7 Best Hiking Hats for Adventure-Seekers in 2024
Why Invest in a Quality Hiking Hat?
When hitting the trails, a good hiking hat is an essential piece of gear. It protects you from the sun, keeps you cool, and can even ward off insects. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? In this post, we'll explore the 7 best hiking hats that combine comfort, durability, and style for your outdoor adventures.
Patagonia Wide Quandry Brimmer Hat
If you are looking for a hat that will give you more full coverage on those hot hiking days, then the Patagonia Wide Quandry Brimmer Hat might be the choice for you! Wits it’s wide brim, the sun will stay out of your eyes and the built in sweatband will keep the sweat out of them as well. The strap with toggle keeps your hat on your head for on the windy days, while also allowing you to take it off and keep it around your neck. It comes in two different sizes (S/M and L/XL), three different colors and is currently $59 USD. You’ll also know that your dollars are going towards the fair wages and environmental practices that Patagonia is notorious for.
Pros:
Wide brim for extra sun coverage
Comes in two sizes
Strap and toggle keeps hat on your head
Made in fair trade factories and with minimal environmental impact
Cons:
Might not keep all sun off of the neck
Has a “this is my hiking hat” look
2. Cotopaxi Altitude Tech 5-Panel Hat
The Cotopaxi Altitude Tech 5-Panel Hat has a unique design that is sure to stand out on the trail. This lightweight hat is made from recycled nylon, ensuring it is quick drying if you get stuck out in the rain. The Altitude Hat comes in three different colorways and has an adjustable strap on the back for the perfect fit! Cotopaxi also supports non-profits fighting poverty and has great environmental initiatives so you can feel good knowing your dollars are making a difference. Cotopaxi also encourages customers to send back broken or worn-out gear for repair, rather than repurchase, thereby improving sustainability. The Altitude Tech 5-Panel Hat currently retails for $35 USD.
Pros:
Unique designs
Made from sustainable materials
Affordable
Cons:
Design may be off-putting for some
Brim is not as large as other baseball-style caps
3. Outdoor Research Seattle Cape Hat
If you know you are going to be hiking in the rain or heavy sun, then the Outdoor Research Seattle Cape Hat is the perfect hat for you. The front 3” brim protects your eyes and face from the elements and the 7” rear brim keeps them off your neck. This fully waterproof nylon hat also has a sun protection rating of UPF 50+ and a removable chin cord. The Seattle Cape Hat comes in three different colorways and four different sizes, so you’re sure to find the right fit for you. It currently retails for $74.95 USD.
Pros:
Wide brim and long cape keep the rain and sun out
Comes in three colors and four sizes
Has a mesh lining and removable chin cord
Cons:
Has a “hardcore hiker” look
4. The Northface Lightrange Summer Run Hat
If you are going to be working up a sweat in the hot sun, then you should give The Northface Summer Run Hat a try. The “FlashDry” material quickly absorbs sweat away from your head for greater heat loss. The adjustable back strap allows for size customization, and the brim can be flipped up if that’s more your style. The LIGHTRANGE Summer Run Hat also provides UPF sun protection and incorporates recycled nylon into the design. This hat currently retails for $41 USD.
Pros:
Lightweight style for hot and sweaty days
Sweatband prevents sweat from getting into eyes
FlashDry material provides sun protection
Cons:
Some reviewers mentioned smaller fit
5. Sunday Afternoons Ultra Storm Bucket Hat
If you are looking for something a little less intense than a wide-brim hat, a bucket hat may be the best option for you! The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Storm Bucket Hat is both waterproof and has a UPF 50+ rating. This hat is crushable so it’s easy to stuff in your backpack and has a water-repellent finish so your hat won’t get saturated. This hat comes in three different colors and two different sizes, along with a chin strap to keep it nice and secure. The Ultra Storm Bucket Hat currently retails for $60 USD.
Pros:
Waterproof and UPF 50+ sun protection
Sweatband, chinstrap and internal sizing adjustment
Crushable to fit easily in your pack
Cons:
Might run a little large
6. Arc’teryx Performance Trucker Hat
If you like the trucker hat style but still want a hat that performs, the Arc’teryx Performance Trucker Hat is a great choice. This lightweight hat has a foam brim that holds its shaped when packed away and this hat is made from “Airshell nylon micromesh” for maximum breathability. It comes in four colors and has an adjustable strap for a custom fit. The Performance Trucker Hat comes in at $60 USD.
Pros:
Lightweight and breathable
Foam brim that retains its shape when packed away
Ultralight at 1.6oz (45g)
Cons:
No UPF sun rating protection
7. Tilley LTM6 Airflo Sun Hat
Tilley LTM6 Airflo Sun Hat
And finally, the household name, the OG, the Tilley Hat! The Tilley LTM6 Airflo Sun Hat is not your dads lawnmowing hat you’re thinking of. The LTM6 has a UPF 50+ rating, is water-repellent, and has mesh vents for breathability. This hat has a chin strap that you can tuck away, and just in case it does fly off your head, it floats! This Tilley hat is made from recycled nylon, in responsible factories and is guaranteed for life, even against normal wear and tear. These features and lifelong guarantee can justify the higher price point of $99 USD.
Pros:
Comes in 9 colors and 11 sizes
UPF 50+, moisture-wicking and buoyant
Guaranteed for life, even normal wear and tear
Cons:
Most expensive choice at $99 USD
Whether you prioritize sun protection, style, or packability, there's an option tailored to your needs. Don't let the fear of a sunburned nose or sweat-drenched brow hold you back from conquering that peak or exploring that hidden waterfall. Invest in one of these top-notch hiking hats, and you'll be ready to hit the trails with confidence and comfort. So, what are you waiting for? Gear up, pick your trail, and let your new hiking hat be the crown of your outdoor adventures.