Best Arc'teryx Beanies for Skiing and Snowboarding

Arc'teryx makes three toques built specifically for skiing and snowboarding. Each handles different on-mountain conditions.

Rho Toque — Disappears Under Your Helmet

Price: $45
Weight: 30-35g
Material: Torrent microfleece (synthetic with Polygiene)
Sizes: S-M and L-XL
Temperature: 20-40°F

The Rho is the lightest option at 30-35 grams, depending on size. Torrent microfleece is thin enough to fit under any snowboard helmet without creating pressure points or messing with goggle fit. I wear this on every ride where temperatures stay above 20°F.

The synthetic microfleece wicks sweat when you're hiking or lapping the park. No bunching under your helmet, and the stretchy material conforms to your head without feeling restrictive. The Rho comes in two sizes—S-M fits 55-57cm heads, L-XL fits 58-60cm. This sizing flexibility makes it the most forgiving fit among Arc'teryx's on-mountain options.

Polygiene treatment prevents odor buildup during multi-day trips. At 30-35 grams, it stuffs into any jacket pocket. I keep one in my shell for chairlift rides when I want extra warmth without committing to wearing it during runs. The microfleece dries quickly if you sweat through it. For even lighter helmet-compatible protection, the Fortrez Beanie weighs just 27 grams with a hardface exterior.

The Rho handles 20-40°F riding. Colder than that and you'll want more insulation. If you primarily ride with a helmet and need something that disappears under it, this is it. Don't forget to protect your goggles between sessions with the Powderface Case.

Bird Head Toque — Maximum Warmth for Cold Days

Price: $60
Weight: 57g
Material: 50% Merino wool, 50% recycled polyester
Fit: One size
Temperature: 0-25°F

The Bird Head provides maximum warmth for cold resort days. The 50/50 merino-polyester blend creates more insulation than the synthetic Rho while maintaining breathability. The brushed polyester headband adds soft fleece around your ears and forehead.

I reach for the Bird Head when temperatures drop below 20°F or when wind chill makes it feel colder. The wool content provides natural temperature regulation—warm enough for lift rides, breathable enough that you don't overheat on runs. The fleece-lined band creates a comfortable seal between the goggles and the toque, preventing snow from getting in during falls.

The fit runs tight. Arc'teryx uses six-dart construction for a close, secure profile that stays in place when you're riding. This snug fit works under a helmet but adds more bulk than the Rho. If you have a larger head or prefer a looser fit, you'll struggle with this one.

At 57 grams, the Bird Head weighs nearly double the Rho but still packs small enough for your pocket. The merino provides odor resistance for multi-day trips. The recycled polyester adds durability and faster drying than pure wool. For another warm wool-blend option on cold days, check the discontinued Geometric Beanie.

The Bird Head handles 0-25°F, where cold becomes the primary concern. This works best for riders who spend significant time on lifts or who run cold. For backcountry touring, where you generate more heat, the Rho's breathability works better.

Grotto Toque — Resort Days and Après

Price: $60
Weight: 95g
Material: 100% recycled polyester
Fit: One size
Temperature: 15-35°F

The Grotto targets resort snowboarding,g where you're mixing chairlift rides with runs. The 100% recycled polyester provides consistent warmth without the itch some riders get from wool blends. The mid-length design covers your ears fully while maintaining a casual look that works in the lodge.

Arc'teryx markets the Grotto for touring, freeride, and resort use. I use it primarily for resort laps in the 15-35°F range. The synthetic construction handles moisture better than wool when you're repeatedly going from cold outdoor riding to warm lodge breaks. The colorful abstract bird logo gives it a more casual look than the technical Rho or classic Bird Head.

The Grotto weighs 95 grams, which is heavier than both the Rho and the Bird Head. This extra weight comes from thicker knit construction and longer length. The added bulk means the Grotto works better as a standalone beanie on warmer days rather than under a helmet. When riding with a helmet, the thickness creates pressure points during long sessions.

The fit runs similar to the Bird Head and Word Head, snug but not as tight as some Arc'teryx toques. The one-size design works for most riders but may feel restrictive if you have a larger head. The recycled polyester wicks sweat effectively and dries faster than natural fibers.

The Grotto excels in 15-35°F for resort riding. Too cold, and you'll want the Bird Head's warmth. Too war,m and the Rho's breathability makes more sense. If you split your time between riding and hanging out in the lodge, the Grotto transitions between the two environments.

Which One to Buy

Helmet compatibility determines which toque works for most riders. The Rho fits under any helmet without bulk. The Bird Head fits under helmets but adds noticeable thickness. The Grotto works better as a standalone beanie for warmer days or après.

Temperature matters. The Rho handles 20-40°F, the Bird Head excels in 0-25°F, and the Grotto works best in 15-35°F. Match your typical riding conditions.

Activity level affects breathability needs. For backcountry touring or park laps where you generate significant heat, the Rho's microfleece helps prevent overheating. For resort cruising with long lift rides, the Bird Head or Grotto provides better warmth during stationary periods.

The Rho is my go-to for most days on the mountain because it disappears under my helmet and handles variable output. The Bird Head comes out for genuinely cold days when warmth trumps breathability. The Grotto stays in my bag for spring riding when I'm not wearing a helmet.