The Barreto de Orelhas has it’s origin in England. Two English hats to be exact: one known as the Bentley Cap (used by early twentieth century drivers, so that their hat wouldn’t fly away) and the Deerstalker (popular hat worn by Sherlock Holmes ). So, it’s safe to say that this funny looking wollen hat had its debut in Madeira in the beginning of the twentieth century.