Hiking rugged terrain and beautiful scenery are some of the greatest pleasures life has to offer. Most of us do it to recenter and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, reconnecting with nature in the process. 

While mother nature is what makes hiking and walking great, it is also what can make it challenging, especially for your head if you don’t have a waterproof hat. The sun, rain, snow, and bugs can all put on a damper on your hike, so it’s best to protect yourself with a good hiking hat. 

 To help you defend yourself from the elements, our team has compiled a list of the best hats for hiking available today. From a waterproof rain hat to bug proofing and keeping it on your head even in the wind, continue reading to find the perfect hiking hat for you.

Table of Contents

Should You Wear a Hat While Hiking?

Yes, wearing a hat when hiking is generally a good idea. A hat can provide a number of benefits, including:

1) Sun protection: A hat with a brim can help protect your face, neck, and ears from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

2) Temperature regulation: A hat can help regulate your body temperature by keeping you cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather.

3) Sweat management: A hat can help absorb sweat and prevent it from running down your face and into your eyes, which can be distracting and uncomfortable.

4) Insect protection: A hat with a mosquito net or bug shield can help keep insects away from your face and head.

Overall, wearing a hat can help keep you comfortable and protected while hiking. Just be sure to choose a hat that is appropriate for the weather and terrain you will be hiking in.

What Kind of Hats do Hikers Wear?

Hikers generally wear a variety of hats depending on the weather, terrain, and personal preference. Some common types of hats worn by hikers include:

1)Baseball cap: A lightweight and breathable hat with a curved brim that provides shade and protects the face from the sun.

2) Sun hat: A wide-brimmed hat with a UPF rating that protects the face, neck, and ears from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

3) Beanie: A warm and insulating hat that covers the head and ears and is typically worn in cold weather or at high altitudes.

4) Rain hat: A waterproof or water-resistant hat with a wide brim that keeps the head and face dry in wet weather.

5) Buff: A versatile tubular headwear that can be worn as a hat, neck gaiter, or face mask to provide protection from the sun, wind, and cold.

6) Balaclava: A full-face mask that covers the head, face, and neck and is typically worn in cold weather or at high altitudes.

7) Visor: A lightweight and breathable hat with a curved brim that provides shade and ventilation for the head and face.

Ultimately, the type of hat that hikers choose to wear will depend on a variety of factors, including weather conditions, personal preferences, and the type of terrain they will be hiking on.

What Kind of Hat is Best For Hiking and What to Look For When Considering a Purchase?

When it comes to hiking, it’s important to choose a hat that will provide protection from the sun and keep you cool and comfortable. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a hat for hiking:

1) Brim: Look for a hat with a wide brim that will provide shade and protect your face and neck from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

2) Material: Choose a hat made from a lightweight, breathable material like nylon or polyester. These fabrics will wick away sweat and keep you cool.

3) Fit: Make sure the hat fits comfortably and snugly on your head, without being too tight or too loose. This could also mean a sun hat with a chin strap or removable neck cape that is totally waterproof and perfect for outdoor activity.

4) Ventilation: Look for a hat with ventilation holes or mesh panels to help circulate air and keep you cool.

5) Foldability: Consider a hat that can be easily packed or folded, so you can stow it away when you don’t need it.

Based on these factors, a wide-brimmed hat made of lightweight, breathable material like nylon or polyester with ventilation holes or mesh panels would be a good choice for hiking.

What is The Best Hat to Wear in The Rain?

When it comes to hiking in the rain, it’s important to choose a hat that will keep you dry and comfortable. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a hat for hiking in the rain:

1) Material: Look for a hat made from waterproof or water-resistant material, such as Gore-Tex or nylon. A lightweight hat should keep your head cool from warm air and bad weather.

2) Brim: Choose a hat with a wide brim that will help keep rain off your face and neck, providing that extra protection for that last mile.

3) Coverage: Consider a hat with a longer back or neck flap to provide additional coverage from the rain.

4) Fit: Make sure the hat fits comfortably and snugly on your head, without being too tight or too loose. Chin straps are great for windy days.

5) Breathability: Look for a hat with ventilation holes or mesh panels to help prevent sweat buildup and keep you comfortable.

Based on these factors, a waterproof or water-resistant hat with a wide brim and a longer back or neck flap would be a good choice for hiking in the rain. There are multi functional hats available. Wide brim sun hats can also be a waterproof hat that keeps you covered from unexpected rain.

Why is Too Much Sun Exposure Dangerous While Hiking?

