Our top picks:
- Best Overall: Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Men’s Sun Hat
- Best for Hiking: Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat
- Best for the Beach: EINSKEY Sun Protection Hat for Men
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. They go on to state that more than 2 people die of skin cancer every hour.
So whether you are going for a hike, hanging at the beach, or simply in the backyard gardening, a good Sun Hat provides adequate protection to both your head and neck from the sun’s dangerous UV rays.
In this guide, we will be reviewing a variety of sun hats, including the popular Columbia Bora Bora Booney II. Furthermore, we will be also going over key considerations you need to take into account when buying a sun hat and answer a few of the popular questions people have about these hats.
Let’s begin:
Review Roundup
| Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Men's Sun Hat |
| Buy On Amazon |
| Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat |
| Buy On Amazon |
| EINSKEY Sun Protection Hat for Men |
| Buy On Amazon |
| ELLEWIN Men’s Summer Cap |
| Buy On Amazon |
| Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat |
| Buy On Amazon |
| Tilley Airflo Bucket Sun Hat |
| Buy On Amazon |
| Brooklyn Surf Men's Straw Hat |
| Buy On Amazon |
| Stetson Gambler Golfing Sun Hat |
| Buy On Amazon |
| Rapiddominance Boonies Fishing Hat |
| Buy On Amazon |
How to Buy A Sun Hat
When buying a sun hat, we found that the following 9 considerations are among the most important in order to find a hat to meet your needs:
1. Style
Sun hats come in 4 main styles, here’s a quick look at each:
- Bucket: With wide brim around the entire hat, the bucket style provides the most complete protection from the sun.
- Cap: Like a simple baseball cap or snapback hat, a cap has a brim in the front to protect your face but no protection on the back. Some sun hats do have a hidden flap that can be pulled down from inside the hat that extends to the neck.
- Fedora: Similar in size and shape to the bucket hat, a Fedora has a moderately sized brim that wraps around the hat and is a bit more stylish and can be easily dressed up.
- Flap: Designed for ultimate protection, the flap sun hat covers both the neck and face. Designed for traversing deserts and other intense environments where sun exposure is prolonged.
2. Material
Material is important when buying a sun hat. Having an impact on breathability, washability, and style presentation, take a moment to know the common materials used in a variety of sun protection hats:
- Polyester / Nylon: The most durable and common, polyester and nylon are both moisture-wicking and a natural water repellant (source). While not as breathable as cotton, many polyester sun hats will have ventilation throughout the hat. These synthetic materials are also incredibly durable.
- Cotton / Linen: This natural and breathable fabric will feel great against your head. However, the slow drying times and susceptibility to tearing make it not as prevalent for both hiking and traveling.
- Straw: Often handwoven in South American countries (i.e Ecuador, Panama, etc.), straw is lightweight and stylish. Straw sun hats are great for pool parties or semi-formal outdoor gatherings. Just know that this material doesn’t travel well and cannot be folded.
3. Intent
How do you plan on wearing your sun hat? Is it just for vacation? Backpacking across Europe? Does it need to fit in your carry-on luggage? Or do you plan on wearing it every time you go out hiking or just in the back yard when you are throwing the football to your kids?
Whatever the reason you are buying the sun hat, different styles are better suited for different occasions. For instance, a sun hat for hikes will be lightweight, have an interior sweatband, and have a chin-strap that secures the hat in the event of a sudden breeze.
4. Sun Protection
The primary purpose of a sun hat is to provide adequate protection to both your face and neck from the sun. Therefore, you will want to make sure that the sun hat you buy has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) Rating of 50 or more. A UPF rating of 50+ will block 97.5%+ of the UV rays.
5. Hat & Brim Size
Sun hats come in many different sizes which is a tug and pull of advantages and disadvantages.
When settling on a brim size, think about how you plan on wearing the sun hat. If you are going to the beach or just plan on lounging in the hat and not running around, then a brim larger than 3″ will be fine. However, if you are going on a hike, then a narrow brim less than 3″ will be a better choice.
