Whether a sunny or rainy day, a sun hat for running is an essential piece of your sportswear. Although it’s called a sun hat, you can use it for protection from rain, providedd that you get a waterproof one. Running hats for sun protection have other purposes rather than protection. For example, they can pull your hair back and prevent it from constantly getting on your face.
To pick a suitable hat for running in sun, you must browse different options and see what each one offers. This mission might be confusing considering the hundreds and thousands of available options. Hence, here we come with a list of the best sun hats for running to help you make up your mind. Check them here.
Table of contents
- Equinox Sun Hat
- LLmoway Mens Mesh Flap Sun Hat
- Home Prefer Men’s Sun Hat
- FEICUI Men Women Outdoor Bucket Hat
- Connectyle Outdoor Mesh Sun Hat
- Sunday Afternoons Unisex Ultra-Adventure Hat
- Under Armour Men’s Iso-chill ArmourVent Bucket
- MISSION Sun Defender Cooling Hat
- Mission Cooling Bucket Hat
- Coolibar Men’s Women’s Fore Golf Hat
- Men High Visibility Reflective Sun Hat
- Home Prefer Outdoor Mesh Sun Hat Wide Brim
- MISSION Cooling Bucket Hat 3” Wide Brim
- How To Choose The Best Sun Hats for Running?
- Why do I need special sun hats for running?
- Can I wear running sun hats in rainy seasons?
- What are other essential items to get for running in the sun?
Equinox Sun Hat
13
Equinox Sun Hat features a 100% nylon material that offers UPF 50+ protection against sun rays. It’s a unisex hat with some breathability for runners. The nylon material is one of those materials used in sportswear. Thus, it’s a very suitable material for sun hats to prevent sweat and bad odors.
Available in two sizes, this sun hat will suit men and women with different head sizes. The adjustable chin cord allows for a snug fit while keeping the hat on your head in the windest weather. If you feel it’s annoying, the chin chord is easily removable.
Pros
- Available in two sizes
- Removable chin chord
- 100% nylon material
Cons
- The brim is wider than needed
LLmoway Mens Mesh Flap Sun Hat
12
Packability is one of the most important features of running hats for sun protection. LLmoway Mens Mesh Flap Sun Hat is a nice functional packable sun hat for men. The hat is very lightweight and similar to caps in design. Yet, it has a back flap to protect your neck from different elements, including the sun.
On the other side, the sun hat is very well-ventilated. It has vent eyelets and several mesh parts for ultimate breathability. Plus, it’s easy to wash, and it dries quickly as well. The sun cap has a detachable chin cord and an adjustable drawstring around the head for more versatility. This allows anyone of any head size to wear this hat.
Pros
- Neck flap
- Adjustable
- Quick dry
Cons
- Not very fashionable
Home Prefer Men’s Sun Hat
11
Finding a fashionable and functional sun hat for running can be a challenge if you’re too picky and conscious about fashion. Yet, Home Prefer Men’s Sun Hat changes it all as this hat is one of those pieces you would like to wear on every occasion. The sun hat has nice colors that will surely suit many of your clothes. It comes in one size, but has an adjustable cord for a snug fit.
In terms of functionality, this is one of the most breathable sun hats ever. With several holes on the crown, your head will always stay cool no matter how long you run. Above all, it’s very well packed and foldable and lightweight. Some people might see it’s very flimsy, but sometimes this is what you actually need.
Pros
- Very breathable
- Lightweight
- Adjustable
Cons
- Flimsy
FEICUI Men Women Outdoor Bucket Hat
10
Simplicity is always a solution when you need specific features for an essential functional piece for running. FEICUI Men Women Outdoor Bucket Hat is a really, very simple hat for running in sun. It’s one size with a crown of 22-23 inches in circumference, but you still have some adjustability. Similar to most hats of this style, there is a removable chin cord.
The hat is the best for packability as it folds into a small sac with a snap button to keep it folded inside your travel or sports bag. There is also a hook for hanging on your backpack if this is what you need. On top of that, the price is a point you can’t bet. This hat is sold at a price you won’t nearly find in most other sun hats on this list.
