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Gear up with the 13 best running caps for every fitness fanatics wardrobe

From the trails to the tracks

By
a group of women wearing hats
Arcteryx, Lululemon and Sweaty Betty

No matter the weather, no matter the season, if you're a runner, you'll understand the struggle of battling against the elements mid-run.

Whether it's unbearably bright sun, trickling raindrops, or biting winds that leave you squinting and begging for your jog to end, it may be time to invest in a quality running cap so you can focus on those PBs and mile times.

Yes, you could grab your tried-and-trusted baseball cap and hope for the best, but if you take your running seriously, you'll understand the difference your kit can make in staying consistent. Running-specific caps are designed to stay in place, absorb sweat, keep you cool, and can even help with visibility and aerodynamics.

So, if you're on the hunt for a new go-to cap to add to your running kit, read on for our top suggestions on the market that suit every runner's need, budget, and style.

The best running caps to buy in 2024

1
Best overall running cap

Sweaty Betty Swiftie Pace Cap

Swiftie Pace Cap
£25 at Sweaty Betty
Credit: Sweaty Betty

Perfect for beginner runners or those after something without all the bells and whistles, Sweaty Betty's Swiftie Pace Cap offers optimal breathability thanks to the clever vented panels, an easy-to-customise size and reflective details.

SizesOne Size
Materials100% recycled polyamide
ColoursCamellia Pink, Endless Blue, Black
2
Best visor running cap

Lululemon Women's Fast Paced Wide Band Running Visor

Women's Fast Paced Wide Band Running Visor
Credit: Lululemon

Designed specifically for running, this Lululemon visor is a top favourite for those who prefer a lightweight option that leaves the scalp free and clear. It provides full coverage across the forehead and effectively diverts wind and sunlight, allowing you to focus on your stride.

SizesOne Size
Materials86% recycled polyester,14% elastane
ColoursGlaze Pink, White
3
Best high-tech running cap

adidas Running x 4D HEAT.RDY Cap

Running x 4D HEAT.RDY Cap
Credit: adidas

If you're looking for innovation and a cap that excels in every way, look no further than this unique design from adidas. Featuring HEAT.RDY technology, it efficiently wicks moisture to keep you dry and cool. The cap is lightweight and comfortable, with a slight brim curve that shields against sun glare. What's more, it's crafted using at least 50 per cent recycled materials, making it a sustainable choice as well.

SizesS - XL
Materials100% recycled polyester
ColoursLinen Green, Green Spark, Black
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4
Best lightweight running cap

Nike Nike Dri-FIT Club

Nike Dri-FIT Club
Credit: Nike

For those who prefer running without a cap to avoid the sometimes uncomfortable weight and sensation, consider trying out this ultralightweight design from Nike.

It's breathable, comfortable and most importantly light as a feather.

SizesS - XL
Materials100% polyester
ColoursBlack, White
5
Best reflective running cap

Arc'teryx Norvan Cap

Norvan Cap
Credit: Arc'yteryx

Do you find yourself heading out for your daily run once the sun goes down? If so, reflective accessories are a must. Not only is it blindingly fluorescent (in a great way) but this cap from Arc'yteryx has reflective details to catch the light.

It's great for trail running as it is so lightweight, water resistant and durable, not to mention extremely packable to pop in your backpack.

SizesS - XL
Materials100% polyester
ColoursEuphoria, Alpine Rose, Black
6
Best waterproof running cap

Salomon Bonatti Waterproof Unisex Cap

Bonatti Waterproof Unisex Cap
Credit: Salomon

As we all know, UK weather is temperamental at best. Protect yourself against the inevitable showers that are truly there to rain on your parade as you head out for your runs with this ultra-waterproof cap from Salomon.

SizesOne Size
Materials100% polyamide
ColoursArona, Sulphur Spring, Deep Black
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7
Best ventilated running cap

on Lightweight Cap

Lightweight Cap

For those with sweaty scalps, this one's for you, On's Lightweight Cap has ample ventilated panels to help keep you dry and cool no matter the temps. It's also feather-light and comfortable to wear for long workouts.

SizesOne Size
MaterialsWoven fabrics
ColoursNavy, Black, Grey, Hay
8
Best sweat-wicking running cap

Ciele GoCap SC Running Cap

GoCap SC Running Cap
Credit: Ciele

Made from 100 per cent recycled materials with COOLmatic mesh fabric that prioritises sweat-wicking capabilities and even anti-odour abilities, it's great for heavy runners who want to stay dry.

SizesOne Size
Materials100% recycled polyester
ColoursTropograph, Llyndigo
9
Best sun protective running cap

Sahara Cap Sahara Cap

Sahara Cap

If you take your sun safety seriously on your runs, a running cap with neck protection will put your worries at ease. It doesn't feel cumbersome or annoying as you run but will still provide a shady canopy to leave you feeling cool and refreshed.

SizesOne Size
Materials100% PES
ColoursPink/Red, Green
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10
Best highly resistant running cap

Oysho Logo Sports Cap

Logo Sports Cap
Credit: Oysho

Crafted with ultra-resistant materials, the Logo Sports Cap from Oysho is perfect for handling particularly temperamental weather conditions.

SizesOne Size
Materials100% elastomultiester
ColoursPale Mauve, Black, White
11
Best casual running cap

Gymshark Sharkhead Cap

Sharkhead Cap
Credit: Gymshark

On the other hand, if you're a beginner runner or looking for a cap that suits every occasion, whether it's for casual wear or the gym, consider this classic baby pink hat from Gymshark. It provides essential coverage and protection with its curved brim and is made from a breathable cotton material, without feeling overly complex or too specialised.

SizesOne Size
Materials100% Cotton
ColoursLight Pink, Black, White, Base Green, Vanilla Beige
12
Best splurge-worthy running cap

Alo Yoga Performance Off-Duty Cap

Performance Off-Duty Cap
Credit: alo

Great for all occasions be it the gym, a casual jog or running errands, the Alo Performance Off-Duty Cap is made from a durable and sweat-wicking material and feels luxe and high quality to the touch.

SizesOne Size
Materials86% polyester, 14% spandex
ColoursOceanic Teal, Navy, Black, White
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13
Best running cap for extreme heat

Fractel V-SERIES "TREK" Edition Visor

V-SERIES "TREK" Edition Visor
Credit: Fractel

This visor from Aussie label Fractel (so you know they know their stuff about sun safety) is ideal for particularly blistering days. It offers UV 50+ protection but the visor style won't make you feel too hot and bothered. It's also breathable and sweat-wicking and has a sweat-absorbing inner headband.

SizesOne Size
Materials100% recycled polyester excluding trims
ColoursTrek, Lumen, Stride, Jet, Azure, Greenlands
Headshot of Isabelle Knevett
Isabelle Knevett
Fashion Features Editor

Isabelle Knevett is the Fashion Features Editor at Women’s Health. With her keen insight into the worlds of both fashion and fitness, she explores their intersection to help women feel their best when they work out and do it in style. Transitioning from a career as a full-time dancer into the realms of fashion and media, she understands the importance of reliable activewear. Her work has been published across Marie Claire Australia, ELLE Australia, Australian Women’s Weekly, and more. When she's not writing, you'll find her in a dance class, or with her nose in a fashion mag.

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