Last Updated: 20 November 2024
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Bees are essentially one of the most valuable insects in the world. They contribute to making the ecosystem thrive by acting as pollinators which helps plants to reproduce.
So how does it relate to the bigger picture?
Pollination is a key process in the circle of life because it helps in the vegetation of fruits and plants which are used to feed not only humans, but other living creatures as well. In totality, bees are the silent helpers or the unsung heroes of nature by being a catalyst for food production.
Before, beekeeping was an average industry with experts and a few hobbyists cultivating and growing honey bees.
Today, government and different environmental organizations have encouraged the mass to help in cultivating honey bees.
The bee population has been rapidly dwindling to the point that research is being done to make artificial honey bees.
That is why, it is actually in every person’s best interest to at least help beekeepers in any way they can.
If you are a starting beekeeper, you may want to own the best equipment there is, priced at an affordable amount of dollars.
One of the most important pieces of equipment in beekeeping are beekeeper hats.
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Table of Contents
What is a Beekeeper Hat?
A beekeeping hat is a very important piece of gear, especially useful when you are surrounded by honeybees.
Being the main part of a beekeeper suit, basic designs of beekeeping hats include a round head hat with a veil that is attached around it. It acts just like a mosquito net, but is wearable.
When taking care of bees, the last thing you would want is to get stung. Although bee stings are inevitable for a beekeeper, using protective equipment such as a bee hat, severely reduces the chances and likelihood of being stung.
Beekeeping hats simply protect you from honey bees that might be getting aggressive.
Yes, although Honey Bees look cute… don’t let that fool you.
We have to agree with the following saying when it comes to beekeeping protective equipment…. “prevention is always better than cure”.
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What should I consider in choosing a Beekeeping Hat?
When buying a product, you always have to make sure that the equipment that you are buying fits and lives up to your requirements and expectations.
Since you are going to be paying out of your hard-earned money, make sure that you already know your preferences in these following categories:
- Type of Beekeeping Hat – Before you buy a beekeeper’s hat, make sure that you have a preference for the type of hat that you will buy. Keep in mind that there are different advantages and disadvantages that come with each type of hat. If you want to learn more, you can read further on our short discussion of types of beekeeping hats.
- Fabric – The fabric will determine how you will feel in wearing the hat. A good fabric will make you feel cool and fresh while a bad fabric will make you feel hot and dizzy on a summer day. Generally, cotton is a favorite fabric because of its coolness but there are also other combinations that might be of your preference.
- Visibility – In choosing a beekeeping hat, make sure that the mesh protecting your face will not block your line of vision. It is potentially a dangerous decision to approach a bee colony with a blurry vision. So, be sure to look at customer reviews to see what current customers are saying about the hat’s visibility.
- Convenience – You also would want a beekeeping hat that is convenient to remove and store. One can sometimes get too hot, hungry, or thirsty, so you might prefer getting a collapsible mesh rather than going through zippers. In addition, a foldable mesh would be preferable for someone who likes to keep their storage area neat and clean.
- Security – A beekeeping hat’s function is exactly this, to provide security. In picking your choice, make sure that the hat will fit around your neck and shoulders so as to ensure that there will be no bees that might find their way inside your beekeeping hat.
Not only this, but as we briefly mentioned, look at customer reviews to really confirm how good/bad a specific hat is… We’ve linked to all of the customer reviews of each hat that we’ve mentioned, so rest assured, we have your back!
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Types of Beekeeping Hats
There are various types of beekeeping hats that you can choose from according to your own preferences and style. To make it simpler for you to determine what style you would prefer, there are different types of beekeeper hats and their features.
- Beekeeping Hats with a Round Veil – This is the design that is perhaps most used and made by many beekeeping equipment manufacturers. It is popular because the veil has adequate space in between the face and the net which provides proper air ventilation and a freer head movement for the beekeeper. The downside of beekeeper hats with a round veil is that they are typically harder to store because of its large round sombrero. Also, depending on the quality of the manufacturer, the veil might be easy to tear so careful and proper handling of the hat is needed.
- Beekeeping Hats with a Fencing Veil – This type of beekeeping veil has the same design as what you see in fencing suits. Only the side and front part of the hat is made out of the net. This is also an effective beekeeping hat for visibility and mobility.
- Beekeeping Hats with a Square Veil – This type of beekeeper’s hat has a design for sufficient visibility as well as an easy to store type. It also protects not only your head but also the entire head and neck area. You can wear a square veil with a beekeeping hat or a beekeeper’s helmet.
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Where can I find the best Beekeeper Hats for sale?
Finding a list of the best beekeeper hats for sale can be challenging!
There are tons of competitive products that are available in the market and there are online blogger’s list and expert opinions on different recommendations and products.
This is why we made this list so that you will have an easier time narrowing down your choices.
To provide an easier experience for you, we have listed our recommended products below in order of their affordability, from the least expensive to the most expensive.
We have also included product descriptions as well as our opinion and verdict in each product.
Without any further delay, here are the Top 7 Best Beekeeper Hats.
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Best Beekeeping Hats – Top 7
Little Giant Farm & Ag – HVEIL Beekeeping Veil with Hat – $
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 16 x 17 x 1 inches
- Weight: 9.6 ounces
Description
For the expert beekeeper, Little Giant Farm & Ag is an established manufacturer that they are definitely familiar of. They are one of the go-to companies in any beekeeping equipment from bee feeders to beekeeping protective gear.
If you are looking for a beekeeper hat from Little Giant Farm check their HVEIL Beekeeping Veil with Hat. It is a beekeeping hat with a round veil that protects your entire head from any bee intrusion. The hat is sewn directly to the veil for easy wear and it also provides a good vision and mobility.
Verdict
Like any other Little Giant Farm product, this one is not an exception to their top-rated quality items.
Aside from being one of the cheapest beekeeping hats in the market, it is also made of durable mesh and the hat is made out of quality materials.
Buyers have also commended for being very versatile because it can be used not only with a beekeeping jacket but also with any regular clothes. The hat can also fit all head sizes and works just as what it was intended for.
This beekeeping hat by Little Giant Farm & AG is one of our highly recommended products because of its affordability and convenience.
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Forest Beekeeping Supply – Beekeeping Veil with Round Hat – $
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 0.1 inches
- Weight: 11.2 ounces
Description
Another quality manufacturer for beekeeping equipment is Forest Beekeeping Supply.
Their products are created handmade and they have in their array varying tools that are sufficient for beginners and expert beekeepers.
Included in their beekeeping equipment is the Beekeeping veil with a round hat.
The hat is made out of polyester material which is rust-resistant and durable. Not only that, but the polyester is also flexible and elastic, meaning when bent, it will spring back to its original shape which is a convenient feature for easy storage.
The hat has a one size fits all feature allowing an easy fit to any head sizes which is convenient so that you will not worry about wrong measurements especially when ordered through shipping.
The beekeeping veil has a pull-down feature which provides easier access when you want to eat, drink, wipe off your sweat, or have a fresh breath of air.
You simply have to pull down your veil and it will detach like a Velcro without the need for any unzipping of materials. For security, you simply have to wrap the polyester cords under your arms and across your chest which will act as the gatekeeper for any intruding bees.
Verdict
With high praises and reviews, this product by Forest Beekeeping Supply is definitely to look out for.
It is affordable and does not compromise the quality and effectiveness.
The polyester cord used to tighten the veil is very effective in keeping the bees away without having to give up comfort. You can tie and tighten the polyester cord according to what is comfortable to you.
Many buyers have recommended this product because it is very handy and provides good ventilation. It is very convenient especially when you are just doing a quick check-up on the bees. For its price, this product by Forest Beekeeping Supply does not fall far behind more expensive products.
So, if you are looking for a beekeeper hat that does its job and comes at a cheaper than average price, this beekeeping veil with a round hat by Forest Beekeeping Supply should be part of your consideration.
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Humble Bee – 210-ST Polycotton Beekeeping Veil with Round Hat – $$
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 1 x 13.2 x 13.2 inches
- Weight: 11.4 ounces
Description
Humble Bee is one of the leading beekeeping equipment providers.
We also would like to put it out there that Humble Bee actually donates 10% of their earnings to organizations that promote and encourage local beekeeping activities as well as any event that pursues to conserve honey bees.
In fact, Humble Bee occupies this spot on our list and onwards. Humble Bee products have been trusted by many expert beekeepers and even beginners and hobbyists always turn to this company for quality equipment.
This goes without saying, that their 210-ST Polycotton Beekeeping Veil with Round Hat is one of their leading beekeeping hat products. At a price that is more affordable than their other products, the 210-ST is something to look out for.
The veil is made out of polycotton and has reinforced brims and elastic shoulder straps. It is also of medium weight because it weighs for only about 260 GSM consisting of 50% and 50% synthetic blend. The round hat also has a one size fits all feature. The mesh is designed to protect your neck and shoulders from stinging bees while ensuring your comfort and breathability.
Verdict
For a product that comes from a leading quality manufacturer, the 210-ST Polycotton Beekeeping Veil by Humble Bee is also a top choice.
The hat is designed as easy to use for a customer-friendly experience. The hat is large, and the mesh is made of good quality which makes checking the bees safer and more comfortable.
In fact, many professional beekeepers have recommended this product to beginner beekeepers because it is not too complicated, and it does the job well.
The 210-ST has been thoroughly described and praised as lightweight, comfortable, easy to use, and effective. So, if you are a beginner looking for a smart purchase, this product is definitely for you.
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Humble Bee – 211-ST Polycotton Beekeeping Veil with Fencing Hood – $$
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 8.9 x 12.8 x 0.8 inches
- Weight: 10.6 ounces
Description
As we have mentioned, any product that is listed further is made from Humble Bee.
The 211-ST is another one of their pride in beekeeping hats. The beekeeping veil is made out of polyester and is made with the design same as that of a fencing hood.
Its features include a collapsible mesh and elastic shoulder straps for comfortable wear and for easy adjustment. The beekeeping hat is also not very heavy because it weighs only for about 260 GSM, half cotton and half synthetic blend. The hood is designed with a universal fit that will match with your neck and shoulder protecting you from any intruding insects.
Moreover, the shoulder straps are made to be elastic so that you will have no trouble in fitting the hood as well as putting everything comfortably in place.
Verdict
Generally, this product has kept receiving positive reviews from buyers and expert beekeepers.
However, reviews have mentioned that a disadvantage of this type of beekeeping hat is that you actually need another person to pull the strings from your neck and back. This will make the equipment not so convenient as there may be times that you are alone when you have to check the beehives.
Other than that, the product has received favorable reviews.
It has been complimented because it really does a great job in protecting you from any intruding bees and it is also very easy to store because it can be flattened easily.
Also, because it is designed like a fencing hood, the veil is not very disruptive especially when you have other beekeepers around. Unlike round veils, you would not accidentally bump the sombrero part of the beekeeping hat onto another.
So, if you have a bit more money to spare and the price is within your budget range, then we also recommend that this product is a solid choice.
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Humble Bee – 220—ST Aerated Beekeeping Veil with Round Hat – $$$
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 13.2 x 13.2 x 1 inches
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
Description
Another contender for our best beekeeping hat is Humble Bee’s 220-ST Aerated Beekeeping Veil with Round Hat.
Its features include a reinforced brim and elastic shoulder straps to ensure visibility while staying mobile. The hat is made out of 50% cotton and 50% synthetic blend for a cooler and comfortable wear and also weighs at 260 GSM. The hat is of universal fit and will adjust upon wear.
This product is a professional-grade beekeeping veil and ensures that you can check up on your bees without having to worry about stings and intrusions.
Verdict
Just like any other Humble Bee product, the 220-ST Aerated Beekeeping Veil is a product to look out for.
In fact, one of the features has been repeatedly praised for and this is the elastic band found inside the hat. Unlike other products, this hat has an elastic band that adjusts to the fit of any head size as well keep it in place.
The veil is made out of high-quality materials which ensures that it does not flow over your face while also maintaining a vision for you. The equipment is also very light and is very easy to store. Definitely, this 220-ST Aerated Beekeeping Veil will not taint Humble Bees reputation.
It does the job well while guaranteeing maximum comfort and protection. So, if you are looking for a product that is a bang for your buck, make sure that you have this item in your list of considerations.
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Humble Bee – 221-ST Aerated Beekeeping Veil with Fencing Hood – $$$
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 8.9 x 12.8 x 1 inches
- Weight: 14.1 ounces
Description
At the top 6 in our list is Humble Bee’s 221-ST Aerated Beekeeping Veil with a fencing hood. Attached with the hood is a collapsible mesh and it is also equipped with an elastic shoulder strap.
It is made out of 100% synthetic fabric for a breathable and comfortable beekeeping experience and found inside is a lightweight foam to protect you from any stings. Despite this many extra features, the product is very lightweight at only about 189 GSM.
Like other Humble Bee products, it also has a one size fits all feature which is very convenient so that you will not have to worry about not getting the right size. The collapsible mesh is designed for comfort and easier access because you can detach the mesh instead of unzipping it when you need some air to cool yourself down, or you just want something to eat or drink.
The elastic shoulder strap also ensures that the veil is kept in position and that no unwanted openings will occur. The synthetic material is also a very great addition because it makes the unit very comfortable even in hot conditions.
Verdict
A Humble Bee product will always produce a happy customer and this product is no exception. It has received very favorable reviews and praise. The product works well for beekeepers who already have a beekeeping suit.
With that being said, the product reviews have said that it actually works just as well as it is advertised. So, If you are looking for a high-quality beekeeping veil with a fencing hood, this Humble Bee product might just be the one that you are looking for.
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Humble Bee – 212-ST Polycotton Beekeeping Veil with Square Hat – $$$$
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 8.9 x 12.8 x 0.8 inches
- Weight: 14.1 ounces
Description
Last but not least, is the 212-ST Beekeeping Veil.
It is made out of polycotton for a cooler and more breathable experience. The design is that of a square hat and it also equipped with a foldable mesh and elastic shoulder straps for easy wear. It is of medium weight at about 260 GSM and it is made out of half cotton and half synthetic blend.
