Best Hiking Hats for Sun Protection: Our Top 34 Picks

Are you ready to step out of the ordinary and into the world of adventure? Look no further than our roundup of the best hiking hats on the market. From sun protection to style, we’ve got you covered. Prepare to explore the great outdoors in style with our top picks.

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Breathable Safari Hat with Adjustable Strap for Outdoor Adventures

Experience the best of both worlds with this versatile Fishing Hat. Crafted with high-quality nylon material and UPF 50+ protection, the hat offers a wide brim for ultimate sunburn protection. With two ways to wear it, you can either roll up the brim for a cowboy look or let it down for a fashionable sun-proof hat. Lightweight and breathable, it boasts a moisture-wicking headband and an adjustable drawstring for a comfortable fit. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this hat is a must-have for hiking, camping, fishing, and more.

Patagonia Merganzer: Defend Our Oceans Salt Grey Hiking Hat

Experience the perfect blend of style and practicality with the Merganzer Hat - a water-loving hat perfect for ducking into waves or searching for them. Crafted from tough 95% nylon (65% recycled) with a sleek DWR finish, this versatile hat offers superior breathability and quick-drying capabilities. Designed with a soft, floatable brim featuring a dark underbill that reduces glare and safeguards your eyes from the sun, the brim rope doubles up as a chin strap, ensuring your hat stays securely in place during water-based activities. Thanks to its low-profile, adjustable buckle and discreet leash anchor, you can enjoy a snug fit while staying confidently in control. With a lightweight, low-profile sweatband and eco-friendly miDori bioSoft fabric for added wicking and softness, this Fair Trade Certified hat truly earns its place as a reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts.

Outback Style Weathered Cotton Hiking Hat with Chin Strap

Elevate your outdoor adventures with the Silver Canyon Men’s Weathered Outback Outdoor shapeable hat. This rugged hat showcases a classic western outback style, featuring a pinch front crease, 4-inch hat crown, and a 2 1/2-inch brim. With a focus on durability and comfort, the 100% cotton hat is water repellent, allowing you to brave unexpected rains with confidence. Perfect for gifting on special occasions, the Weathered Outback hat can also provide a stylish, yet practical addition to your wardrobe for everyday use.

Recycled Nylon Stryder Mesh Hiking Hat

Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality with the Dark Pine Stryder Hike Hat. Crafted from 100% recycled nylon, this versatile hat is perfect for both hiking and casual wear. The adjustable strapback ensures a comfortable fit, while the curved brim keeps the sun out of your eyes. Enjoy the freedom of the trail with this lightweight, breathable, and eco-friendly choice.

Taeku Breathable Sun Hiking Hat for Outdoor Activities (Brown)

Introducing the Taeku Boonie Hat - a fabulous accessory for your next outdoor escapade. Designed with a blend of polyester fiber and cotton, this fishing hat boasts both sturdiness and rapid drying functionality, making it an excellent option for hiking, camping, or traveling. The broad brim offers top-notch sun protection, ensuring that you stay shielded from harmful UV rays. The adjustable chin strap guarantees a snug and comfortable fit, while the mesh ventilation layer helps keep you cool on those sweltering days. The dual closure system allows for versatile wearing styles, giving you the flexibility you need for any outdoor activity. With its universal size design and timeless color options, this hat is the ultimate blend of practicality and charm, making it an irresistible choice for all outdoor lovers.

Waterproof UPF 50 Outdoor Safari Hat for Men/Women

The EINSKEY Fishing Hat is an excellent choice for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Its UPF 50 sun protection and waterproof properties make it perfect for safari hunting, hiking, gardening, and any other outdoor endeavor. The hat’s expansive brim and airy, breathable fabric ensure your comfort and protection while the customized fit from the drawstring closure adds a personal touch. Whether you’re exploring the wilderness or simply relaxing in your backyard, this hat will keep you cool, dry, and looking fantastic throughout the day.

