I am a big fan of Running outdoors. There is always something motivating about watching the scenery go by as you run past it. Being in nature really is soothing, motivating and beneficial to my mental health when running.
That is until you start sweating like crazy because of your run! I don’t know about you guys, but I get sweaty really quickly. Sweat dripping on my face isn’t the best look on me. And don’t even get me started on how I look on rainy days! The mixture of sweat and rainwater isn’t the most flattering look on me.
This isn’t unsolvable, right? I’m sure there would be something out there to help me… And what do you know, I found myself researching the best running hats.
Running hats are not only to prevent the sweat from running down your face. It can give your skin extra protection from the harmful UV rays that the sun gives off, especially when you usually run outside while the sun shines brightly. Just like you can’t forget to put on your sunscreen, you also can’t forget a running hat!
On the other hand, it keeps you dry from when the rain pours down.
Not all running hats are going to help you enjoy your runs though! You might just get a hat that doesn’t fit your head well. You’ll either lose your hat to the wind or get a headache from how tight it hugs your head. You also definitely want something light, as if nothing is on your head! And you can’t just get any cap you have lying around.
Whether you’re an outdoor runner or you just like going on strolls outside, you probably want to have the right gear for whatever weather. Below I’ve reviewed some of the best running hats available online for both men and women! And trust me, if you’re getting a hat to prevent the sweat dripping down into your eyes causing a sting then these hats are worth it!
Best Running Hats For Men and Women Compared and Reviewed
| Image | Name | Brand | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top | Salomon Xa Cap | Salomon | Check Price on Amazon |
| BUFF Pack Run Cap | BUFF | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Outdoor Research Swift Cap | Outdoor Research | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Nike AeroBill Featherlight Cap | Nike | Check Price on Amazon | |
| Headsweats Performance Race Hat | Headsweats | Check Price on Amazon |
#1 - Salomon Xa Cap
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You definitely cannot go wrong with the Salomon XA Cap. It is made of UPF50 fabric, or Ultraviolet Protection Factor of 50, which blocks 98 percent of the sun’s rays. This protects you from the harmful UV rays, so your skin will have the extra protection it needs.
This hat is also made out of 100 percent polyester, which is known to be durable and long-lasting. It is usually used in athletic and outdoor clothing as it easily dries. Not only will it keep you dry, but it also keeps itself dry too with the moisture-wicking coating that it has.
You won’t have to worry about getting wet no matter how much you sweat! With the integrated sweatband this hat has, your sweat is absorbed to prevent it from getting into your eyes. I’m sure you runners out there know the pain of having to constantly wipe your face while you’re trying to concentrate on running! We don’t get this problem when running in the cold and is one of the many reasons I prefer running in winter too!
Like me, you might find that you’re prone to overheating, especially when the sun is scorching hot above you. This hat is designed to help prevent that, with mesh material on the sides of the hat to improve air ventilation. Its AdvancedSkin Shield technology also makes sure that you keep your body temperature more stable.
To make sure you get the best version of this running hat, the Salomon XA Cap offers different sizes. For a more fitting size, you can customize the tightness with the adjustable back clasp, which is also stretchable. You can definitely make sure this hat won’t fall off while you’re running those miles.
While running, you want to feel as free and light as possible to run for longer and more comfortably. Luckily for you, you might even find that you have forgotten that you have this hat on! It is lightweight, especially with the polyester material that doesn’t absorb moisture.
The style is truly a classic for me. It is styled like a baseball cap, making it look more casual and wearable wherever you need a cap. This definitely is on the pricier side though, so if that’s an issue, or maybe you don’t run outdoors much anyway, you might want to look for cheaper options.
What have others said about this running hat?
“Great purchase. I love the sweatband too, super easy to wash. Dries quickly too.” Paolo M
PROS
- Durable
- Lightweight
- UPF 50 protects your skin from UV rays
- Internal sweatband keeps the sweat off eyes
CONS
- Pricey
#2 - BUFF Pack Run Cap
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Always on the go? Used to hate the bulkiness of running hats and preferred headbands instead? The Buff Pack Run Cap just might be the hat to change your mind.
This hat can be compressed into your pocket, and it will go back to its shape once you release it from its scrunched-up form. You don’t have to worry about it taking up any of your storage. I’m sure you know the struggle of running with a lot of stuff on you, but that won’t be a problem.
You can use this for other outdoor sports or for the wildest running trails. This hat will adjust to your needs. If you like hiking or running uphill, you can adjust the bill of the hat upwards so that you can see upwards too. Then when you get to even ground, you can put it back to its original position.
Want to make sure you stand out while running? This multitude of designs that this hat offers will give you just that. This is definitely a different style compared to the other hats with more minimalistic designs. Its designs are different for each variety, making it hard to find someone else with the same kind.
You don’t have to worry about this weighing you down. The hat weighs only one ounce! Because of the polyester material, even your sweat won’t increase any weight on your head. Polyester quickly dries and doesn’t absorb your sweat.
