9 Best Outdoor Hats in 2024 for Hiking and Camping

When you are out on an outdoor adventure, a hat might not make it to the top of your list of things to carry. However, it is one of the most important items to carry as it protects you from the harsh rays of the sun. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you should find the best outdoor hat to make sure that you enjoy every minute of your adventure in the great wide open.

We have all seen Indiana Jones even though the last one was pretty weak. Did Indiana Jones go anywhere without his hat?

But are you wondering how to choose the right outdoor hat? With so many different types available in today’s market, finding one can be quite a challenge, but it is possible if you keep a few things in mind when shopping for an outdoor hat.

HOW TO CHOOSE A FANTASTIC BUT PRAGMATIC OUTDOOR HAT

To make sure that you get the best outdoor hat, there are a few things you should keep in mind, such as:

• Great UV Protection: Now that summer is just around the corner, you have to make sure that you have a sun hat for your outdoor trips. One of the reasons you need a hat is to protect you from the harmful UV rays of the sun. This means checking out hats with a UPF rating (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) – a rating system that measures the amount of UV radiation that is admitted through the fabric. Ideally, you should pick an outdoor hat that has, a UPF rating of 30 to 50+. A 30+ UPF rating blocks about 96% of UV radiation while a 50+ rating blocks about 99%.
• Durable: A remarkable outdoor hat will be extremely durable, allowing you to wear it on many of your outdoor trips. One of the things you need to look at to get a durable sun hat is the fabric used to make it. Nylon, cotton, polyester or a combination of the three are the best materials when it comes to outdoor hats. Nylon is a strong material, making it ideal for outdoor hats. You should also look at how easy it is to wash the hat. When you are outdoors, your hat will become dirty and stained so you should pick a hat that is easily washable.
• Water-Resistant Fabric: When you are on an outdoor adventure, you cannot predict when there might be a rainstorm or you may drop your hat in a river or stream. This makes it crucial to have an outdoor hat that is made with a water-resistant fabric. It will protect your head from the rain and keep you from falling sick during your trip. A sun hat with water-resistant fabric will also not get soaked if you accidentally drop it in water.
• Breathable: For maximum comfort when wearing an outdoor hat, you should look for one that has a breathable fabric. The last thing you need when hiking in the great outdoors is the heat that can be caused by a hat does not breathe very well. Most outdoor hats are made with breathable fabrics to prevent overheating, that is, unless you are performing a strenuous physical activity. If you are going to be doing physical activity or hiking or trekking for a prolonged period, you should look for a hat that has good mesh ventilation on the sides.
• Comfort: When you are in the outdoors, the last thing you need is discomfort. Before choosing an outdoor hat, consider the activity you will be wearing it for. If you are going to be doing some hardcore trekking or hiking, you should pick a lightweight sun hat. For climbing, make sure that you choose a hat with a smaller brim so that it does not hit your back and fall off when you look up the climb. You should also make sure that you choose a hat that fits properly. If it is too tight, it is likely that you will have constant headaches. If it is too big, it will feel loose and unstable and you will need to adjust it constantly.

If you consider all these factors when shopping for a new outdoor hat, you will definitely find the perfect one to wear on all your outdoor adventures.

You might find interesting to read our best gore-tex gloves article.

TOP 10 OUTDOOR HATS

 #1 OUTDOOR RESEARCH SOMBRIOLET SUN HAT

Pros:
(+) Lightweight and versatile
(+) Packs completely flat
(+) Well-made brim
Cons:
(-) Flimsy chin cord
(-) Brim collapses in a stiff breeze or wind

Overview

Made of 85% nylon and 14% polyester ripstop crown and 100% nylon under the brim, the Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat is a lightweight, protective hat that is ideal for intense sun, humidity and heat. The hat’s SolarShield construction offers UPF 50+ sun protection. The sun hat has a foam-stiffened brim float, piping on the edge of the brim, and a mesh lining and vents in the crown for cooling and moisture management.

The Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat also features a TransAction headband, drawcord adjustment and a chin cord that provide you a cozy and secure fit. Its fabrics and design make it one of the top outdoor hats today.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a great outdoor hat for your outdoor trips, the Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat is one of the options you have. Well-designed and constructed, this sun hat is lightweight and offers suitable protection from the sun’s rays.