Too much exposure to the sun can be dangerous for several reasons:

1) Sunburn: Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause sunburn, which can be painful and increase the risk of skin cancer.

2) Skin cancer: Too much sun exposure over time can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

3) Premature aging: Sun exposure can cause premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.

3) Eye damage: The sun’s UV rays can also damage the eyes, leading to cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions.

4) Heat stroke: Too much exposure to the sun can also lead to heat stroke, a dangerous condition that can cause fever, dehydration, and even death.

To protect yourself from the dangers of sun exposure, it’s important to wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses, and to apply sunscreen with a high SPF rating. It’s also a good idea to seek shade during the hottest part of the day and to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

What to Look For in a Hiking Hat to Deter Mosquitos And Other Insects

When looking for a hiking hat that can help deter mosquitos and other insects, consider choosing a hat that has built-in insect repellent properties. Some hiking hats are treated with permethrin, a synthetic insecticide that can help repel mosquitos, ticks, and other insects.

In addition, look for hats that have a tight weave or mesh panels that can help prevent insects from getting through the fabric. A wide brim can also help provide additional protection from insect bites on the face and neck.

Finally, consider choosing a hiking hat that has a bug net or a detachable bug net that can be pulled down over your face and neck when needed. This type of hat can provide excellent protection from insects and is particularly useful when hiking or camping in areas with high insect activity.

Overall, a hiking hat that has built-in insect repellent, a tight weave or mesh panels, and a bug net can provide the best protection against mosquitos and other insects while hiking.

How Do I know The Right Hat Size For my Head?

To measure the right hat size for your head, follow these steps:

1) Get a flexible measuring tape or a piece of string and a ruler.

2) Place the measuring tape or string around your head at the widest part, just above your eyebrows and ears.

3) Make sure the tape or string is snug but not too tight. It should be positioned where you would typically wear a hat.

4) Take note of the measurement in inches or centimeters.

5) Compare your measurement to the sizing chart provided by the hat manufacturer.

6) Choose the hat size that corresponds to your measurement. If your measurement falls between two sizes, it’s usually best to go with the larger size for comfort.

It’s important to measure your head before purchasing a hat, as hat sizes can vary between brands and styles. A properly fitted hat will be more comfortable to wear and will stay in place better, providing better protection from the sun and other elements.

Our Top Picks For The Best Hiking Hats

Mens Skagit Rain Hats

This is one of the best rain hats on the market. Men’s Skagit Rain Hats are a great choice for anyone who needs a durable and reliable hat for wet weather conditions. These hats are designed with a waterproof and breathable material, making them perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, or camping in the rain.

One of the standout features of these hats is their wide brim, which provides excellent protection from rain and sun. The brim is also reinforced with a wire insert that allows you to shape it to your liking, providing a customizable fit and look.

The Men’s Skagit Rain Hats are also lightweight and packable, making them easy to take with you on the go. They come in a variety of colors and sizes to suit your personal style and head size.

Overall, the Men’s Skagit Rain Hats are a great investment for anyone who wants a high-quality, functional hat that can withstand wet weather conditions. They are well-designed, comfortable, and durable, and are sure to keep you dry and protected during your next outdoor adventure.

Product Features

• 3-layer laminated fabric with waterproof/breathable membrane
• doubles as a wide brim sun hat and rain protection in mixed weather
• full-brim protection keeps water from dripping down neck
• removable, adjustable chin strap
• side brims can be secured to brim

Costa Del Mar Boonie Hat

The Costa Del Mar Costa Boonie Hat is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a high-quality, versatile hat for outdoor activities. Made from 100% nylon, this hat is lightweight, durable, and quick-drying, making it perfect for fishing, hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures.

This boonie hat provides excellent protection from the sun and other elements. The brim is also adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit and coverage to your liking.

Another great feature of the Costa Boonie Hat is its breathable mesh panels, which help keep you cool and comfortable even on hot days. The hat also has a built-in sweatband that wicks moisture away from your skin, further enhancing its comfort and performance.

Overall, the Costa Del Mar Costa Boonie Hat is a well-designed and high-quality hat that is perfect for anyone who spends time outdoors. Its durable construction, adjustable fit, and superior sun protection make it an excellent investment for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile hat for their outdoor activities.

Product Features

• one of the more popular sun protection hats with adjustable strap
• convertible cord system
• floatable brim
• lateral venting
• reinforced visor for maximum visibility
• UPF 50 designed for water sports

Tilley – TWS1 Paddlers Hat

The TWS1 Paddler’s Hat Stone from Tilley is a well-designed and high-quality hat that is perfect for anyone who loves spending time on the water. Made from 100% nylon with a water-resistant finish, this hat is durable, quick-drying, and able to withstand the harsh conditions of the outdoors.

