Without a doubt, the Valknut is one of the most prominent and popular Viking symbols. Also known as Odin’s knot, Hrungnir’s heart, the knot of the slain warrior and the Heart of Vala, the Valknut is considered as the symbol of Odin. Being Minnesotans, it's seen here a lot with our Nordic heritage on display.

The possible real name for this symbol could be Hrungnishjarta - or "Hungnir's heart" as it was mentioned in Snorri Sturlusson's Skáldskaparmál . Hrungnir, which in Old Norse meant 'brawler', is a jötunn in Norse mythology that dies by the hand of mighty Thor. According to myth, his heart was famous for being made of stone "with three sharp-pointed corners."

However, the symbol likely predates even this story in Norse culture, and we'll never actually know what the original name was. 

Today the term Valknut or valknútr comes from the term valknute - which is an ancient Norse symbol often seen on crafts, and maybe most notably the symbol for "command" on your Mac computer keyboard.  That symbol has another story altogether. But the term was basically lifted to project meaning on this three-part triangle design found in Norse imagery.

This modern neologism Valknut connects valr "the slain" and knut "knot." This largely because it's seen in carvings dealing with death ceremonies. But we don't really know if Vikings used the symbol in this way. They didn't exactly explain what the symbol meant even if it had a specific intent. 

It's basically just cool, mysterious, and connected with Vikings! Here in Minnesota, we love everything Viking. We're very Norwegian, German, and Icelandic, so mysterious Norse icons and runes are often found on our tattoos, shirts, and decorations. We don't really know much about historical Viking symbols. And to be honest, we don't really care.

And the back? That symbol is called The Helm of Awe and is a classic rune stave that is known as a Viking symbol of protection. Aegishjalmur is an Old Norse term combining aegis, which means 'shield,' with hjalmr, or 'helm.' No surprise, as the stave was painted or drawn on their foreheads to protect them in battle, or to simply freak out their enemies with menacing face graphics.

You might not be swinging an ax on raids today, but who doesn't need a badass symbol of protection when you enter your daily battles? Plus it's a fun conversation starter.

Available in two sizes with an elastic stretch band, this hat is a sure winner in comfort! It has an athletic shape with a curved visor.

• 63% polyester, 34% cotton, 3% spandex twill
• Structured, 6-panel, mid-profile (with a low-profile embroidery area)
• 6 embroidered eyelets
• Stretch band
• Silver undervisor
• Head circumference: 22”–23⅞” (55.9 cm–60.6 cm)

Size guide