Our testers unanimously applauded the Columbia Bora Bora II Booney for its breathability, which makes sense as it has the most generous mesh venting of anything we tested. Any remaining sweat was wicked away by a thick sweatband that dries quickly. 
Soak your hat in the water-soap mixture for 5 to 10 minutes. The Ultra Adventure has a 3-inch clamshell brim and a flowing flap/neck skirt that provides ample coverage of the face, ears, neck, and upper shoulders. Once youve got this joint on, the party has officially started. We took 16 fold-up chairs on three weekend camping trips and used them in the backyard for six months to find some standout ways to sit down in the outdoors. Let everyone know in the clearest possible terms: its the weekend and youre not to be bothered. All products featured on GQ are independently selected by our editors. The hat does stay on the head during the most high-intensity pursuitswe loved that the hat offers a removable sun skirt, allowing it to be converted into a trucker-hat design when you dont need protection on your ears or neck. Baseball cap: Every dermatologist we talked to warned that the major downside of a baseball cap is that it offers no ear or neck protection. Sun exposure can occur from above, but also from rays reflected from the ground, even in areas that may be shaded from trees.
Available in two elegantly neutral shades (Otter Green and Desert Tan), Summer Packer is also made from 8-ounce dry finish Shelter Cloth which is lightweight, water-repellent, and easy to spot clean, making it the perfect hat for virtually any outdoor activity.
", Best Panama: Madewell x Biltmore Panama Hat at Madewell, "A good panama hat never goes out of style and thats certainly true of this warm-weather staple.". Water, sand, rock, concrete, and snow have higher reflection rates than other surfaces, which is of note to rafters, runners, climbers, and anyone on the snow. Luckily for you, the hats on this list meet all those requirements and then some. The Sunlily Roll-N-Go Sun Hat bounces right back to its original shape no matter how long its been squished at the bottom of your suitcase. Dr. Kleinsmith warned that baseball caps do nothing to protect the ears and sides of the face and neck. Its one reason she finds that men in particular get a lot of skin cancers on their ears. The trendy trucker could be even worse for sun protection than a baseball cap. It features UPF 50+ protection (meaning it blocks 98 percent of the sun's rays), integrated grommets for added breathability, and a comfortable cotton sweatband lining. Designed with holes to hold sunglasses plus reflective tape for low-light situations, it also packs down easily for travel and retains its shape afterward. Cut from the same light, sturdy pique as Lacostes beyond iconic polos. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. With its sleek lines and fedora-style fit, this hat is much more fashion-forward than other, similar-performing sun hatswithout sacrificing on what matters. The hats with the most coverage give you a view of your feetand thats it. This fishermens hat that combines UPF 50 fabric, a 3-inch brim, and a sweatband was among the most breathable we tested. 
A tasteful alternative to your well-worn Yankees fitted. 2022 Wirecutter, Inc., A New York Times Company. To test that, we stuffed it into a bag for a cross-country flight, and were pleased to find that it still looked pretty good on the other side, but we can see how folding and cramming it into a tight space could ruin the shape, so if you need something packable go with one of the two top picks. The textured nylon poplin shell provides coverage from the sun and the adjustable chin strap secures this hat in place when youre in high alpine, windy terrain. Lone Flag Palm High distressed blood twill unstructured 6-panel, Ami Alexandre Mattiussi check embroidered hat, Lazy Oaf reversible peep + checkered bucket hat. Justine Harringtonhas more than a few sun hats in her closet, and loves finding stylish ones that pull double duty to protect your face and neck from sun exposure. Thoroughly rinse the hat before letting it air dry. Based on this information, we developed criteria (in bold below) to judge our picks. Whether youre trying to stay cool under the sun or just contain your quarantine hair, try one of the visors, straw hats, or baseball caps we love. After this, spot treat the hat using a water and soap mixture. Skin Cancer Foundation. Crucially, this baby sun hat is breathable, quick-drying, and offers full-scale neck and face coverage, with its wide floppy brim. Its also easy to spot clean, should you need to get any dirt or grass off of it, and comes in two fun shades: a bold reddish orange and neutral light yellow. We tried to not let fashion sway us too much, but ultimately, comfort and stylishness are going to be a factors in determining if you will keep the hat on your head (or buy it in the first place). Straw Lifeguard Hat: In the 1990s, this style of hat could be found on every beach in Southern California and can still be found in many a surf shopand for good reason. This may be because the Derma Safe covers its mesh flaps with extra fabric for extra sun protection, whereas the Ultra Adventure Hat leaves the mesh open. In case you hadnt heard, visors are back with a vengeance. When the breeze picks up, you wont lose it, thanksto adjustable sizing and a good chin strap. Health educator Lisa Quale of the University of Arizona Skin Cancer Institute mentioned in an email that the face, tops of the ears, neck, chest, hands, and arms are some of the most common sites for skin cancer. She suggested sunhats should be seen as just one part of your defensive lineup. Hanging Lake and Booth Falls, Colorado: Short day hikes that gain elevation quickly and can get warm, making them ideal to test breathability. Jared, a runner and ultramarathoner based in Texas, runs long races with heat-themed namessuch as the Jalapeo Half Marathon, Wildlfire Half Marathon, and Habanero Hundredand typically trains 25 to 40 miles per week in 90- to 100-degree Fahrenheit full-sun temps. Its UPF 50+ rated, fully adjustable, and exceptionally well-made.
