The best hats for sun protection (a guide)
Ultraviolet radiation causes sunburns, sun spots, premature aging, sun poisoning, and skin cancer. Even just 15 minutes of exposure can begin to cause damage, and your face, neck, and scalp take the brunt of it. A good hat provides lasting UV protection during outdoor activities.
Quick links:
Best sun-protective hat styles
Sun hats and other sun protection
Discover the best hat with UV protection, how to get the right fit, and learn strategies for lasting sun protection so you can get the most out of sunny days.
Best sun-protective hat styles
The best hats for sun protection:
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Block UV rays with ultraviolet protection factor 50+ fabric.
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Provide full-face protection.
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Shield your neck and ears.
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Fit securely and comfortably as you move.
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Match your personal style.
Each hat design protects specific areas and fits particular outdoor activities. Learn how brim design, materials, fit, and neck coverage affect sun protection.
Legionnaire hats
Legionnaire hats shield your neck, ears, and face from harmful UV rays. They feature an extended neck flap that drapes over your shoulders, paired with side flaps to cover your ears and temples. A wide front brim effectively blocks the sun from your face and eyes.
The neck flap stays in place, even during windy conditions or rigorous movement. These hats are practical for hiking, sports, and other adventures. Made from breathable materials, they help you stay cool under the sun, while adjustable straps give a snug fit without compromising visibility.
For kids, legionnaire hats are a game-changer. They protect areas prone to sunburn where sunscreen may wash away during swimming or sweating. Many styles come in vibrant colors for added visibility. The durable materials withstand daily play, and the straps adjust as kids grow taller.
Safari hats
Safari hats have a signature 3–4 inch brim for solid coverage. The wide brim circles the entire crown to block the sun from every angle. The structured design maintains its shape in heat and humidity, and the rigid brim won't flop or bend, keeping your face, ears, and neck shaded.
These hats blend function and comfort. Ventilation eyelets and mesh panels keep air flowing during hikes and outdoor tours. A chin strap secures the hat so it won't fly off during gusts of wind. Many safari hats include sweatbands inside the crown to absorb moisture during active wear.
Safari hats are comfortable for long, summer days of exploring the outdoors or strolling the boardwalk. Their sturdy construction protects you from sun exposure, whether you're hiking mountain trails or touring outdoor attractions.
Floppy sun hats
Floppy sun hats feature iconic extra-wide brims that span about 4–7 inches. The soft, flexible brim creates a dramatic shield around your face and neck. These hats have the widest brims among all summer hats, making them popular hats for women looking for style and protection.
The casual, airy design fits relaxed beach and pool deck activities. The wide brim casts a deep shadow over your shoulders for maximum sun protection as you lounge by the pool or stroll along the shore.
These unstructured hats easily pack into beach bags and suitcases. The flexible material bounces back to shape after folding, so you can take them anywhere.
Gardeners like broad-brim sun hats because the wide brim blocks the sun from every angle as they bend and move. The loose, comfortable fit stays cool during hours of outdoor work. Many styles include ribbons and bands to secure the hat in light breezes.
Bucket and boonie hats
Bucket and boonie hats feature a modest sloped brim of 2–3 inches that circles the crown. The simple, practical design shields your face and neck from sun exposure.
These hats trace their roots to military gear, which explains their rugged construction and practical features. The sloped brim channels rain away from your face, and the sturdy fabric holds up to outdoor elements.
A bucket hat packs flat in any bag and springs back to shape when needed. Most styles have ventilation holes around the crown for airflow, and their lightweight construction remains comfortable after hours of wear.
Anglers and outdoor enthusiasts pick bucket hats for their no-fuss protection. The shorter brim keeps your view clear while blocking the face from harmful rays. Some styles add mesh panels and quick-dry fabric for humid conditions or water activities. Check out our kids’ adventure hats for a bucket design that can take on all outdoor adventures.
Cowboy hats
Cowboy hats protect you with a structured 3–4 inch brim that curves up at the sides. The stiff construction maintains its shape in sun and wind, blocking rays from your face and neck.
The traditional western crown is 4–6 inches high to create space for air circulation. Quality cowboy hats use dense, tightly woven straw or felt that blocks UV rays. A leather band inside most cowboy hats absorbs sweat and creates a secure fit. The classic shape offers reliable sun protection without compromising the authentic Western style that defines these hats.
These hats are practical for ranch work and outdoor events. The front brim tilts down to shade your eyes, while the upturned sides keep your arms and shoulders free to move without bumping the brim.
Caps and visors with neck shields
Caps and visors with neck shields offer more coverage than standard baseball caps. The front bill blocks the sun from your face and eyes while a fabric drape protects your neck. Most styles feature sweat-wicking materials and vents to keep you cool during runs, matches, or tournaments.
Many athletes pick this style because it combines sun safety with unrestricted sightlines. The neck cover is a light, breathable fabric that won't slow down your sport. The fabric adapts to your movements without bunching or tangling. A rear opening lets you adjust the size or pull out a ponytail, and the neck cover rests flat against your skin.
