Style, Jewelry & Accessories

Earmuffs

5 kinds worth knowing, 7 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of earmuffs — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

Earmuffs suit people who spend real time outside in winter: people who walk to work, wait at bus stops, walk the dog or stand at the rink. They also suit anyone who hates hat hair or finds toques too warm. The ones that get worn most are easy to put on, fit in a coat pocket and work with whatever the person already wears. Bluetooth earmuffs appeal to people who listen to music or podcasts on the go. Behind-the-head styles suit people who wear a hood, ponytail or headphones. Before you buy, think about their daily routine, how they wear their hair and whether they'd wear these for fashion or for function.

Kind 1 of 5

Earmuffs with built-in wireless speakers

These have small speakers inside the ear cups, so the person can listen to music, podcasts or calls without wearing earbuds under a hat. They make a good gift for commuters, dog walkers and anyone who already walks around with audio on. Before you buy, check how they charge and whether the controls are big enough to use with gloves on. See if the speaker parts come out so the covers can be washed. Also look at how bulky the cups are, since some styles sit well away from the head.

  • Representative photo-style image of bluetooth audio earmuffs — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Bluetooth audio earmuffs

    Combine warmth with entertainment, allowing the wearer to listen to music or take calls wirelessly while staying cozy outdoors.

Kind 2 of 5

Soft, fluffy fur-style earmuffs

Fur earmuffs are the classic dressy look, with big plush puffs over each ear. Most are faux fur these days, which is easier to care for and suits more people's values. They're a good fit for someone who likes a polished winter look with a wool coat, or for teens and kids who like something cozy and fun. Check whether the band adjusts, how much the pile sheds and whether the colour goes with outerwear they already own. Neutral shades like cream, grey and brown are the easiest to match.

  • Representative photo-style image of faux fur earmuffs — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Faux fur earmuffs

    A stylish and cozy accessory, these earmuffs add a touch of luxury and extra warmth to any cold-weather outfit.

Kind 3 of 5

Behind-the-head styles that skip the headband

Instead of going over the top of the head, the band on these wraps around the back of the neck. They work with a hood, a ponytail, a bike helmet or glasses, and they leave hair alone. Runners, cyclists and people who wear their hair up tend to like them. Many fold small enough for a pocket or glovebox. Before you buy, check the size range, since the band has to fit snugly without pinching. Also check that the ear covers are thick enough for the cold where they live.

  • Representative photo-style image of behind the head earmuffs — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Behind the head earmuffs

    Ideal for those who prefer to wear hats or have a discreet look, these earmuffs keep ears warm without interfering with hairstyles.

  • Representative photo-style image of foldable travel earmuffs — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Foldable travel earmuffs

    Perfect for commuters and travelers, these earmuffs collapse for easy storage in bags or pockets when not in use.

Kind 4 of 5

Headbands with ear warmers built in

This style looks like a wide knit or fleece headband that also covers the ears. It sits closer to the head than a traditional pair, so it's less noticeable and pairs well with casual clothes. It suits people who find toques too warm or who want something they can keep on indoors for a few minutes. Look at the fabric and stretch: cable knit looks cozy, and fleece is softer and usually easier to wash. Check whether it stays put when it's pushed back off the ears.

  • Representative photo-style image of cable knit headband earmuffs — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Cable knit headband earmuffs

    Offering a cozy, handcrafted aesthetic, these earmuffs provide comfortable warmth with a classic textured knit design.

  • Representative photo-style image of classic fleece earmuffs — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually under $15

    Classic fleece earmuffs

    These comfortable earmuffs offer essential warmth and a soft feel for everyday winter wear.

Kind 5 of 5

Everyday winter earmuffs for women

People searching for this usually want a pair that looks good and holds up to a real winter of commutes, errands and school pickups. A practical choice has an adjustable band, a lining that stays soft and an outer layer that can handle snow and sleet. Water-resistant shells are useful in wet coastal winters or for anyone who walks a lot. Before you buy, think about her coat and scarf colours, whether she wears glasses and whether she'd rather have a slim look or a plush one.

  • Representative photo-style image of water-resistant outdoor earmuffs — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $15–$25

    Water-resistant outdoor earmuffs

    Designed for active individuals, these earmuffs provide warmth and protection against light rain or snow during outdoor activities.

How to choose earmuffs as a gift

  • Think about how they wear their hair. Ponytails, buns and hoods usually work better with behind-the-head styles than with over-the-top bands.
  • Choose neutral colours unless you know their winter coat well. Grey, black, cream and camel go with most outerwear.
  • Look for adjustable or stretchy bands, because a pair that's too tight or too loose rarely gets worn twice.
  • For wet or slushy climates, a water-resistant outer layer keeps them looking good longer than plush fabric.
  • Check whether the covers can be washed, especially on audio styles, since earmuffs pick up makeup, hair product and road salt.

Usually safe to skip

  • Novelty earmuffs with big characters or lights are fun to open but rarely make it into a daily winter routine.
  • Rigid, non-folding pairs can be a nuisance for commuters because they don't fit in a pocket or bag once the person is indoors.
  • Audio earmuffs for someone who never listens to anything while out walking just add charging and bulk they won't want.

Questions people ask about earmuffs

Are earmuffs a good gift for someone who already has a toque?
Often, yes. Earmuffs fill a different role. They leave hair alone, are easy to take off indoors and fold into a pocket. People who find toques too warm for short walks, or who don't want hat hair at work, often end up reaching for earmuffs more.
Do behind-the-head earmuffs fit everyone?
Most come in one size with some flex in the band, but head size still matters. If the person has a very small or large head, look for styles that list size options or an adjustable band. That way they sit snugly over the ears without squeezing.
Can you wash Bluetooth earmuffs?
Many designs let the speaker and battery unit slip out, so the fabric covers can be hand-washed. Check this before buying, because pairs with sealed-in electronics can only be spot-cleaned. That matters after a winter of road salt and hair product.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All earmuffs picks

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