I’m someone who prefers sunny days over rainy ones, but sometimes the sun can be too much. Plus, its UV rays can also be harmful, leading to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. But solving this problem is easy for me as all I have to do is wear a sun hat. If you’re looking for one, I’m here to show you the best sun hats with UPF on the market.
No, we’re not talking about sun hats with SPF. While both SPF and UPF help shield us from harmful rays, SPF is used to measure the effectiveness of sunscreen, while UPF is used to measure the effectiveness of fabric at blocking UV rays, including hats. I’ve worn the following hats myself, and they’re nothing but great. They’re available in different styles and features, so have fun choosing the one that suits you the most!
Are you going somewhere this spring? Have a look at these best travel hats for spring!
Table of contents
- adidas Victory III Bucket Hat
- KANUT SPORTS Zion Bucket Sun Hat
- Coolibar Ariel Reversible Pool Hat
- KastKing Sol Armis Boonie Hat
- Sunday Afternoons Kids’ Play Hat
- Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat
- KAVU Chillba Hat
- Tilley LTM6 Airflo
- EINSKEY Unisex Sun Hat
- Solbari Holiday Sun Hat
- Home Prefer Sun Protection Hat with Neck Flap
- THE NORTH FACE Horizon Breeze Brimmer
- Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Sun Hats with UPF?
- Do hats need to be UPF 50?
- What is a UPF hat?
- Is UPF as good as SPF?
adidas Victory III Bucket Hat
13
The adidas Victory III Bucket Hat is the perfect hat to kick off this list. As expected from the brand, it’s a performance-oriented hat designed to keep you cool and comfortable under the sun. Its lightweight polyester and mesh combination allows for excellent ventilation, perfect for staying cool under the sun. I tend to sweat easily, which was why I appreciated the built-in sweatband during testing. It effectively wicked away moisture, preventing my sweat from covering my face.
Moreover, this stylish sun hat comes with an adjustable chin strap for a secure and personalized fit. I tested it during a windy day, and it stayed put, which is why I think those who love outdoor activities would love this UV-protective hat. And for sun protection, it has a UPF rating of 50. So, you don’t have to worry about sun damage anymore.
Pros
- It boasts a sleek and modern design with the iconic adidas logo.
- It’s a versatile accessory that complements any outfit.
- It comes with an adjustable drawstring.
Cons
- It’s a bit small for some.
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KANUT SPORTS Zion Bucket Sun Hat
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Versatile and protective, the KANUT SPORTS Zion Bucket Sun Hat is another option that I highly recommend. With a UPF 50+ rating, it effectively blocks harmful UV rays. This is crucial for activities like hiking, fishing, camping, or spending extended time outdoors. But the MVP is none other than the detachable neck cape. It provided me with extra protection from the sun on my neck and ears. Plus, the detachable option allowed me to customize the hat based on my needs.
Perfect for travel, this packable sun hat folds into itself, making it easy to store in a backpack or bag without losing its shape. This is a big advantage for travelers or those who value space-saving gear. Better yet, the 100% nylon fabric and ventilated crown with eyelets allow for airflow. With this design, I was able to keep my head cool and comfortable even though it was hot back then.
Pros
- The fabric can wick moisture away effectively.
- It’s lightweight and packable.
- It can be worn by both men and women.
Cons
- It’s not machine washable.
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Coolibar Ariel Reversible Pool Hat
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Up next is the Coolibar Ariel Reversible Pool Hat. As the name suggests, this is the perfect hat to wear when you want to lounge by the pool. The woven polyester shell is lightweight and dries quickly, perfect for hot weather. It also boasts a UPF 50+ rating, blocking 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. One of the things that I appreciated the most when wearing it was the internal moisture-wicking headband. It gave me an extra layer of comfort.
Another highlight of this hat is its crushable design. It folds easily for convenient storage and travel. The reversible feature offers two style options in one, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe. Though the hat comes in a single size with a 22.5-inch circumference, it wasn’t too small or too big for me. You’ll want to measure your head beforehand to ensure a proper fit for optimal sun protection and comfort.