Salomon Mountain Hiking Hat with Elastic Adjustment and DWR Treatment

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and protection with the Salomon Mountain Hat. This lightweight gem, featuring durable water repellent treatment, effortlessly adjusts to your head without being too tight. It’s the perfect companion for hiking or trekking, folding up and fitting snugly in your pocket for easy portability.

Tirrinia Men’s Wide Brim Sun Hats: Versatile Fishing and Outdoor Cap

A stylish and practical addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s wardrobe, the Tirrinia wide brim sun hat with a neck flap offers full coverage against sunburn while also adding a touch of fashion. Constructed with UV protection in mind, this hat is ideal for fishing, gardening, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The adjustable fit and lightweight and foldable design make it convenient to carry wherever you go.

Shelta Osprey Dirty Olive Hiking Hat

The Osprey hat from Shelta is a versatile and innovative solution to stay protected from the sun while engaging in outdoor activities. Made from 100% recycled polyester and UPF 50+ certified breathable fabric, this hat offers not only exceptional sun protection but also comfort and durability. Patented features like the Winged Vision Visor and Convertible Cord System make it perfect for various settings, while its water repellent material ensures it’s ready for any water-based adventures. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or paddling, the Osprey hat is the ultimate companion for all your outdoor exploits.

Arc’teryx Bird Curved Brim Trucker Hat - Perfect for Hiking Adventures

Sculpted for high-output adventures, the Bird Trucker Hat from Arc’teryx is an absolute necessity for all trail enthusiasts. Sporting a unique blend of materials - a monofilament mesh back for breathability, a stretch polyester front, and a moisture-wicking Spacer mesh headband - this hat grants you unparalleled comfort and ventilation. Its adaptable circumference and low-profile crown, paired with a curved brim for ultimate weather protection, make it the perfect choice for tackling technical trails or soaking in the sun. Finished with a bold Arc’teryx graphic and available in a variety of vibrant colors, this sleek hat is the ultimate accessory for any serious hiker. Don’t miss out on the legendary comfort of the Bird Trucker Hat.

Shelta Seahawk Adventure Hat: Field Khaki (XXXL) - Perfect for Hiking

The Shelta Seahawk Adventure Hat, designed for outdoor enthusiasts, boasts a patent-pending “NO FLOP” Visor brim that guarantees a comfortable and secure fit. Made from sustainable Eco-Tech Fabric, this hat offers top-notch breathability, water resistance, and quick-drying properties. Featuring a removable chin cord system and available in various sizes, the Shelta Seahawk Adventure Hat is a versatile and practical choice for any sun-seeking adventure.

Sun Cube Hiking Sun Hat with Wide Brim and Adjustable Fit - UPF 50+ Protection

This versatile sun hat is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, providing complete UV protection with a UPF of 50+. The lightweight nylon construction is both water and stain-resistant, making it ideal for hiking and fishing trips. With an adjustable chin strap and head strap, this hat is comfortable and secure in windy conditions. Plus, it’s easy to pack away when not in use, making it a must-have for travelers.

LCZTN UPF 50+ Wide Brim Sun Protection Hiking Hat with Flap

The LCZTN boonie hat is a versatile, lightweight option for outdoor enthusiasts. With a wide brim, face and neck flaps, it offers 360° sun protection and windproofing, ensuring your comfort even in challenging weather conditions. Its adjustable chin strap and buckle in the neck flap keep the hat securely in place. The unisex design and cosy fit cater to both men and women, and the hat is quick-drying and easy to clean. Perfect for travel, fishing, hiking, beach sports, gardening, and more, this boonie hat is a must-have for all your adventures.

Waterproof Recycled Polyester Hiking Hat for Men - North Face Antora Brimmer

Crafted for sunny and rainy adventures, the North Face Antora Brimmer Hat is your go-to choice for hiking. This stylish hat boasts a waterproof, full-brim design, made from 100% recycled materials, keeping the elements at bay. The DryVent insert and UPF 40+ protection ensure your comfort during long, outdoor days. It’s no wonder people are raving about this hat, giving it a top-tier 5-star rating.

