Everything you need to know about the Ushanka

Welcome to this article dedicated to the ushanka, this iconic hat of Russian culture. We will explore its history, characteristics, and give you advice on how to choose, wear, and maintain this very special headwear. Follow us through the centuries and different regions of Russia to discover the secrets of the ushanka.

The Ushanka: a definition

The ushanka is a hat of Russian origin, characterized by its shape and fold-down ear flaps. It is designed to protect against cold and wind, thanks to its fur or faux fur construction. The ear flaps can be raised and tied, or left hanging to protect the ears and neck.

Ushankas are generally made from different types of furs, such as fox, rabbit, marten, or astrakhan. There are also faux fur versions for those who want a more ethical and economical alternative.

A journey through the history of the iconic Russian hat

Mongol origins?

The origins of the ushanka date back to the Mongol people, who lived in cold and windy regions. The Mongols wore fur hats called "malakhai" to protect themselves from the elements. When the Mongols invaded Russia in the 13th century, the Russians adopted this headwear and adapted it to their needs and culture.

The current ushanka is the result of several centuries of evolution, and it has retained certain characteristics of Mongol hats, such as the shape and fold-down ear flaps.

A Pomor influence?

Another theory about the origin of the ushanka evokes the influence of the Pomors, a people living on the northwestern coasts of Russia and having close ties with the Scandinavians. The Pomors wore fur hats called "kozhukhi", similar to current ushankas.

It's possible that the ushanka is the result of a blend between the Mongol hat and the Pomor hat, sharing characteristics of each while being unique in its own way.

The triukh, ancestor of the ushanka

The triukh is an ancient Russian three-pointed hat, dating from the 16th century. It is considered one of the precursors of the modern ushanka. The triukh was worn by boyars, a class of Russian nobles, and the streltsy, elite soldiers of the time.

The ushanka evolved from the triukh by adopting the rounded shape and fold-down ear flaps that characterize it today.

The modern ushanka

The ushanka as we know it today is the result of centuries of evolution and adaptation. It has become an emblematic element of Russian culture, worn by civilians and military personnel, and appreciated for its warmth and protection against the cold.

Nowadays, the ushanka is worn in different countries and on various occasions, such as festivals, sporting events, or simply to protect against the cold in winter. It has also become a fashion accessory, available in many styles, colors, and materials.

Anecdotes and curiosities about the ushanka

The ushanka has been worn by many famous personalities over the centuries, including Ivan the Terrible, Peter the Great, Napoleon Bonaparte, and American President John F. Kennedy. It has also been popularized by movies and TV series, such as "Doctor Zhivago" or "Rocky IV".

An amusing anecdote concerns the ushanka worn by Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space. Upon his landing in 1961, Gagarin wore an ushanka to protect himself from the cold. The peasants who discovered him initially thought he was a foreign spy, due to his unusual appearance. Once he explained to them that he was a Soviet cosmonaut, they helped him and congratulated him on his feat.

Tips for wearing an ushanka properly

To wear an ushanka properly, it's important to choose the right size, so that it's comfortable and effective against the cold. The ushanka should be well-fitted, without being too tight, to allow good blood circulation and optimal insulation.

The ear flaps can be raised and tied for a more elegant look, or left hanging for maximum protection against cold and wind. Don't hesitate to experiment with different styles and colors to find the ushanka that matches your personality and tastes.

Maintenance and preservation of your ushanka

To keep your ushanka in good condition, it's essential to clean and store it properly. If your ushanka is made of real fur, it's recommended to entrust it to a fur cleaning specialist. For faux fur ushankas, hand cleaning with mild soap and lukewarm water is usually sufficient.

When storing your ushanka, avoid compressing or folding it, as this could damage the fur or the structure of the hat. Instead, place it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Recognizing a real ushanka from an imitation

Price, a first clue

Price can be a good indicator of the quality of an ushanka. Real fur ushankas generally cost more than those made of faux fur. However, it's important to consider other factors, as a high price doesn't always guarantee superior quality.

Texture and weight: elements to consider

The texture and weight of the ushanka can also provide clues about its quality. Real fur ushankas generally have a softer texture and heavier weight than those made of faux fur. Don't hesitate to touch and lift the ushanka to assess its quality.

The fire test: a risky method

The fire test consists of burning a small sample of fur to determine if it's real or synthetic. Real fur burns slowly and gives off an odor of burning hair, while fake fur melts and gives off an odor of burning plastic. Caution, this test can damage the ushanka and is not recommended.

The needle test: a less destructive alternative

The needle test involves pricking the fur with a heated needle. If the needle passes easily through the fur, it's probably faux fur. If the needle meets resistance, it's more likely to be real fur. This test is less destructive than the fire test, but care should still be taken not to damage the ushanka.

Where to buy an ushanka in Russia?

The best addresses in Moscow

Moscow, the Russian capital, is full of shops selling ushankas. Among the most popular addresses, we can mention the Izmailovo flea market, where you will find a wide choice of ushankas at affordable prices. Department stores like GUM and TSUM also offer high-quality ushankas and renowned brands.

In search of the perfect ushanka in Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is another city where you can find beautiful ushankas. The Udelnaya flea market is a must-visit place to find vintage and authentic ushankas at reasonable prices. Downtown shops, such as those on Nevsky Prospekt, also offer a wide selection of quality ushankas.

Online faux fur ushanka options

Ushanka with Artificial Fox Fur

The artificial fox fur ushanka is an elegant and ethical alternative to the real fur ushanka. It offers a luxurious look and excellent thermal insulation, while being more affordable and animal-friendly.

Men's Ushanka in Faux Fur

Men's faux fur ushankas are available in a variety of styles and colors, suited to everyone's tastes and needs. They offer effective protection against cold and wind, without sacrificing aesthetics or comfort.

Trapper Ushanka in Faux Fur

The trapper ushanka in faux fur is a popular model, inspired by the hats worn by Canadian and American trappers. It is characterized by its more elongated shape and long ear flaps, offering maximum protection against the elements. This style of ushanka is ideal for outdoor winter activities.

In conclusion, the ushanka is a hat rich in history and traditions, which has crossed centuries to become a symbol of Russian culture. Whether you're looking to protect yourself from the cold or add a touch of originality to your wardrobe, the ushanka is an ideal choice. Follow our advice to choose, wear, and maintain your ushanka, and don't hesitate to explore the different options available to find the one that suits you best.