While a sun hat with a wide brim offers better protection, the hat becomes heavier, more likely to be caught in a sudden gust of wind, and generally limits mobility. So think about these factors before purchasing.
6. Color
When selecting a sun hat, you will find that most are light in color as it will reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cool. Darker colors such as dark brown, black, navy, camo, etc. will absorb the rays and transmit more heat to your head.
7. Brand
As we reviewed and researched several sun hat brands for men, we found the following to be among the most trusted and popular:
- Alchemi Labs
- Billabong
- Columbia
- EINSKEY
- Frogg Toggs
- Dorfman Pacific
- Henschel
- KUHL
- Outdoor Research
- Patagonia
- Peter Grimm
- Pistil
- Quiksilver
- San Diego Hat Company
- Sunday Afternoons
- The North Face
- Tilley
- Volcom
Buying a sun hat from one of these brands will often result in a higher quality of craftsmanship and thought out design than an off-brand sun hat.
8. Additional Features
While we covered many of the key considerations above, here are a few additional features that some companies add to their hats:
- Internal Sweatband: This little strip of fabric around the inside of the hat will be helpful in preventing sweat from dripping down your face or neck. Furthermore, it will also reduce sweat from soaking through to the exterior.
- Vents Holes / Mesh: Increased circulation allows for lower temperatures inside the hat and ultimately less sweating and increased comfort.
- Drawcord / Drawstring: Standard on nearly all sun hats, a drawcord or chin strap secures the hat from blowing off your head with a sudden gust of wind.
- Waterproof: If you are hiking and find yourself in a sudden rainstorm, a waterproof-treated sun hat will allow the droplets to roll off the brim. This ensures that the structure of the hat remains and doesn’t droop down when wet.
- Earflaps: Foldable ear flaps, often found on cap style sun hats, offer a little bit of extra protection to the sides of your head.
9. Price
The price point of sunhats varies depending on the material, style, design, and features. Based on our research, we found that most sun hats will typically cost anywhere between $15 to $150.
The Best Sun Hats for Men of 2020 Reviewed
1. Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Men’s Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat Overall
Best Features:
- Easily packable for wherever your adventures take you
- Ventilation helps to control sweat
- Drawcord is easy to adjust for different head sizes
Best For:
Men who are looking for a sun hat that they can wear to several different activities.
Summary:
The most popular and also the best sun hat for men will be the Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat. From the medium width brim to the poly sweatband, Colombia nails all the details perfectly:
- Performance fabric that works in a variety of settings
Whether you are hiking, mountain biking, playing water sports, or simply lounging at the beach, the Bora Bora is equipped to handle just about any environment or activity. Made from a polyester and nylon fabric, this naturally moisture-wicking fabric will dry quickly while providing adequate UV protection.
- Vents and a chin cord keep the hat secure
While synthetic fabrics are great at wicking moisture away from the skin, they do lack when it comes to ventilation. In order to prevent your head from overheating, the Bora Bora smartly has a large vent that wraps around 75% of the hat to keep you nice and cool.
In order to prevent the hat from flying off, Columbia also conveniently includes a chin cord that can be pulled to your preferred tightness.
Other Important Features:
- Comes in 5 different color variations
- Adjustable fit thanks to the drawcord on the back
- Nylon shell should last a lifetime thanks to increased durability
Pros
- Perfect hat for the sun
- Ventilation on the side and back keep you cool
- UPF 50 rating
Cons
- Not the best pick if you need to dress up
What You Need To Know
If you want a versatile sun hat that you can wear for all sorts of activities, then the Columbia Bora Bora Booney II is the best hat out there. This sun hat is perfectly designed to keep you cool while protecting you from harmful UV rays.
2. Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat
Top Award: Best Hiking Hat
Best Features:
- UPF 50 sun protection rating
- Designed for outdoor adventures such as hiking, trekking, and climbing mountains
- Extremely lightweight
Best For:
Hikers that want a wide brim, breathability, and lightweight design.
