When embarking on a long-distance hike like the Pacific Crest Trail, it is essential to prioritize sun protection through a sun hat. Scorching sun can be relentless, and without proper precautions, it can lead to sunburns, heat exhaustion, or even heatstroke. If you’re looking for the best hiking sun hats for guys that will last all summer or one hitting the trails, take a look at a few of the great options below!
What are Hiking Hats?
A protective sun hat or the best hiking hat, hiking water bottles, sun protection shirt, and good SPF is meant to provide you with the best sun protection when outside with family and friends. There are plenty of excellent summer hats for men, including the basic sunhat to a men’s straw sun hat, to wear in the summer.
SPF sun hats provide sun protection against harmful rays, helping you be more comfortable and relaxed when enjoying summer with an ultra adventure hat.
With so many hiking sun hats on the market, how do you pick a suitable hat? From floppy sun hats to fishing hats with nylon fabric, there are a plethora of choices.
Even sun hats for women and hiking outfits for women to wear can provide the style and comfort that you need while protecting against that hot sun.
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The Best Sun Hats for Men
Men’s sun hats for sun protection are designed to shield you from sun rays while at the lake, the beach, or even at your kids’ game. While we will detail hat options below, here’s a sneak peek at the sun hats we think are the best!
[table id=19 /] [table id=20 /]Dorfman Pacific Men’s Boonie Mesh Hat
This fishing sun bucket hat comes with everything that you need. Made of 80% nylon to wick away the rain and a nice, sturdy brim to protect you from all angles. The mesh venting on this sun cap is light without losing any sun protection.
Moreover, no sun and sand hat for a beach vacation isn’t worth the money unless it’s breathable and packable. And with a UPF rating of 50+, you don’t have to worry about your head getting burned on a thru-hike.
This hiking boonie hat has both an adjustable headband and chin strap to keep the hat firmly on for those windy days. Choose from two sizes to get the perfect fit.
Calamus UPF 50 Boonie Sun Protection Hat
Get the protection you need especially from skin cancer on the hottest days. Together with a UPF 50+, neck cape, and brim wide enough to protect the top of your head and face protection, the Fanadith Men’s Fishing sun hat has all the features so you won’t burn.
What’s more, because this great sun hat has a polyester waterproof fabric and quick dry technology, it can handle a little rain.
Unlike other oversized summer sun hats, the Fanadith has a removable face cover neck flap for 360-degree protection from dust and UV rays.
Unusual look, but on the other hand, the best men’s hiking sun hats are not meant to be cool looking and your sunburn-free face will thank you.
GearTOP Fishing Hat and Safari Cap
Generally, the best sun protection hat doesn’t need to be fancy; something simple can suffice.
Whether you want to hit the lake or work in the garden, these lightweight large sun hats will protect you from the sun and heat. Moreover, GearTop’s reliable sun-blocking sun hats protect from UV rays with strong UPF50+ protection.
The drawstring closure together with the adjustable headband tightens to make sure it doesn’t fly off in the wind.
Additionally, its breathable fabric mesh material allows the heat to escape your ‘noggin, so your hair won’t be sweaty.
Since it’s unisex, your girlfriend may end up making your sunshade hat hers all summer long. Be the hero and buy an extra one for her.
Quicksilver Men’s Pierside Lifeguard Beach Straw Sunhat
When we saw this hat, we knew that you would fall in love with the classic styling and comfortable fit.
While men’s straw hats can’t handle a rainstorm, they provide a lot of good protection from the sun. Being that it’s crafted from straw, you shouldn’t submerge this in water or do anything to compromise the hat crown.
Then again, its quality construction means that can handle a day of adventuring, lakeside, or battling weeds in your garden.
Still, you can’t use this as a golf sun hat men, watching the ocean waves as you drink beer makes this a multi-tasking sun hat to us.
Similarly, its wide brim, lined headband, and adjustable drawcord chin strap allow you to custom-fit your needs. All in all, you get a hard hat sunshade without needing to buy a pith helmet.
A favorite among lifeguards, buy this sun hat from Amazon at a price that will last longer on vacation than 2 cases of good lager. Bottoms up!
American Hat Makers Soaker Mesh Hat
Handcrafted and beautiful, this adventure hat has all the styles with plenty of comfort since it has been made with quality materials. Designed after the traditional cowboy hat, this one is actually made out of mesh material to encourage both airflow and keep water away from your head.