Pros
- This is a packable and travel-friendly sun hat.
- It’s stylish enough for everyday wear.
- There are several colors to choose from.
Cons
- It’s not suitable for swimming.
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KastKing Sol Armis Boonie Hat
10
Whether you’re hitting the beach, hiking a trail, or casting a line on the water, the KastKing Sol Armis Boonie Hat keeps you cool and shielded from the sun’s harmful rays. With a UPF 50 rating, this hat can greatly minimize your risk of sunburn and sun damage. As a versatile choice, you can wear it for any outdoor activities. While I wore it for fishing, feel free to wear it for hiking or simply enjoying a day at the beach.
Furthermore, the hat is crafted from lightweight, breathable material that allows for good air circulation, keeping your head cool and dry even on hot days. I also adored the mesh venting panels, which allowed me to stay cool and comfortable during testing. Plus, the moisture-wicking headband absorbed sweat like a beast, keeping it out of my eyes and face.
Pros
- The elastic drawstring with a toggle button allows you to fine-tune the fit.
- There are so many different designs to choose from.
- The dark underside of the brim reduces reflected light.
Cons
- It’s not machine washable.
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Sunday Afternoons Kids’ Play Hat
9
Best for Kids. Needless to say, your little one also needs to have the best UV-protective sun hats. Enter the Sunday Afternoons Kids’ Play Hat. This hat goes above and beyond with a 6-inch neck veil that protects delicate skin without sacrificing comfort. Meanwhile, the breathable mesh panels keep little heads cool even on the hottest days. When I first saw this hat, I was impressed by how the downsloping brim could shade the eyes perfectly.
Growing pains? No worries! The adjustable sizing strap ensures the hat stays snug as your tiny adventurer sprouts. There’s more! This hat isn’t just practical; it’s bursting with fun and style. You can choose from a rainbow of colors and kid-approved designs that match their wild personalities. From baby-soft styles for your tiniest explorer to cooler-than-cool options for older kids, there’s a Play Hat for every adventure. Take a closer look at this hat by watching this review video by Little Adventure Shop!
Pros
- The hat is both water-repellent and stain-resistant.
- There’s a plethora of different designs to choose from.
- If offers UPF 50+ sun protection.
Cons
- The brim might be too wide for some kids.
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Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat
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There’s no way the Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat isn’t on this list. Helios stands out from the crowd with its versatility. It boasts a wide range of pastel colors to match your unique style. However, what truly sets it apart is its adjustable nature. The detachable chin strap allowed me to customize the hat to my comfort level. Gone are the days of annoying toggles or cords getting in your way.
Performance-wise, this hat also shines. The integrated sweatband effectively absorbs moisture, keeping you cool and comfortable even under the scorching sun. The 2.75-inch brim with a dark underlining offers exceptional sun protection, preventing glare and sun exposure. And speaking of sun protection, it has a UPF rating of 50+. Wow!
Pros
- It’s a relatively affordable option that offers premium quality.
- This hat dries quickly and is water-repellent.
- It can be used by both men and women.
Cons
- It’s a bit too big for people with smaller heads.
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KAVU Chillba Hat
7
With festive colors and unique designs, the KAVU Chillba Hat is a must-have accessory for outdoor activities, especially seaside adventures. That’s because it offers unmatched sun and rain protection. Unlike many other hats I’ve tried, this one offered me an extremely wide brim that cast a generous shadow over my entire head and neck. It was like having a personal umbrella. Plus, it’s water-resistant.
Finding the perfect fit was also easy for me, thanks to the adjustable band and buckle system. It ensures a comfortable and secure fit for various head sizes. While not ideal for strong winds, the included chin strap can prevent unwanted takeoffs. Not to mention, once I was done using it, I could easily roll it up for storage. Convenient!
Pros
- When it comes to coverage, this hat takes the cake.
- There’s a wide array of colors and patterns to choose from.
- Considering its features, it’s actually pretty affordable.
Cons
- It’s not for dynamic activities like hiking or running.
