Image: MomJunction Design Team
Summer or winter, it is always good to soak up some sun at least for a few minutes a day to acquire the daily dosage of vitamin D. But, excess sun exposure could be damaging. Therefore, finding the best sun hats is important for whenever you are outdoors. Sun hats are an excellent way to protect the face and neck from the harsh rays of sunlight. In addition, they protect the eyes from excessive light and can be used to avoid heat-induced headaches and discomfort.
After conducting a thorough fashion analysis backed by reliable product reviews, we offer you a list of the best sun hats with UV protection that are currently trending in the market. With these tried-and-tested hats, you can relax near the beach, poolside, or go on a hiking trip without worrying about the after-effects of excess sun exposure. Pair these best-selling and stylish sun hats with other sun protection accessories such as sunscreen and sunglasses, and you’re good to go. Keep scrolling to pick the right one for you.
Top Picks
20 Best Sun Hats Of 2024
1. Best Sweat-Absorbing Panels:Ordenado Waterproof Sun Hat
Get your hands on this cool and comfortable sun hat that fits most head sizes. Although it has a wide brim, it offers a snug and tight fit. It is made with a double fabric design that keeps your head and face protected from 99% of the harsh rays of the sun. It also has sweat-absorbing mesh panels to keep your head cool and ventilated. For your better understanding, here’s a personal review video.
Pros
- Adjustable chin strap and elastic drawstring
- Lightweight and quick-drying
- Collapsible design for easy packing
- Waterproof polyester
- Unisex design
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Brim might seem slightly stiff
- May sit low and bump against the ears
"Thanks to this hat's lightness and mesh lining, I never have to feel any discomfort, even on those humid days. Plus, it also stays put during surfing or kayaking with the adjustable chin and head straps. Its waterproof nature is a solid bonus."
2. Best UPF 50+ Sun Protection:Comhats UV Protection Sun Hat
Travel to the hottest of lands in style without breaking into a sweat with the help of this sun hat that offers UPF 50+ protection. This sun hat is made of 100% cotton, offers 98% sun protection, and has an evergreen classic design that complements all summer hat trends. It has various color options to choose from, such as beige, white, and gray. The wide brim of the hat comes with a moisture-wicking sweatband and a comfortable lining. Check out this product testing video by a reviewer.
Pros
- Adjustable, waterproof, and detachable chin strap
- Includes a ponytail hole
- Easy to wash
- Packable
Cons
- May run large
- Brim might seem flimsy to some
"Though not conventionally stylish, I still find this hat useful, especially with the ponytail hole. It also washes well after use. Overall, it does its job well and remains a decent choice for summer outings."
Quick tipWear sunscreen even when wearing a sun hat to maximize protection from UV rays.
3. Best Lightweight:Lenikis Unisex Sun Protection Hats With Neck Flap
If you and your family spend a lot of time outdoors, engaging in activities like trekking and hiking, this headgear, known for its quality craftsmanship, is the perfect sun hat for sports and nature-associated activities. It is made using a UPF 50+ fabric that blocks out 98% of the harmful UV rays. It features an extra-wide rim and a long flap on the back, which keeps your ears, neck, and the back of your head covered.
Pros
- Breathable mesh panel on the sides for ventilation
- Lightweight and quick-drying
- Water- and stain-resistant
- Foldable and can pack in small bags
Cons
- May lose shape after washing
- May be small for some
"From sunny and windy days to beach trips or softball games, this hat has proven useful. It's lightweight and breathable and offers commendable face protection with its large brim. When not in use, it easily folds and packs nicely."
4. Best Adjustable:Funky Junque Embroidered Floppy Sun Hat
Get ready for the beach and some Insta-worthy pictures with this floppy sun hat that provides great coverage and 360 degree protection. This one-size-fits-most straw hat has a four-inch brim and the inner circumference measures 23 inches. The words “Hello Sunshine” are printed on the backside of the brim in bold cursive lettering, which adds an aesthetic appeal to the hat making it a great choice for all your summer outfits.
