Arc'teryx Molly & Moe Toque

The Arc'teryx Molly & Moe Toque (Model #6577/6977, later #16432 in F15) is a double-layer wool beanie weighing 90 grams (3.2 oz) in the Fall 2015 version, with bold horizontal stripes and a brushed microfleece earband. Made from 50% wool, 45% acrylic, and 5% elastane with a 100% polyester fleece earband, it delivers natural thermal performance, breathability, and stretch for active use. The six-dart construction creates a snug fit on my small head without pressure points. Originally priced at $45, this discontinued beanie is available on resale. I wear this constantly in winter because the double-layer knit traps more warmth than single-layer beanies, while the fleece earband eliminates the itch on my forehead that bare wool causes.

Arc'teryx's F15 product page described the Molly and Moe as a "versatile, spirited toque" that "blends the warmth of wool with the durable performance of acrylic," positioning it for backcountry skiing, snowboarding, and late autumn bouldering. They categorized it as an All Round activity beanie with a form-fitting profile.

Bold Stripes and Fleece Earband

The Molly & Moe stands out with its bold horizontal stripe pattern rather than the solid colors or minimal branding found on most Arc'teryx beanies. The multicolor stripes create visual interest while the off-center nylon bird logo maintains brand recognition without dominating the design. This contrasts sharply with the Bird Head Toque's centered embroidered logo or the minimalist Fortrez's subtle branding.

Arc'teryx first listed the Molly Hat as "NEW" on arcteryx.com in late 2007, described as a "striped beanie." It debuted alongside the LT Dan Cap, Cleo Hat, and Emissary Beanie as part of a massive headwear expansion that took Arc'teryx from six toque models to over twenty in a single season.

The double-layer construction makes this beanie significantly warmer than single-layer models like the Fortrez Beanie at 27 grams. At 90 grams in the F15 version, it delivers substantial insulation. The brushed microfleece earband wraps around my forehead and ears, creating a soft barrier between my skin and the wool that prevents the scratchy sensation some people experience with direct wool contact.

How Does the Wool Blend Perform?

The wool-acrylic-elastane blend effectively balances natural and synthetic properties. Pure wool offers superior warmth and odor resistance but lacks the structural integrity needed for repeated wearing and washing. Pure acrylic holds shape well but pills quickly and retains odors. The F15 material spec of 50% wool, 45% acrylic, and 5% elastane maintains the wool's thermal efficiency while the acrylic provides durability and the elastane adds four-way stretch recovery.

The elastane accommodates different head shapes without losing form. I've worn this beanie for two winters with no visible stretching or sagging. It returns to its original shape after each wear, unlike pure wool beanies, which gradually loosen over time.

The wool content naturally regulates temperature and wicks moisture from my scalp during active pursuits. When I'm hiking uphill and generating heat, the breathable construction prevents overheating. When I stop moving in cold temperatures, the double-layer design effectively traps warmth.

Too Thick for Helmets

This beanie does not fit comfortably under my snowboard helmet because of its thick, double-layer construction. The extra bulk creates pressure points and pushes the helmet higher on my head, compromising fit and safety. I use this for warmth after removing my helmet between runs or for hiking when no helmet is needed.
For under-helmet wear, I switch to the thinner Fortrez or Rho LTW. Those single-layer designs compress better and maintain helmet fit. The Molly & Moe excels as a standalone winter beanie rather than a helmet liner.

All Molly and Moe Colorways

The Fall 2015 release included Agate (burnt orange tones), Azurite (deep blue-purple), Blue Wave (dark teal), River Stone (muted blue-grey), and Sunrise (bright yellow-gold). Earlier seasons offered Bayou, Osiris, Ares, Tiger Lily, Tyrian, Matchstick, and Heathered Black. The Nordiq Hat from the same F15 lineup shared similar earth-tone and jewel-tone color naming conventions.

Care and Washing

Arc'teryx's F15 care instructions require hand washing only with no dry cleaning. Hang to dry and avoid top-loading washing machines or ironing. These match the care routine for the Rolling Word Beanie and other wool-acrylic beanies from this era.

I fill a sink with cold water, add wool-safe detergent, submerge the beanie, and gently squeeze for five minutes. Rinsing thoroughly in fresh cold water removes all soap residue that can stiffen the fabric. Air drying flat maintains shape while preventing the stretching that hanging causes. The beanie dries completely within 12-18 hours at room temperature.

Is the Molly and Moe Worth Buying on Resale?

Arc'teryx discontinued the Molly & Moe, so resale platforms are the only option. Prices typically range from $30 to $50, depending on condition and colorway. At $30-35, this represents excellent value for a double-layer wool beanie of this construction quality. At $45-50, you're paying near-original retail for a used item.
The Smartwool Ski Ninja offers similar wool-blend warmth for $32 new but lacks the distinctive striped design and fleece earband. Molly & Moe's unique aesthetic makes it worth seeking out if you find your preferred colorway.
Check the Real vs Fake Arc'teryx Beanie guide before purchasing to avoid counterfeits, which are increasingly common for discontinued Arc'teryx items.