Russians wear hats in the sauna, often called a banya hat, primarily to protect their heads from overheating.
Here's a breakdown:
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Insulation from Heat: Inside a steam room, the head is more exposed and heats up faster than the rest of the body. A banya hat acts as a crucial layer of insulation.
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Preventing Overheating: The hat helps keep the head cooler, preventing it from overheating quickly, allowing for a more comfortable and longer sauna experience.
In essence, a banya hat ensures that the head, which is particularly sensitive to high temperatures, remains protected, enhancing the overall sauna experience and promoting well-being.