What winged hat is traditionally worn by Hermes?

The winged hat traditionally worn by Hermes is the petasos.

A petasos was a broad-brimmed Greek travel hat, and the winged version became one of Hermes’ most recognizable attributes. Its practical design suited a god associated with roads and travelers: the broad brim could shield the face from sun and rain, while a strap helped keep the hat in place during movement.

The ordinary petasos was not exclusively divine. Ancient Greeks, Thracians and Etruscans wore versions made from materials such as felt, leather, straw or animal skin. It was especially associated with farmers, travelers and hunters. Artists transformed this everyday headwear into a supernatural emblem by adding wings.

Hermes is also shown with wings attached to his feet or sandals, and some later images give him a winged helmet instead. Those alternatives explain why depictions can vary, but petasos remains the specific name for the winged traveler’s hat. It should not be confused with the cap of invisibility, which belongs to Perseus’ equipment in myths involving Medusa.