It doesnt get much more 90s hip-hop than this. our process. When it comes to a good sun hat, we have a few key requirements. Visiting a National Park This Year? Price: No hat is worth spending a fortune on, but its better to pay a little more for a hat that you feel comfortable and confident in than to buy a cheaper hat you wont wind up wearing. And the Paradise Cove Visor is a stunner with its vintage-inspired woven straw design and elastic back, so you can adjust accordingly and achieve the perfect fit. Justines work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and USA Today. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. That seriously fierce embroidery was inspired by vintage souvenir jackets. Im an avid long-distance hiker with over 16,000 miles covered on long trails. We had to remove other hats to see when navigating snow-covered mountain passes, but the clamshell brim on the Ultra Adventure stops just before the ear, balancing coverage with visibility. If cleaning a straw or paper hat, begin by removing excess dirt and dust from the hat using a brush. When the wind picks up, you wont lose this hat, thanks to the adjustable chin strap that holds it securely in place. Athletes we interviewed warned us that when they wore a trucker hat, their bald spot would burn through the mesh. There is a chin strap to cinch the hat down in wind. Every outdoor athlete we interviewed told us that breathability and venting were the most important factors in determining whether they wore their hat or carried it balled up at the bottom of their pack. Find one that works for your lifestyle and youre all but guaranteed to make sun protection a daily habit. If youll be active in very windy conditions, this hat is worth a look. It has higher vents and UPF 50+ mesh, something the previous model lacked. Ultramarathoner Jared told us that, as an active person, Im generating so much heat it can get to a point where Ill want to take the hat off.
We also wanted to determine the crushability of a hat and if seams would hold up to the abuse. Dr. Jhin explained that the higher the elevation, the closer people are to UVA and UVB raysthe kind that cause sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer. It wont do me any good in my hand and not on my head. The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hatprovidesbreathability, venting, and packability yet is comfortable enough that you wont mind wearing it. Mesh fabrics allow more damaging UVR to pass through, advised Quale. Dont hit the trail without the Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat, which offers comfort and maximum protection from the elements when youre out getting your adventure junkie fix. Given that its design seems to be inspired by southeast Asian conical hats, as an Asian American wearing this hatthis is realit prompted racist remarks from passersby. If you adore statement hats, then youll go cuckoo for the Nomad Oversized Straw Hat from Free People, with its thick ribbon that ties under the chin and dramatic curved brim. Gently scrub dirtier areas if needed, then soak the hat in the water for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Extreme breathability is the name of the game with the Henschel Aussie Breezer Hat. ", Best for Women: Ashton Trimmed Boater at Anthropologie, "Pulls double duty protecting your complexion from the sun's harsh rays and adds style to your wardrobe. Lastly, we asked five outdoor athletes about the difference between a hat that looks good in the store and a hat that actually works in the field, including ultramarathoner David Jared and long-distance hiker and ultra-runner Lint Bunting. When it comes to coverage, breathability, and design, its tough to beat the Filson Summer Packer Hat. You can use a gentle brush, like a soft toothbrush, and a mild dish soap to attack particularly difficult stains. ", Best for Camping: Furtalk Wide Brim Straw Hat at Amazon, "This style allows air to flow nicely so it's perfect for daytime camping. Featuring UPF 50+ protection, this hat will be perfect for outdoor activities.
Hands down, this hat offered the most protection of any that we tested. Additionally, two testers (one man, one woman) took the hats on a 100-mile backpacking trip of the West Highland Way in Scotland. Is there really a reason to pay $70 for a Tilley hat when a 97 baseball cap from Home Depot works, too? Time at the beach, lake, or pool is more fun for everyone with kids outfitted in comfortable, protective rash guards, swimsuits, sun hats, and more. Never use bleaches or fabric softeners, which may deteriorate some treatments in your hat. But being able to seeto navigate, avoid rocks and wildlife (and the scariest encounter of allmotor vehicles), and otherwise enjoy nature is essential. And of course, you get plenty of sun coveragethe brim can conceal your whole face if desired, or you can tilt it to neatly frame your face. And if its a particularly steamy day, the built-in sweatband and two mesh vents help to keep your head cool and comfortable. We independently review everything we recommend. In particular, we were interested in how well a hat and its brim would hold up to an outdoor lifestyle. And, as you might imagine, this hat offers a substantial amount of coverage for your face and necktop off your ensemble with this glamorous hat, and youll be sufficiently covered from the sun, and not to mention, feel like a supermodel. Heres what to pack for your next visit to help fill in the gaps. The Tilley LTM6 AirFlo is constructed with UPF 50+ fabric designed to keep your face and neck protected, and is especially good-looking. Nancy Pass/Fancy Pass Loop, Colorado: These two high passes required some navigation through the snow, making them perfect to test visibility. One thing we dont like about this hat is the lack of a rigid brim. Another drawback is that the Tilleys ventilation couldnt compare with that of our top picks, so if youre going to be out for long periods of time in hot conditions, you might start to sweat. Once youve packed larger items, create a pocket for the hat and insert it top first. Comfort includes fabric feel, weight, fit, and adjustability. On Mom-And-Dad Date Night With Rihanna. Rip Curl Paradise Cove Visor at Nordstrom, Madewell x Biltmore Panama Hat at Madewell. A unanimous favorite among our testers, the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat provides the best balance of coverage and breathability, and is unobtrusive enough that you can forget you have it on. Its perfect for when youre hanging at your campsite in the daytime; it's UPF 50+, keeps your face out of the sunlight, and also allows air to flow nicely. Sunhats can be pricey. Justine Harrington is a TripSavvy writer based in Austin, Texas, where she covers topics spanning travel, food & drink, lifestyle, culture, social advocacy, and the outdoors. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. It kept our heads cooler than other hats, both in the field and in a controlled test. More often than not, mens sun hats can err on the side of dorkybut thats not the case with the Einskey Sun Hat, with its relatively slim silhouette. Kavu Chillba: The Chillba came out second on the melon testkeeping melon heads up to 10 degrees cooler than its counterparts. It offers less sun protection than our top pick, but the Columbia Bora Bora II Booney has more ventilation and is arguably more stylish than our top choice. Ptarmigan Pass, Colorado: This high-altitude pass offers high winds and above-treeline sun exposure. If youre out on the water, youll want a hat that protects your ears and neck from the reflective waves. Instead, she recommended choosing a hat with special UPF fabric, which is woven tightly to keep more UV rays out. ", Best for Men: Einskey Men's Sun Hat at Amazon, "With its relatively slim silhouette and wide brim, this hat will keep you safe and stylish. Each 8-pound melon head wore one sunhat from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. in full-sun ambient temps ranging from 88 to 94 degrees Fahrenheit. This perfect shade of washed maroon is every bit as versatile as navy blue. Trucker hat: The back portion of the hat has more mesh than a baseball capallowing for more breathability, but less coverage. That should make for some great ultra light jokes.. The striped trim adds a fun, playful touch. If your skin is fair or burns easily, get a sun hat with built-in UPF protection. For a sun hat that falls higher on the style spectrum than most others we looked at, it offers a good amount of coverage, including UPF 50 fabric. It provides full coverage, but still lets you see where youre going, and is lightweight enough you actually leave it on. Best Overall: Filson Summer Packer Hat at Amazon, "When it comes to coverage, breathability, and design, its tough to beat the Filson. If [the hat is] more breathable and letting some of that heat get away then Ill be able to wear it longer. We picked hats that featured highly breathable fabric and that also allowed heat to escape from the head through strategically placed vents. West Highland Way, Scottish Highlands: A 95-mile hike, the perfect place to test hats in serious wind. productslearn more about Read our, Best for Camping: Furtalk Wide Brim Straw Hat, The 15 Best Sunglasses of 2022, According to Optometrists, Best for Hiking: Columbia Bora Bora Booney II, The 9 Best Sunscreens of 2022, According to Dermatologists, Best Panama: Madewell x Biltmore Panama Hat, Best Oversized: Free People Nomad Oversized Straw Hat.