Pros
- Made of synthetic material
- Adjustable internal drawstring closure
- Lightweight
- Thick yet soft
Cons
- May be tight for some
- Stitching might come apart upon regular use
"I'm pretty surprised by this hat's durability; It has weathered my frequent beach trips and pool splashes without showing any signs of wear and tear. Its drawstring offers a comfortable fit, too, just enough for sustaining heavy winds."
5. Best Foldable:Camoland Sun Visor Hat For Women
A sun visor hat like this one is all you need to keep your face protected from harmful sun rays and the scorching sun. The quality-tested hat is made of 100% cotton anti-UV material, which makes it soft and breathable, and the moisture-wicking feature offers good ventilation.
Pros
- Helps protect the face, ears, and neck
- Features an elastic closure at the back
- Foldable for easy packing
- Wide brim measures 4.8 inches
Cons
- May block the view for some
- May not be suitable for windy conditions
"Besides its commendable sun protection, this visor seems to be quite versatile for different activities, from sports to travel. It's easy to clean and impressively durable, including its high-quality velcro. Hence, it has been my favorite for a while."
Quick tipBring a few hats so you can switch them out as needed throughout the day and avoid sweat stains on the brim of your hat.
6. Best Stylish:Furtalk Women’s Foldable Travel Sun Hat
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 19,173 positive reviews on Amazon.
Add an effortlessly chic quality to your summer outfits with this travel sun hat that is made of a high-quality paper straw material and is tightly-woven to shield you from the sun. It’s not only a great fashion accessory but also one of the most functional sun hat options as it offers UV and UPF protection. This sun hat for vacations features a wide brim that covers your face and neck, while the wicking sweatband keeps you cool and comfortable.
Pros
- Removable chin strap
- Suitable for windy days
- Velcro patch helps adjust
- Foldable
- Available in medium and large sizes
Cons
- May run small for some
- May not be breathable enough
"I do have a soft spot for this one. It offers a flattering look regardless of the occasion and complements various outfits. In addition, its foldability is much appreciated for traveling."
7. Best Breathable Design:Lanzom Wide Brim Hat For Women
If you are traveling to a destination known for its hot climate and its fantastic beaches, don’t forget to pack a wide-brimmed hat such as this. It is a great choice to shield your face, ears, and neck from the sweltering heat. Do remember only to wash this packable sun hat by hand to extend its wearability.
Pros
- Soft and breathable
- Made of lightweight straw
- Helps keep your head and face cool
- Foldable
Cons
- Only hand washable
- May run small
"The ample sun-protective design comes really handy on those beach days. Its foldable nature is also a bonus for fuss-free packing. Just a little suggestion�you may need a bit of DIY work to keep the decorative rope in its place."
8. Best Cotton Design:Comhats UPF50 Cotton Packable Sun Hat
UV protection hats are favored by many and raved about for a good reason. They protect your face from the sun, keep your head cool, and prevent skin problems like premature aging, dark spots, and wrinkles caused by the sun’s rays. That is why you should keep a hat like this one for maximum sun protection. This hat is also available in pink and navy, and the dainty ribbon on the side of the hat is a cute addition.
Pros
- Compact and foldable for easy packing
- Made of 100% cotton
- Detachable and adjustable chin strap
- Wire brim maintains shape
Cons
- Some may find it floppy
- May run large
"I've found this hat to be a practical choice for outdoor adventures. Its wide brim shields my face from the sun yet remains breathable. The best part is the detachable and adjustable drawstring, a bonus for that customized fit."
9. Best For Beach Outings:Furtalk Summer Beach Sun Hats For Women
Don’t you just hate it when you finally reach your beach vacation destination and the sun’s harsh rays seem solely concentrated on burning your skin and giving you a headache? This sun hat in its classic design will immediately speak to those with great style. Suitable for beach-loving fashionistas, this summer floppy hat is all things adorable and functional. This high-quality hat is made of a knitted lace ribbon design in 100% cotton.
Pros
- Features a moisture-wicking sweatband
- Adjustable velcro in the inner rim
- Detachable tie string
- Foldable for easy packing
Cons
- May be slightly stiff
- May get wrinkled easily
"I use this hat on almost all my vacations. It's stylish, travel-friendly, and really functional, offering a refreshingly adjustable fit. I find this charming piece worth considering."