Summary:
When it comes to reviewing hiking hats, there is simply no better option than the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat. Made for the trails, this lightweight hat features lots of little details that make it a favorite among hikers.
- Ventilation around the crown
When it comes to breathability, the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat has strategically placed mesh panels around the crown that allows air to flow in to keep sweat from building up when the trail gets strenuous.
Beyond the mesh panels, the adventure hat also has a neck cape that provides full coverage to the back of your head. But what’s nice about the cape is that it can be easily hooked up to the hat to increase breathability when you are hiking in shaded woods or simply getting a bit too warm.
- “The best hat I have ever owned” – An owner of the Adventure Hat
When reading the reviews from other hikers, people simply loved this hat for many reasons and had one of the highest average review ratings across several retailers including Amazon, REI Co-Op, Backcountry, and more.
- You may also want to consider the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat
While we think that the Adventure Hat reviewed here is a better pick, some men may want to opt for the alternative Ultra Adventure Hat. That hat features a clamshell folding brim, sunglass lock, neck flap, and a reflective coating for high visibility. No matter which hat you decide to go with, both are great options for the trail.
Other Important Features:
- Adjustable buckle to fit to just about all head circumferences
- The polyester fabric allows for a stain-resistant and water-repellent finish
- Works well in all sorts of weather conditions
- Available in 11 different colors
- Foam padding core makes it float in water
- Cinch cord ensures it doesn’t blow off your head
Pros
- Neck flap is adjustable and offers full coverage
- Foam core can float if it becomes submerged
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not the most flattering design for other uses
What You Need To Know
If you are looking for one of the best hiking hats that keeps your neck and face well protected from the sun, then most trail junkies recommend the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat. Whether you are hiking in the Appalachian or the Rockies, you will want to add this hat high on your pack list for your next hiking trip.
3. EINSKEY Sun Protection Hat for Men
Top Award: Best Men’s Beach Hat
Best Features:
- Protects against skin cancers and premature aging
- Perfect hat for sun exposure on beach trips
- Ventilation keeps your head cool
Best For:
Anyone looking for strong sun protection while at the beach.
Summary:
If you plan on heading to the beach, then you need to get a sun hat that has a wider brim that provides a greater level of protection. With a 3.8″ average brim width, the EINSKEY beach hat is perfect to wear when at the beach.
- Water-repellent polyester material allows the hat to retain its shape
Unlike cotton hats that begin to sag and lose their structure as soon as they get wet, the EINSKEY hat was made for the water and the beach. When wet, the water on the brim of the hat will simply bead up and roll off – making it a great hat to wear in the water as well.
- A secure fit
Thanks to the drawstring closure and the rear adjustable drawstring around the top, the hat will stay secured to your head and won’t blow away with a sudden gust of wind due to the large brim.
- Packable and versatile design
Able to be folded in half for quick storage, the EINSKEY takes up very little space in your suitcase making it great to take with you on a tropical vacation.
While we think that this summer hat is perfect for the beach, many other men have found it a perfect pick for a wide variety of outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, camping, and more.
Other Important Features:
- Won’t droop in rainy weather
- Protects against harmful UVA and UVB rays
- Mesh panels allow for cool ventilation
- Straps ensure a secure and close fit
- Nice detailed stitching throughout the entire construction of the hat
- The water-repellent coating should resist stains
Pros
- Unisex for both men and women
- Lightweight design
- The secure fit will prevent it from blowing off
Cons
- Limited color options
- Hand wash only
What You Need To Know
The EINSKEY is our top pick when it comes to a beach hat. The wider brim and water-repellent design make it great to wear both on the beach and in the water. It’s easy to see why this is such a popular hat for men.
4. ELLEWIN Men’s Summer Cap
Top Award: Best Cap for Summer
Best Features:
- 3-Panel bill folds up small
- Detachable mesh increases versatility
- Side vents keep you cool
Best For:
Men who want versatility whether they are fishing, hiking, or at the beach.
Summary:
This cap not only provides great protection from the sun but is also extremely versatile and breathable. Able to have a flap buttoned onto the back of the hat and the front, you can get full coverage for your head when outside for extended periods.
- Front and back flaps are detachable
Made from a super lightweight mesh, the breathable mesh face and neck cover are great for those men who want more comprehensive coverage for their skin.
- Lightweight makes it great for hikes and fishing
When heading out into the woods, the weight of your gear is important. While some men weigh items down to the grams (this hat weighs a reportedly 61 grams), the small and unobtrusive size makes it easy to fit in the side of your backpack if necessary. The foldable brim allows you to easily store this hat in your back pocket.
- Strong focus on ventilation
With vents on the entire side of the hat, hair is able to flow into the top of the cap allowing you to be both cool and comfortable. If you are wearing the cap with the attached back and front mesh, you will be happy to learn that the fabric has several holes for ventilation in order to allow air to flow freely.
Other Important Features:
- Blocks the sun’s harmful rays from every angle
- Comes with a windproof strap for security
- Cap is foldable and crushable
- Has a nice bit of stretch in the material in order to provide a close fit
- Slide buckle back closure
- Sweatband lined on the interior
Pros
- Foldable brim makes for a compact size when traveling
- Affordable
- Great for all sorts of outdoor activities
Cons
- Can’t really be worn with nice attire
What You Need To Know
This sun cap by ELLEWIN is the perfect companion for the outdoorsman that likes to go on long hikes or fishing in exposed locations. The back and front mesh are detachable so you can quickly decrease sun exposure if necessary.
5. Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Washable Sun Hat
Best Features:
- Small vents allow for great airflow
- Washes easily
- Simple drawcord adjustment
Best For:
Men that want a no-frills, minimalist, wide-brim hat that provides adequate coverage.
Summary:
When it comes to reviewing hats for the sun, the Outdoor Research Sombriolet hat is a simple-get-the-job-done type of hat. With a wide brim and made from synthetic materials, it can withstand harsh elements when outside for extended periods.
- Water and stain-resistant fabric that is durable
Whether you sweat profusely or you want to make sure that the hat retains its shape after a sudden downpour, the Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat shouldn’t falter at all. Made from a blend of synthetic materials (86% ripstop nylon and 14% polyester), it will naturally wick moisture away from both your head and face to keep you comfortable.
Unlike other synthetic fabrics that hand wash only, thanks to the reliance on ripstop nylon, you can place this into the washer to remove any sweat rings that may show up on the surface.
- Hidden breathability looks sleek and modern
While other sun hats we reviewed will have large side panels that allow air to flow easily around your head to keep you cool, Outdoor Research took a different approach with the hat design of the Sombriolet Sun Hat. Here they have small side vents on the side of the hat that should allow for heat to escape.
Other Important Features:
- Foam brim allows it to float in the water should it fly off
- Secured to your head by a drawcord that is adjustable
- Easily packable and crushable so you can always take it with you
- The brim is 3″ in width
- UPF 50 sun rating protects against harmful UV radiation
Pros
- Simple, yet modern design
- Moderately priced
- No brim wire makes it washable
Cons
- A bit pricey
What You Need To Know
If you want a simple but high-quality sun hat, then the Sombriolet Sun Hat should be one of your top picks. The rugged fabric coupled with it being washable will ensure it can last for years.
6. Tilley Airflo Bucket Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat for Photographers
Best Features:
- One of the most recommended hats by photographers
- Adequate protection from the sun when taking pictures for extended periods
- Stylish design
Best For:
Photographers who use a DSLR and need a hat that also provides protection in the sun.
Summary:
Whether you are shooting sports scenes, landscapes, city streets, or on a safari and want to capture fast-moving wildlife, the Tilley Airflo Bucket Sun Hat is a photographer’s unsung hero. Here’s why:
- A brim that won’t get in the way when using your camera
Unlike a traditional ball cap that you need to quickly turn around or take off in order to snap a quick picture, the Tilley Airflow Bucket Sun Hat has a flexible brim that makes it incredibly easy to take a look into the viewfinder when snapping a pic. Whether you have a flash mounted on the top of the camera body or are shooting in portrait orientation, the fumbling over a stiff brimmed wool cap will be a thing of the past.
