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The Best Sun Protection Hats That Provide Stylish Coverage All Year

Whether hitting the beach, traveling or simply spending time outside, the best sun protection hats provide an extra layer of coverage to shield your face, neck and shoulders. After extensive research and consulting with deputy fashion editor (and in-house style expert) Kari Molvar, we found versatile options worth considering. Our picks range from J.Crew’s stylish Textured Summer Straw Hat to Athleta’s adjustable Water-Resistant Bucket Hat to Patagonia’s durable Quandary Brimmer Hat.

Our selections emphasize lightweight, breathable materials and smart brims that minimize the sun’s glare. Below, all the best sun protection hats that we highly recommend, and we also rounded up the best summer dresses for more inspiration.

Editor’s Picks At A Glance

Best Wide-Brim Hats

Lightweight And Flexible

Furtalk Straw Hat

For under $30, this light and flexible straw hat is a smart buy. Its floppy, wide brim shields your face from the sun, and there are two sizes to choose from (medium-large and large-x-large). Plus, the straw material is flexible enough to fold down if you want to pack it in your suitcase for a warm-weather trip.


Top-Rated And Stylish Option

J.Crew Textured Summer Straw Hat

This iteration from J.Crew is a stylish, well-made option that can be worn with both casual and dressier outfits. The braided paper is crocheted for added texture, and you can choose from two neutral colors.


UPF 50+ From A Sun-Protective Brand

Solbari Ultra Wide Cotton Linen Hat UPF 50+

Solbari’s ultra-wide hat has a five-inch front and six-inch back brim, offering more sun protection than most options. It’s also made from a lightweight cotton linen blend that won’t cause you to overheat. Other thoughtful details include a detachable chin strap, a ponytail opening and a discreet back toggle.


Sporty, Breathable Pick For Serious Sun

Lululemon Cinchable Wide Brim Bucket Hat

For a sporty option with a customizable fit, Lululemon’s Cinchable Wide Brim Bucket Hat has a toggle on the back to make it tighter or looser as needed. Also great: The recycled polyester material is quick-drying and sweat-wicking.


Statement Piece That Comes In Many Colors

San Diego Hat Ultrabraid XL Brim Straw Sun Hat

This extra-large design is sure to make a style statement on and off the beach. The Ultrabraid XL Brim Straw Sun Hat has a floppy, eight-inch brim that’s wide enough to cover the tops of your shoulders, and the material still provides plenty of airflow. Keep in mind there’s only one size, and the circumference is roughly 22 inches.


Features A Moisture-Wicking Internal Sweatband

Coolibar UPF 50+ Tempe Sun Hat

Ideal for casual outdoor activities and dining al fresco, this pick has a UPF 50+ sun protective rating, the highest rating awarded to fabrics. The crown is lined with cotton, and a moisture-wicking sweatband keeps you cool, even on the hottest days.


Best Bucket Hats

Water-Resistant And Adjustable

Athleta Water-Resistant Bucket Hat

This lightweight, packable bucket hat has a smooth hand feel and an adjustable back cord to ensure a snug fit. The recycled polyester material is water-resistant, making it a great all-weather pick that can withstand rain. Fit note: Fans say that this hat runs a bit small.


Modest Brim And Sun Protective Fabric

Solbari Bondi Bucket Hat UPF 50+

Equal parts stylish and functional, the Solbari Bondi Bucket Hat UPF 50+ has a modest 2.7-inch brim and easily folds down if you need to throw it in your bag. It comes in two sizes and seven fun colors, from yellow to light blue. Similar to other options from the brand, there’s a back toggle that allows you to customize the fit.


Versatile Summer Accessory

Madewell Lantern Straw Hat

Madewell’s Lantern Straw Hat looks great with flowy dresses and casual denim shorts, making this accessory a worthwhile addition to your summer wardrobe. Customers love the multiple size and color options and say it feels sturdy and well-made.


Reversible And Quick-Drying

The North Face Class V Reversible Bucket Hat

If you’re heading on a camping trip or have planned outdoor excursions this summer, consider packing this reversible bucket hat from The North Face. The recycled fabric is quick-drying and durable, and the brim provides moderate sun coverage. A nice bonus: It can be folded and stored in its own pocket on the outer crown.


Best Hiking Hats

Protection For Long Treks And Hot Days

Patagonia Quandary Brimmer Hat

With its wide brim (the underside is dark to reduce glare) and vented crown for breathability, this pick is a hiking essential. The chin strap, mesh lining, and internal sweatband are helpful features to keep you comfortable for hours, and the back toggle adds extra security when moving around.


Extra Mesh Enhances The Breathability

Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat

The Bora Bora Booney II Hat from Columbia fits the bill if you’re seeking a super lightweight option. A mesh strip goes around the crown, and the interior sweatband prevents perspiration from collecting. Customers say the brim is a bit too floppy, and strong gusts of wind can blow it back, but other than that, it’s a versatile and well-designed head covering.


Keeps You Feeling Dry, Comfortable And Cool

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