Best Men’s Sun Hats for Sun Protection

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays should be a top priority when spending time outside. Whether you’re going for a hike, fishing, or just enjoying a relaxing day at the beach, a reliable sun hat is an essential accessory for men. Not only do sun hats shield your face and neck from the sun, but they also add a bit of style to your attire. In our blog we’re going to explore the best men’s sun hats for sun protection.

From wide-brimmed hats to lightweight bucket hats, we’ve created a collection of the best sun hats, organized by activity, that combine function and style to ensure you stay cool and sun safe wherever your outdoor adventures take you.

What to Look for When Choosing a Sun Hat

When it comes time to choose a sun hat, how do you know what to look for? Which fabric is best for sun protection? And which sun hat is best for avid hikers, runners, and beach enthusiasts? Here’s a list of factors we’ve compiled, after years of research and creating the best sun hats for men, to determine how to best choose a sun hat: 

Sun Protection 

Sun protection is the most important factor to consider when purchasing a men’s sun hat as UV rays can go through clothing. Yes, you can get sunburned through your clothes! You want to choose a hat that has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates a fabric’s ability to block harmful UV rays. 

We recommend choosing a sun hat with a UPF 50+ rating, which is the highest and best UPF rating you can find. 

Breathability

You’re going to want a sun hat that’s made with lightweight and breathable material to stay cool, especially if you’re an avid outdoorsman. Choose hats made with materials like nylon, polyester, straw, and bamboo viscose. Cotton is another option although it can also absorb sweat and doesn’t do the best in really hot temperatures. 

Opt for materials that allow air to circulate and keep your head cool to prevent excessive sweating.

Fit

You want to find a sun hat that fits your head and suits your face shape as well. Make sure your hat sits comfortably on your head without being too tight or too loose. If you like a custom fit, choose hats with an adjustable strap or drawstring to ensure a secure, comfortable fit.

Style

Do you care more about style or features? While this, of course, depends on the person and the activity you’re doing, if style is a factor you take seriously, consider finding a hat that matches your personal style preferences. Consider the hat’s features, look, design, and whether it compliments your wardrobe. 

You don’t have to sacrifice style for a sun hat with sun protection either. As you can see below, there are plenty of stylish sun hats for men, including fedoras and bucket hats that pair well with any outfit.

Durability 

Look for hats that are well-constructed and built to withstand regular use. Check the quality of the hat's stitching, seams, and any additional features like reinforced brims or water-resistant coatings.

Packability

If you plan to travel with your sun hat, consider its packability. Hats that can be easily folded or rolled without losing their shape are convenient for packing in suitcases, carry-ons, and backpacks.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a sun hat for men that not only provides effective sun protection but also ensures comfort, durability, and style.

Best Wide-Brim Sun Hat for Men

This men's wide-brim sun hat makes for a fantastic beach hat, vacation hat, or boating hat thanks to its UPF 50+ rating, adjustable fit, ventilation, and wicking sweatband to keep you cool under the sun.

Features

• Stylish
• Adjustable fit
• UPF 50+ rating
• Integrated wicking sweatband
• Ventilation at the crown to let in airflow
• Stowaway crown pocket
• Comprehensive 3¼" brim to keep your entire face protected

Reviews: Carla R "I bought this for my husband after he had skin cancer removed. His dermatologist told him he needed a wide-brim hat... so I bought him this hat and he loves it."

Best Sun Hat for the Adventurous Man

We all have that one guy in our life that just loves the outdoors. Maybe it's your dad, your partner, or your husband. Or maybe it's you! And let's face it, sometimes he (or you) might forget to put sunscreen on while outside. Stay safe from the sun's UV rays while backpacking, hiking, and/or climbing outside  - whether you're hiking the PCT or the Camino - with Sunday Afternoons' men's adventure hat. 

Features: 

• Adjustable sizing
• Unisex
• UPF 50+ rated
• Reverse Split Brim™ (packs small and flat - perfect for a backpack)
• Reflective detailing (keeps you seen and safe after the sun sets)
• Chin strap with cord lock
• Floats in the water
• Water repellant and stain resistant
• Wicking sweatband
• Nylon and polyester blend for the ultimate lightweight and breathable hat

Reviews: Outdoor GearLab "We were pleasantly surprised by how protective and versatile this competitor is (as a hat). We took it on many outdoor excursions, including backpacking and boating tips, and it kept us cool and comfortable the entire time. Its lightweight, quick-drying materials, durability, and packability make it stand out among all the hats..."

Best Sun Hat for the Beach Goer 

For the guy that likes to look stylish and stay protected under the sun, this bucket hat is a win. It offers a UPF 50+ level of sun protection as well as a reversible design so you can pair it with most of your wardrobe. Saltwater and chlorine resistant, you can also wear it in and out of the water, making this sun hat a durable and stylish choice for any beach lover. 

Features: 

• UPF 50+ rating
• Stylish
• Saltwater and chlorine-resistant (longer-lasting)
• Lightweight and breathable
• Reversible design
• 4-way stretch, quick-drying fabric
• Adjustable fit

Reviews: Stac S. "The men’s bucket hat was a terrific fit - loved the ability to adjust the fit on the outside too. It gave great protection for my husband’s ears and head while still looking stylish. We were delighted that it was not only light but (also made of) substantial fabric."

Best Men's Sun Hat for Runners

This sun hat is for all the avid runners out there. Finding a solid running hat can be tough, especially one that can protect you from the sun and also keep you warm on those cooler early morning runs. Fortunately for you, we have just the solution, our men's active fleece hat!

Features

• UPF 50+ sun protection
• Ear and neck flaps (for cooler morning runs)
• Reflective tape (stay seen and safe)
• 4-way stretch
• Thermally protective swim fleece (keeps your body warmer on cool days)
• Saltwater and chlorine resistant 

Reviews: James P "Great for chilly, windy days as it fits snuggly and won't blow off in a stiff wind. (This fleece hat also) keeps my ears warm too."

Best Stylish Men's Sun Hat

For the man with an epic sense of style, this stylish men's sun protective hat will help you stand out. Featuring a slightly relaxed, more flexible brim, this outback or "Aussie" hat is a classic style piece. Plus, it pairs well with almost anything and can easily dress up a white tee and jeans. 

Features 

• UPF 50+ rated
• Internal drawstring for a custom fit
• Stylish

Reviews: Bryan B. "(this sun hat) is lightweight, adjustable, and durable, overall, great!"

Were you able to find a sun hat with UV protection you liked? If you'd like to check out our entire collection of men's sun hats, feel free. We have UPF 50+ accessories for the entire family.