A laminated liner inside will keep the water out while giving you the wide-brim sun hats with UPF 50 protection from the sun, thanks to the nylon mesh.
Undoubtedly, these wide-brimmed hiking sun hats are both functional and cut down on sun exposure.
Specifically, the headband has removable Velcro sweat liners and adjustable sizing inserts to change the size to fit your head, so that your sun hat fits like a glove.
Travel-friendly, crushable, and attractive, this will quickly become your favorite sun hat.
Columbia Adult Bora Bora Fishing hat
Columbia is a brand you can trust that your purchase will hold up over the years.
Thanks to the Omni-Shade UPF 50 protection, you’ll stay protected from both UVA and UVB rays when you’re out in the sun.
Additionally, the Omni-Wick will keep moisture away even in the heaviest of rain. Certainly, there are many handy features to keep you cool. Such as the mesh- breeze-inducing vent to allow air through, an adjustable headband drawcord and chin strap, and a stylish design.
Columbia hiking sun hats use a dark fabric under the brim, effectively reducing glare on your face and eyes, which makes this an easy choice when headed out for a day of kayaking.
Camoland Breathable Wide Brim Hat
With plenty of styles to choose from, Camoland will protect you while kayaking on the lake from crossing slippery trails.
Due to the 360-degree sweatband, sweat won’t drip down into your eyes, at least for a few minutes.
In addition, its buttons are no-rust and the wide mesh panel provides the best airflow possible. The 4.5-inch broad-brim fishing hat and UPF 50+ coverage protect your whole head.
Certainly, hiking bucket sun hats can be dorky. If you want to amp up the style, then snap rust-proof buttons together to convert a more attractive sun hat.
All the features combined together with a high SPF sunscreen basically keep the sun’s rays away. However, it only comes in one size, the large brim can be floppy, and the material begins to discolor after a few sweaty days.
Billabong Men’s Classic Straw Hat
Available in two styles, this straw hat has features for you to enjoy a day at the beach. The wide brim on this hat chases away the sun with its tight weave straw construction and classic palapa design.
Without a doubt, this lifeguard’s favorite works all day to prevent any nasty burns.
By all means, if you want this to last many years, only hand wash your giant sun hats. Remove your hat before hitting the waves. Surf’s up!
Outdoor Research Sun Runner Hat
Unquestionably, if the back of your neck frequently burns, then you need a neck flap for that extra sun protection. Thus, this Outdoor Research Sun Runner is one of the best options.
For one thing, it has a high UPF 50+ material that ultraviolet protection factor for the top of your head, ears, and down your neck. What’s more, this sun visor hat has dual breathable fabric mesh panels and is made of lightweight nylon that is waterproof, and quick drying.
Without a doubt, this outdoor adventure hat is a perfect companion for camping, hiking the Pacific Coast Trail, on the golf course, kayaking, or working out outside. The sun hat with neck flap is a multi-tasker because you can remove the cape and use it as a training or fishing cap.
If you’re a heavy sweating beast, then you’ll like that this is machine washable.
Because it has an adjustable sizing drawstring for both chin and headband and a 5-inch broad brim, this is one-size-fits-most making it a good option for everyone.
The Friendly Swede Sun Hat
Equally versatile is the Friendly Swede Sun Hat. Specifically, they come with everything for a day under the sun. Such as a UPF 50+ UV sunblock, a cooling mesh panel above the large brim to keep the head cool, adjustable sizing, snap buttons, and chin straps.
To clarify further, the snap buttons on the sides of the hat button-up for a sporty look. Also, the adjustable sweat-absorbing rim and chin strap secure sun hats on any sized head, even on the windiest of days.
On those stifling hot days, this will quickly become one of your favorite sun-blocking hats. And it’s available in a 2-pack, keep one in the car and one at home! Surely, the peace of mind with its lifetime warranty qualifies this as the best ultra adventure sun hat than other hats.
Super Wide Brim Bucket Hat
This is the top hiking bucket hat on the market, made 100% out of nylon, provides more comfort, has quick drying powers, and has a wide brim for shade. With a 5.5-inch large-brim sun hat, you’ll be protected no matter how bright the sun is.
