Winter hats with pom-poms have a rich history dating back to the Viking era

Pom-poms on winter hats have a long history, dating back to 790 AD in the Viking era. Initially, they served practical purposes, such as protection in battle and denoting status among soldiers. Historically, pom-poms were used by various groups, including Napoleon’s infantry and Scottish regiments. They also appeared on hats worn by French sailors to prevent head injuries in low ceilings. In the 20th century, pom-poms shifted from functional to fashionable, becoming popular among knitters during the Great Depression. The term "pom-pom" likely comes from the French word "pompon," meaning small ball of fabric.