This wide-brimmed bucket hat is lightweight, made from soft cotton corduroy, and provides ample sun protection while youre hitting the links. There are straw hats, and then theres the Freya Gardenia Hat. To revisit this article, visit My Profile, thenView saved stories. The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat is an improvement on a model that was already a favorite (a former top pick in our beach and pool guide). Bunting has over 20,000 miles of hiking on his shoes, including walking the Triple Crown (the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail) three timeswhich requires hiking across New Mexico and Southern California. Lisa Quale, health educator at the University of Arizona Skin Cancer Institute, email interview, Lint Bunting, long-distance hiker, email interview, Dr. Marie Jhin, board-certified dermatologist and author, email interview, Dr. DAnne Kleinsmith, board-certified dermatologist, email interview, Joe Jackson, What are the Best Sporty Sun Hats?, Outside, April 17, 2014. Prepare for the occasional Hey, whered your head go? joke when you wear this around your pops. The hats skirt should safely cover the back of your neck. Its also designed with an interior elastic band, which provides flexibility in sizing. Just make sure its comfortable and match[es] the conditions youll be facing.. One discontented REI reviewer described it as the big floppy hats old women wear at the beach (think lady whose kid got eaten in the original Jaws).. It also includes if flaps, Velcro, strings, or cinches rub against the body or hang annoyingly. A trip to the French Riviera, anyone?
Instead, wash it by hand using cool water. These fabrics have a very tight weave that prevents most of the ultraviolet radiation from getting to your bodyeven when the fabric is wet (or sweaty), which can pull fibers apart and expose the body to more ultraviolet radiation. We chose hats with cinches, neck straps, and dongles that helped keep all hat parts attached in a breeze. ", Best for Golf: WYETH Desi Bucket Hat at Madewell, "It's easy to spot clean should you need to get any dirt or grass off of it. The light fabric provides UPF 50+ sun protection.
And unlike the Columbia, its stiff brim stayed in place even during wind gusts. Jared warned first-time sunhat buyers that Its easy to think that any hat will do, but Ive learned that finding the right hat for you can be as difficult as finding the right shoe. We didnt notice any durability issues, but should you have a problem, Sunday Afternoons will repair or replace any hat with a manufacturing defect for life, or otherwise repair the hat at minimal cost. "Sun-Protective Clothing. They work like blinders leaving the wearer with tunnel vision. Sun hats dont get much cuter than the Ashton Trimmed Boater from Anthropologie. San Jacinto Mountain, California: This almost-11,000-footer features altitude, wind, and Palm Springs-esque desert terrain. Heres What to Bring Along. the only headgear on earth that simultaneously calls to mind, Nordstrom's Anniversary's Sale Will Transform Your Closet Into a Hall of Fame Wardrobe, 89 Excellent Gift Ideas to Spoil All the Deserving Guys Out There, A$AP Rocky Wore Shorts (!) She told us a so-called base tan provides a sun protection factor (SPF) of 3 or less, and anything under SPF 15 provides inadequate sunburn protection. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. DAnne Kleinsmith put it more bluntly: There is no such thing as a good tan.. Tailor made for the center court at Wimbledon. Avid golfers who want to look cute on the green will love the WYETH Desi Bucket Hat. I also write regularly about outdoor gear and am the instructor of Backpacker Magazines online Thru-hiking 101 class. The Furtalk Wide Brim Straw Hat (view at Amazon) is also a great choice with adjustable straps and be easily packed without losing its shape. The flexible fabric folded down in a stuff sack when flown across the country multiple times. Washing your hat frequently will help avoid accumulation of sweat and associated salt that can deteriorate the fabric, permanently discolor your hat, and/or lead to rot (gross). We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best This can be at least partially attributed to the blue color of our model (its available in five colors, including white and tan), but we interviewed two users who have hiked over 1,000 miles in their beige Sun Runners who still reported the same problem. Great for golfers, horseback riders, and walkers, this is a good option if youre working up a sweat, but not hoofing it up a mountain all day. Toss it in your tote, pack, or beach bag without worrying about unsightly wrinkles or creases forming. It doesnt get many style points, but one tester commented that it was so comfortable she almost forgot she was wearing it. Outdoor Research Sun Runner: Though our testers frequently received compliments from other folks on the trail about this hats color and innovative design, they all found this hats fabric too hot and not breathable enough to use. Even looking at this hat makes us want to ditch work for the closest available pool. An ice cold head topper from the hottest streetwear label out. This durable, Canadian-designed hat also has a higher quality of craftsmanship (evidenced by the hand-sewn lock-stitching) than other hats we tested plus a firm brim that doesnt lose its shape in wind or when compacted. The Tilley LTM6 AirFlo Hat looks great, and if thats the motivating factor needed to keep a hat on while outside, thats good enough for us. Theres a lot to love about the Furtalk Wide Brim Sun Hat. But in spite of this, it was bulky and harder to travel with than other options. Testing the hat in cloudy weather ended up being a perfect proxy to determine if a hat really was comfortable, as it had to be really wearable because most of the time we felt like we didnt need it (even though dermatologists warn we do). Since 1957, GQ has inspired men to look sharper and live smarter with its unparalleled coverage of style, culture, and beyond. If you have a hat with a UPF rating of 30 or more, the color should not matter, but if it doesnt have a rating, As a general rule, darker colors are more sun protective due to their ability to absorb UVR before