Point to considerIf you plan to wear your hat in the pool or ocean, make sure it is chlorine or saltwater-resistant.
10. Best For Hiking:Jane Shine Outdoor Sun Hat
The practical sun hat is a good option for those who like to spend time outdoors engaging in activities like traveling, hiking, gardening, or boating. It is made of high-quality 100% polyester material and features a breathable mesh to keep your head from feeling sweaty or getting too hot. The internal circumference of this hat measures 24 inches. However, you don’t have to worry about this sun hat’s sizing as it features an internal adjustable drawstring to fit different head sizes. Moreover, its foldable neck brim can be easily folded and carried inside your bag while traveling.
Pros
- Offers superior UPF 50+ sun protection
- Protects against wind
- Waterproof and quick-drying
- Inner cotton sweatband absorbs sweat and water
- Easily foldable
Cons
- Brim may not be wide enough
- May be slightly stiff
"What I find most impressive about this hat is its ventilated design�it protects me from the sun without trapping heat. It's also lightweight and has a chin strap, which is handy on windy days."
11. Best Sweat-Free Mesh:Muryobao Sun Protection Hat With Ponytail Hole
With this adventure hat, you will never need to shield your eyes with your hand from the unrelenting heat, nor have to worry about sudden bouts of heat-induced migraines. The 3.35-inch full-coverage brim is wide enough to keep your face and neck all under shade. The top portion of the hat features a mesh design, which allows for ample ventilation keeping your head feeling cool and dry.
Pros
- Features a ponytail hole
- Built-in moisture-wicking sweatband
- Foldable side flaps and easy to pack
- Available in various bright colors
Cons
- Ponytail hole may seem low for some
- May run small
"The best thing about this hat is that it allows me to customize the fit of a drawstring. Besides, it's well-ventilated and folds up easily for travel use. Moreover, the ponytail holes are very useful, especially for someone like me with long hair."
12.Best Foldable: Brooke+Bay Sun Hat For Women
If you think there aren’t enough sun hats that come with extra-wide brims, this hat will rise to the occasion and prove you wrong. This hat is foldable and packable and an excellent choice for your travels. It is tested to block out 95% of unwanted UVA and UVB rays, and the wide brim can be folded upwards.
Pros
- Adjustable drawstring
- Features a ponytail hole
- Made from high-quality cotton
- Various trendy colors
Cons
- Material may be thinner than expected
- May not be suitable for windy conditions
"This bow-style hat earned a sweet spot in my wardrobe. It's stylish while being effective against the sun. Durability is another strong point, holding up through multiple washes without losing its integrity. It also folds conveniently for my travel needs."
13.Best Floppy Design: C.C Women’s Paper Weaved Crushable Floppy Sun Hat
If you are the queen of puns or love the pun-game, this hat will be ideal for you. It features the words “Alcohol you later” printed on the back in cursive lettering, which is the right balance of fun, flirty, and cheeky. Featuring a floppy design and wide brim made of 100% paper, this makes the ideal beach hat choice.
Pros
- Adjustable drawstring
- Internal headband to keep you cool
- Suitable for windy days
- Easy to pack
Cons
- May run small
- May not retain its shape properly
"I specifically selected this hat for its cheerful design. Its wide brim and embroidered details make it perfect for summer adventures. Besides, it holds up well, even in water, and has an adjustable drawstring."
14. Best Fog-Free:Comhats Siggi Women’s UPF50+ Sun Hat With Face Shield
A uniquely designed sun hat, this one goes that extra mile to shield your head, face, and neck from the sun. It comes with a protective, fog-free transparent plastic sheet that provides 270° protection for your face. The detachable face shield protects your face from unwanted pollutants from traveling towards you, without hindering your breathing ability.
Pros
- Reusable shield
- Easy to clean
- UPF 50+ protection
- Foldable and crushable
- Adjustable drawstring built into the headband
- Regains its original shape easily
Cons
- Plastic may not offer a clear vision
"In my experience, this hat with a face shield, though a little bulky, is flexible, and effectively protects me from the sun, dust, and fog. Its chin strap is useful, too, especially for an active user like me."
