Shapka Ushanka is a particular cap associated with Russians. Calling it just “shapka” is incorrect: “shapka” means “cap” in Russian. The cap was called “ushanka” for its side parts: “ushi” = “ears”. These ears have a strap for binding together.
Traditional ushanka is made of leather and fur. It’s the best protection against frost and blizzard.
There are 4 ways to wear ushanka:
– ears tied on the top
– ears untied and put downwards
– ears tied behind the nape
– ears tied beneath the chin
Mongolian hood, a prototype of ushanka
Before the 20th century, ushanka was a mere hat among the plentiful amount of them, but in 1940 it was approved as a part of Soviet military uniform. Soldiers keep wearing it even in present.
Soviet kid in ushanka playing hockey
Nowadays ushanka is still pretty popular among civilians, I have one too.
ushanka can be fancy
I hope, you don’t believe this is possible
ushanka is a popular souvenir from Russia
the Russian point of view 
When I lived in the CCCP, people simply used the term Shapka for winter fur hats with flaps ; Ushanka – Shapka was unnecessary and rarely used.
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