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Tilley LTM6 Airflo
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The Tilley LTM6 Airflo is more than just a sun hat. Whether you’re conquering trails, strolling through the park, teeing off on the golf course, or enjoying a music festival, it’s built for both style and performance. Wearing it, I couldn’t help but channel my inner Indiana Jones. That said, I was impressed by the hidden pocket, which is very rare in the sun hat world. You can use it to stash your ID or keys.
Furthermore, the 3.25-inch brim was firm and wide enough to shield my face from the sun without feeling bulky. On top of that, the recycled nylon material isn’t only durable but also water-repellent, making it your go-to companion in all weather conditions. Another highlight is its Hydrofil sweatband. Thanks to this feature, I was able to stay cool and comfy without a single sunburn. Click here to check out more reviews for this wide-brim sun hat.
Pros
- The subtle color options are nice and don’t look tacky.
- There are so many sizes available, ensuring a perfect fit.
- It’s an eco-conscious choice.
Cons
- It’s on the pricier side.
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EINSKEY Unisex Sun Hat
5
Best Budget. Don’t underestimate the EINSKEY Unisex Sun Hat! While it’s a budget-friendly option, it packs a punch with features often found in premium hats. Made from UPF 50 polyester and boasting a generous 3.9-inch brim, it protected my face, neck, and ears from harsh sun rays. For the ultimate protection, I wore it along with my favorite eco-friendly sunscreen.
However, this hat’s hidden gem is probably its built-in sweatband. It could wick away moisture effectively, keeping me cool and comfortable when I was exposed to the sun while preventing pesky sweat drips from stinging my eyes. Although it’s technically a one-size-fits-all, the adjustable drawstring ensures a snug fit for heads measuring 22 to 24 inches. Ditch the expensive options and embrace this hat – your head and wallet will thank you.
Pros
- The polyester material is water-repellent.
- With a mesh panel, this hat is highly breathable.
- Perfect for travel, it’s both packable and lightweight.
Cons
- It’s hand wash only.
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Solbari Holiday Sun Hat
4
Best Customizable. Are you struggling to pack bulky sun hats with UV protection? Forget the frustration! The Sobari Holiday Sun Hat is your ultimate travel companion for sun-kissed adventures. Crafted from a luxurious linen-cotton blend, it boasts the highest sun protection rating (UPF 50+) while remaining incredibly lightweight and packable. Once I folded it up, I could tuck it neatly into my suitcase.
For those who love versatility in style, this hat is available in multiple reversible color options. I loved this a lot, as I could easily switch up my look to complement different outfits. Moreover, the hat features a built-in brim wire, giving you the freedom to shape the brim according to your preference. Whether you prefer a classic floppy style or a more structured look, the possibilities are endless.
Pros
- The 4-inch brim offers exceptional sun protection.
- The chin strap is removable.
- There are so many colors to choose from and they look just like the pictures.
Cons
- It’s not the best option for strong winds.
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Home Prefer Sun Protection Hat with Neck Flap
3
Best Neck Protection. Sometimes, simply shading your face isn’t enough. Ears and necks, often neglected, suffer sun damage too. That’s why I included the Home Prefer Sun Protection Hat with Neck Flap. Unlike many other hats out there, this one was able to protect my neck completely from the sun. This was all thanks to the innovative 10.5-inch neck flap. For protection, this hat is hard to match.
“Lightweight, cool, and comfortable, this sun hat is simply amazing. And the addition of the neck flap makes everything even better.”
WOW Travel
Don’t worry; despite having a flap, this hat is highly breathable. Plus, it comes with an adjustable chin strap that promises a secure fit. During testing, I felt the chin strap was distracting, and luckily, I was able to remove it. Perfect for most outdoor activities, this hat also comes in a wide array of color options to choose from. For other similar hats, take a look at these best sun hats with neck flaps.
Pros
- The neck flap has a mesh panel to keep you cool.
- It’s both lightweight and comfortable.
- The brim is wide enough to provide shade for the whole face.
Cons
- The neck flap isn’t removable.