15. Best Lightweight:Anycosy Panama Straw Hat
If you love a Fedora, you’ll certainly fall in love with this hat too. It’s the perfect balance of casual, sleek, formal, and a dash of fun. Made of natural paper straw, this lightweight Panama hat for women features an interior elastic sweatband and an adjustable ribbon to fit the size of your head. This UPF 50+ straw hat folds comfortably and is convenient to carry everywhere.
Pros
- Made from durable polyester
- Retains shape well after its folded
- Breathable material
- Available in various fun colors
Cons
- May run large for some
- Brim may be slightly lopsided
"I've been donning this hat almost daily throughout this summer, and it's been fantastic. It protects me from the harsh sun rays while being stylish and comfortable. It has also shown remarkable resilience against my rough handling and maintained its shape all along."
16. Best Loop Adjustable:Furtalk Sun Visor Hat With Open Top
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 8,223 satisfied customers have left positive reviews about the product on Amazon.
Are you looking for cute sun hats? You need not look any further than this. A must-have accessory in every fashionista’s wardrobe, this hat will take care of you and your skin. It comes with a hook and loop adjustable Velcro closure and an open top, making it the perfect hat for a day out at the beach or a pool party. For windy days, you can use the detachable strap that comes with the hat.
Pros
- Sun visor hat is made of high-quality paper straw
- Half-enclosed back to wear ponytails comfortably
- Offers high UPF protection
- Rolls up for convenient packing and storage
Cons
- May run large for some
- Velcro may not be as sturdy
17. Best Comfortable:Verabella Women’s Beach Hat
Elevate your summer fashion with the help of this cool and practical woven straw hat that’s perfect for a summer day. Owing to its lightweight and breathable properties, this tried-and-tested sun hat is as comfortable as it is stylish. The women’s sun hat features an adjustable band in the inner circumference, making it ideal for most head sizes and a trusted choice of many.
Pros
- Slit design at the back for ponytail
- Black bow detail
- Hook-and-loop closure
- One size fits most
Cons
- May be slightly stiff
- Some may find the material scratchy
"This one is my favorite! From its classic bow to the flattering shape, it's incredibly fashionable. Also, it comfortably sits on the head without distorting my hairdo. Above all, the brim is wide enough to offer ample sun protection."
18.Best For Long Flaps: Toppers UPF 50+ Wide Brim Bucket Sun Hat
Black has been a statement color for all of time, and this large women’s hat is a statement piece in itself. It offers UPF 50+ sun protection, even during the hottest of days, blocking 98% of the sun’s harmful rays. Its extra-long brim with an extended flap on the back helps shield your neck and shoulders from the heat. The breathable mesh on the sides allow for better airflow and keeps your head cool and well-ventilated.
Pros
- Premium-quality polyester
- Meets quality assurance standards
- Lightweight and waterproof
- Foldable design
- Available in various colors
Cons
- May get wrinkled easily
- May not be sufficiently adjustable
"This unique visor offers complete sun protection, even my neck, without restricting the hair while providing enough ventilation for a sweat-free experience. It also holds up against the wind, as well as rain, considering its waterproof nature."
19. Best Adjustable:Mifulgoo Mesh Sun Hat
This hat is an ideal choice for your outdoor trips as it features a 4.5-inch wide brim. The brim is also wired, making it easy to shape upwards or flipped downwards, depending on your level of heat protection comfort. You will also find little ribbons in the built-in sweatband, which you can adjust to get the best fit.
Pros
- Detachable chin strap
- Double-layer mesh
- Vented openings for good air circulation
- Available in various colors
Cons
- May run small
- May not be suitable for windy conditions
"With its wide, wired brim, this sunhat offers decent sun protection. And being lightweight and flexible, I can wear it all day long. It's also quite stylish with the unique lining, which complements both my casual and some fancy outfits."
20.Best For Large Visor: Gelante Cotton Booney Sun Hat
If you are searching for the best sun hats for travel, you should take a look at this one. This one is sturdy, comes with a large visor, and provides excellent protection from UV rays. This high-quality hat is made of 100% cotton and features an adjustable drawstring. If you want to switch up your look, you can snap the side brims upwards to create a different look.
