Ushanka
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A ushanka (уша́нка) is a Russian fur cap with ear flaps that can be tied up to the crown of the cap, which is often made of fur, or tied at the chin to protect the ears from the cold.
Though ushankas are a distinctly Russian hat, indeed, the stereotypical Russian is seen to wear one, the wearing of fur caps of similar design is common throughout China, North Korea, Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. It is also worn by russophiles the world over.
It is not considered masculine among Russian men to wear the ear flaps down, though a stereotypical dustman is usually portrayed wearing his ushanka with flaps untied, one pointing down and one up.
In the English-speaking world, it is sometimes refered to as a shapka (from Shápka/шáпкa). However, this usage is not specific to the Ushanka, but is rather a Russian language word meaning simply 'hat'. 'Ushanka' literally translates as "ear-flaps hat".
They are often made from rabbit fur and muskrats, though other animals, such as wolves or dogs, are not uncommon. Artificial fur hats are also manufactured, often sold to tourists or interested foreigners.
In some parts of Russian culture, there has been a backlash against this once ubiquitous hat, and is considered unfashionable in many circles. It is unusual to see young men wearing them in major cities, and it is seen to be a sign of a foreigner, a rustic, a fashion victim, or an old timer trying to hold on to the legacy of the Soviet Union. This may be due to its connection with the the U.S.S.R and the Soviet politburo and military. Some Eastern Europeans also consider it a legacy of russification. Its usage is currently falling, but whether this is a short term fashion trend or an indication of the end for the Ushanka is still to seen. Currently young Russian men, at least Muscovites, tend to go hatless or prefer to wear skull caps or western baseball caps.