Pros
- Foldable and packable
- Hook to hang on backpack
- Cheap price
Cons
- Not the greatest sun protection
Connectyle Outdoor Mesh Sun Hat
9
If you have a special taste in what you wear, Connectyle Outdoor Mesh Sun Hat will be a favorite choice. This sun hat distinguishes itself with its vibrant summer color options. Both men and women can wear this hat for running in sun while maintaining their style. We think people will also love how comfortable it is and its ease of adjustability.
As a running hat, it should be breathable, and that’s why there is a mesh fabric all around the hat. For adjustability, there is a drawstring around the crown in addition to the chin cord. And when it’s time to pack your things inside a small bag, this hat will find its place easily but don’t overfold it as it’s way too flimsy.
Pros
- Breathable
- Cheap
- Adjustable
Cons
- Creases easily
Sunday Afternoons Unisex Ultra-Adventure Hat
8
If you want a hat that not only protects all your head from sun rays but also stops your hair from going around, Sunday Afternoons Unisex Ultra-Adventure Hat is a cap with a back flap sun hat for running. With this hat, feeling comfortable and cool while running isn’t a challenge anymore. Also, your neck is protected if you wear a wide-opened t-shirt.
The hat is UPF 50+, and it’s well ventilated too. Plus, the fabrics dry quickly when it gets moistened with sweat or even when it’s washed with water. Apart from that, looking at the design, it’s a casual or even sporty hat for running in sun that adds a leveraging accent to any outfit.
Pros
- Back flap
- Casual design
- UPF 50+
Cons
- Noisy when the flap moves
Under Armour Men’s Iso-chill ArmourVent Bucket
7
Under Armour is a well-known brand name specializing in sportswear. No wonder it has one of the best sun hats for running, though. The hat we chose for considering in this list is Under Armour Men’s Iso-chill ArmourVent Bucket. This hat is made of polyester only to meet the needs of runners and other athletes.
Furthermore, the brim is just the right width you need for protection. At the same time, the sporty polyester fabric will wick away any moisture and keep your head cool. Whether you choose the solid-colored or patterned option, this stylish sun hat will be a nice addition to your look. It’s available in four sizes to suit all heads.
Pros
- 100% polyester
- Moisture-wicking
- Four sizes available
Cons
- Not adjustable
MISSION Sun Defender Cooling Hat
6
MISSION Sun Defender Cooling Hat is so different that you can wear it for any kind of training or activities, including water sports. The hat is a cooling one; this means it protects you from the sun in addition to keeping you cool using the instant cooling technology. Simply wet the cooling band, and it’ll work to keep your head cool as long as possible.
Further, the mesh fabrics allow for proper airflow for extra coolness. The back flap and brim provide the needed coverage from the sun and other elements. All of this doesn’t add weight as it’s still a lightweight hat that you barely feel on your head.
Pros
- Instant cooling technology
- Back flap
- Proper airflow
Cons
- The dark color absorbs sun rays
Mission Cooling Bucket Hat
5
We’re still on the same brand as the previous sun hat, and for good measure. This brand has done a lot in hats with instant cooling technology, and Mission Cooling Bucket Hat is another perfect choice. The hat has a nice bit floppy brim with no back flap like the previous one. It’s more for minimalists who always look for the smallest and lightest.
To enjoy the cooling feature, just soak it in water and wring well before wearing it. It’s so versatile to be wrung properly. If you don’t want it wet, no problem, the cooling effect works with any moisture. Once you sweat, the cooling effect works to regulate the temperature.
Pros
- Instant cooling feature
- Chin cord
- Chemical-free
Cons
- Small fit
Coolibar Men’s Women’s Fore Golf Hat
4
Coolibar Men’s Women’s Fore Golf Hat is one of the most elegant running hats for sun protection you’ll ever buy. As a matter of fact, the hat isn’t designed mainly for running as it’s a fashion statement and a perfect addition to any outfit. However, you can wear it for sports because it has all the comfort and sun protection you need while running.
What distinguishes this hat is that the brim isn’t symmetrical as most other hats. It’s wider on the back side, thus, offering more coverage to your neck. This design is a nice alternative to many running caps’ neck flap. Further, there is a drawstring cord for adjustability in addition to side panels for ventilation. On top of that, this hat for men and women is foldable for packing easily while traveling.