Straw hats
Straw hats come in many brim sizes. Natural straw creates a classic look for casual beach and outdoor occasions.
Sun protection depends on how tightly the straw is woven together. A loose weave lets UV rays pass through gaps in the material, while tight weaves offer sufficient sun protection. Check the spaces between straws before you buy: smaller gaps mean better protection.
Natural straw is breathable in hot weather. Air flows through the material to cool your head, unlike many synthetic fabrics. The stiff straw structure holds its shape and won't collapse in humidity or light rain. Some straw hats add cloth bands inside to absorb sweat and prevent scratching from the natural fibers.
People love to wear straw hats for casual adventures and beach trips, especially since this traditional style matches many summer outfits, from sundresses to shorts.
Standard athletic caps
Standard athletic caps protect the front of your face and eyes through a short, stiff brim. Some of the most popular athletic caps include:
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Baseball caps.
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Golf caps.
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Trucker hats.
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Dad hats.
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Fitted caps.
The brim extends about 2–3 inches forward but leaves your neck and ears exposed to the sun. This limited coverage works for quick trips outdoors or casual activities, but won't block enough sun during long periods outside.
A breathable crown keeps your head cool during sports or exercise. Most athletic caps have ventilation holes or mesh panels for airflow. The adjustable back strap creates a secure fit, while fitted styles rely on elastic or precisely sized bands.
These caps lack adequate protection for extended sun exposure. Your neck, ears, and sides of your face need dependable sun coverage from sunscreen or a neck drape attachment. Without extra protection, you risk sunburn in these exposed areas during long outdoor pursuits. Still, they are popular for athletics and daily wear.
What to look for in a sun-protective hat
UPF rating
UPF stands for ultraviolet protection factor. It measures how much UV radiation passes through fabric. This rating tells you exactly how well a hat protects you from sun damage and cancer.
Protective ratings run from 15 to 50+, where a UPF 15 fabric blocks 93% of UV rays, UPF 30 blocks 96%, and UPF 50+ blocks more than 98%. The plus sign after 50 means the protection might be even higher, but 50 is the highest rating achievable.
Think of UPF as sunscreen for fabric. But unlike sunscreen that wears off, a hat's UPF protection stays constant as long as the fabric is intact. When fabric stretches, fades, or wears thin, more UV rays pass through.
SwimZip uses certified UPF 50+ fabric in all our sun hats. We test every fabric batch to guarantee maximum UV protection that withstands swimming, washing, and daily wear.
What is the best fabric for sun protection?
Tightly woven synthetic fabrics give the strongest sun protection. Polyester and nylon fabrics weave into dense barriers that UV rays can't penetrate. These fabrics also resist stretching and fading, so their protection lasts longer.
At SwimZip, we use a special polyester blend that maintains its UPF 50+ rating even when wet.
Dense natural fabrics such as canvas, twill, and heavy cotton also effectively block UV rays. When tightly woven, these materials create a solid barrier. Natural fabrics feel cool against your skin but might stretch or fade faster than synthetics.
Some hat materials don't protect well against UV rays. Loose-weave straw lets sunlight pass through the gaps between fibers. Mesh panels add ventilation but create gaps in your UV defense, and pure mesh hats offer almost no sun protection. Even with heavy materials and tight weaves, the outer fabric must maintain its shape to stay protective. Thin, lightweight fabrics also often lack adequate density to block harmful rays.
To check fabric density, hold it up to bright light. The less light you see through the material, the better it blocks UV rays. Look for fabric that appears solid without visible holes or loose threads.
Hat features
Besides the fabric, these features enhance a hat’s sun protection and comfort:
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Brim width: You need at least 3 inches to shield the face and neck. Larger brims (about 7 inches) can also protect your shoulders.
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Secure fit: Adjustable straps, drawstrings, or toggles keep the hat steady, and a well-fitted crown prevents sliding in the wind.
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Ventilation: Air holes around the crown release heat while maintaining UV protection in critical areas.
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Moisture-wicking fabric: It pulls sweat from your skin to the outer surface to keep you dry and comfortable in heat.
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Quick-dry technology: Look for fabric that dries in minutes after swimming or rain, so you never sit in wet material.
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Four-way stretch: Hats with this fabric stretch in every direction for a tight, comfortable fit.
How to get the right fit
How to measure head size
Take a soft measuring tape and wrap it around your head, just above your ears and eyebrows. This gives you a circumference measurement in inches or centimeters. Check SwimZip's size chart to match your measurement, and choose from our size options.
Signs of proper fit
Your hat should fit snugly but not tight. The brim should stay level, and the crown shouldn't wobble or slide. Watch for pressure points or gaps. A well-fitted hat feels comfortable even after hours of wear.