Trekmates Blackden Dry Hat - Wide-Brimmed Rain Protection for Hiking

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager to explore nature’s beauty, the Trekmates Blackden DRY Hat is just the right companion you’ve been searching for. Boasting a classic, wide-brimmed design, this hat provides unparalleled protection against a variety of environmental elements.

But the icing on the cake? Its remarkable waterproof, breathable technology! Now, you can enjoy hiking in the sun or the rain without worrying about your hat getting soaked or leaving wet patches on your head. Its lightweight and comfortable construction ensures that you remain unbothered even on long, grueling hikes.

What’s more, the DRY Hat features a water-resistant finish and a wicking mesh lining, ensuring your head stays comfortably dry – a feature that every hiker can appreciate. So, whether you’re tackling rugged terrains or simply strolling along nature’s trail, this versatile hat is a must-have for any and every hiking expedition.

Trekmates Borneo - Lightweight, Mosquito-Repellent Hiking Hat with Midge Net

Shield yourself from pesky insects and harsh sun rays with the versatile Trekmates Borneo hat. Its lightweight, mosquito-repellent design features a wide brim and built-in midge head net, providing UPF 50 protection. Perfect for outdoor adventurers, this hat made of 100% polyamide supplex boasts comfortable bound seams, a 7 cm wide brim for superior sun protection, and a subtle under-brim shade to combat sun glare.

Arc’teryx Norvan Regular Brim Hat - Hiking Hat - Black (L-XL)

Explore the great outdoors in style with the Arc’teryx Norvan Regular Brim Hat. Crafted with ultralight, breathable fabric, this versatile cap features a regular brim for reliable sun protection and a built-in sweatband to keep you dry. The comfortable, moisture-wicking headband ensures a snug fit that feels like a dream, while the single-hand drawcord adjustment makes it effortless to secure your perfect fit. The soft durability of this cap makes it a must-have for outdoor activities.

Idaho Stone Kooringal Mid Brim Straw Hat – Durable and Stylish for Men

The Kooringal Men’s Mid Brim Idaho Stone hat is a versatile headwear option that offers both function and style. Featuring a stowaway pocket, packable and crushable design, and detachable chin strap, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Available in three colors and two sizes, this hat is a comfortable choice for all-day wear. Users have praised the hat for its quality, craftsmanship, and comfort, making it a top-rated pick for men’s hats.

QEG Automation Wide Brim Sun Protection Outdoor Hiking Fishing Boonie Hat

Say hello to the ultimate outdoor companion - the QEG Automation Fishing Hat. Lightweight and breathable, this versatile hat is perfect for all your outdoor adventures, be it hiking, camping, or fishing. With its UPF 50+ sun protection, you’ll stay cool and comfortable, even on the sunniest days. Plus, its adjustable drawstring and chin strap ensure a snug fit for most adults. Now, you’ll have the perfect accessory to protect you from the sun, no matter where your outdoor journey takes you.

Packable Columbia Global Adventure II Waterproof Hat

Experience the ultimate comfort of a packable and stylish sun hat. Designed for both casual and adventurous activities like hiking, this hat features UPF 50 protection to keep you shielded from the sun. Its flexible adjustability and durable, water-resistant materials make it the perfect addition to your outdoor gear list.

Eddie Bauer Storm Waterproof Hiking Hat

Eddie Bauer’s Storm Waterproof Sombrero offers a unique blend of style and function for those who live for outdoor adventures. With its floatable nylon construction and seam-sealed waterproof technology, it effectively sheds rain while keeping you cool under the sun. The sombrero’s side vents and moisture-wicking lining ensure you stay dry and comfortable all day long. Whether you’re hiking or working outdoors, this versatile hat will become your go-to essential.

Redhead Coolmesh Outback Soaker Hat for Adventure

The Redhead CoolMesh Outback Soaker Hat is a perfect companion for both adventurous travels and outdoor activities. Known for its excellent sun protection, the nylon mesh fabric keeps your head cool with its cooling airflow while ensuring maximum sun protection thanks to its wide 360 brim. The long chin cord with a barrel locklock closure ensures a comfortable fit. This versatile and practical hat is perfect for hiking, fishing, camping, golfing, gardening, or any outdoor work. With its stylish design and excellent performance, it’s no wonder hikers everywhere swear by it.

The North Face TNF Black White Running Cap

Indulge in optimum comfort during your jogs with The North Face’s TNF Run Hat, meticulously designed from eco-friendly materials that not only offer a sustainable look but also a fashionable one. Kitted with FlashDry technology, this breathable cap efficiently absorbs sweat and dampness, ensuring your head remains dry and refreshed. Coupled with a water-resistant layer, this cap safeguards you from unexpected downpours. Featuring a reversible brim, customizable reflective elastic strap, and a familiar fit, this running cap is a must-have essential for your outdoor pursuits.

Pendleton Men’s Wool Sun Hat: Versatile Outdoor Accessory

The Pendleton Men’s Outback Hat is a stylish and versatile addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s collection. Made of 100% wool for optimal durability, this sun hat offers both adjustable fit and a classic look. Perfect for casual outings or more adventurous treks, this water-repellent wool felt hat has earned praise from its satisfied wearers.

Lifeguard-Style Hiking Hat with Wide Brim for Ultimate Sun Protection

This sun hat, designed in a classic lifeguard style, offers ultimate sun protection with its wide brim. Boasting a large fit that’s perfect for men and women, it’s available in a range of sizes. The adjustable chinstrap ensures a comfortable and secure fit while working at the pool or beach. With an impressive 4.6 out of 5-star rating and 28 reviews, customers appreciate the hat’s well-made quality, good sun protection, and comfortable feel.

Versatile Breathable Trucker Hat for Outdoor Activities

Introducing the Arc’teryx Bird Trucker Curved Hat, a breathable and comfortable option for those who love staying active in the great outdoors. This lightweight hat not only ensures optimum ventilation with its air-permeable polyester front and mesh back panel, but also features a moisture-wicking Spacer mesh headband, keeping sweat away from your eyes. The low-profile, curved brim provides superior weather protection while not hindering visibility or movement. Boasting a modern, adventurous look with the Arc’teryx graphic, you’ll be set for your next hiking adventure.

Arc’teryx Bird Curved Brim Hiking Hat

The Arc’teryx Bird hat is the perfect blend of style and functionality for those seeking an adventure. Featuring a curved brim and classic look, the hat is lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for both mountain hikes and urban exploration. The hydrophobic material ensures quick drying, while the spacer mesh sweatband helps manage moisture. The adjustable snap back provides a custom fit and the bonded polyester ribs maintain its shape for a timeless appearance.

GearTop Fishing Sun Hat for Outdoor Adventures

Sail into the sunset with the GearTop Fishing Sun Hat, a comfortable and stylish option perfect for those sunny days on the water. This safari cap is designed with a wider brim to offer optimal sun protection, keeping you comfortable from head to toe. Plus, its lightweight, quick-drying material makes it an excellent choice for all your outdoor adventures. Say goodbye to pesky hat straps and enjoy a perfect fit with the adjustable chinstrap. With a 5.0 rating and glowing reviews, this is a sun protection solution you won’t want to miss!

Arc’teryx Stone Wash Curved Hiker Hat

Dive into the outdoor world with the Arc’teryx Bird Word Trucker Curved Hat Stone Wash/Daybreak. Boasting a hydrophobic Circuit polyester front, this hat stands strong against the elements, while the moisture-wicking Spacermesh headband keeps you dry and comfortable. The curved brim, classic Word logo graphic, and adjustable snap back closure ensure a perfect fit for all your adventures.

Wide Brim Boating Hat with Drawstring Closure

Celebrate life’s thrilling adventures with the Geartop Wide Brim Sun Hat! This stylish and practical hat offers you superior sun protection by blocking both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring that you stay safe while basking in the great outdoors. Crafted from 100% lightweight polyester material, this hat dries quickly and is perfect for any adventurous pursuit - be it fishing, hiking, or just lounging around at the beach. The adjustable drawstring closure helps you achieve the perfect fit, while its mesh vent panel provides breathability to keep you cool and comfortable. Available in a variety of colors, the Geartop Wide Brim Sun Hat is a must-have accessory for anyone seeking an outstanding combination of fashion, functionality, and sun protection.

