The following is an extract from the Skin Cancer Foundation. One in five Americans will get skin cancer before the age of 70. They continue to say that there are more than 2 people die of skin cancer every hour.
A good sun hat will provide adequate protection for your neck and head from the harmful UV rays of the sun, whether you’re hiking, at the beach, or just in the garden.
In this guide, we will be reviewing a variety of sun hats, including the popular Columbia Bora Bora Booney II. We will also discuss key features of buying and answer common questions.
1. Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Men’s Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat Overall
The Best Features
- You can easily pack it for any adventure you take
- Ventilation is a way to reduce sweat
- Adjustable drawcord for different head sizes
Ideal for: A sun hat for men who can be worn to many different activities.
Summary:
Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat is the most loved and a best-selling sun hat for men. Colombia is a master of all details, from the medium-width brim to its poly sweatband.
- Performance fabric that can be used in many settings
The Bora Bora can handle any activity, whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, or just relaxing on the beach. This naturally moisture-wicking fabric is made from nylon and polyester fabric. It can dry quickly and provides adequate UV protection.
- The hat is secured by vents and a chin strap
Synthetic fabrics are excellent at wicking moisture away, but they lack ventilation. The Bora Bora cleverly features a large vent that covers 75% of the hat. This will keep your head cool and prevent you from overheating. Columbia includes a convenient chin cord to keep your hat from falling off.
Other important features
- Available in 5 color options.
- Fittings can be adjusted. The drawcord at the back makes it possible.
- Nylon shell. You can be sure that your investment will last a lifetime. Increased durability.
What you need to know
Columbia Bora Bora Booney II sun hat is versatile and can be worn for many activities. This sun hat will keep you cool and protect you from harmful UV rays.
2. Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat
Top Award: Best Hiking Hat
The Best Features
- UPF 50 sun protection rating.
- This product is ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking, trekking, and climbing mountains.
- Extremely light.
Ideal for: Hikers who want a broad brim, breathability, and lightweight design.
Summary:
The Sunday Afternoons Adventure hat is the best hiking hat review option. This lightweight hat is ideal for hiking and features many little details that make it a favorite among hikers.
- Ventilation around the crown
The Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat is designed to allow air to circulate around the crown to help prevent sweat buildup on strenuous trails.
The adventure hat has mesh panels and a neck cape to cover your entire head. The cape can be attached to the hat easily to improve breathability for hiking in shaded areas or when it gets too warm.
- “The Adventure Hat is the best hat I’ve ever owned”. – The owner of the hat.
You can see that hikers loved this hat and it has one of the highest average reviews across many retailers including Amazon, REI Co-Op, and Backcountry.
- The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat may be a good option.
While we think that the Adventure Hat reviewed here is a better pick, some men may want to opt for the alternative Ultra Adventure Hat. This hat has a clamshell folding neck brim, sunglass lock, and neck flap. It also features a reflective coating to improve visibility. Both hats are excellent options for hiking, no matter what style you choose.
Other important features
- Adjustable buckle. Fits almost all head circumferences.
- Polyester fabric is ideal for use in a variety of applications. Stain-resistant and water repellent finish.
- All types of environments and weather conditions.
- Available in 11 different colors.
- Foam core padding. It will float in the water.
- Cord to cinch. It won’t blow off your head.
What you need to know
The Sunday Afternoons Adventure hat is a great hiking hat that protects your neck and face from the sun. This hat is great for hiking in the Appalachian and Rockies.
3. EINSKEY Sun Protection Hat for Men
Top Award: Men’s Best Beach Hat
Best Features
- Protects against skin cancers, premature aging, and other forms of premature aging
- Perfect hat to protect your skin from the sun on beach trips
- Ventilation keeps your head cool
Ideal for:
For anyone who needs strong sun protection at the beach.
Summary:
You should choose a sun hat with a wider brim if you plan to go to the beach. The EINSKEY beach hat is ideal for use at the beach, with a 3.8-inch average brim width.
- The hat’s shape can be retained by water-repellent polyester material
The EINSKEY hat is made for the ocean and beach, unlike cotton hats, which can sag and lose structure when they get wet. The water that has collected on the brim will roll off the hat when it is wet. This makes it an excellent hat for swimming in the ocean.
- Secure fit
The drawstring closure and adjustable rear drawstring around the top ensure that the hat stays on your head.
- Compact and portable design
The EINSKEY can be folded in half to make it easy to store. It is great for taking on vacation to tropical destinations.
This summer hat is great for the beach. However, many men find it ideal for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and camping.
Other important features
- Won’t droop.
- Protect against harmful UVA and UVB radiation.
- Mesh panels allow for cool ventilation.
- Secure and close-fitting.
- Beautiful stitching through the entire construction of your hat.
- The water-repellent coating should resist staining.
What you need to know
Our top choice for a beach hat is the EINSKEY. It’s great for both the beach and on the water thanks to its wider brim. This hat is a favorite of men.
