Arc'teryx Rolling Word Beanie
The Arc'teryx Rolling Word Beanie (Model #15227) weighs 90 grams (3.2 oz) and features a reversible wool/acrylic construction, a slouch fit, and a roll-up brim. Discontinued but available on resale markets, this double-layered beanie handles temperatures from 20°F to 40°F. The six-dart construction creates a snug fit, while the longer length allows multiple wearing options. One side displays the Arc'teryx word logo on the cuff with the bird logo on top, the other side shows a solid color. I wear mine during resort snowboarding and winter running when I need warmth without bulk.
Arc'teryx listed this as the Rolling Word Toque in Fall 2015, describing it as a "longer length, rollup brim, wool/acrylic hat with reversible construction featuring the Arc'teryx bird logo on one side, a solid color on the other." They categorized it for Ski/Snowboard and Backcountry Skiing. The name later shifted to Rolling Word Hat and eventually Rolling Word Beanie across different retail listings.
Note: Arc'teryx also produced a Rolling Word Hat (Model #11819) at 117g with 50% acrylic/50% wool construction, which is a different, heavier version of this design.
The Rolling Word Beanie became a cult favorite among Arc'teryx collectors before it was discontinued. The reversible design gave two looks in one beanie, and the slouchy silhouette was very similar to the fit of Arc'teryx's more fitted options, like the Bird Patch Toque or Color Block Toque.
Arc'teryx Rolling Word Beanie Material and Construction
Wool/acrylic blend provides warm, breathable insulation for winter activities. The wool component offers natural temperature regulation and moisture management, while acrylic adds durability and maintains shape after washing. The blend creates a balance between warmth and performance that neither pure wool nor pure synthetic can match.
Double-layer construction makes this thicker and warmer than single-layer beanies. The two layers trap air for enhanced insulation while maintaining breathability during active use. Weighs 90 grams, making it substantial but not heavy.
The six-dart construction creates a fitted crown that sits snug on the head despite its slouchy appearance. The darts allow the beanie to conform to head shape, while the longer length provides styling options. The construction mirrors the Rolling Stripe Hat, which shares the same 90g weight, six-dart build, and reversible slouch design.
The reversible design offers two wear options: the Arc'teryx word logo on the folded cuff, with the bird logo visible on top, or flip it inside-out for a solid-color look with minimal branding.
Temperature Range and Performance
The Rolling Word operates between 20°F and 40°F during active use. Below 20°F, the wool-acrylic blend doesn't provide enough insulation during stationary periods, such as chairlift rides. Above 40°F, the double-layer construction traps too much heat during exertion.
The breathable wool-acrylic fabric manages moisture during high-output activities like running or hiking. The natural wool fibers wick sweat away from the scalp while the acrylic component dries quickly, preventing that clammy feeling that comes from sweat-soaked cotton.
For warmer conditions, lighter options like the Charlie Toque or Diplomat Toque provide better breathability.
Fit and Sizing
One-size-fits-all design works for most head sizes. The six-dart construction creates a snug fit around the crown, while the slouchy length provides excess material for styling. The wool-acrylic blend has moderate stretch, accommodating different head shapes.
The longer length allows multiple wearing options. Wear it with the cuff rolled up for a shorter profile, or leave it unrolled for maximum slouch. The beanie can also be worn pushed back on the head for a relaxed look.
The snug fit works well under helmets during snowboarding or skiing. The double-layer thickness provides warmth without excessive bulk that would create pressure points.
All Rolling Word Colorways
Arc'teryx released the Rolling Word across multiple seasons with a wide colorway selection. The Fall 2015 launch included Azul/Adriatic Blue, Black/Anvil Grey, Chandra Purple/Pink Guava, Iron Oxide/Turmeric, and Marine/Genpi Green. Detail photos from the F15 product page also referenced a Cyan Blue/Sea Grass colorway.
Additional colorways from other seasons included Cerulean, Bourbon, Marianas, Mirage, Black, Carbon Copy, Cayenne, Wolfram, Saguaro Green, Rooibos, Heresy, Phoenix, and Blue Moon. Each colorway featured the Arc'teryx graphics on one side with a solid color on the reverse.
The reversible construction effectively doubled the styling options. Black provided the most versatile look for everyday wear, while brighter colorways like Cerulean or Cayenne added visual interest on the slopes.
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 are the same restrictions as the Nordiq Hat and other wool-acrylic beanies from this era. I only have one of these beanies because of the bold branding, and you can see it can shrink significantly if washed improperly.
How I Use the Rolling Word Beanie
Resort snowboarding when I take my helmet off during breaks. The slouchy fit looks better than a fitted beanie for casual après wear, and the reversible design lets me switch looks depending on my outfit.
Winter running on cold mornings. The breathable wool-acrylic blend prevents overheating during high-output activities while providing enough warmth for temperatures in the 20s and 30s.
Find discontinued Arc'teryx beanies at Grailed or Patagonia for new alternatives.