There’s something quite magical about those first really cold winter days, when your breath steams like a dragon’s and you can break out the warmest outfits in your wardrobe. But cosy comfort and outdoor style aren’t always easy bedfellows. Fortunately, the Rib Bomber delivers on both fronts. Made from ribbed corduroy with a luxurious soft faux fur lining, this is the ultimate winter warmer. It fastens under the chin for those super chilly days, while a clever adjustable rear strap allows for a wide range of fits even for smaller heads. The classic trapper-style design evokes a landscape of Arctic tundra and vast white expanses of frozen wilderness – but this hat works equally well for walking the dogs, heading to the pub or coming off the slopes for a little après-ski.
Isn't it funny how many outdoor brands seem to have started out with one man and a sewing machine? In 1986, the man was Bart Koene and the place was sun-soaked St Tropez. Bart originally knocked up handmade swimming shorts to sell on the beach, but one day a stylish friend was helping him flog his wares when a passing tourist tried to buy her bandana. Bart knew an opportunity when he saw one, and quickly branched out into headwear and other accessories.
Now based in Amsterdam, BARTS has come a long way since ‘86. In fact, the brand offers more than 2,500 products including hats, beachwear and bags. But it’s about quality, not quantity. This is clobber with conscience. BARTS don’t use angora, fur or mohair, and each year they increase their use of recycled and sustainable yarns. The brand insists on a strict code of conduct for its partner factories, and its head office and warehouse in Houthavens is purpose-built to minimise carbon emissions. BARTS employees even get free weekly yoga classes.
-Charlie, Verified Buyer
