The traditional RCMP winter hat is made of muskrat fur, with big, furry ear flaps.
The RCMP Ceremonies, Dress and Deportment Protocol Guidelines 2015 states, “Standard issue muskrat winter hats (or an approved equivalent) may be worn during the winter season to handle extremely cold weather conditions.”
In 2014 animal rights activists persuaded the force to switch to tuques, knit wool caps. Politicians got involved. There were fears that “rural communities that rely on the fur trade would be harshly impacted by the elimination of muskrat fur hats.” Conservative MP Robert Sopuck
So, there was a compromise.
“RCMP officers stationed in areas that are not considered extreme will be issued the winter tuque only. Those that will require the fur hat will have to request approval and authority from their line officers in order to obtain the fur hat.”
RCMP Corps Sergeant-Major Darren Campbell
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