One of the lightest fishing sun hats, its material, and strategically placed mesh allow for plenty of airflows to keep you cool and the high-quality materials are available in several styles and colors.
Moreover, you can snap up the sides and turn this from a giant sun hat to a fishing cowboy hat.
In short, this oversized sun hat is perfect if you don’t want a neck flap but need that extra shade to cover the back of your neck.
Hurley Phantom Men’s Sun Hat
There’s much to love about Hurley’s floppy bucket hat.
First, the brim size will keep you shaded and remove water with ease when you’re out longboarding or standup paddleboarding. Also, the Boonie bucket hat has a toggle adjusting removable chin straps.
To illustrate, a lightweight hat with a large brim provides ultimate comfort when the sun rays are beating down on your head.
Certainly, you can stash money and small items in the zip-close pocket located on the crown and tuck any small bottles in the loops. When you want to up the cool factor of the hat, loop the chin strap above your head and turn it into a cowboy hat.
Available in 7 colors from grey, and white sun hats, black sun hats, and camouflage to more patriotic designs, it covers basically all your needs whether at the sand bar or hiking in the wilderness.
If you are a lazy creature of habit and toss everything in the washing machine on warm, you’ll need to pass on this. To repeat, you’ll need to hand wash this.
KeepSa Sun Hat for Men
Unlike the other men’s sun hats on our list, this is made from 100% cotton, and it’s not as multi-purpose. Specifically, you don’t want to use this safari hat in rainy weather since cotton isn’t fast drying.
Furthermore, this cotton material, while foldable and breathable, doesn’t have the same moisture-wicking capabilities.
To sum it up, the KeepSa Sun hat does offer sun protection but is best for mild to dry weather.
Sunday Afternoons Sun Tripper Cap
If you want something closer to a baseball cap for sun protection, then the Sun Tripper cap is the perfect option. Designed just like a baseball cap, both the 100% nylon crown and mesh out of polyester can keep you cool in any climate.
This hiker cap has a 2.5-inch brim to chase the rays away and is rated at UPF 50+ for those hot days. Because it has an internal wicking sweatband, you won’t need to worry about dripping sweat when out on day hikes.
Together with the small vertical vents around the crown and design vaguely resembling a military cadet cap, it’s stylish and functional.
Both stain-resistant and water-repellent, the Sun Tripper will quickly become your favorite hat.
Titleist Men’s Tour Aussie Bone Hat
When you want a name-brand hat that provides protection while turning heads, this brand of golf sun hats from Titleist checks all the boxes. With several options, you can choose the style that looks the best.
Additionally, you have a few choices to pick from, with either a rounded or flat hat top. What’s more, is that these come with a unique firm brim that keeps the sun away and provides exceptional protection.
The thick material is designed for both durability and comfort under the scorching sun. Titleist makes several golf sun hats men wear on and off the green, so try out this tour-inspired hat the next time you are off at the driving range.
What to Consider When Choosing a Sun Hat
When you’re looking for sun hats for men, you may wonder which is the best. While there are many different options, not all of them will cover your ears, and neck or keep your head cool in the summer.
Some things to consider when choosing a sunhat include:
What does a Sun Hat cost?
For all the protection and coverage that you want from your sun hat during the summer, you would assume it would be pricey. In fact, you may be surprised to find it’s very affordable.
Most high-quality sun hats for men cost between $5 to $30, with a few of the name-brand options being slightly more expensive.
Avoid any that are cheap because they may not provide UPF protection and can burn the top of your head or start falling apart. Additionally, look for a hiker hat with higher UPF sun protection, and prepare to pay a bit more for quality.
But, the good news is most are sturdy and can last years.
There is no reason to go with the more expensive name-brand sun hats. While a name-brand hat may make you feel better, they don’t necessarily have extra features or offer more protection from the sun.
If you prefer a name brand, then you’ll have a wide range of great options. However, they aren’t any better than an affordable high-quality sun hat either.
Is the hat water-repellent?
Your hat is not going to provide you with protection if it gets soaked at the slightest chance of water. Whether you drop it in a lake or get caught in a rainstorm, you want a hat that can repel water.
Look at the description to see whether it’s water-resistant before purchasing. If there isn’t water-repellant information, then it is best to pick something else if this feature is important.