But don’t wear this hat on your wedding day! That would be unwise; your mother in law is already talking behind your back enough.

It is very breathable, making it superb for hot and humid days. Although the brim is very well made, it does not resist wind as well as we want it to. And although we do not use the chin cord much, we still think it could be better as it is quite flimsy. All in all, we think that the Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat is a quality product ideal for hiking, trekking, etc. in summer.

 #2 COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR BORA BORA BOONEY II SUN HAT

Pros:
(+) Omni-Wick keeps you cool and prevents from dripping sweat
(+) Omni-Shade UPF 50 for superior sun protection
(+) Very functional and comfortable
Cons:
(-) Smells of formaldehyde when new
(-) Brim not as stiff as some would like

Overview

Made of 100% nylon, the Columbia Sportswear Bora Bora Booney Sun Hat is another superb product for outdoor enthusiasts. It features an Omni-Shade UPF 50 protection and an Omni-Wick sweatband as an innovative mesh vent panel that helps keep beads of perspiration from dripping into your eyes and ensure that you stay cool while in the outdoors.

The hat also has quick-dry properties, meaning that you can go for a swim with it and it will dry again quickly. The adjustable chin strap ensures that the hat stays secure on your head. The Columbia Sportswear Bora Bora Booney II Sun Hat also has an easy to adjust drawcord cum toggle at the back so that you can adjust it to fit you just right.

Conclusion

The Columbia Sportswear Bora Bora Booney II Sun Hat is a very functional and comfortable outdoor hat that keeps your head cool and protects your face and neck from the sun. We like the chin strap as it keeps the hat in place even in strong, gusty wind.

But no you don’t want to wear this hat to the movie theater, that would be a little off.

The only major issue is the brim – some may not find it as stiff as they would like. Although the hat had a strong formaldehyde smell when new, it does go away after a while, so no worries. Overall, we think that the Columbia Sportswear Bora Bora Booney II Sun Hat is a great choice for outdoor activities, whether it is hiking, trekking, etc. or yard work around the house.

Check out our suggested survival hammocks article.

 #3 SUNDAY AFTERNOONS ADVENTURE HAT

Pros:
(+) Down-sloping front brim protects face and eyes from UV rays
(+) Back veil neck-flap protects back of the neck
(+) Very adjustable
Cons:
(-) Quality is inferior to many other sun hats

Overview

If you are an outdoor lover, the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat is a superb hat made of 50% nylon and 50% polyester to keep you cool. It has a down-sloping front brim and floatable foam core on all sides.

The poly brim wire ensures that the brim stays in place and is adjustable. The back veil neck-flap has a built-in lift-up tab that protects the back of your neck from the sun’s rays. With a rating of UPF 50+, the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat gives you excellent protection from heat and humidity. It features strategic mesh ventilation and is water repellent and stain resistant, making it ideal for rough outdoor use.

Conclusion

The Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat provides great protection from the sun’s UV rays without the need for sunblock. You never have to worry about sweat dripping into your eyes and the head and chin straps keep the hat securely in place even when there is a strong wind.

This is not the hat to wear to the office though with your suit and tie in the morning, that would be deemed inappropriate!

We found it lightweight and comfortable. However, the quality is not up to par when compared to many other outdoor hats on the market. But we think that the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat is a good sun hat for its price – just do not expect it to last for years.

 #4 COOLIBAR REVERSIBLE BUCKET HAT

Pros:
(+) Reversible – two colors in one hat
(+) Excellent sun protection
(+) Lightweight and comfortable
Cons:
(-) Might blow off in winds
(-) Flimsy rim

Overview

Made of 100% polyester, the Coolibar Reversible Bucket Hat has a rating of UPF 50+ that protects you against 98% of the sun’s UVA and UVB rays. The brim is an ample 3 inches, which provides sufficient shade to your face and neck.

It features a completely crushable construction, making the hat great for travel and storing in a hurry.  The Coolibar Reversible Bucket Hat also has an elastic drawcord that allows you to get a perfect fit. This outdoor hat is easy to maintain – you can hand-wash and line-dry it. Simple yet comfortable and functional, this is a great reversible sun hat for outdoor activities.