it reaches the skin, said Quale. Bad news if your excuse is that you have a great base tanboard-certified dermatologist and author of Asian Beauty Secrets: Ancient and Modern Tips from the Far East Dr. Marie Jhin warns us a base tan is just a sign that your cells are trying to protect themselves from further injury. Tilley does offer a lifetime warranty, and even insurance against loss for two years. To test these criteria, six testers (three men, three women) took the hats on at least one 4-hour day hike at altitude (between 7,000 and 12,500 feet) in California and Colorado, totaling 100 hours of time that the hats were worn. Like a weekend in Nantucket distilled into a hat. ", The 14 Best Travel Pillows for Every Kind of Sleeper, The Best Rash Guards to Protect You and the Whole Family. To revisit this article, select My Account, thenView saved stories. REI Paddlers Hat: It didnt breathe as well as the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat or Columbia Bora Bora II, but it performed well in the wind. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. This hat with UPF 50+ fabric is so airy and lightweight, you could easily forget youre wearing it, which means youre more likely to leave it on your head. We investigated if the hat would maintain its original shape after being crushed or jammed into a stuff sack, the bottom of a backpack, or check-in on a long flight. The brim is shorter2 inches versus the 3 inches found on the front of the Ultra Adventure Hat. And thats the important part. Trail runners found it less secure than other hatsthe one-size-fits-all fastener on the inner skullcap didnt prevent the brim from catching the wind and inverting. However, if you want to prioritize style you can go with a different material, such as straw or cotton, that has a brim to protect your face and neck from harmful sunrays. TripSavvy uses only high-quality, trusted sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. This cutie has a vibe thats somehow both new and retro, and itll also match with most (if not all) of your outfits, thanks to the versatile design and neutral color. A cinch lets you adjust the hat to fit your head snugly. An adjustable neck strap and crown kept it on our heads when the wind picked up. This design combines the best features of the previous model and improves on them, offering lighter fabrics (that are still UPF 50+) and a slimmer silhouette. The more exposure to these dangerous rays, the higher the risk, she warned, noting, I see a lot of airline pilots who are exposed to the rays in the air and get more skin cancer.. The stiff brim provides protection even in the wind, and extends to the ears, protecting them while also giving the wearer plenty of side vision for navigating and spotting wildlife. When doing this, make sure to steam the top and bottom of the dented parts of the hat. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. If you really want to use the ballcap you have lying around, pay attention to color. A good panama hat never goes out of style, and thats certainly true of this warm-weather staple: the Biltmore Panama Hat. Aside from being the epitome of fashion, this visor provides essential protection for long days spent in the sun. Material: Consider a hat's fabric before making a purchasing decision. If you can see a lot of light through it, choose a darker hat with a tighter weave., If a ballcap or trucker is still all youve got, ultra-hiker and runner Bunting suggested tucking a bandana in the back to create a little cape for [the] neck and ears. This system has the benefit of being highly adaptable depending on heat and tree coverage, as well as giving the option to dunk the bandana in streams to allow the moisture to evaporate and keep [you] cool. Still, despite using this system and a mylar umbrella, Lints 30,000+ miles of long-distance hiking has taken a toll: I currently have what I believe to be skin cancer on my ear, which really makes me paranoid about sun protection, but I figure if it turns out to actually be cancer I can get my ear removed. Clean Summer Sale - Up to $200 off Dyson technology, Redeem Moda Operandi coupon code to save 15% off your first Trunkshow purchase, Get 15% off for Boscov's credit card purchase with a coupon, SiriusXM coupon: pay $1 only on your first subscription, Up to 80% off select perfumes at FragranceX, 2022 Cond Nast. The upside is that youll get a perfect fit, and it should feel comfortable and secure on your head. For hikers, mountaineers, or anyone recreating at altitude, ultraviolet radiation is going to be higher than for those playing beach volleyball. And at the moment, there are two styles in particular that are popping up everywhere: slouchy, unstructured dad caps and bucket hats, a.k.a. Unlike other hats we tested, when we took it back out, it retained its original shape and didnt appear crinkled or sloppy. Learn more. ", Best Visor: Rip Curl Paradise Cove Visor at Nordstrom, "With its retro woven straw design and elastic back, this visor is fashionable and practical. We initially thought coverage was the most important factor to look for in a hat, but in our first hours of field testing, it was clear that our winner would be a sunhat whose coverage didnt trump visibility. Whether youre running, hiking, backpacking, rafting, golfing, or just taking the dog for a walk, you are exposing yourself to ultraviolet radiation. Plus, with the braided design and floppy brim, this hat is just plain chic. When there was a breeze, our testers thought that the airflow to the head on the Ultra Adventure Hat was fine, however they agreed that more mesh and side vents would be an improvement. In addition to wearing a sunhat, avoid the sun during peak times, wear clothing with high UPF fabrics and full coverage, wear sunscreen, and use a sun-shading umbrella (a favorite of Bunting, who has backpacked over 30,000 miles across the US with a mylar umbrella). Indeed, the melon head wearing the Sun Runner was up to 8 degrees warmer than its counterparts. And, it comes in two sizes, so you get a customized fit. Subscribe now for unlimited access. Although both hats are made of UPF 50 fabric, the lack of skirt means lower cheeks, sides of the face, and long noses do not get the same coverage.
