Are straw hats good for sun protection?

Straw hats are summer classics at every beach, pool, and outdoor market. They look great, they're breathable, and they provide shade. But how much sun protection do they offer? The answer depends on weave density, brim width, and material quality.

We’ll help you understand UV protection and why straw hats aren’t the best option for all-day sun exposure. Then, we’ll talk about the options you should shop for if sun protection is your priority.

SwimZip offers UPF 50+ swimwear and sun hats for men, women, and children of all ages.

UV rays and UPF protection

The sun emits ultraviolet radiation in two forms that reach your skin: UVA and UVB rays. Both cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase skin cancer risk. UVA rays penetrate the skin and contribute to long-term damage. UVB rays affect the skin surface and cause sunburn.

Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) measures how effectively fabric blocks these rays. A UPF 50+ rating means the fabric blocks at least 98% of UV radiation. UPF differs from SPF (Sun Protection Factor), which measures sunscreen effectiveness. 

Certified UPF 50+ fabrics provide consistent protection. The rating comes from laboratory testing that measures how much UV radiation penetrates the material. 

How straw hats block UV rays

Straw provides mechanical UV protection. That means the thickness of the material and the tightness of the weave determine how much radiation penetrates the hat, with tight weaves of thick material offering the best protection.

Research shows that wide brims measuring 7 cm (2.75″) or more provide better face and neck coverage than narrow brims. The wider the brim, the more shade falls across your skin. So if you’re committed to a straw hat, shop for a large brim.

The problem with straw hats

Many straw hats are styled with large gaps for aesthetics. These hats might look good, but they don’t effectively block UV rays. It’s easy enough to avoid buying these and choose a straw hat with a dense weave and functional design. But even well-designed straw hats break down over time.

Natural straw deteriorates with exposure to sun, sand, and water. The fibers become brittle, the weave loosens, and gaps start to form. A hat that used to block most UV rays might lose effectiveness and leave you unknowingly exposed.

You also need to avoid brands that use empty marketing claims like “Sun protective” or “shade enhancing”. Any hat maker can say this and leave you guessing at how much UV protection a hat actually provides.

Everything we’ve mentioned combines to form a false sense of security that can leave you burned. Inconsistent protection puts you at risk for sunburn and increases your skin cancer risk.

What makes a sun hat truly protective

UPF 50+ certified fabrics

Purpose-built sun hats block UV rays using tightly woven synthetic fabrics and chemical coatings. They are rated to UPF 50+, which means the protection is consistent and measurable.

UPF fabrics maintain protection even when wet. Straw absorbs water and loses structure, but synthetic materials keep blocking UV rays at the beach and pool.

Hats with UPF ratings are certified by third-party authorities. For example, SwimZip swimwear and hats hold the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation for dermatologist-confirmed sun protection. This certification requires rigorous testing and proof of UPF 50+ performance. You're not relying on marketing claims or assuming protection based on appearance.

Durability in harsh conditions

Synthetic fabrics resist deterioration from chlorine, saltwater, and sand. The tight weave doesn't loosen over time like natural straw fibers do. Straw becomes brittle and develops gaps with repeated exposure to harsh conditions. One season leaves many straw hats noticeably worn.

If you’re active or you’re shopping for a kids' sun hat, you need a product that can survive rough handling. Children drop hats in sand, drag them through water, and stuff them into beach bags. Performance fabrics maintain shape and coverage throughout the season despite this treatment.

Additional features

Beyond brim size, you can defend against reflected UV rays through additional features. Neck flaps protect the vulnerable back-of-neck area. This skin burns easily and often gets overlooked in sun protection strategies. Straw hats rarely include neck coverage.

Dark underbrim fabric reduces UV reflection to your face, unlike light-colored straw that reflects sunlight back toward your skin.

Straw hats vs. UPF 50+ sun hats

Save the straw hat for a fashion accessory or short trips outdoors. Otherwise, protect yourself and your family during extended pool and beach days with a purpose-built UPF 50+ hat.

Build complete sun protection with SwimZip

A hat is just one sun-safety component. The most effective protection comes from layering UPF clothing, a wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and shade breaks.

SwimZip offers a full line-up of UPF-rated apparel to protect the whole family:

• Head and face: Wide-brim sun hats
• Body: Full-coverage zipper rash guards
• Legs: Women’s swim pants and children's sun suits
• Timing: Check the UV index to avoid peak hours

See our full sun-protective swimwear collection for stylish, sun-safe options for every activity and age.

Straw hats FAQ

Do straw hats have UPF ratings?

Most straw hats don't carry UPF ratings. Protection varies widely based on weave quality and degrades over time as natural fibers deteriorate. Without testing and certification, you can't know how much UV protection a straw hat actually provides. Some straw hats use synthetic fibers and chemical coatings to achieve a UPF 50+ rating.

How long do straw hats maintain their sun protection?

Natural straw deteriorates with exposure to sun, sand, and water. Protection diminishes throughout the season as fibers break down and gaps widen. Most straw hats need replacement after one season of regular beach or pool use.

Should kids wear straw hats at the pool or beach?

Performance sun hats with secure fit and UPF rating are safer for active water play. Kids need hats that stay on during running, jumping, and swimming. Straw hats often fit loosely, blow off easily, and lose protection when wet. UPF 50+ hats with chin straps provide reliable coverage for active children.

How else can hats protect my children?

Neon hats allow you to keep track of your kids from far away. They can help prevent separation and alert first responders during emergencies. Colors like orange, lime green, and pink contrast with most land and water environments.

Do you sell hats for winter?

SwimZip carries winter sun hats for children. We use thick fleece, adjustable earflaps, and a moderate brim to balance sun protection, insulation, and comfort so your little ones can stay safe and have fun in the snow.

Further Reading

What is UPF clothing?

How wide should hat brims be for sun protection?

Kids sun safety tips

UV index burn time

ABCDE melanoma assessment

References

Backes C, Religi A, Moccozet L, Vuilleumier L, Vernez D, Bulliard JL. Facial exposure to ultraviolet radiation: Predicted sun protection effectiveness of various hat styles. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2018 Sep;34(5):330-337. doi: 10.1111/phpp.12388. Epub 2018 May 31. PMID: 29682802.