Conclusion

The Coolibar Reversible Bucket Hat is a cool, reversible hat that gives you two colors in one. It is very portable and offers superb protection from the sun. The brim is wide enough to give you ample shade for your face and neck. What makes this outdoor hat really good is that you can wear it for hours without feeling any discomfort. What we did not like is the flimsy rim and that the hat may blow off if it is windy.

This is also not a hat your cat would want to wear. Don’t make them wear it! It will not fit for one!

Other than that, we have no complaints and think that the Coolibar Reversible Bucket Hat is a great buy for anyone looking for a simple, functional sun hat.

We also suggest checking out our article about the best survival bivy sacks by clicking here.

 #5 DPC OUTDOORS SOLARWEAVE TREATED COTTON HAT

Pros:
(+) Superb for extreme conditions
(+) Coolmax sweatband prevents sweat dripping
(+) Easy to wash and care for
Cons:
(-) Brim is not flat

Overview

Made with 75% cotton and 25% nylon mesh, the DPC Outdoors Solarweave Treated Cotton Hat is breathable and keeps you cool and protected from the sun’s harsh rays. The mesh-paneled hat with adjustable closure offers UPF 50+ protection with a Coolmax sweatband that prevents perspiration from dripping from your brow. It features a wide channel-stitched brim that offers sufficient shade for your face and neck and a chin cord with a toggle for adjusting the hat.

The DPC Outdoors Solarweave Treated Cotton Hat is an easy maintenance outdoor hat that can be hand washed. It is definitely a nice choice when you need a quality hat that offers stellar protection from the sun.

Conclusion

The DPC Outdoors Solarweave Treated Cotton Hat is an awesome outdoor hat for summer. Whether it is outdoor trips to the wilderness, golfing, gardening, or any other outdoor activity, this hat will give you the protection you need from the heat and sun’s harmful UV rays.

You certainly don’t need to wear this hat at the airport! That is not necessary!

The cotton material and mesh venting makes it breathable and cooling, critical for any sun hat. We did not like the rippled brim, but this is merely an appearance issue, so it is not a big deal. The DPC Outdoors Solarweave Treated Cotton Hat is an excellent outdoor hat for extreme conditions and we definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a prolific sun hat.

 #6 ADAM’S HEADWEAR EXTREME CONDITION HAT

Pros:
(+) Four-panel low profile crown
(+) Breathable and well-ventilated
(+) Veil has patented hidden zipper
Cons:
(-) Shirt clip does not keep the hat secure
(-) Unnecessary neck flap

Overview

Dubbed “The Ultimate Outdoor Activity Hat,” the Adam’s Headwear Extreme Condition Hat is made with UPF 45+ fabric to give you superior protection against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Made of 100% cotton, the hat is breathable and keeps you cool no matter where you are or what you are doing.

It features a four-panel low profile crown for ample shade. The Adam’s Headwear Extreme Condition Hat is designed to protect not only your head and face but your neck and ears too. The elastic cord can be attached to your shirt so you never lose your hat. The Cool-Crown mesh lining and terry sweatband gives you extra outdoor-friendly features that not many outdoor hats have.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a functional and comfortable outdoor hat, you will like the Adam’s Headwear Extreme Condition Hat. It has some great features that make it one of the top choices. We like that it is made of 100% cotton as it will keep you cool and well ventilated. It is breathable and excellent even for the most humid conditions.

We like the additional outdoor-friendly features like the Cool-Crown mesh lining and terry sweatband. The shirt clip, for people who do not like chin cords, does not work well in keeping the hat securely in place. We also found that the neck flap is not necessary. But overall, the Adam’s Headwear Extreme Condition Hat is a top-notch hat for outdoor lovers.

We recommend checking our list of the top survival blankets here.

 #7 EINSKEY SUN HAT

Pros:
(+) Great breathability
(+) Lightweight, good coverage and durable
(+) HeatGear sweatband wicks away moisture
Cons:
(-) Long strap should be more comfortable

Overview

Made of 100% polyester, the EINSKEY Sun Hat is a lightweight, comfortable outdoor hat. The ArmourVent technology used for the hat provides superior breathability in a stretchable, durable, and fast-drying material.