With its buttery soft, suede-like finish and double-braided trim, this boater fits snuggly on your head for all-day wear. From award-winning writing and photography to binge-ready videos to electric live events, GQ meets millions of modern men where they live, creating the moments that create conversations. Our pick: Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat, A less dorky option: Columbia Bora Bora II Booney, For less-aggressive activity: Tilley LTM6 AirFlo Hat, University of Arizona Skin Cancer Institute, Asian Beauty Secrets: Ancient and Modern Tips from the Far East, fabric with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor, Our Favorite Rash Guards, Swimsuits, Sun Hats, and Other Beachwear for Kids.
Available in two elegantly neutral shades (Otter Green and Desert Tan), Summer Packer is also made from 8-ounce dry finish Shelter Cloth which is lightweight, water-repellent, and easy to spot clean, making it the perfect hat for virtually any outdoor activity.
", Best Panama: Madewell x Biltmore Panama Hat at Madewell, "A good panama hat never goes out of style and thats certainly true of this warm-weather staple.". Water, sand, rock, concrete, and snow have higher reflection rates than other surfaces, which is of note to rafters, runners, climbers, and anyone on the snow. Luckily for you, the hats on this list meet all those requirements and then some. The Sunlily Roll-N-Go Sun Hat bounces right back to its original shape no matter how long its been squished at the bottom of your suitcase. Dr. Kleinsmith warned that baseball caps do nothing to protect the ears and sides of the face and neck. Its one reason she finds that men in particular get a lot of skin cancers on their ears. The trendy trucker could be even worse for sun protection than a baseball cap. It features UPF 50+ protection (meaning it blocks 98 percent of the sun's rays), integrated grommets for added breathability, and a comfortable cotton sweatband lining. Designed with holes to hold sunglasses plus reflective tape for low-light situations, it also packs down easily for travel and retains its shape afterward. Cut from the same light, sturdy pique as Lacostes beyond iconic polos. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. With its sleek lines and fedora-style fit, this hat is much more fashion-forward than other, similar-performing sun hatswithout sacrificing on what matters. The hats with the most coverage give you a view of your feetand thats it. This fishermens hat that combines UPF 50 fabric, a 3-inch brim, and a sweatband was among the most breathable we tested. A tasteful alternative to your well-worn Yankees fitted. 2022 Wirecutter, Inc., A New York Times Company. To test that, we stuffed it into a bag for a cross-country flight, and were pleased to find that it still looked pretty good on the other side, but we can see how folding and cramming it into a tight space could ruin the shape, so if you need something packable go with one of the two top picks. The textured nylon poplin shell provides coverage from the sun and the adjustable chin strap secures this hat in place when youre in high alpine, windy terrain. Lone Flag Palm High distressed blood twill unstructured 6-panel, Ami Alexandre Mattiussi check embroidered hat, Lazy Oaf reversible peep + checkered bucket hat. Justine Harringtonhas more than a few sun hats in her closet, and loves finding stylish ones that pull double duty to protect your face and neck from sun exposure. Thoroughly rinse the hat before letting it air dry. Based on this information, we developed criteria (in bold below) to judge our picks. Whether youre trying to stay cool under the sun or just contain your quarantine hair, try one of the visors, straw hats, or baseball caps we love. After this, spot treat the hat using a water and soap mixture. Skin Cancer Foundation. Crucially, this baby sun hat is breathable, quick-drying, and offers full-scale neck and face coverage, with its wide floppy brim. Its also easy to spot clean, should you need to get any dirt or grass off of it, and comes in two fun shades: a bold reddish orange and neutral light yellow. We tried to not let fashion sway us too much, but ultimately, comfort and stylishness are going to be a factors in determining if you will keep the hat on your head (or buy it in the first place). Straw Lifeguard Hat: In the 1990s, this style of hat could be found on every beach in Southern California and can still be found in many a surf shopand for good reason. This may be because the Derma Safe covers its mesh flaps with extra fabric for extra sun protection, whereas the Ultra Adventure Hat leaves the mesh open. In case you hadnt heard, visors are back with a vengeance. When the breeze picks up, you wont lose it, thanksto adjustable sizing and a good chin strap. Health educator Lisa Quale of the University of Arizona Skin Cancer Institute mentioned in an email that the face, tops of the ears, neck, chest, hands, and arms are some of the most common sites for skin cancer. She suggested sunhats should be seen as just one part of your defensive lineup. Hanging Lake and Booth Falls, Colorado: Short day hikes that gain elevation quickly and can get warm, making them ideal to test breathability. Jared, a runner and ultramarathoner based in Texas, runs long races with heat-themed namessuch as the Jalapeo Half Marathon, Wildlfire Half Marathon, and Habanero Hundredand typically trains 25 to 40 miles per week in 90- to 100-degree Fahrenheit full-sun temps. Its UPF 50+ rated, fully adjustable, and exceptionally well-made. It doesnt get much more 90s hip-hop than this. our process. When it comes to a good sun hat, we have a few key requirements. Visiting a National Park This Year? Price: No hat is worth spending a fortune on, but its better to pay a little more for a hat that you feel comfortable and confident in than to buy a cheaper hat you wont wind up wearing. And the Paradise Cove Visor is a stunner with its vintage-inspired woven straw design and elastic back, so you can adjust accordingly and achieve the perfect fit. Justines work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and USA Today. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. That seriously fierce embroidery was inspired by vintage souvenir jackets. Im an avid long-distance hiker with over 16,000 miles covered on long trails. We had to remove other hats to see when navigating snow-covered mountain passes, but the clamshell brim on the Ultra Adventure stops just before the ear, balancing coverage with visibility. If cleaning a straw or paper hat, begin by removing excess dirt and dust from the hat using a brush. When the wind picks up, you wont lose this hat, thanks to the adjustable chin strap that holds it securely in place. Athletes we interviewed warned us that when they wore a trucker hat, their bald spot would burn through the mesh. There is a chin strap to cinch the hat down in wind. Every outdoor athlete we interviewed told us that breathability and venting were the most important factors in determining whether they wore their hat or carried it balled up at the bottom of their pack. Find one that works for your lifestyle and youre all but guaranteed to make sun protection a daily habit. If youll be active in very windy conditions, this hat is worth a look. It has higher vents and UPF 50+ mesh, something the previous model lacked. Ultramarathoner Jared told us that, as an active person, Im generating so much heat it can get to a point where Ill want to take the hat off.
