Mountain Hiker Hat

Mountain Hiker Hat by Jennifer Myrick

What is Being Made

The Mountain Hiker Hat is a knitted beanie designed by Jennifer Myrick, available in seven size options ranging from Preemie (11-12" circumference) through Adult Large (22-23" circumference). This versatile hat is suitable for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, with sizing to accommodate Preemie, Baby, Toddler, Child, Adult Small, Adult Medium, and Adult Large head sizes.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using the knitting craft, specifically worked in the round using circular needles. The hat is constructed from the bottom up, beginning with a ribbed brim and progressing through the body of the hat. The in-the-round construction method creates a seamless garment, which is a hallmark of modern knit hat design.

Stitches and Stitch Techniques Used

The Mountain Hiker Hat employs several fundamental and intermediate knitting techniques:

• Single Rib – The brim is worked in a classic knit-one, purl-one ribbing pattern (*K1, P1 repeat), which provides stretch and a finished edge that hugs the head comfortably
• Catch Float – A specialized technique where the right needle is inserted upward under a float in front of slipped stitches before knitting the next stitch, then lifting the float over the tip of the right needle. This technique is used in the pattern section to manage floats and create a neat, finished appearance
• SK2P – Slip one stitch, knit two together, pass the slipped stitch over. This decrease stitch is used to shape the crown of the hat
• Slip Marker (SM) – Stitch markers are placed in the first row and slipped on subsequent rounds to mark pattern repeats and shaping points

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Yarn: Cascade 220 by Cascade Yarns, a worsted-weight yarn made from 100% Peruvian Highland Wool. The color used in this pattern is #9452 Summer Sky Heather. One skein (100g/220 yards) is sufficient to complete the hat in any size.

Needles: Two needle sizes are required – Size US 6 (4mm) needles for the ribbed brim and Size US 8 (5mm) needles for the main pattern section. Circular needles are used for working in the round.

Additional Notions: A stitch marker, tape measure, and tapestry needle are needed to complete the project.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern is worked to a gauge of 18 stitches and 32 rounds over 4 inches when measured over the pattern stitch on the larger (US 8) needles. Cast-on stitch counts vary by size: 48 stitches for Preemie, 56 for Baby, 64 for Toddler, 72 for Child, 88 for Adult Small, 96 for Adult Medium, and 104 for Adult Large.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner level, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to hat construction. While the pattern includes some intermediate techniques like the catch float method, the overall structure and stitch vocabulary remain accessible to those with basic knitting knowledge. The in-the-round construction and straightforward shaping make this a manageable first hat project.