Adjustment features
Quality hats include ways to fine-tune your fit:
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Adjustable sizing features, such as back straps or toggles
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Inner bands that grip without squeezing
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Removable chin straps for windy conditions
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Elastic sections that flex with movement
Child sizing tips
Children's head sizes change rapidly, so measure every few months. Leave room for growth but avoid oversized hats that might slip. Only choose hats that can adjust.
Quick guide: finding your perfect hat
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Best hat styles |
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Water activities |
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Sports and exercise |
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All-day outdoor work |
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Kids and family activities |
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Beach and resort |
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Casual outdoor time |
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Shop our robust selection of sun hats and sun-protective swimwear to find matching patterns and sun-safe styles to protect your whole family.
Combine hats with other sun protection
A sun hat is just the first step in your complete sun protection. Here is how to combine it with other defenses.
Use sunscreen
Sunscreen shields your skin from harmful sun rays. Just like UPF fabric in clothing, sun protection factor (SPF) in sunscreen blocks UV radiation. Always choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen and apply it to your face, neck, and ears before putting on your hat.
Reapply sunscreen to exposed areas every 2 hours (or each time you get out of water). The hat adds an extra barrier, but sunscreen protects spots where UV rays might still reach your skin.
Not sure about the difference between UPF and SPF? Check out our in-depth comparison to learn more!
Sun protective clothing
UPF clothing is another part of the sun protective plan. Add a UPF 50+ rash guard or sun shirt with your hat for full upper body coverage. Long sleeves shield your arms, while the hat protects your head.
SwimZip's matching hat and UPF swimwear give you maximum protection during long summer days while making you look fabulous.
Neck protection
If your hat lacks a neck flap, add a neck gaiter or bandana. These accessories cover the gap between your hat and shirt collar. Choose light, breathable fabric that won't make you overheat.
Sunglasses
UV-protective sunglasses block rays that slip under your hat brim. Pick wraparound styles that shield your eyes from the sides.
Choose sunglasses with 100% UV protection, to be sure they will protect you from UVA and UVB rays. We created our children’s sunglasses using a special process to smooth out rough, irritating edges found commonly on other sunglasses for kids.
Care tips for long-lasting protection
Protection goes both ways. After your hat has finished protecting you during a long day in the sun, follow these simple care tips to make it last longer*:
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Rinse in cool water after beach or pool use.
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Hand wash with mild soap to remove sunscreen buildup.
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Air dry in the shade to prevent fabric damage.
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Store flat or stuffed with paper to maintain shape.
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Check fabric integrity every few months.
When you notice stretched or saggy fabric or the color has faded (especially darker colors), it is time to replace your hat. But with so many styles, color options, and size ranges available, you'll easily find your next perfect sun hat.
*These tips are for synthetic, cotton, and twill hats. Research specific care routines for leather, felt, or straw hats.
FAQ
What kind of hat is best for hot weather?
Lightweight hats with ventilation features are the best for hot summer months. Look for designs with mesh panels or air vents around the crown, plus moisture-wicking fabric. Safari hats and legionnaire styles offer good airflow and excellent sun protection.
Does wearing a hat prevent sunstroke?
A hat alone cannot prevent sunstroke. It protects your head and face from direct sun, but you need additional measures: stay hydrated, take breaks in shade, and avoid peak UV levels between 10 AM to 4 PM. Your hat should be part of a complete heat safety plan.
What color cap is best for sun protection?
Dark colors block more UV rays than light ones. Black, navy, and dark red offer excellent protection. Dark colors absorb more heat, so pick hats with good ventilation if you choose darker shades.
Which hat style blocks the most UV rays?
Legionnaire hats block the most UV rays because they shield your face, neck, and ears with their signature flap design. The full coverage and structured shape create a complete barrier against sun from all angles.
Can I wear my hat in water?
Some hats work well in water if they're made from quick-dry materials and have secure straps. Check the product label for water-resistant features. SwimZip's water-ready hats stay protective and comfortable even when wet.
How do I know if my hat provides enough coverage?
Your hat should cast a shadow over your entire face, ears, and neck. The widest brims give the most coverage, and light color fabrics reflect heat while darker ones block more rays. Multiple forms of sun protection work together to keep your skin safe.
Are mesh panels safe in a sun-protective hat?
Mesh panels placed strategically on the crown or sides won't compromise protection if the rest of the hat blocks UV rays and you have hair. The key spots—brim, top, and neck coverage—should use solid UPF-rated fabric.
Is UPF rating or brim width more important?
Both factors matter equally for sun protection. A wide brim without UPF-rated fabric won't block UV rays effectively, while a small brim of UPF 50+ material leaves areas exposed. The best hats combine both features.
How can I keep my hat secure in windy conditions?
Adjustable chin straps offer the best security against wind. Look for toggles or cord locks to customize the fit. Some hats include hidden bands inside the crown or rear sizing systems for extra stability.
Do I need a hat during cloudy weather?
UV rays penetrate clouds and can damage your skin even on overcast days. Clouds block visible light but not UV radiation, which causes sunburn and skin damage. A protective hat blocks these harmful rays regardless of cloud cover.
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