We also wanted to determine the crushability of a hat and if seams would hold up to the abuse. Dr. Jhin explained that the higher the elevation, the closer people are to UVA and UVB raysthe kind that cause sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer. It wont do me any good in my hand and not on my head. The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hatprovidesbreathability, venting, and packability yet is comfortable enough that you wont mind wearing it. Mesh fabrics allow more damaging UVR to pass through, advised Quale. Dont hit the trail without the Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat, which offers comfort and maximum protection from the elements when youre out getting your adventure junkie fix. Given that its design seems to be inspired by southeast Asian conical hats, as an Asian American wearing this hatthis is realit prompted racist remarks from passersby. If you adore statement hats, then youll go cuckoo for the Nomad Oversized Straw Hat from Free People, with its thick ribbon that ties under the chin and dramatic curved brim. Gently scrub dirtier areas if needed, then soak the hat in the water for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Extreme breathability is the name of the game with the Henschel Aussie Breezer Hat. ", Best for Women: Ashton Trimmed Boater at Anthropologie, "Pulls double duty protecting your complexion from the sun's harsh rays and adds style to your wardrobe. Lastly, we asked five outdoor athletes about the difference between a hat that looks good in the store and a hat that actually works in the field, including ultramarathoner David Jared and long-distance hiker and ultra-runner Lint Bunting. When it comes to coverage, breathability, and design, its tough to beat the Filson Summer Packer Hat. You can use a gentle brush, like a soft toothbrush, and a mild dish soap to attack particularly difficult stains. ", Best for Camping: Furtalk Wide Brim Straw Hat at Amazon, "This style allows air to flow nicely so it's perfect for daytime camping. Featuring UPF 50+ protection, this hat will be perfect for outdoor activities.
Hands down, this hat offered the most protection of any that we tested. Additionally, two testers (one man, one woman) took the hats on a 100-mile backpacking trip of the West Highland Way in Scotland. Is there really a reason to pay $70 for a Tilley hat when a 97 baseball cap from Home Depot works, too? Time at the beach, lake, or pool is more fun for everyone with kids outfitted in comfortable, protective rash guards, swimsuits, sun hats, and more. Never use bleaches or fabric softeners, which may deteriorate some treatments in your hat. But being able to seeto navigate, avoid rocks and wildlife (and the scariest encounter of allmotor vehicles), and otherwise enjoy nature is essential. And of course, you get plenty of sun coveragethe brim can conceal your whole face if desired, or you can tilt it to neatly frame your face. And if its a particularly steamy day, the built-in sweatband and two mesh vents help to keep your head cool and comfortable. We independently review everything we recommend. In particular, we were interested in how well a hat and its brim would hold up to an outdoor lifestyle. And, as you might imagine, this hat offers a substantial amount of coverage for your face and necktop off your ensemble with this glamorous hat, and youll be sufficiently covered from the sun, and not to mention, feel like a supermodel. Heres what to pack for your next visit to help fill in the gaps. The Tilley LTM6 AirFlo is constructed with UPF 50+ fabric designed to keep your face and neck protected, and is especially good-looking. Nancy Pass/Fancy Pass Loop, Colorado: These two high passes required some navigation through the snow, making them perfect to test visibility. One thing we dont like about this hat is the lack of a rigid brim. Another drawback is that the Tilleys ventilation couldnt compare with that of our top picks, so if youre going to be out for long periods of time in hot conditions, you might start to sweat. Once youve packed larger items, create a pocket for the hat and insert it top first. Comfort includes fabric feel, weight, fit, and adjustability. On Mom-And-Dad Date Night With Rihanna. Rip Curl Paradise Cove Visor at Nordstrom, Madewell x Biltmore Panama Hat at Madewell. A unanimous favorite among our testers, the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat provides the best balance of coverage and breathability, and is unobtrusive enough that you can forget you have it on. Its perfect for when youre hanging at your campsite in the daytime; it's UPF 50+, keeps your face out of the sunlight, and also allows air to flow nicely. Sunhats can be pricey. Justine Harrington is a TripSavvy writer based in Austin, Texas, where she covers topics spanning travel, food & drink, lifestyle, culture, social advocacy, and the outdoors. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. It kept our heads cooler than other hats, both in the field and in a controlled test. More often than not, mens sun hats can err on the side of dorkybut thats not the case with the Einskey Sun Hat, with its relatively slim silhouette. Kavu Chillba: The Chillba came out second on the melon testkeeping melon heads up to 10 degrees cooler than its counterparts. It offers less sun protection than our top pick, but the Columbia Bora Bora II Booney has more ventilation and is arguably more stylish than our top choice. Ptarmigan Pass, Colorado: This high-altitude pass offers high winds and above-treeline sun exposure. If youre out on the water, youll want a hat that protects your ears and neck from the reflective waves. Instead, she recommended choosing a hat with special UPF fabric, which is woven tightly to keep more UV rays out. ", Best for Men: Einskey Men's Sun Hat at Amazon, "With its relatively slim silhouette and wide brim, this hat will keep you safe and stylish. Each 8-pound melon head wore one sunhat from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. in full-sun ambient temps ranging from 88 to 94 degrees Fahrenheit. This perfect shade of washed maroon is every bit as versatile as navy blue. Trucker hat: The back portion of the hat has more mesh than a baseball capallowing for more breathability, but less coverage. That should make for some great ultra light jokes.. The striped trim adds a fun, playful touch. If your skin is fair or burns easily, get a sun hat with built-in UPF protection. For a sun hat that falls higher on the style spectrum than most others we looked at, it offers a good amount of coverage, including UPF 50 fabric. It provides full coverage, but still lets you see where youre going, and is lightweight enough you actually leave it on. Best Overall: Filson Summer Packer Hat at Amazon, "When it comes to coverage, breathability, and design, its tough to beat the Filson. If [the hat is] more breathable and letting some of that heat get away then Ill be able to wear it longer. We picked hats that featured highly breathable fabric and that also allowed heat to escape from the head through strategically placed vents. West Highland Way, Scottish Highlands: A 95-mile hike, the perfect place to test hats in serious wind. productslearn more about Read our, Best for Camping: Furtalk Wide Brim Straw Hat, The 15 Best Sunglasses of 2022, According to Optometrists, Best for Hiking: Columbia Bora Bora Booney II, The 9 Best Sunscreens of 2022, According to Dermatologists, Best Panama: Madewell x Biltmore Panama Hat, Best Oversized: Free People Nomad Oversized Straw Hat.