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THE NORTH FACE Horizon Breeze Brimmer
2
Best Quality. Whether you’re chilling by the beachside or conquering mountain trails, THE NORTH FACE Horizon Breeze Brimmer is always ready to accompany you. Made with recycled nylon, recycled polyester, and even a recycled plastic chin strap, it treads lightly on the planet without sacrificing quality. And speaking of quality, I loved how the built-in sweatband could wick away moisture like a pro, keeping me cool even on a hot hiking trip.
Now, let’s talk about the sun protection. While it boasts a respectable UPF 40 rating (not quite reaching the 50 mark of some competitors), it still earns the Skin Cancer Foundation’s seal of approval. So rest assured, your head and face will be well-shielded from harmful rays. Also, can we take a moment to appreciate its versatile design? It’s available in many attractive colors (though I think the Steel Blue variant is the best) and can be worn by both men and women. There are over 200 reviews on its official product page, so check them out, too!
Pros
- This reliable hat offers both style and coverage.
- It can be worn for various outdoor activities.
- It’s one of the most eco-friendly sun hats on the market.
Cons
- Its UPF rating is lower than some of its competitors.
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Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat
1
Best Overall. The Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and comfortable sun hats with UPF 50. One of the things that I liked the most is its varied brim width. The brim is wider at the back, offering my next extra coverage. On the other hand, the front brim is narrower. This design allowed me to hike properly, and it didn’t obstruct my views.
What’s more, this sun hat is highly breathable. It uses a nylon polyester blend with a mesh lining and vents to keep you cool and dry the whole time. Those who sweat a lot will also appreciate the moisture-wicking technology, which helps manage sweat. Finally, this hat never left my head during testing, as the adjustable headband ensured I could adjust the fit accordingly and securely.
Pros
- The water-resistant design means this hat can handle light rain and splashes.
- The brim can maintain its shape even in windy conditions.
- You can fold it down completely flat.
Cons
- It’s a bit small for people with larger heads. If yours is also on the bigger side, check out these best sun hats for big heads!
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Our Verdict!
Protective, packable, and water-resistant, I think the Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat deserves to be the best overall pick. However, the rest are worth considering, too. I’ve labeled some of the standouts above based on the following criteria, so take a look.
- Best Quality: THE NORTH FACE Horizon Breeze Brimmer
- Best Neck Protection: Home Prefer Sun Protection Hat with Neck Flap
- Best Customizable: Solbari Holiday Sun Hat
- Best Budget: EINSKEY Unisex Sun Hat
- Best for Kids: Sunday Afternoons Kids’ Play Hat
How To Choose The Best Sun Hats with UPF?
When looking for a sun hat for sun protection, there are some important things you should always consider. They are:
UPF rating
Of course, the most important thing to consider is the UPF rating. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and it’s a measure of how well a fabric blocks UV rays. Look for a hat with a UPF rating of 50+, which means it will block 98% of both UVA and UVB rays.
Material
Next, you’ll want to consider the material of the hat. Tightly woven fabrics like cotton, polyester, and nylon tend to have higher UPF ratings than loosely woven fabrics. Some hats also have special UV protective fabrics or treatments added.
Style of hat
There are so many different kinds of hats out there. You can’t go wrong with hats with a wide brim, at least 3-4 inches. They’ll provide more coverage and shade for your face, ears, and neck. Meanwhile, bucket hats with chin straps are good for providing all-around UV protection.
Do hats need to be UPF 50?
No, not all hats have to be UPF 50. However, hats with a UPF rating of 50 do have their own benefits. They can block out at least 98% of UV radiation as well as reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer.
What is a UPF hat?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. A UPF hat is a hat that provides UV protection by blocking most of the UV rays from reaching your skin. The higher the UPF, the more UV rays that are blocked.
Is UPF as good as SPF?
You can’t compare the two as they’re different. SPF applies to sunscreens and measures protection against UVB rays that cause sunburn. Meanwhile, UPF applies to clothing and fabrics, including hats, shirts, and wraps. UPF measures protection from both UVB rays and UVA rays.
