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We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. We all know that protecting yourself from the sun requires more than just a layer of sunscreen. So why not add to that protection with a fashion statement? A sun hat is the perfect opportunity to flaunt your style and prevent your skin from turning cherry red in the process. However, picking a hat that will meet your needs requires a bit of digging. With the vast number of products available nowadays, finding one that works for you and your activities can feel overwhelming.
A hat is your first line of defense from the sun, so certain features are an absolute must, including durability, high-SPF material, comfort, and functionality. With this in mind, we’ve made it our goal to offer you the best suggestions depending on the activities you plan to do. Whether you need to find a hat for a fancy derby or a day-long trek through the mountains, we’re full to the brim with sun hat recommendations.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
A hat is your first line of defense from the sun, so certain features are an absolute must, including durability, high-SPF material, comfort, and functionality. With this in mind, we’ve made it our goal to offer you the best suggestions depending on the activities you plan to do. Whether you need to find a hat for a fancy derby or a day-long trek through the mountains, we’re full to the brim with sun hat recommendations.
How we selected the sun hats
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To do this, we looked at each sun hat’s price point, the materials with which it’s made, and its intended use. While some sun hats are light and perfect for minimal everyday use, others are heavier and should be used for instances of long exposure. Plus, others are simply to cute to pass up. In this case, our most ideal sun hat is not only functional and crafted well but also beautiful.
Best sun hat for lounging at the beach
Best sun hat for a glamorous look
Best sun hats for long hair
As an added benefit, the Muryobao hat is foldable and made with a breathable mesh interior, so you don’t have to worry about it trapping in heat. It also comes with a stretchy, adjustable chin strap and side snaps, so you can wear it in a cowboy style if you prefer. The Solaris hat offers a more classic, simplified design with a sweat absorbent belt, mesh vents, and a slightly lower opening for those who enjoy wearing a low ponytail.
Best sun hat for travel
Fortunately, the Furtalk wide-brimmed straw sun hat with a thin classic ribbon does just that. The extra-wide brim on this Furtalk staple increases coverage on the neck without sacrificing the hat’s shape. And the material, while strong and durable, is light and bendy, making it the perfect travel companion. Reviewers report that it may look a bit crumpled when you first unfold it after a long trip in your backpack. With a little time, however, the hat should spring back to its original shape.
Best sun hat if you want a unique design
Because of its bucket-hat style and elongated brim, the Mifulgoo hat has ample neck coverage. In other words, that dreaded neck tan won’t be haunting you anytime soon.
Best sun hats for a floppy look
The Furtalk hat features the company’s tried-and-true woven straw, a floppy brim with a little shape, and a thick black ribbon. Reviewers rave about the ease of packing this hat and its fashionable style.
Best sun hat for a touch of country
Best sun hat if you love fedoras
Best sun hats for a trendy bucket style
Our top two picks for fashionable and comfortable bucket hats are the Somaler wide-brim sun hat and The Hat Depot unisex summer travel hat. The Somaler hat has a wide, downward-facing brim that offers plenty of sun protection all around your head. Made from 80% cotton and 20% polyester, the lightweight material is breathable and comfortable against the skin.
The Hat Depot bucket hat has a very classic, simplified style with 2 to 2.5 inches of brim, depending on the size you get. The solid-colored hats are 100% cotton, and all styles have two brass ventilation eyelets on either side.
Best sun hat that’s reversible
Best sun hat if you prefer the visor style
Reviewers for both companies note that the wide brims on these offer complete face protection. As an extra benefit, both hats can be rolled up and tightly stored in your bag.
Best sun hat if you’re a summer athlete
Best sun hats for added neck protection
If you prefer similar features with a more unique style, consider the Tirrinia wide-brim flap cap. This sun hat also has an elongated back brim, an adjustable chin strap, a sweatband, and material designed for the outdoors. Though it may not be waterproof, it comes in several bright colors and has a unique, thin floral scarf.
Best waterproof sun hat for outdoor adventures
Best sun hat for keeping you extra-cool on the hottest days
The Mission sun hat also comes in four stylish color schemes with fun designs on the interior. Plus, it has another particularly useful feature: The material is machine washable.
Best sun hats for when you want to splurge
If you want the same brim length but are looking for a colorful pattern, opt for the Wallaroo Hat Company Sausalito sun hat instead. Though the product is pricey, reviewers say that it looks even more beautiful in person and is surprisingly lightweight for its size.