This wide-brimmed bucket hat is lightweight, made from soft cotton corduroy, and provides ample sun protection while youre hitting the links. There are straw hats, and then theres the Freya Gardenia Hat. To revisit this article, visit My Profile, thenView saved stories. The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat is an improvement on a model that was already a favorite (a former top pick in our beach and pool guide). Bunting has over 20,000 miles of hiking on his shoes, including walking the Triple Crown (the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail) three timeswhich requires hiking across New Mexico and Southern California. Lisa Quale, health educator at the University of Arizona Skin Cancer Institute, email interview, Lint Bunting, long-distance hiker, email interview, Dr. Marie Jhin, board-certified dermatologist and author, email interview, Dr. DAnne Kleinsmith, board-certified dermatologist, email interview, Joe Jackson, What are the Best Sporty Sun Hats?, Outside, April 17, 2014. Prepare for the occasional Hey, whered your head go? joke when you wear this around your pops. The hats skirt should safely cover the back of your neck. Its also designed with an interior elastic band, which provides flexibility in sizing. Just make sure its comfortable and match[es] the conditions youll be facing.. One discontented REI reviewer described it as the big floppy hats old women wear at the beach (think lady whose kid got eaten in the original Jaws).. It also includes if flaps, Velcro, strings, or cinches rub against the body or hang annoyingly. A trip to the French Riviera, anyone?
Instead, wash it by hand using cool water. These fabrics have a very tight weave that prevents most of the ultraviolet radiation from getting to your bodyeven when the fabric is wet (or sweaty), which can pull fibers apart and expose the body to more ultraviolet radiation. We chose hats with cinches, neck straps, and dongles that helped keep all hat parts attached in a breeze. ", Best for Golf: WYETH Desi Bucket Hat at Madewell, "It's easy to spot clean should you need to get any dirt or grass off of it. The light fabric provides UPF 50+ sun protection.
And unlike the Columbia, its stiff brim stayed in place even during wind gusts. Jared warned first-time sunhat buyers that Its easy to think that any hat will do, but Ive learned that finding the right hat for you can be as difficult as finding the right shoe. We didnt notice any durability issues, but should you have a problem, Sunday Afternoons will repair or replace any hat with a manufacturing defect for life, or otherwise repair the hat at minimal cost. "Sun-Protective Clothing. They work like blinders leaving the wearer with tunnel vision. Sun hats dont get much cuter than the Ashton Trimmed Boater from Anthropologie. San Jacinto Mountain, California: This almost-11,000-footer features altitude, wind, and Palm Springs-esque desert terrain. Heres What to Bring Along. the only headgear on earth that simultaneously calls to mind, Nordstrom's Anniversary's Sale Will Transform Your Closet Into a Hall of Fame Wardrobe, 89 Excellent Gift Ideas to Spoil All the Deserving Guys Out There, A$AP Rocky Wore Shorts (!) She told us a so-called base tan provides a sun protection factor (SPF) of 3 or less, and anything under SPF 15 provides inadequate sunburn protection. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. DAnne Kleinsmith put it more bluntly: There is no such thing as a good tan.. Tailor made for the center court at Wimbledon. Avid golfers who want to look cute on the green will love the WYETH Desi Bucket Hat. I also write regularly about outdoor gear and am the instructor of Backpacker Magazines online Thru-hiking 101 class. The Furtalk Wide Brim Straw Hat (view at Amazon) is also a great choice with adjustable straps and be easily packed without losing its shape. The flexible fabric folded down in a stuff sack when flown across the country multiple times. Washing your hat frequently will help avoid accumulation of sweat and associated salt that can deteriorate the fabric, permanently discolor your hat, and/or lead to rot (gross). We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best This can be at least partially attributed to the blue color of our model (its available in five colors, including white and tan), but we interviewed two users who have hiked over 1,000 miles in their beige Sun Runners who still reported the same problem. Great for golfers, horseback riders, and walkers, this is a good option if youre working up a sweat, but not hoofing it up a mountain all day. Toss it in your tote, pack, or beach bag without worrying about unsightly wrinkles or creases forming. It doesnt get many style points, but one tester commented that it was so comfortable she almost forgot she was wearing it. Outdoor Research Sun Runner: Though our testers frequently received compliments from other folks on the trail about this hats color and innovative design, they all found this hats fabric too hot and not breathable enough to use. Even looking at this hat makes us want to ditch work for the closest available pool. An ice cold head topper from the hottest streetwear label out. This durable, Canadian-designed hat also has a higher quality of craftsmanship (evidenced by the hand-sewn lock-stitching) than other hats we tested plus a firm brim that doesnt lose its shape in wind or when compacted. The Tilley LTM6 AirFlo Hat looks great, and if thats the motivating factor needed to keep a hat on while outside, thats good enough for us. Theres a lot to love about the Furtalk Wide Brim Sun Hat. But in spite of this, it was bulky and harder to travel with than other options. Testing the hat in cloudy weather ended up being a perfect proxy to determine if a hat really was comfortable, as it had to be really wearable because most of the time we felt like we didnt need it (even though dermatologists warn we do). Since 1957, GQ has inspired men to look sharper and live smarter with its unparalleled coverage of style, culture, and beyond. If you have a hat with a UPF rating of 30 or more, the color should not matter, but if it doesnt have a rating, As a general rule, darker colors are more sun protective due to their ability to absorb UVR before it reaches the skin, said Quale. Bad news if your excuse is that you have a great base tanboard-certified dermatologist and author of Asian Beauty Secrets: Ancient and Modern Tips from the Far East Dr. Marie Jhin warns us a base tan is just a sign that your cells are trying to protect themselves from further injury. Tilley does offer a lifetime warranty, and even insurance against loss for two years. To test these criteria, six testers (three men, three women) took the hats on at least one 4-hour day hike at altitude (between 7,000 and 12,500 feet) in California and Colorado, totaling 100 hours of time that the hats were worn. Like a weekend in Nantucket distilled into a hat. ", The 14 Best Travel Pillows for Every Kind of Sleeper, The Best Rash Guards to Protect You and the Whole Family. To revisit this article, select My Account, thenView saved stories. REI Paddlers Hat: It didnt breathe as well as the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat or Columbia Bora Bora II, but it performed well in the wind. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. This hat with UPF 50+ fabric is so airy and lightweight, you could easily forget youre wearing it, which means youre more likely to leave it on your head. We investigated if the hat would maintain its original shape after being crushed or jammed into a stuff sack, the bottom of a backpack, or check-in on a long flight. The brim is shorter2 inches versus the 3 inches found on the front of the Ultra Adventure Hat. And thats the important part. Trail runners found it less secure than other hatsthe one-size-fits-all fastener on the inner skullcap didnt prevent the brim from catching the wind and inverting. However, if you want to prioritize style you can go with a different material, such as straw or cotton, that has a brim to protect your face and neck from harmful sunrays. TripSavvy uses only high-quality, trusted sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. This cutie has a vibe thats somehow both new and retro, and itll also match with most (if not all) of your outfits, thanks to the versatile design and neutral color. A cinch lets you adjust the hat to fit your head snugly. An adjustable neck strap and crown kept it on our heads when the wind picked up. This design combines the best features of the previous model and improves on them, offering lighter fabrics (that are still UPF 50+) and a slimmer silhouette. The more exposure to these dangerous rays, the higher the risk, she warned, noting, I see a lot of airline pilots who are exposed to the rays in the air and get more skin cancer.. The stiff brim provides protection even in the wind, and extends to the ears, protecting them while also giving the wearer plenty of side vision for navigating and spotting wildlife. When doing this, make sure to steam the top and bottom of the dented parts of the hat. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. If you really want to use the ballcap you have lying around, pay attention to color. A good panama hat never goes out of style, and thats certainly true of this warm-weather staple: the Biltmore Panama Hat. Aside from being the epitome of fashion, this visor provides essential protection for long days spent in the sun. Material: Consider a hat's fabric before making a purchasing decision. If you can see a lot of light through it, choose a darker hat with a tighter weave., If a ballcap or trucker is still all youve got, ultra-hiker and runner Bunting suggested tucking a bandana in the back to create a little cape for [the] neck and ears. This system has the benefit of being highly adaptable depending on heat and tree coverage, as well as giving the option to dunk the bandana in streams to allow the moisture to evaporate and keep [you] cool. Still, despite using this system and a mylar umbrella, Lints 30,000+ miles of long-distance hiking has taken a toll: I currently have what I believe to be skin cancer on my ear, which really makes me paranoid about sun protection, but I figure if it turns out to actually be cancer I can get my ear removed. Clean Summer Sale - Up to $200 off Dyson technology, Redeem Moda Operandi coupon code to save 15% off your first Trunkshow purchase, Get 15% off for Boscov's credit card purchase with a coupon, SiriusXM coupon: pay $1 only on your first subscription, Up to 80% off select perfumes at FragranceX, 2022 Cond Nast. The upside is that youll get a perfect fit, and it should feel comfortable and secure on your head. For hikers, mountaineers, or anyone recreating at altitude, ultraviolet radiation is going to be higher than for those playing beach volleyball. And at the moment, there are two styles in particular that are popping up everywhere: slouchy, unstructured dad caps and bucket hats, a.k.a. Unlike other hats we tested, when we took it back out, it retained its original shape and didnt appear crinkled or sloppy. Learn more. ", Best Visor: Rip Curl Paradise Cove Visor at Nordstrom, "With its retro woven straw design and elastic back, this visor is fashionable and practical. We initially thought coverage was the most important factor to look for in a hat, but in our first hours of field testing, it was clear that our winner would be a sunhat whose coverage didnt trump visibility. Whether youre running, hiking, backpacking, rafting, golfing, or just taking the dog for a walk, you are exposing yourself to ultraviolet radiation. Plus, with the braided design and floppy brim, this hat is just plain chic. When there was a breeze, our testers thought that the airflow to the head on the Ultra Adventure Hat was fine, however they agreed that more mesh and side vents would be an improvement. In addition to wearing a sunhat, avoid the sun during peak times, wear clothing with high UPF fabrics and full coverage, wear sunscreen, and use a sun-shading umbrella (a favorite of Bunting, who has backpacked over 30,000 miles across the US with a mylar umbrella). Indeed, the melon head wearing the Sun Runner was up to 8 degrees warmer than its counterparts. And, it comes in two sizes, so you get a customized fit. Subscribe now for unlimited access. Although both hats are made of UPF 50 fabric, the lack of skirt means lower cheeks, sides of the face, and long noses do not get the same coverage.
With its buttery soft, suede-like finish and double-braided trim, this boater fits snuggly on your head for all-day wear. From award-winning writing and photography to binge-ready videos to electric live events, GQ meets millions of modern men where they live, creating the moments that create conversations. Our pick: Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat, A less dorky option: Columbia Bora Bora II Booney, For less-aggressive activity: Tilley LTM6 AirFlo Hat, University of Arizona Skin Cancer Institute, Asian Beauty Secrets: Ancient and Modern Tips from the Far East, fabric with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor, Our Favorite Rash Guards, Swimsuits, Sun Hats, and Other Beachwear for Kids.