But what is nice about the brim on the Airflow Bucket Sun Hat is that it’s not all droopy like traditional bucket hats. Instead, it’s got enough stiffness in order to both shade your face and protect your skin when you are out shooting subjects all day long.
- While it’s great for photography, the Tilley Airflow is a hat you will want to wear all the time
With a classic fedora-like design, of all the sun hats we reviewed, this is definitely one of the most stylish options out there. But not only is the style a borderline fashion statement, it is also expertly made.
Relying on a blend of nylon (95%) and spandex (5%), it will naturally repel water. Furthermore, the hat features Tilley’s proprietary hydrofil sweatband that will work to wick moisture away. A great little feature that will prevent sweat from dripping down your forehead and onto the camera body.
As for ventilation on this hat, Tilley went with the traditional oversized eyelets that are placed on the top of the hat.
Other Important Features:
- Double wind cords have a reflective yarn sewn in for high visibility in night
- Backed by a lifetime guarantee
- A secret pocket is woven into the hat to store a few valuables
- Will float if it falls into the water
Pros
- Brim won’t get in the way when using a DSLR
- Shade provides a clearer vision
- Stylish design allows it to be dressed up
Cons
- Won’t be able to fit into a camera bag
What You Need To Know
If there was one thing you want to add to your gear list when shooting outdoors (other than multiple lenses of course), it will be the Tilley Airflow Bucket Sun Hat. Shutterbugs loved this hat when shooting with their DSLR.
7. Brooklyn Surf Men’s Straw Hat
Top Award: Best Straw Sun Hat
Best Features:
- Edge binding protects the straw fiber weave
- Large brim sun hat protects face and neck
- One of the most popular straw hats available
Best For:
Men who want a lightweight hat for beach, music festivals, or for lounging.
Summary:
This thick straw hat from Brooklyn Surf is a perfect accessory to bring with you to the beach or music festival thanks to its low price, wide brim, and stylish design.
- Raffia straw fibers are extremely lightweight
Unlike some of the other heavier hats out there that can cause a massive indentation around your head when worn for hours, the raffia straw fibers are both wide and lightweight, making this hat a joy to wear.
But unlike so many other large brim sun hats that are too unwieldy, most men find the 4.5″ brim on this hat large, but not too big like a sombrero. Unlike the ladies with a floppy sun hat, the brim will remain rigid and won’t falter even if it is exposed to rain for an extended period.
- Sweatband and edge binding are nice details
The sweatband will work to absorb sweat and prevent it from dripping into your face. A great little feature whether you are at a multi-day music festival or simply gardening out in your backyard.
While the edge binding around the brim may be a small style detail that some men dislike, its function is critical. The edge binding helps to protect the raffia straw from fraying over time.
Other Important Features:
- A logoless option is available for men who like a more minimalist look
- The drawstring chin strap is adjustable
Pros
- Large brim sun hat provides great protection
- Summer staple
- A casual alternative to the Panama hat
Cons
- Not a packable hat like others reviewed
- Limited functionality
- One size fits most
What You Need To Know
The Brooklyn Surf Straw Hat is perfect for men who want a more relaxed mood to their appearance. Great for beach and lounging, this lightweight and affordable hat is both comfortable and has great craftsmanship throughout.
8. Stetson Gambler Seagrass Outdoorsman Golfing Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat for Golf
Best Features:
- A classy golf hat from a reputable company
- Inner lining stops UVA/UVB rays
- Moderately priced
Best For:
Golfers that want both sun protection and a stylish hat.
Summary:
Truth be told it was a toss-up between this hat and the Nike Golf Bucket Hat – both were great hats for sun protection, however, the style between both were worlds apart. Our recommendation here is that if you want a golf hat that is more about performance, then go with the Nike Golf Bucket Hat – it’s one of the best golf hats out there.