The best waterproof hiking hat, like the Einskey Waterproof Boonie hat, will have breathable fabric qualities that will allow water to bead and run down the rigid brim.
What Types of Sun Hats Should I Consider?
This often comes down to personal choice. So, you’ll have to try on a few to see which you prefer. Some of the options to consider for sun hats include:
- Wide brim hat
- Boonie hat
- Fishing hat
- Bucket hat
- Sun hat
- Cowboy hat
- Safari hats
- Baseball cap
- Moisture-wicking or water-repellent hat
- Men’s straw sun hat
- Hiking hats or backpacking hat
- Hats with a chin strap to keep in place.
- Hats with a neck cape
- Pith Hat or Pith Helmet
Each provides different degrees of protection. For example, a wide-brim hat will provide more sun protection, by giving you a shadow over your eyes.
A moisture-wicking hat will help to keep the rain and sweat away when the weather decides to change on you. A summer straw sun hat can look festive and nice while being lightweight on those hot days.
How Long Should the Hat Brim Be?
If you choose a wide brim hat, then you may wonder how long the brim should be. Some have a small bill at the front, like a baseball cap, while others are wider and cover you like an umbrella.
The best brim should be two inches or longer all around the hat. This gives you a good amount of shade and protects your face and neck from the sun while keeping your head cool.
Can Sun Hats Protect Against UV Rays?
A sun hat is the starting point for protection from the sun. the exact amount of protection will depend on the UPF rating.
The lowest rating is UPF 15 while the highest is close to UPF 50. This range provides a good deal of protection for your head, but a few sun rays will still be able to get in.
Also, Using sunscreen is often a good idea here.
Before falling in love with an outdoors hat, first, check the UPF ratings. This provides you with how much protection you’ll get from the sun.
For an additional layer of protection, consider a hiker hat with a wide brim or a neck cape. In order to get maximum coverage.
Picking the Right Fit
Overall, the men’s sun hats on our list are designed to fit most head sizes. It’s a good idea to measure your head and check if the headband is adjustable before tossing that receipt.
Firstly, use a measuring tape and measure around your head. After that, use the measurement and check the adjustable sizing guide for hat fit.
If you choose a hiking hat that is a one-size-fits-all, then you can adjust the elastic hatband using its drawstring.
Indeed, you should be able to wear most of the hats on our list. Still, knowing your size ahead of time will help you pick the right sun hat.
Our Pick for the Best Sunhat
Our favorite sun hat for men is the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Hat for Men. It has all of the features of the perfect hat. From a high 50+ UPF rating to a removal neck cape, you’re protected on all sides from the elements.
It’s also light enough to wear all day long without getting uncomfortable. What’s more, once the sun goes down, you can remove the neck flap and have a ball cap. One less thing to buy and pack.
The price point is perfect for such a sturdy and reliable hat.
When you need both affordable and good-looking, best men’s sun hat to protect you from sticky hot weather or humid conditions, this is our recommendation!
Recommended Read: Top 12 Great Hiking Gadgets Every Hiker Needs This Year
Conclusion
In conclusion, never underestimate the power of a good sun hat on your hiking adventures. It’s not just a stylish accessory; it’s a crucial piece of gear that offers essential protection from the sun, enhances comfort, and can even improve your overall hiking experience.
Whether you’re trekking through serene forests or scaling rugged peaks, the right sun hat keeps you cool, comfortable, and protected. So, before you hit the trails, make sure to top off your hiking outfit with a trusty sun hat. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference.
Here’s to many more amazing, sun-safe hiking journeys ahead! 🌲🌞🥾 Happy trails, everyone!
FAQs
Look for sun hats with wide brims for maximum UV protection, lightweight and breathable materials for comfort, and features like moisture-wicking fabric and chin straps for added functionality. Durability is also key for those rugged outdoor adventures.
Absolutely! A good sun hat protects you from harmful UV rays, helps regulate your temperature by providing shade and ventilation, and can even prevent sunburn. It’s a simple accessory that offers a ton of benefits on the trail.
Ensure a snug yet comfortable fit. Most sun hats come with adjustable features like a drawstring or a band. A well-fitting hat stays secure on your head, even in windy conditions, and provides effective sun protection without obstructing your view.
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Last update on 2025-03-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API