Most notably, this cap uses an elastic adjusting band to adjust the fit. This hat is loaded with all the features you would want in a trail running cap. But, you’ll also feel good in this high-performing running cap. Because at the end of the day, we all want the hat we wear out on the trail to look good. has created a unique running cap by leaning into the classic 5-panel design, tweaking it slightly, and adding great design elements. A good hat will be vented well enough that air can flow through it. You’ll be sweating out there in the hot sun. ✅ BREATHABLE: Look for a hat that has lots of mesh or is made of breathable fabric. If a hat is adjustable, you can adjust the fit throughout the day to maintain comfort, too. So, get a hat that can be tightened or otherwise secured in place when the wind picks up. You want your hiking hat to stay in place in windy conditions. ✅ FIT: Make sure your hat fits well and is adjustable. So, get a hat that will maintain its shape after being packed away. ✅ PACKABLE: A good hiking hat is packable and won’t look smashed when you unpack it. Lightweight hats also tend to be more comfortable for wearing all day. Try to keep it below 3 ounces since you’ll be carrying it in your pack if you aren’t wearing it.
✅ LIGHTWEIGHT: A hiking hat should be lightweight. Here are four boxes every hiking hat should check: So, if you want to wear a hat for hiking and trail running, don’t get a hat designed for hiking, especially a full-brimmed hat. You probably wouldn’t enjoy going running in hiking clothes. So, it will also stay on your head comfortably when hiking. A running hat is designed to stay on your head while you move quickly. Or, combine a cap with a sun hoodie for maximum versatility and sun protection.Ī good running hat will also make a great hiking hat. And, you can combine a cap with a Buff or bandana for a DIY neck cape when moving through exposed areas. And when you’re in town after a hike, your hat won’t announce to the world that you just finished hiking.Ī mesh-backed cap is a favorite for many hikers because the mesh provides good ventilation.
These caps will stay on your head in all but the windiest conditions. These caps often provide the most sun protection because the cape keeps the sun from hitting the neck and ears even when the sun is lower in the sky.Ĭaped hiking hat (Outdoor Research Sun Runner)Ī cap or ballcap provides the least sun protection on its own but is probably the most versatile. And, in windy conditions, the wide brim gets caught in the wind.Ī hat with a cape looks like a ballcap with an extra piece of fabric attached to the back that drapes down over the neck. Some tend to obscure your vision, though. Sun hats are great for when you will be hiking in sunny areas without a lot of shade. These hats usually have a wide brim that goes around the entire head. Bonus: How to Wash Your Hiking Hat (Without Ruining It)įrom left to right: wide-brimmed, caped, and cap.Ī sun hat is specifically designed to provide maximum shade for your head.Click on any item to jump straight to a section: