Ushanka facts for kids
An ushanka (уша́нка) is a special kind of Russian fur cap. It has ear flaps that can be tied in different ways. You can tie them up over the top of the hat, or you can tie them under your chin. This helps to protect your ears from very cold weather. The name ushanka means "ear-flaps hat" in Russian. It comes from the word "ushi" (у́ши), which means "ears."
What is an Ushanka?
The ushanka is a warm hat, perfect for cold climates like Russia. It's often made from fur, which helps to trap heat and keep the wearer cozy. The ear flaps are the most famous part of the ushanka. When it's very cold, you can pull these flaps down. Then, you tie them under your chin to cover your ears and the sides of your face. If it's not too cold, you can tie the flaps up over the crown of the hat. This keeps them out of the way.
History of the Ushanka
Hats with ear flaps have been worn for a long time in different parts of the world. They were especially popular in cold regions of Asia and Europe. The modern ushanka, as we know it today, became very common in Russia. It was widely used by soldiers and regular people alike. Its design is very practical for snowy and freezing conditions.
Who Wears Ushankas?
Ushankas are worn by many people, not just in Russia. They are popular with soldiers, police officers, and anyone who spends time outdoors in winter. For example, in 1974, Gerald Ford, who was the President of the United States, wore an ushanka. He wore it when he met with Leonid Brezhnev, the leader of the Soviet Union, in Vladivostok. This shows how well-known the ushanka is around the world.
Images for kids
-
Ushanka with ear flaps deployed, ready for cold weather
-
Ushanka with ear flaps folded back, a common way to wear it
-
A souvenir ushanka, often bought by tourists
-
Alexander Kolchak with his troops, some wearing similar hats
-
General Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim of the Finnish Army in 1938, wearing a white fur hat
-
Gerald Ford wearing an ushanka with Leonid Brezhnev in 1974
-
A Russian soldier in January 1992, wearing an ushanka
-
Finnish Army Captain Aarne Juutilainen during the Winter War in 1939
See also
In Spanish: Ushanka para niños
