A Guide to Hats for All Weather Hiking
When it comes to hiking gear, the right boots, socks, and clothing are all part of a great foundation. Equally as important is having the right hiking hat.
From protecting you from the sun’s rays to keeping you dry in an unexpected shower, the best hats for the trail make sure you’re protected, whatever the weather. And yes, there is a difference between the best hats for winter hiking and summer hiking.
To make sure you’ve got the right headwear for your next outdoor adventure, here’s a look at some of the best types of hats for hiking.
Hats for Summer: Stay Cool and Protected
In summer, the sun’s rays can get pretty harsh, even on days when the temperatures aren’t soaring. The best hats for summer hiking will therefore protect you from sunburn and keep the top of your head cool. At the same time, they won’t allow sweat to build up inside the hat.
To find the perfect women’s hats and men’s hats, keep an eye out for lightweight, breathable fabrics like nylon or polyester that offer an Ultraviolet Protection Factor.
• Wide-Brim Sun Hats: Look for brims around 2.5-4 inches that help shade the face, ears, and neck. These are sometimes referred to as boonie hats when they include a chin cord.
• Bucket Hats: Bucket hats offer lightweight sun coverage, but unlike wide-brim hats, they are typically more packable and have a casual style.
• Caps with Neck Flaps: These combine the style of a baseball cap with a back neck flap that protects the nape. They are an excellent choice for desert hiking.
• Baseball Caps: The classic baseball cap is versatile enough to go from trail to town. These will usually keep the sun off your face but are best for forested hikes and shady trails.
Be sure to pair ANY hat with sunscreen.
Waterproof Hats: Your New Rainy-Day Friend
A waterproof hat is indispensable for unpredictable weather. When it comes to materials, look for options like GORE-TEX, which is both water-resistant and breathable. A wide brim is also a big help for keeping water off the face and neck.
Under-chin straps can also help keep the hat in place if the wind kicks up along with the rain.
Hats for Winter Warmth and Comfort
Temperatures starting to drop? You’ll want to be on the lookout for winter hats that help lock in heat, but not sweat. Breathable materials like wool and fleece are top choices.
Beanies are a great choice to help prevent heat loss through your head. They are designed to trap warmth fast and are among the highest warmth-to-weight pieces you can carry on winter adventures. Thin style beanies are also helmet-friendly if you plan to do any snowshoeing or climbing as well as hiking.
Tips for Finding the Best Hats for Hiking
If you’re browsing hiking hats, here are some tips to keep in mind. Also, take some time to think about whether you’re going on short hikes or multi-day treks. Do you tend to hike in a certain season of the year? Factors like these can help guide you to the perfect choice.
• Fit and Comfort: The best hiking hats fit snugly without being too tight. Adjustable straps or bands can also help with ensuring the perfect fit.
• Material: In general, choose materials based on the season. Hats for summer should have breathable fabrics. Hats for rainy days should be waterproof or water-resistant at the very least. If you’re looking at hats for winter hikes, look for insulated yet breathable fabrics.
• Brim Size: A wider brim means more sun protection. This is essential in hats for summer treks but wise all year round.
• Color: Lighter colors reflect sunlight, so they’re cooler in summer. Darker colors are better for hiding dirt and stains.
• Packability: Consider how easily the hat can be packed. Some hats, like bucket hats, can be folded or rolled without losing their shape, making them ideal for backpacking and multi-day treks.
• Maintenance: Look for hats that are easy to clean and quick to dry. They’re likely to get sweaty and dirty quickly when you’re out on the trails.
How to Take Care of Your Hiking Hat
Keeping your hat in top condition means giving it the care it needs. Here’s how to keep your hiking hat looking great.
• Cleaning: Check for a care label and follow the instructions. Some hats can be machine washed, while others need a lighter hand wash. Use mild detergents and avoid harsh chemicals. Always rinse well.
• Drying: After washing, air dry your hat away from direct sunlight. Heat can degrade certain materials and alter the hat's shape.
• Storage: Store your hat in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing it. If your hat is foldable, you can roll it loosely to avoid permanent creases. For structured hats, use a hatbox or pop it on a high shelf, where it won’t get crushed by other clothing.
• Repairs: Minor damage like a torn seam or a loose strap can often be fixed quite easily at home. For bigger repairs, consider the services of a professional tailor. Many dry cleaners are also able to help.
Find the Ideal Hiking Hat for You Today
Whether you're hiking canyons, scaling mountainsides, or exploring snowy peaks, there's a perfect hat for every adventure.
At The North Face, we’ve got a wide variety of men’s and women’s accessories including plenty of hats for hiking. We also offer hiking footwear for both men and women. Check out the rest of our gear to make sure you’ve got everything you need for your next big outdoor adventure.