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A sun hat may seem like a simple accessory, but small differences can determine whether you wear it all day or tuck it into your bag after one walk. A hat that’s too loose can blow away, a brim that’s too narrow offers little shade, and an attractive fabric may be impractical in the rain or when you’re sweating.
So don’t just look at the colour or price. Pay particular attention to the fit, brim width, material and how the UV protection is specified. Below, you’ll find the key points to consider, along with a few styles for different uses.
“UV protection” on its own tells you little about the level of protection. Look for a specific rating, such as UPF 40+ or UPF 50+, and check which part of the hat it applies to. A wide brim can shade your face, neck and shoulders better than a narrow peak, but coverage also depends on how you wear it.
Claims about UPF and blocking UV radiation come from the brand’s product information. Treat them as product specifications to check, rather than a medical guarantee.
A sun hat that’s too tight will be less comfortable on long walks or cycle rides. One that’s too loose may shift in the wind. Measure the circumference of your head with a tape measure around the widest part, roughly above your eyebrows and ears. Compare your measurement with the stated size in centimetres, rather than relying on S, M or L alone.
An adjustable cord, buckle or hook-and-loop fastening can help, but it won’t make up for a poor basic fit.
A wide brim offers more shade, but it can flip up in the wind or restrict your vision while cycling. A wide brim that goes all the way around is often useful at the beach, while gardening or fishing. For walking or travelling, a foldable sun hat with a slightly more flexible brim may be more practical.
Also consider the weight and how easy it is to pack away. A style weighing around 60 to 75 grams is generally easy to carry, but the material and firmness of the brim still matter.
A UPF 50 sun hat is generally described as a style whose fabric offers a high level of UV blocking under a particular test method. According to the product information from various brands, the stated protection can vary depending on the fabric, colour and construction. So check:
A wide-brimmed sun hat with a brim of around 7 to 16 cm can provide more shade, but a larger brim isn’t automatically better for every activity.
Polyester and nylon are lightweight, dry relatively quickly and can be suitable for an outdoor hat. Mesh panels or a sweatband can improve airflow. Linen feels cool and airy, but if you’re considering a linen style, always check whether it’s actually described as water-repellent or waterproof.
A waterproof sun hat can come in handy in changeable British weather. Check whether it has waterproof fabric, a membrane or just a water-repellent finish. These terms don’t mean the same thing.
For walking, fishing and cycling, a chin strap or adjustable drawcord can be useful. A sun hat with neck protection provides extra coverage, while a detachable flap offers more flexibility. If you have long hair, look for a sun hat with a ponytail opening.
Why it suits this profile: This style combines an adjustable drawcord, detachable chin strap and a choice of sizes. According to the product information, it’s suitable for the beach, gardening, walking and travelling.
Sizes S to XL and an adjustable fastening help reduce the risk of an unstable fit. The ponytail opening stops long hair being squashed under the brim.
According to the product specifications: UPF 50, waterproof nylon, a brim of around 7 to 9.4 cm and a foldable design.
Why it suits this profile: The reversible design gives you two looks, while the generous brim is made for long days outdoors, whether you’re at the beach, gardening or travelling.
The manufacturer lists a flexible, foldable brim and ventilation panels. That means the style offers more than just good looks or a wide brim.
According to the product information: UPF 50, a 16 cm brim all the way around, ventilation panels and a reversible design.
Why it suits this profile: This 2-in-1 design is made for fishing, kayaking, walking and other activities where you may encounter wind, water and sun at the same time.
The detachable neck flap means you don’t need a different hat for every activity. The adjustable drawcord is designed to help you secure the fit in windy conditions.
According to the manufacturer: waterproof nylon, UPF 50+, breathable mesh lining, a foldable design and sizes for head circumferences of 57 to 65 cm.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety requirements.
Measure your head circumference in centimetres and compare it with the product’s size guide. If you’re between sizes, choose the larger one only if the hat has an adjustable cord, buckle or band. Also check that the size refers to the circumference, not the diameter.
How long it lasts depends on how often you use it, how you wash it, how much sun it’s exposed to and how you store it. A hat worn every day for walking or fishing will wear out faster than one used occasionally for days at the beach. Follow the washing instructions: some styles can be washed at 30 °C, while others should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. Leave the hat to air-dry and store it somewhere dry. If the brim needs to keep its shape, avoid folding it for long periods.
UPF 50 is a specific textile rating that, according to the product information, indicates a high level of UV blocking. However, coverage still depends on the brim, fit and how you wear the hat. So pair your sun hat with suitable clothing and avoid prolonged direct sun where possible. When buying, always check which parts of the product are actually covered by the stated UPF specification.