One of the standout features of the TWS1 Paddler’s Hat is its wide brim, which provides excellent protection from the sun and rain. The brim is also stiffened with foam, allowing it to float in case it falls in the water.

Another great feature of this hat is its ventilation system, which helps keep you cool and comfortable even on hot days. The hat also has a moisture-wicking sweatband that keeps sweat away from your face and eyes, further enhancing its comfort and performance.

The TWS1 Paddler’s Hat also comes with an adjustable chinstrap that keeps the hat secure and in place, even in windy conditions. The strap can be removed and adjusted to fit your preference.

Overall, the TWS1 Paddler’s Hat Stone from Tilley is a well-designed and high-quality hat that is perfect for anyone who enjoys spending time on the water. Its durable construction, superior sun protection, and excellent ventilation system make it an excellent investment for any paddler or outdoor enthusiast.

Product Features

• certified UPF 50+
• floats
• guaranteed for life
• lower crown profile ideal for high wind conditions
• reflective logo and wind cord – can be seen at dusk and dawn
• stiff brim for stability in high winds
• ties on
• venting in back and grommets for breathability

Filson – 60016 Insulated Tin Cloth Packer Hat

The Filson 60016 Insulated Tin Cloth Packer Hat is a rugged and durable hat that is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and warm headwear for cold weather. Made from Filson’s signature Tin Cloth fabric, this hat is water-resistant and abrasion-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor activities in harsh conditions.

One of the standout features of this hat is its insulation, which provides excellent warmth and protection from the cold. The hat also has earflaps that can be folded down for extra warmth and coverage when needed.

Another great feature of the Filson 60016 Insulated Tin Cloth Packer Hat is its adjustable leather chinstrap, which keeps the hat securely in place even in windy conditions. The strap is also detachable, allowing you to customize the hat’s look and fit to your preference.

The Filson 60016 Insulated Tin Cloth Packer Hat is also designed with ventilation grommets, which help regulate your body temperature and prevent overheating. It also has a wide brim that provides excellent sun protection and keeps rain and snow out of your face.

Overall, the Filson 60016 Insulated Tin Cloth Packer Hat is a well-made and functional hat that is perfect for anyone who needs a warm and reliable headwear for cold weather. Its durable construction, excellent insulation, and useful features make it an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast or worker.

Product Features

• earflaps lined with 100% virgin wool from the USA
• insulated crown for warmth and comfort
• sealed seams
• ventilating grommets provide breathability
• waterproof materials
• hand wash
• uv protection

Tilley – Lt5b Nylon Stretch bucket hat

For the adamant outdoor adventurers who desire a lower profile hat with a smaller brim, we recommend another high quality Tilly product. The Lt5b Nylon Stretch bucket hat.

The Tilley LT5B Nylon Stretch bucket hat is a versatile and high-quality hat that is perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Made from a blend of nylon and spandex, this hat is stretchy, lightweight, and comfortable to wear.

One of the standout features of this hat is its wide brim, which provides excellent protection from the sun and rain. The brim is also stiffened with foam, allowing it to float in case it falls in the water.

The Tilley LT5B Nylon Stretch bucket hat also has a moisture-wicking sweatband that keeps sweat away from your face and eyes, enhancing its comfort and performance. It is also designed with a ventilated crown, which helps keep you cool and comfortable even on hot days.

The bucket hat comes with an adjustable chinstrap that keeps it secure and in place, even in windy conditions. It also has a secret pocket inside the crown, where you can store small items such as keys or cash.

Overall, the Tilley LT5B Nylon Stretch bucket hat is a well-designed and high-quality hat that is perfect for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. Its comfortable and stretchy fabric, excellent sun protection, and useful features make it an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Product Features

• buoyancy stays afloat in water with waterproof material
• front and back wind cords system secures hat in gusty conditions
• hydrofil moisture wicking headband
• keep valuables safe in the secret pocket
• maximum sun protection – fabric is certified upf protection 50+, the highest given
• reflective yarn woven into wind cords for added visibility
• far more popular than the outdoor research seattle sombrero

Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat

The Sunday Afternoon Adventure Hat is a versatile and practical hat that is perfect for outdoor activities in various weather conditions. Made from 100% polyester, this hat is lightweight, quick-drying, and offers UPF 50+ sun protection.

