Sun Hats

Sun hats exist at the intersection of function and form — a category defined by purpose (serious UV protection) rather than silhouette. The wide brim is the constant: sun hats typically have a 7–15 cm brim circumferentially, providing shade to the face, neck and shoulders that narrower hats cannot match. The UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for a well-designed sun hat can exceed 50+, meaning the hat blocks over 98% of UV radiation reaching the skin underneath.

Dermatological consensus is clear on head and neck UV exposure: outdoor workers, gardeners, beach visitors and hikers who wear appropriate wide-brim sun hats show significantly lower rates of skin damage to the scalp, face, ears and back of neck than those wearing baseball caps or no headwear. The ears and back of the neck are among the highest-incidence sites for sun-related skin damage — areas that a wide-brim sun hat protects and a baseball cap does not.

Hatloom sun hats are sourced for brim width, UPF rating and packability — from lightweight packable beach hats to structured garden hats to travel-ready wide brims in straw, cotton and synthetic blends.

Sun Hat Brim Width Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sun hat?

A sun hat is a broad-brim hat designed primarily to protect the wearer from UV radiation and heat. Unlike fashion hats, sun hats are defined by function: a brim of 7 cm or more that provides shade to the face, ears, neck and upper shoulders. Materials include straw, cotton, linen and synthetic UV-blocking fabrics. Many sun hats are packable and designed for travel, outdoor activity and beach use.

What UPF rating should a sun hat have?

For effective sun protection, look for a sun hat rated UPF 30 (blocks 97% of UV) or above. UPF 50+ (blocks 98%+ of UV) is the highest standard and is recommended for prolonged outdoor exposure, high-altitude activities and regions with intense sun. Tightly woven straw and densely woven synthetic fabrics typically achieve UPF 50+. Loose weaves and lightweight cottons typically provide UPF 15–25. A wide brim adds physical shade protection that adds to the fabric's rated UPF.

What is the best material for a sun hat?

Tightly woven straw (toquilla or palm) provides excellent UV blocking with natural breathability — the best all-around sun hat material. For packability, synthetic fabrics with UV-blocking finishes (nylon, polyester) can be rolled or folded without damage. Cotton canvas is comfortable and durable but loses UV-blocking effectiveness when wet. For maximum UV protection combined with breathability, a dense straw weave with a brim over 10 cm is the recommended choice.

How do you choose a sun hat?

Choose a sun hat based on brim width, UPF rating, packability and intended use. For beach and garden: a straw or cotton wide-brim hat with 10+ cm brim and UPF 50+ rating. For hiking or sport: a lightweight synthetic hat with a chin strap to prevent wind loss. For travel: a packable hat that recovers its shape after compression. Fit is important — a sun hat that blows off or needs to be held on provides no protection when you need it most.

Are sun hats for men or women?

Sun hats are for everyone — UV radiation affects all skin types, sexes and ages. Women's sun hats tend toward wider brims and more varied crown shapes; men's sun hats are more commonly in fedora or outback silhouettes with structured crowns. Unisex and gender-neutral sun hat styles are widely available. Children particularly benefit from sun hat protection, as cumulative UV damage begins in childhood. Scalp and ear protection is equally important for those with thinning or no hair.