4. ELLEWIN Men’s Summer Cap
Top Award: Best Cap For Summer
The Best Features
- 3-Panel bill folds down small
- Multi-functionality is enhanced by the use of detachable mesh
- Side vents keep you cool
Ideal for: The versatility that men seek is whether they are out fishing, hiking, or on the beach.
Summary:
This cap is not only very protective from the sun, but it’s also versatile and breathable. You can have the flap buttoned on the back and front of the cap to provide full coverage when you are outside for long periods.
- Detachable front and back flaps
The breathable mesh neck and face cover are made from super light mesh. It’s great for men who need more coverage.
- It is lightweight makes it ideal for hiking and fishing
It is crucial to consider the weight of your gear when you go out into the woods. Some men can weigh down items to the grams, but this hat is a small and discreet size that you can easily fit into your backpack. This hat folds down easily so you can store it in your back pocket.
- A strong focus on ventilation
The entire hat has vents that allow hair to flow through the top, allowing for cool and comfortable cooling. The cap can be worn with the attached back mesh or front mesh. You will be pleased to know that the fabric is ventilated through several holes to allow air to freely flow.
Other important features
- Blocks sun’s harmful rays from every angle.
- Includes a windproof strap for security.
- Cap is foldable and crushable.
- A little stretch in the material to ensure a tight fit.
- Slide buckle back closure.
- Sweatband lined in the interior.
What you need to know
The perfect companion for outdoorsmen who enjoy long hikes and fishing in open areas, the ELLEWIN sun cap. You can remove the front and back mesh to reduce sun exposure if needed.
5. Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Washable Sun Hat
The Best Features
- Great airflow is possible with small vents.
- Washes easily.
- Simple drawcord adjustment.
Ideal for: Men who want to be minimalistic, minimal, and provide adequate coverage will appreciate a wide-brim, simple hat.
Summary:
When it comes to reviewing hats for the sun, the Outdoor Research Sombriolet hat is a simple-get-the-job-done type of hat. It is made of synthetic materials and has a broad brim, so it can withstand the harsh elements outside for long periods.
- Durable fabric that resists water and stains.
The Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat is perfect for anyone who sweats a lot or wants to keep the hat’s shape even after heavy rains. It is made from a mix of synthetic materials (86% Ripstop nylon and 14% Polyester) and will naturally wick away moisture from your head and face, keeping you comfortable.
You can wash this fabric in the washer, unlike other synthetic fabrics which you have to hand wash.
- Modern and sleek, hidden breathability looks great
Outdoor Research chose a different approach to the Sombriolet Sun Hat’s design. While some sun hats have large sides panels that allow airflow around your head to keep it cool, other sun hats will have larger side panels. The hat has small vents at the sides that allow heat to escape.
Other important features
- Foam brim allows it to float in the water if it flies off.
- It is attached to your head with an adjustable drawcord.
- Easy to pack so you can always have it with you.
- The brim measures 3”In width.
- UPF 50 sun rating protects from harmful UV radiation.
What you need to know
The Sombriolet Sunhat is a great choice if you are looking for a simple, but durable sun hat. Its rugged fabric and washability will make it last many years.
6. Tilley Airflo Bucket Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat for Photographers
The Best Features
- Photographers recommend this hat as one of their top picks.
- Proper sun protection is essential when you take pictures for long periods of time.
- Stylish design.
Ideal for: Photographers using a DSLR need protection from the sun.
Summary:
The Tilley Airflo Bucket Sun Hat can be used to capture fast-moving wildlife in landscapes, sports scenes, and city streets. Here are the reasons:
- Your camera will not be hindered by a brim
The Tilley Airflow Bucket Sun Hat is a flexible cap, which makes it much easier to look through the viewfinder while taking a picture. No matter if you are using a flash on top of your camera or in portrait orientation, you will no longer have to struggle with a stiff wool cap.
The Airflow Bucket Sun Hat’s brim isn’t as droopy as traditional bucket hats. It’s stiff enough to protect your skin and shade your face while you’re out shooting subjects all day.
- The Tilley Airflow is great for photography but you’ll want it to be your everyday hat.
This sun hat is one of our favorites, with a classic fedora design that reminds us of other sun hats. The style is not only a fashion statement but also beautifully made.
It is made from a mixture of spandex (5%) and nylon (95%) which naturally repels water. The hat also features Tilley’s hydrofil sweatband, which will wick away moisture. This little feature will stop sweat from running down your forehead onto the camera body.
Tilley chose to use the traditional oversized eyelets at the top of this hat for ventilation.
Other important features
- Double wind cords for night visibility, have reflective yarn sewn in.
- Get backed by a lifetime guarantee.
- The secret pocket. A small pocket is made from the hat.
- It will float if it falls into the water.
What you need to know
The Tilley Airflow Bucket Sun Hat is one of the best accessories you can add to your outdoor gear. This hat was a favorite of shutterbugs when they used it to shoot with their DSLR.
