Everyone knows the importance of wearing SPF when it comes to sun protection, but sunscreen hats another layer of defense. If you can be diligent about remembering to wear a wide-brim sun hat, you can pat yourself on the back without wincing in pain for accessorizing responsibly.
Our favorite sun hats come with UPV 50+ protection, meaning that they will successfully block 98% of the sun's rays, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Executive editor Sally Kaplan's first choice is the Mission Cooling Bucket Hat, which not only strategically shields your ears, face and neck, but has a unique water-activated mechanism that keeps it about 20° cooler than when it's dry.
"It's not too big around my head, but has an adjustable chin strap that can be tucked into the hat or tightened against the chin for a more secure fit," says Kaplan in her full Mission cooling hat review. "The bucket hat is also UPF 50, so I know I won't get burnt through it if I'm out on a boat or experiencing extreme sun exposure."
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Staff PickBest overallIts HydroActive technology really works. Just pour cold water over the top, and it stays cool for hours.
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Best drawstringThis lightweight hat provides UPF 50+ protection and features a faux leather drawcord with gold accents.
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Best floppyThis floppy (yet durable) sun hat shields your head, face, and neck from harmful UV exposure.
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Best activeThis sun hat uses a mesh sweatband along its interior to help keep you cool and dry.
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SaleBest with chin tieThe adjustable chin strap allows for a customized fit with mesh ventilation to keep you cool.
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Best strawThis ultra-light foldable straw hat has an extra-wide brim and comes in two colorways.
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Best bucket hatThis bucket hat is made with ultra-breathable cotton basketweave to protect without trapping heat.
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Best customizableThis elegant bow-trimmed sun hat comes in six colors and can even be monogrammed.
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SaleBest packableKnitwear has the ability to retain its shape when folded — precisely why we love this knit sun hat.
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Most versatileEasily switch between the solid side and the patterned side depending on what look you’re going for.
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Best waterproofThis compact-able 100% waterproof style comes in handy during unpredictable sunshowers.
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Best ultra-wide brimThis soft, wide sun hat comes in two sizes and shades from the sun, blocking 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
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Best splurgeHandwoven by Ecuadorian craftswomen, this Cuyana sun hat makes a meaningful and splurge-worthy sun hat.
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Best for smaller headsWith its close-to-head band, this super lightweight hat offers a properly snug and secure fit.
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Best for bigger headsThis classic silhouette offers UPF 50+ protection and is available in sizes up to 4XL.
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Best cowboySaddle up in the sun safely with this Western-inspired hat, equipped with UPF 50+.
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