One of the standout features of this hat is its wide brim, which provides excellent coverage and protection from the sun and rain. The brim is also stiffened with foam, allowing it to float in water if it falls in.

Another great feature of the Sunday Afternoon Adventure Hat is its adjustable sizing system, which allows you to customize the fit and make the hat snug or loose as needed. The hat also has a moisture-wicking sweatband that keeps sweat away from your face and eyes, enhancing its comfort and performance.

The Sunday Afternoon Adventure Hat also comes with a chinstrap that keeps the hat secure and in place, even in windy conditions. The strap is adjustable and can be removed if not needed.

Overall, the Sunday Afternoon Adventure Hat is a well-designed and functional hat that is perfect for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. Its lightweight and breathable fabric, excellent sun protection, and useful features make it an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Product Features

• 50% polyester, 50 Nylon
• pull-on closure
• hand wash only
• UPF 50+ sun rating (includes mesh)
• 3¼” brim and 5½” neck cape
• reflective details
• wicking sweatband
• PFC-free durable water repellent finish

Outdoor Research Sun Runner Bugout Brim Hat

The Outdoor Research Bugout Brim hiking hat is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a hat that can provide protection against both the sun and insects. Made from a blend of nylon and polyester, this hat is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, making it perfect for outdoor activities in hot and humid weather.

One of the standout features of this hat is its built-in bug net, which can be deployed over your face and neck to protect you from mosquitos and other insects. The net is lightweight and can be easily tucked away when not in use.

The Outdoor Research Bugout Brim hiking hat also has a wide brim that provides excellent sun protection and keeps rain and snow out of your face. The brim is also stiffened with foam, allowing it to float in water if it falls in.

Another great feature of this hat is its adjustable sizing system, which allows you to customize the fit and make the hat snug or loose as needed. The hat also has a moisture-wicking sweatband that keeps sweat away from your face and eyes, enhancing its comfort and performance.

Overall, the Outdoor Research Bugout Brim hiking hat is a well-designed and functional hat that is perfect for anyone who needs protection from both the sun and insects while hiking or camping. Its lightweight and breathable fabric, built-in bug net, and useful features make it an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Product Features

• drawstring closure
• Insect Shield bug repellent and upf protection 40+ sun protection combined.
• bluesign approved 40% Nylon 60% Recycled Nylon
• insect shield bug protection water-resistant breathable lightweight wicking quick-drying transaction headband upf protection 40+
• dark fabric under brim floating foam-stiffened brim external breathable mesh panels embroidered logo one-handed drawcord adjustment removable chin cord
• adjustable chin straps
• adjustable cord lock
• soft sweatband

SEALSKINZ Waterproof Cold Weather Hiking Hats

SealSkinz caps are the ultimate combination of hats and waterproof caps that protect against sun and rain. It features three layers providing comfort and warmth. The sturdy peaks protect our faces and our eyelashes against the sun. The outer layer is water resistant while the outer layer has a polyester fabric for air circulation. It can also be used as a fantastic destination on the beaches, so it is a versatile option.

Sealskinz is a well-known brand that specializes in creating high-quality outdoor gear, and their cold weather hiking hats are no exception. These hats are designed to keep you warm and comfortable in even the coldest conditions, making them an ideal choice for hikers, mountaineers, and anyone else who spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter.

One of the things that sets Sealskinz cold weather hiking hats apart is their use of advanced materials and construction techniques. These hats are made with a combination of synthetic and natural fibers that are specifically designed to retain heat and wick away moisture, so your head stays warm and dry even in wet and windy conditions.

In addition to their technical features, Sealskinz cold weather hiking hats also look great and come in a range of styles and colors to suit your individual tastes. Whether you prefer a classic beanie style or a more modern look with ear flaps and a visor, Sealskinz has a hat that will meet your needs.

Product Features

• ultra adventure hat perfect for colder wearing comfort
• waterproof cap – three layer construction for warmth, durability and waterproofing, perfect for cold and rainy weather
• added insulation – foldable ear panels provide added insulation
• adjustable fit – Rear elasticated velcro size adjuster for a comfortable fit
• hidden pocket
• insulation and comfort – micro fleece lining for warmth and moisture control

Sum It Up

Choosing the right hiking hat is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. Whether hiking the pacific crest trail, or spending a day at the beach, a good hiking hat should protect your head and face from the sun, wind, rain, and cold weather. Providing ventilation and wicking away moisture while wearing comfort should be something your hat includes.

With the right hiking hat, you can focus on the beauty of the trail ahead, knowing that you’re well-protected and ready for whatever nature has in store.

Happy and safe travels!