However, if you want a classic hat that reminds you of the legendary Greg Norman, then you simply can’t beat the Stetson Gambler Seagrass hat – here’s why:
- Stetson is a respected heritage brand that has defined the hat industry
Founded in 1865, Stetson makes a variety of hats with their most popular being traditional cowboy hats. Drawing on a level of craftsmanship that not only sets trends but can last a lifetime, the Stetson Gambler is the perfect hat to wear when hitting the links.
- Quality material for great sun protection
Whether you are playing 18 holes with your buddies or working on your golf game by yourself, the Stetson Gambler will provide adequate protection from the sun to ensure that you don’t get burned on the top of head, neck, or face. In order to provide this protection, instead of having an empty shell to the straw hat, Stetson has sewn in a sun-blocking fabric into the top of the hat and brim.
- Terry cloth headband is a stretch fabric that works for any head size
Available in two sizes (Small/Medium and Large/Extra Large), the Stetson Gambler will fit securely onto just about any head size thanks to the stretch fabric that wraps around the inside of the hat. Given that this hat doesn’t come with a drawstring, you will want to make sure you follow the sizing chart provided by Stetson before making your purchase.
Other Important Features:
- A classy design that looks timeless compared to other golf bucket hats
- A leather band around the crown offers a nice touch
- Available in two sizes
Pros
- Seagrass straw is lightweight and stylish
- Interior lining provides strong sun protection
- A great alternative to performance golf hats
Cons
- Not a rain hat nor any water repellent properties
- Can’t store in your golf bag
What You Need To Know
If you want a golf hat that not only looks good but is also one of the best golf hats for sun protection, then you have to get the Stetson Gambler. Its craftsmanship is unmatched and has become a fixture on the golf course for many.
9. Rapiddominance Boonies Fishing Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat for Fishing
Best Features:
- Narrow brim that won’t get in the way when fishing or casting
- Several color choices
- Built-in cooling features
Best For:
Fishermen looking for a hat that is comfortable and functional.
Summary:
While many fishermen may prefer the Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat for coverage, there is no denying the functionality and comfort found in the Rapiddominance Boonies fishing hat. A classic fishing bucking hat that has large loops around the crown that allows for you to attach on some lures for decoration (or function if you prefer).
- Secure and comfortable fit thanks to the adjustable chin strap
Relying on a 100% cotton fabric body, this hat is both breathable and much softer thanks to the natural fiber. Now we don’t recommend hiking in this hat or doing any intense activities as the cotton will absorb rather than wick away the moisture.
In order to make sure that the hat doesn’t fall off your head while you are reeling in the big one, the adjustable chin strap can be pulled up to provide a more secure fit.
- Decent (but not the best) sun protection
While the brim on this hat isn’t nearly as wide as some of the others reviewed, the Rapiddominance Boonies fishing hat has a brim that is 2.5″ wide. It should work well for a fishing hat, but perhaps not ideal if you are at the beach.
- Several sizes and color options
Unlike so many other fishing hats that are often one size fits most, this fishing hat is available in 4 different sizes (SM – XL) along with 8 color options. Many of the colors on this hat are military or tactical inspired and come in various camo varieties.
Other Important Features:
- Flappy brim allows it to crush down and store easily into a small bag (great if hiking to a remote fishing location)
- Ventilation holes on the side to allow for increased airflow
- Most color and size options are priced under $20
Pros
- The hat is made from 100% cotton
- Outer loops for lure decoration or function
- Affordable
Cons
- Narrow brim limits utility outside of fishing
- No net to repel insects and mosquitoes
What You Need To Know
One of the best fishing hats available is the Rappidominance Boonies fishing hat. The 100% cotton fabric coupled with the outer lure loops makes this one of the most comfortable and functional fishing hats.
3. Must-Have Accessories for Sun Hats
When wearing a sun hat, you may want to consider the following:
1. Sunscreen
While a sun hat will block out nearly all of the sun rays from your face and neck, the rest of your body will need adequate protection. Applying a sunblock before heading outdoors is important. If you aren’t sure which brand to go with, then you should check out our full list of men’s sunscreens we recently reviewed.