7. Brooklyn Surf Men’s Straw Hat
Top Award: Best Straw Sun Hat
The Best Features
- Edge binding protects the straw fiber weft.
- Sun hat with a large brim protects neck and face.
- The most loved straw hat available.
Ideal for: For men who love to lounge, go on the beach, or at music festivals, a lightweight hat is ideal.
Summary:
Brooklyn Surf’s thick straw hat is the perfect accessory to take to the beach or to a music festival. It has a low price, wide brim, and stylish design.
- Raffia straw fibers can be extremely light.
The raffia straw fibers, unlike other heavy hats that can leave a huge indentation around the head after being worn for long periods, are light and wide. This makes this hat easy to wear.
This hat is a great alternative to other large-brim sun hats, which are too bulky. Most men like the 4.5-inch brim. The brim of this hat is not flexible like the sun hats worn by women. It will remain stiff even when exposed to the rain.
- Edge binding and sweatband are great details
The sweatband works to absorb sweat and keep it from getting into your eyes. This is a great feature, no matter if you’re at a multi-day music festival, or just gardening in your backyard.
Although the edge binding around a brim is a minor fashion detail that men don’t like, it serves a crucial function. The edge binding protects the raffia straw against fraying.
Other important features
- A Logoless option is available for men who prefer a minimalistic look.
- The drawstring chin strap is adjustable.
What you need to know
For men who prefer a relaxed look, the Brooklyn Surf Straw Hat is ideal. This lightweight, affordable hat is great for lounging on the beach or at home. It’s also very well-made.
8. Stetson Gambler Seagrass Outdoorsman Golfing Sun Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat for Golf
The Best Features
- A reputable company makes a stylish golf hat.
- Inner lining stops UVA/UVB rays.
- Moderately affordable.
Ideal for: Golfers who want sun protection but also a fashionable hat.
Summary:
It was actually a toss-up between the Nike Golf Bucket Hat and this hat – both were excellent hats for sun protection. The style differences between the two hats were striking. We recommend the Nike Golf Bucket Hat to anyone looking for a hat that’s more about performance.
The Stetson Gambler seagrass hat is a classic hat that evokes the great Greg Norman.
- Stetson, a well-respected heritage brand, has shaped the hat industry.
Founded in 1865, Stetson makes a variety of hats, with their most popular being traditional cowboy hats. The Stetson Gambler is a hat that can not only set trends but also lasts a lifetime.
- High-quality material that provides great sun protection
The Stetson Gambler provides adequate sun protection, so you won’t get burnt on your neck, head, or face, no matter if you’re playing 18 holes with friends or practicing your game alone. Stetson has added a sun-blocking fabric to the brim and top of the straw hat to offer this protection.
- Terry cloth headbands are made from stretch fabric and can be used for any size head.
The Stetson Gambler is available in two sizes: Small/Medium or Large/Extra Large. Thanks to the stretch fabric wrapping around the inside, it will fit snugly onto any head. This hat does not come with a drawstring so you’ll need to follow the Stetson sizing guide before you make your purchase.
Other important features
- It is a classy design looks timeless comparable to other golf bucket caps.
- A leather band.
- Available in two sizes.
What you need to know
Stetson Gambler is a great golf hat. It not only looks great but also provides sun protection. Its quality is unparalleled and it has been a staple on many golf courses.
9. Rapiddominance Boonies Fishing Hat
Top Award: Best Sun Hat For Fishing
The Best Features
- A narrow brim that doesn’t block the view when casting or fishing.
- There are many color options.
- Built-in cooling.
Ideal for: Fishermen that looking for a comfortable, functional hat.
Summary:
Although many fishermen prefer the Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat because of its coverage, the Rapiddominance Boonies fishing cap is functional and comfortable. This classic fishing bucking hat has large loops that allow you to attach lures or other accessories around the crown.
- The adjustable chin strap ensures a secure and comfortable fit
This hat features a 100% cotton body that is both breathable (and much softer) thanks to its natural fiber. This hat is not recommended for hiking or any other intense activity. The cotton will absorb and not wick away moisture.
The adjustable chin strap can also be pulled up to ensure that your hat stays in place while you reel in the big one.
- Sun protection is decent, but not the best
Although the brim isn’t as wide as the other reviewed hats, the Rapiddominance Boonies Fishing Hat has a brim of 2.5 inches. This hat is ideal for fishing, but not great if you’re at the beach.
- There are many sizes and colors to choose from
This fishing hat comes in four sizes (SM-XL), unlike many others that only fit one. It also has 8 color options. This hat comes in a variety of camo options and many colors are tactical or military-inspired.
Other important features
- Flappy brim. It can be easily crushed and stored in a small bag. This is great for hiking to remote fishing locations.
- Ventilation holes. To allow for more airflow, place the sideways vents.
- There are many color options and sizes. Prices below $20.
What you need to know
The Rappidominance Boonies fishing cap is one of the most popular. This fishing hat is made from 100% cotton and features outer lure loops.