Pros
- Suitable for windy days
- Soft material
- Well-ventilated
- Available in various trendy colors
Cons
- Brim may be smaller than expected
- Some may find it a bit heavy
"It is exactly what I was searching for�comfortable, well-constructed, and practically designed to meet my needs. It offers decent sun protection and stays secure with its drawstring on. What's more, this hat effortlessly matches my style."
How To Choose The Right Sun Hat?
Here’s a sun hat buying guide to help you choose the right sun hat.
- Comfort: The first and foremost thing to check when buying a sun hat is to gauge how comfortable it is. The objective of the hat is to keep you comfortable and protect your face and head from the hot sun. Choose a breathable material like cotton and ensure that it comes with adjustable straps to help you find the best fit.
- Sun protection: Look for a sun hat with a wide brim. This protects your face and neck. Another way to figure out if the hat offers maximum sun protection is by finding out if it has been tested for UPF 50+ protection. A hat with a black flap is an added advantage and also keeps your shoulders protected.
- Breathability: If you wear a hat for a long time, you will notice that your scalp is sweaty. To avoid this altogether, choose a sun hat that has a mesh design on the crown or sweat-absorbing mesh panels. This helps in good airflow and keeps the inside of the hat well-ventilated.
- Adjustability: Although most hats are advertised or sold as standard “one size fits all” hats, it may not offer the best fit. A good sun hat should have adjustable straps to make the circumference of the hat smaller or larger for the perfect fit. The sun hat should also feature a detachable chin strap to keep the hat firmly placed on the head, even on the windiest of days. Jodie Filogomo, a style consultant and fashion blogger, says, “If it’s too large and not adjustable, add a hat tape inside. And if it doesn’t have a cord attached, you may use a shoelace and tack it to the hat, so it won’t blow off in the wind.”
- Foldability: A sun hat is something that most people carry as an essential part of their outdoor journeys, travels, and adventures. This is why you should choose one that is easily foldable but springs back to its original shape.
The Bottom Line
Protect your skin while basking in the glorious sun with the best sun hats. These accessories not only act as a fashion statement but also double as a sun protector, helping you ward off the harmful UVA and UVB rays. Our recommendations include the moisture-wicking Muryobao Sun Protection Hat. If you prefer a stylish straw hat, consider the Furtalk Women’s Foldable Travel Sun Hat, while the Furtalk Sun Visor Hat with a hook and loop velcro closure can fit heads of all sizes. However, when choosing a sun hat, ensure it is comfortable, made from breathable materials, and comes with adjustable straps for a customized fit. Also, check if it has been tested for UPF 50+ protection.
Infographic: Tips For Buying The Right Sun Hat
Sunshine is good for getting enough vitamin D, but longer exposure can cause sun tan and sunburn or even aggravate blisters on the face. While sunscreen is the best way to protect the face, investing in a good summer hat can also help give you the perfect summer look. Look at the infographic below for tips for buying the best sun hats.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the coolest material for a sun hat?
Cotton, wool, and linen are excellent materials for hot days. Both cotton and linen are natural fibers, and therefore soft and breathable. However, linen can be cooler on sunny days. Wool is moisture-wicking, which makes it one of the most ubiquitous materials in the best sun hats.
2. Are UPF hats worth it?
UPF hats are designed to provide you with sun protection. They offer good coverage and don’t run the risk of washing off due to sweat or water like sunscreen does.
3. What color sun hat is the best?
Cancer Council recommends wearing darker colors such as black, navy blue, and burgundy during summers because these colors absorb UV rays and prevent them from entering your skin barrier (1).
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is an established writer passionate about fashion and clothing. After extensively analyzing and comparing several products, she has prepared a list of the best sun hats that can protect you during beach strolls, poolside parties, or trips. With different styles and designs to choose from, these multipurpose hats can also help you make a fashion statement. Poulami has also included a buying guide to assist you in making an informed decision when choosing the right sun hat.
Protect your skin while still basking in the glorious sun with the best sun hats. These accessories not only act as a fashion statement but also double as a sun protector, helping you ward off the harmful UVA and UVB rays. However, when choosing a sun hat, ensure it is comfortable, made from breathable materials, and comes with adjustable straps for a customized fit. Also, check if it has been tested for UPF 50+ protection.
References
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