The hat also has UPF 50, which blocks 98 percent of harmful UV rays. This will give you extra protection to be added to the sunscreen you should be applying before your runs. You’ll also find an internal sweatband that will keep the sweat off your eyes.
There’s also an elastic cord at the back which will help you adjust the tightness of the hat. The only problem is that you can’t choose your own size! This hat only offers one size fits all.
What have others said about this running hat?
“Super light! I like how you crush it in your palm. Flexible brim too.” Elijah E
PROS
- Compressible and can fit in your pocket
- Adjustable bill
- Very lightweight
CONS
- One size fits all
#3 - Outdoor Research Swift Cap
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The Swift Cap is loved by those who are regularly doing outdoor activities. Whether you constantly like hiking, sailing, or simply run regularly, you might find that you’ll love this too.
You don’t have to worry about being restricted by this hat as this has been said to be very breathable.
This hat gives you air ventilation to help you keep your body temperature at a stable level. This is because it is made with a mesh lining on the sides and crown that makes it light and lets your head “breathe”. I am always looking out for gear that will prevent overheating because it always happens to me, so this hat is definitely one I would consider.
It is also made of Supplex nylon which helps to prevent moisture retention and makes the hat very stretchable. The main shell is made of 100 percent polyester which makes the hat easily dry. All in all, this hat is made of quick-drying materials that don’t absorb moisture.
The combination of materials might mean that this isn’t as durable as the other hats, though. Outdoor Research also goes the extra mile to waterproofing with what they call a “rain fly”.
This Swift Cap is both memorable and forgettable at the same time. You’ll find that it is very lightweight, making it easy to forget it’s there. It is also super comfortable, which is important for outdoor running! You don’t want to get bothered by the weight of your gear.
It also has a headband that absorbs sweat so that you don’t find yourself wiping your face every few minutes of running. I can definitely relate to that, as I am a heavy sweater especially on days when the sun really shines brightly outside.
The Swift Cap only offers a one size fits all fit, which might affect how it fits your head. You can adjust the fit on the back, though, with the buckle it offers. It also doesn’t have reflective panels, which might be important for you if you like running at night.
PROS
- Great ventilation
- Moisture-wicking
- Lightweight
CONS
- One size fits all
- No reflective panels
#4 - Nike AeroBill Featherlight Cap
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One of the athletic apparel giants out there is bound to have a good hat in its collection. Nike definitely shows up with its AeroBill Featherlight Cap.
This hat is designed so that you are able to run outdoors without the glare that the sun’s rays bring. The inside of the hat is black so that running will be easier on your eyes. Just like a good hat, the brim also protects your face from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Want to make sure your head won’t get too hot? Nike has got your back with the mesh panels integrated into this hat. You’ll get the air ventilation that you need to prevent you from getting too hot.
The hat is also lined with Dri-FIT material. Because of this, you’ll get the comfort you need from a hat. It also will prevent the hat from absorbing moisture, helping the sweat get away from your hat as quickly as possible.
Want to help the environment by purchasing sustainable clothing? Nike uses 100 percent polyester which has already been recycled. Not only are you getting a high-quality hat, but you’ll also be helping reduce your impact on the environment. Also, the material makes for a strong and durable hat.
You’ll get all you need from a hat with the comfort you want while running. The materials this hat is made from is definitely lightweight. This hat also makes sure your head won’t get too restricted.
This hat, however, is one size fits all. Although it comes with an adjustable velcro strap on its rear to help you customize the tightness, you might find that if you have a larger head, this hat feels too tight for you.
PROS
- Made from recycled polyester
- Made with Dri-FIT material
- Lightweight
CONS
- One size fits all
- Might be too small for larger heads
#5 - Headsweats Performance Race Hat
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If you’re looking for something affordable but definitely high quality, the Headsweats Performance Race Hat is the hat for you. It is known for its ability to remove moisture and dry quickly. Not only is it moisture-wicking, but it’s also breathable too.
Headsweats uses the Eventure fabric for its shell, which gives you a quick and easy drying fabric to help you reduce the weight that your sweat might bring.
I’m sure runners out there know how impossibly annoying it is to feel your sweat dripping down the sides of your face. Almost as annoying for runners as chafing but that’s why I always use anti chafe cream when running as well.
You might find yourself surprised by how lightweight the hat feels. It actually weighs less than two ounces! I don’t think you’ll even remember you have this hat on. Plus, the style is definitely a classic with its baseball cap design.
The Eventure fabric is made from polyester, which is one of the materials that is always seen in athletic apparel because of its stretchability and quick drying. The Eventure terry headband that the hat gives also absorbs the sweat so that might keep you from giving your best performance otherwise.
You won’t have to worry about having a headache when putting this hat on. You can easily adjust the fit by adjusting its buckle at the back. The Eventure fabric also makes sure that your hat is breathable and you won’t be overheating.
The great thing about this hat is you won’t have to worry about it losing its shape when you put it in the washing machine! This makes it very easy to clean, unlike other hats that require hand washing. This hat is only available in one size, though, so you have to depend on the adjustable strap.