INOGIH UV-Protection Foldable Wide-Brim Lady’s Hats in Purple and Blue

Say hi to the InogiH Women’s Outdoor UV-Protection hat - a must-have for any sunny outing! This fashionable fishing cap boasts a large brim to keep your forehead well-shaded and a comfortable mesh lining for breathtaking breathability. With a ponytail hole and adjustable drawstring for a snug fit, it’s the perfect companion for your beach adventures or outdoor activities. Made from quick-drying, breathable polyester, you’ll stay sun-safe and stylish in any situation.

Geartop Men and Women’s Wide Brim Bucket Hat

The Geartop Wide Brim Sun Hat is the ultimate bucket hat for men and women. Not only does it offer reliable UPF 50+ sun protection, it’s also tested and proven to shield you from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Perfect for outdoor adventures like fishing, hiking, or gardening, this sun hat combines style, comfort, and breathability all in one. The drawstring closure ensures a snug fit, while the mesh fabric keeps your head cool and sweat-free.

Arc’teryx Yukon Trucker Hat with Curved Brim

Created specifically for those boasting larger craniums, the Arc’teryx Bird Curved Brim Trucker Hat - Yukon is a delightful fusion of comfort and style. Crafted from premium Circuit 1000% polyester fabric, this cap offers top-notch moisture management and breathability, ensuring that your canine companion remains comfortable and stress-free even amidst intense physical pursuits. The hat’s robust and breathable construction makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of uses, from casual strolls to daily outdoor excursions. It’s equipped with a mesh sweatband and an adjustable closure that together ensure a secure fit and efficient sweat removal. Give your beloved pet the best protection and fashionable style during their outdoor escapades with the Arc’teryx Bird Curved Brim Trucker Hat - Yukon.

Muryobao Foldable Bucket Hat for Women: UV Protection, Summer Fun, and Versatile Fishing Cap

Savor the warmth of the sun with Muryobao’s Women’s Sun Hat, a must-have accessory for your outdoor adventures. Featuring a wide brim and a mesh side panel for enhanced breathability, this stylish hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun’s harsh rays. Lightweight, foldable, and easy to store, it’s an ideal companion for all your outdoor activities.

Buyer’s Guide

When hitting the trails for your next hiking adventure, a hiking hat can make all the difference. Not only does it protect your head from the sun’s harsh rays, but it also keeps your face dry and shields you from wind and rain. But not all hiking hats are created equal. Here’s what you need to know to choose the right one for your outdoor excursions.

Types of Hiking Hats

There are several different types of hiking hats, each with its own unique features. The three main types are wide-brimmed hats, bucket hats, and beanie-style hats. Each type offers distinct benefits, so the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences and the specific conditions you’ll be hiking in.

Wide-Brimmed Hats

Wide-brimmed hats, also known as sun hats or booney hats, are designed to provide maximum sun protection. They typically have a brim that ranges from 2 to 4 inches wide and can be adjustable for the perfect fit. These hats also offer some protection from wind and rain, making them a versatile choice for various weather conditions.

Bucket Hats

Bucket hats, also known as fisherman’s hats, are made of a dense, water-resistant material. They have a short, rounded brim that provides some sun protection without being overly large. Bucket hats are ideal for hiking in rainy or windy conditions, as they offer excellent protection from the elements. They are also easy to fold and store when not in use.

Beanie-Style Hats

Beanie-style hats are perfect for cold weather hiking. They are designed to cover your entire head and ears, providing warmth and insulation against the cold. Some beanies even have a built-in brim to provide additional sun protection. These hats come in various materials, from wool to synthetic blends, so you can choose the one that suits your needs best.

FAQ

Why do I need a hiking hat?