With a rating of UPF 50+, the EINSKEY Sun Hat protects your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. It features a built-in sweatband that wicks away moisture and sweat to keep you cool and dry. With its traditional, relaxed bucket fit, you can always be sure of comfort and a great fit with this well-made sun hat.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a breathable, quick-drying and durable outdoor hat, you should consider the EINSKEY Sun Hat. It has the technology that offers breathability and comfort even in intense heat.

No, this is not a hat you should wear on your wedding day!

We like the in-built sweatband that works well in wicking away moisture. We also like the coverage it provides under the sun. All in all, the EINSKEY Sun Hat is a superb outdoor hat that fits well and you are sure to wear it every time you step out.

 #8 OUTZIE WIDE BRIM PACKABLE BOONIE SUN HAT

Pros:
(+) Well ventilated, breathable, and comfortable
(+) Offers excellent protection against the sun’s harmful rays
(+) Wide brim protects the face and neck
Cons:
(-) Buttons bleed color and rust
(-) Quality could be better

Overview

Made of 100%, lightweight cotton fabric, the OUTZIE Wide Brim Packable Boonie Sun Hat is breathable and well ventilated. It is sure to keep your head cool and protected even under the harshest sun. It provides ample protection against the sun’s harmful rays, keeping you safe.

The 3” wide brim protects your face and neck as you engage in your favorite outdoor activities. The hat is fully lined with a thin cotton fabric to give you additional comfort. Easy to pack and take care of, the OUTZIE Wide brim Packable Boonie Sun Hat is a superb outdoor hat for any outdoor enthusiast.

Conclusion

Although we think that the quality could be better, the OUTZIE Wide brim Packable Boonie Sun Hat is well designed, making it a great outdoor hat for any outdoor activity, from hiking to fishing to gardening. It is very well ventilated and breathable which means you stay comfortable even under the harshest sun.

You may not see Chappie wearing a hat like this but that does not mean it would not be wonderful for you!

The wide brim protects your face and neck very well. We were disappointed by the buttons which bleed easily when wet and rust very easily. But we think that the lightweight cotton fabric used is excellent. We definitely recommend the OUTZIE Wide brim Packable Boonie Sun Hat for anyone looking for an outdoor hat.

 #9 CAMO COLL OUTDOOR BOONIE HAT

Pros:
(+) 100% soft polyester fabric
(+) Anti-UV and vented for greater protection and breathability
(+) Adjustable drawstring for windy days
Cons:
(-) Too big for some
(-) Drawing the hat affects the hat’s look

Overview

Made of 100% soft polyester, the Camo Coll Outdoor Boonie Hat is a comfortable outdoor hat that offers superb protection from the sun with a UPF 50+ rating. It is vented and anti-UV, which means that you get superior protection from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun.

It comes with an adjustable drawstring that you can use to fix the hat, especially on windy days. The Camo Coll Outdoor Boonie Hat is a functional and practical hat that is perfect for hiking, fishing, yard work or any other outdoor activity as well as for traveling. It will keep you cool, comfortable and well-protected.

Conclusion

We really like the Camo Coll Outdoor Boonie Hat as it is comfortable and protects the skin well from the sun and the harm it can do. The soft polyester fabric adds to the comfort as it is breathable. The hat does keep your head cool and provides ample shade for your face and neck.

The Boonie Hat would be awesome in Cabo San Lucas!

Although we like the adjustable drawstring, we found that the hat’s look or shape changes when you draw it – and it does not look very flattering. Some may find the hat a tad large, but for most, it is the right fit. The Camo Coll Outdoor Boonie Hat is a well-made sun hat that we recommend for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors under the sun.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

With lots of colors, to choose from, it can be hard to make a choice when shopping for an outdoor hat. If you are baffled by breathability and brims, you may look into user reviews, on sites such as Yelp, consumer reports, and Amazon. Sun hats tend to come in many styles, each with particular functions and features. Be sure to try the hat out before you invest in it.

The hat you pick must be comfortable, and fit well apart from being in your budget. Also, be sure to check the hats UVA and UVB protection rating before you pay the bill. With some research and diligence, you can find an outdoor hat that is resilient, sturdy, as well as durable.