Pros
- Adjustable
- Side panels for ventilation
- Foldable
- Wider brim from the back
Cons
- Expensive
Men High Visibility Reflective Sun Hat
3
Need a running hat for sun protection that looks very sporty? Men High Visibility Reflective Sun Hat is highly recommended as it’s made particularly for sportsmen. Featuring a composite of cotton and polyester fabric, this hat becomes very breathable and comfortable. The fabrics are similar to those used for designing sportswear in general.
Moreover, the hat is very breathable with lots of ventilation holes to keep your head cool. As you can see, the color is neon with reflective strips for visibility. Plus, it’s lightweight and packable to move around with your hat everywhere. Don’t forget to check the price; this might urge you to buy more than one as it’s reasonably priced.
Pros
- Looks very sporty
- Very breathable
- Reflective strips
Cons
- One size only
Home Prefer Outdoor Mesh Sun Hat Wide Brim
2
What do you think about a colored running hat for sun protection? Home Prefer Outdoor Mesh Sun Hat Wide Brim comes in a variety of colors to choose from. Not all running hats come in these unique colors. Thus, this Home Prefer hat is distinguishable here. Rather than the colors, the hat has many other features, such as good sun protection, quick drying, and softness.
With the back flap and UPF 50+ feature, the sun hat becomes very protective and suitable for the sunniest days. Similar to most sun hats, this one is adjustable with a chin cord. Yet, there are no sizes to choose from, so don’t forget to check the size chart to see if this single size will suit your head.
Pros
- Adjustable chin cord
- Neck flap
- Lightweight and soft
Cons
- Not the best breathability
MISSION Cooling Bucket Hat 3” Wide Brim
1
The last running hat for sun protection we mention here on the list is a cooling hat. This is the MISSION Cooling Bucket Hat 3” Wide Brim with the instant cooling feature we mentioned before. This is extremely important for runners and other athletes or even on the beach when it’s too sunny. Cooling hats are one of the best sun hats for men when it comes to doing activities and sweating.
On the other side, the hat looks chic in all colors. If you have trouble finding a casual sporty running hat that looks stylish and feels comfortable, MISSION Bucket Hat with the cooling feature is the right choice. One thing we didn’t like about this hat is that it’s only size, although there is an adjustable cord for a snug fit. Everything else, regardless of the one-size feature, is just as it should be.
Pros
- Elegant style
- Instant cooling
- Comfortable
- Adjustable drawstring
Cons
- One size only
How To Choose The Best Sun Hats for Running?
Now that you have browsed all the available options above, here is a simple guide to help you determine if a particular sun hat is suitable for you or not. The below features are the most important ones to check in your new hat for running in sun.
Material
When you’re running, you’ll sweat a lot, especially when it comes to running outdoors. Just like you always check the sportswear you buy for running, you also need to make sure of your hat. Get one of those sun hats made especially for running or activities in general. They always come in polyester or cotton material while ensuring they’re breathable to wick any moisture.
Brim
The brim is what protects your head from sun rays. When running, you need a hat with a suitable brim that protects your head from harmful rays but doesn’t block vision. So, get those sun hats for running with a medium-sized brim. There are some options with brims that snap up, providing more exposure; these are perfect too.
Packability
Not every time you’ll wear your sports outfit and get directly to running. Sometimes you need to change your clothes somewhere before and after running. In this case, you need a packable running sun hat and actually packable shoes, jackets, and everything else. The very stiff sun hats aren’t packable,; if folded, they become wrinkled and creased, so they aren’t suitable for running. Go for the foldable and more flexible options better.
Why do I need special sun hats for running?
Although you can wear any hat for running, running sun hats are better and more comfortable regarding the material, breathability, snug fit, and comfort in general. Thus, getting a special sun hat for running in sun is better.
Can I wear running sun hats in rainy seasons?
Sun hats are mainly running hats for sun protection, but if you get a waterproof one, you can wear it when it rains with no need for a windbreaker with a hood.
What are other essential items to get for running in the sun?
Rather than the running hat for sun protection, you might check those best bottles for running and sunglasses for runners. These are essential for every runner.