In addition, you do not need to worry about head sizes because it has a universal fit or what is called a one size fits all fit. The foldable mesh is designed to be oversized so as to protect your neck and shoulders. The product is said to be very durable and offers excellent protection. The veil also provides very efficient visibility and mobility.
Verdict
The only downside with this product is perhaps its price. However, while it might be more expensive than the average beekeeper’s hat price, it definitely is worth it. It folds up quietly nice which makes storing it easier and as just as advertised, the product definitely provides a great view.
Some users also have mentioned that the product is great for quick checkups because you actually do not have to necessarily suit up when you use this product which makes it all the more convenient.
So, if you are looking for a product that is a bang for your buck and you have no budget restraints, then you should start going to Humble Bee’s website and order this beekeeping veil because the money is totally worth it.
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Additional items for Beekeeping Hat
In checking on your bees, a beekeeper’s hat is not the sole item that you need in order to prevent any intruding bees from giving you a taste of their needle. A beekeeper’s hat is good for protecting your face, neck, and shoulder, but what about other parts of your body? Well, to help give you a general idea on what a full beekeeping suit looks like, we have listed below some additional items that you need in order to safely check up on your bees or when you have to do some major changes in your bee colony.
- Beekeeping Jacket – Aside from your face, you would definitely want to protect your whole body. It looks just like any other jacket, but its materials are specifically designed to protect you from bee stings. Most of the time, beekeeping jackets have a zipper wherein you can fasten the veil and the hat. In addition, bees are generally avoidant of any white clothing that is why beekeeping jackets, and the whole beekeeping suit is color white. This knowledge actually works well with the weather because bees are the busiest during the summer and the last thing you would want to wear is dark clothing. If you do not know, white clothing actually absorbs less heat from the sun. Pockets are included in beekeeping suits which vary in the amount of 6 and more. This is where beekeeping hive tools are placed. In the rim and edges of the jacket, you can find elastic thumb-holds which ensure that the jacket is fit on your body without any openings and chances for any bee intrusions.
- Beekeeping Gloves – Since you will be dealing with bees, beekeeping gloves is a necessary and vital piece of equipment for beekeeping. They protect the beekeeper’s hands since it is the first body part that touches and handles the beehive stuff. These serve as an extra precaution because bees are generally very easily provoked. So, before you go and check on your beehives, make sure that you suit up with the big three: hat, jacket, and gloves.
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Editor’s Recommendation
There are definitely still other products that have good reviews and high ratings. We have narrowed down our choices into seven but still, there we will always end our article with the best product.
When we pick the product to be featured in our editor’s recommendation, we consider all and many factors such as price, durability, convenience, and if it actually does the job well.
So, without further ado, after going through research and tons of expert reviews, that product that we highly recommend is Humble Bee’s 211-ST Polycotton Beekeeping Veil with Fencing Hood.
First and foremost, we definitely trust this product because it is manufactured by the company, Humble Bee.
Not only do they produce world-class, quality beekeeping equipment, but they also make an effort to conserve bees by encouraging people to actively engage in the beekeeping industry.
Humble Bee’s efforts have been really close to our hearts but it goes without saying that their products are really very well made.
Moving on from our admiration of the company, the 211-ST Polycotton is really a class of its own. It surpassed not only other Humble Bee products but also from other well-known manufacturers such as Little Farm & Ag and Forest Beekeeping Supply.
The product works well now only for beginners, but even professional beekeepers and expert hobbyists have taken a liking with this hat. Many online blogs and even online stores such as Amazon will show proof that the 211-ST is definitely well-loved.
It has a very generally positive review and its price is very affordable for such a professionally designed product. Compared to the other products which costs more, this beekeeping veil and hat will do just exactly the same job at a lower price. Because of this, we highly recommend this product to any beekeeper at any level.
Our list is backed up with thorough research from customer reviews and opinions from beginners to experts. As you continue on your beekeeping journey, always keep in mind that prevention is better than cure. So, before you go out and check your precious honey bees, make sure that you will suit up.
Steve's experience in beekeeping is extensive, having managed numerous hives and colonies of bees throughout his career. He is well-versed in all aspects of beekeeping, from hive management and bee behavior to honey production and bee health. Steve is also an advocate for sustainable beekeeping practices, using natural and organic methods to maintain healthy hives and protect the environment.
As a seasoned beekeeper, Steve has also shared his expertise with others by teaching workshops and classes on beekeeping. He is a sought-after speaker and has been invited to speak at conferences and events across the country.
With his wealth of knowledge and experience, Steve is a valuable resource for anyone interested in beekeeping. Whether you are a seasoned beekeeper or just starting out, Steve's insights and advice can help you become a successful and responsible beekeeper.