I like when parcels drop through my letter box.

The most recent one was squashy and soft - thankfully we've resolved that boundary dispute with my neighbour so I can open that kind without fear - and came from London cafe and clothing brand Look Mum No Hands.

Look Mum No Hands offer a tempting array of clothing and gifts for cyclists.
Look Mum No Hands offer a tempting array of clothing and gifts for cyclists.

It was a rather splendid bobble hat, just in time for winter. LMNH have recently expanded the colour options to include Pine Green and Robin Red. Mine was a striking "early morning cyclists' fingers blue", with white detailing including a snazzy label and embroidered LMNH logo.

I love a pom-pom, so I was not disappointed. I whacked it on and went off to help out with my local ParkRun, marshalling on the coldest day of the year. Not only did the 30% wool knit keep my head and ears warm, the generous sizing covered much of my unnaturally large bonce and kept the unseasonal snow showers from penetrating to my manly bald patch.

They call this a Glasgow kiss.
They call this a Glasgow kiss.
 

Suitably impressed with the hat's "stand-still-clapping" performance, I decided the next day to try it out on the bike, on an equally crisp but not nearly as wet ride out around the countryside. Anyone who says bobble hats can't be worn under a cycle helmet is plainly wrong, as the below picture demonstrates:

#hatsnotcaps
#hatsnotcaps
 

I had to mind low bridges, however, but the pom-pom protruding through the air vent did give the impression I was wearing a helmet cam so may've influenced driver behaviour for the better while I was out.

As for its performance as a barrier to the cold, it proved its worth once again, although I may stick to slightly more aerodynamic attire should I want to go for any Strava segments.

The LMNH Bobble Hat is a steal at £25 and is as versatile as your self respect allows.

LMNH Bobble Hat, £25 from www.lookmumnohands.com

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