2. Sunglasses
In order to protect your eyes from both strain and the intense glare of sunlight off the surface of the water, a pair of polarized sunglasses are essential. Here we take a look at various polarized sunglasses for casual, driving, sight fishing, running, and more.
3. Swim Trunks
Planning on jumping into the water to cool off? Whether at the beach or a pool party, a nice pair of swim trunks is always a good call.
Sun Hat FAQs
Can you wear a sun hat at night?
The purpose of wearing a sun hat is to provide protection from the harmful UV rays. However, some may wear a sun hat at night as it can be helpful in absorbing perspiration, keeping bugs away, and in some instances, for style purposes.
Can you wear a sun hat on an airplane?
We couldn’t find any TSA regulations that stated that sun hats aren’t allowed on an airplane. However, if it has a wide brim, it may become uncomfortable or too bulky to wear on a plane.
Can you wash a sun hat?
Washing your sun hat depends on the fabric that was used and if there is a wire sewn into the brim. Some sun hats are hand wash only, while others can be placed into a washer. Regardless of the material, you should never put your sun hat in the dryer.
Can you wear a sun hat to a wedding?
It depends on the setting and those getting married. Some brides and grooms encourage extra sun protection while others would like to have a more formal setting. If in doubt, don’t wear a sun hat. Or you can always ask a member of the wedding party for advice.
Which sun hats are best?
The best sun hat will be one that strikes the right balance between form and function. As we reviewed in this guide, we found that the Columbia Bora Bora Booney II was the best general use sun hat, however, depending on how and where you plan on using a sun hat, another choice may be better.
Why wear a sun hat?
Many people wear sun hats so they won’t have to remember to apply sunscreen repeatedly. In addition to sun protection, sun hats give your eyes shade so you can see better, while also helping to keep you cool.
Where to buy a sun hat?
Sun hats can be purchased at the following retailers:
- Amazon
- REI
- Backcountry
- Zappos
- Coolibar
- Dicks Sporting Goods
Sun hats can also be purchased directly from the company as well.
Sun Hats vs. 3 Other Hats
While the focus of this guide and our reviews was specifically on sun hats, you may have come across other hat offerings during your research, here are a few key points on how they differ from the traditional sun hat:
Sun Hat vs. Baseball Cap
Here are the key differences between a sun hat and a baseball cap:
Sun Hat
- Brim that surrounds the entire hat
- Large vents often on the side and back
- Made from synthetic materials
Baseball Cap
- Made from wool
- 5 or 6 panels with small eyelets
- Single brim on front to shade eyes
Bucket Hat
Here are the key differences between a sun hat and a bucket hat:
Sun Hat
- Wider brim when compared to bucket hats
- The utility-centric focus for various outdoor activities
- Chin straps to prevent it from blowing off
Bucket Hat
- Shallow brim that extends down rather than out
- Often made from natural fibers (cotton, wool, etc.)
- Doesn’t provide protection to the neck
- Limited shade for the eyes
- Doesn’t have a chin strap
Sun Visor
Here are the key differences between a sun hat and a bucket hat:
Sun Hat
- Provides UPF 50 sun protection from your shoulders upwards
- Much more casual (i.e. hiking hat)
- Not ideal on extremely windy days
Sun Visor
- Shade for eyes only
- Top part cut out for both style and ventilation
- Often used in a golf setting
- Slightly more formal than a sun hat
Our Criteria for Selecting Men’s Sun Hats
When it came to reviewing and comparing all the sun hats featured in this guide we looked at countless features including the material that was used in the construction of the hat, ventilation, brim size, price, and more.
After looking at many popular and premium brands out there that are trusted by outdoor enthusiasts, we are confident that our list above reflects the best sun hats in 2020.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide was comprehensive and useful in providing you with viable options when buying a sun hat. While we know that there are still more options than are presented on our list, we do think that those listed above should not only last for years but more importantly, that you will be happy with how it performs.
Happy adventures!