A hiking hat serves multiple purposes. It provides excellent sun protection by blocking UV rays and keeps you cool during hot outdoor activities. Additionally, hiking hats often feature adjustable straps and brims, allowing for optimal ventilation when your body temperature rises. They also offer added protection from rain, wind, and insects. By wearing a hiking hat, you’re not only protecting your skin and eyes from the elements, but also staying more comfortable and focused on your journey.

Hiking hats may be lightweight, but their benefits are far from insignificant. They’re an essential piece of gear that every hiker should have in their backpack, as they ensure both comfort and safety on the trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newcomer, a hiking hat is an investment in your outdoor experiences and should be a priority when planning for your next hike.

What are the features I should look for in a hiking hat?

To make the most out of your hiking hat, consider the following features when making your purchase: UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, adjustable straps, ventilation, moisture-wicking, and a wide brim. An UPF rating indicates how much UV protection the hat provides, and a higher rating usually means greater protection. Adjustable straps let you choose the right fit, and ventilation helps to keep you cool. Moisture-wicking materials keep your head dry and comfortable when you sweat, while a large brim does a great job of shielding your face and neck from the sun’s rays.

Furthermore, consider the hat’s design; some hiking hats have a foldable, collapsible brim that you can easily store when not in use, making them more compact to carry around. Different fabrics are available as well, such as nylon and polyester, which offer varying degrees of UV protection, breathability, and moisture-wicking capabilities. By selecting a hiking hat that checks most, if not all, of these features, you’ll be better equipped for your outdoor adventures.

What does UPF rating mean on a hiking hat?

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) is a standard measure of the effectiveness of fabrics, clothing, and hats in blocking UV radiation. Hiking hats with high UPF ratings provide excellent protection against UV rays, which is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing sunburn. A UPF rating is similar to the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of sunscreen but measures the protection offered by the fabric itself.

Some hiking hats may have no UPF rating, indicating that they offer minimal to no protection against UV rays. It’s crucial to choose a hat with a higher UPF rating when planning for long hours of exposure to the sun, as higher UPF ratings mean superior protection against harmful UV rays. Always consult the UPF label when purchasing a hiking hat, and aim for a rating of 30+ or higher for optimal protection.

Should I wear a hat in the rain?

Yes, it’s a great idea to wear a hat in the rain, as it provides additional protection for your head and face from the rain, wind, and cold. A hiking hat with a waterproof or water-resistant feature is ideal, as it will help keep the water from soaking your hat and potentially causing discomfort or irritation.

Rain or not, wearing a hat during outdoor activities not only keeps your head dry, but it also helps to maintain an even body temperature by preventing heat loss. So, even when it’s raining, remember to still wear your hiking hat alongside your rain gear for maximum comfort and protection. Once the rain stops, you can always remove it and allow it to dry.

Can I convert a traditional hat into a hiking hat?

You can convert a traditional hat into a hiking hat, but it’s not guaranteed that the conversion will meet all the requirements of a hiking hat. The first step would be to assess whether your traditional hat has any UPF rating or adjustable straps, as these are crucial for adequate sun protection and comfort on long hikes.

If your traditional hat lacks these features, you can attempt to accessorize it, such as by attaching a neck gaiter or a bandana to the brim to create a wider shaded area. You can also search for hiking hat attachments, like an adjustable chin strap or a neck gaiter, to modify the traditional hat’s design. However, the added sun protection and ventilation may not be as sufficient as that of a hiking hat specifically designed for outdoor activities.

How do I clean my hiking hat?

To clean your hiking hat, follow these steps: Hand wash it in cold water using a mild detergent specifically designed for outdoor gear. Avoid using bleach or harsh cleaning agents, as they may damage the materials. It’s also essential to avoid scrubbing the hat harshly, as this may cause the material to break down faster. After washing, rinse the hat thoroughly to remove any soap residue and let it air dry away from direct sunlight for optimal drying.

If the hiking hat is oil or sweat stained, you can spot clean it with a mild detergent and a microfiber cloth or toothbrush. However, it’s advisable to avoid over-washing the hat, as this can cause it to lose its elasticity and shrink. Regularly cleaning your hiking hat not only prolongs its lifespan but also ensures its performance and protection during your outdoor adventures.

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