best hiking hat for women in 2023
Need the best hat for hiking? We’ve got you covered!
Embarking on a hiking adventure entails much more than just choosing the right trail and packing essential gear. One often overlooked yet incredibly valuable piece of equipment is the hiking hat. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a novice explorer, a hat can make a world of difference in your outdoor experience. Let’s delve into the reasons why wearing a hat while hiking is crucial, along with some tips on how to select the perfect one for your journey.
Nature’s elements can be both enchanting and harsh. The sun’s rays, wind, rain, and even insects can impact your hike. A hat acts as a protective shield, offering shade and shelter. Shielding your face and neck from direct sunlight prevents sunburn and minimizes the risk of heatstroke. Additionally, a hat with a brim can shield your eyes from glare, allowing you to maintain better visibility on uneven terrain.
Hiking often involves changes in altitude and varied weather conditions. A hat can play a significant role in regulating your body temperature. In colder environments, a hat can help retain body heat, preventing you from losing warmth through your head. Conversely, in hot climates, a breathable hat can wick away sweat and aid in cooling your body. Constantly swatting away insects or wiping sweat from your forehead can quickly become distracting and drain your energy. A hat with a brim can keep bugs away from your face and keep sweat from dripping into your eyes. This allows you to focus more on the path ahead and appreciate the beauty around you.
5 Tips for How to Choose the Best Hiking Hat for Women
- Sun Protection: Look for a hat with a wide brim that offers ample shade for your face, neck, and ears. A hat with at least a 3-inch brim is ideal for providing effective sun protection.
- Rating: Check for a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. A higher UPF indicates better sun protection. Look for hats with UPF 30 or higher for excellent UV shielding.
- Material: Opt for lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials like nylon, polyester, or blends. These materials will help keep you cool and dry during strenuous hikes.
- Ventilation: Choose a hat with ventilation features such as mesh panels or grommets. Proper ventilation prevents overheating and allows sweat to evaporate.
- Adjustability: Look for hats with adjustable chin cords, headbands, or straps. This ensures a snug fit during windy conditions without being too tight.
top picks:
BEST
Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat
This hat offers excellent sun protection with a wide brim and UPF 50+ fabric. It also has a moisture-wicking sweatband and ventilation to keep you cool. It's lightweight and adjustable, making it a great choice for long hikes.
BETTER
Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat
This hat features a 4-inch wide brim for sun protection, a
UPF 50+ rating, and a strategic mesh venting system for breathability. It's
designed with a comfortable fit and can be adjusted for a secure feel.
GOOD
Outdoor Research Women's Oasis Sun Sombrero
This hat combines style and functionality with UPF 50+ sun
protection and a wide brim. It has a moisture-wicking headband and a
lightweight design, making it suitable for hot weather hikes.
BEST HIKING HAT FOR WOMEN IN 2023:
WINNER:
columbia bora bora booney hat
Price: $31.73
Weight: 3.2 oz
Things we love: best sun protection, breathable design, stays in place
Things we don’t: not as contemporary in looks as other styles, non-packable brim
Are you tired of squinting against the harsh sun while
you’re out exploring nature? Look no further than the Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat. As an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve put this hat to the test on various
adventures, and it has truly exceeded my expectations. Let’s dive into why this
hat has become an essential part of my outdoor gear collection.
When it comes to spending time outdoors, sun protection is
non-negotiable. The Bora Bora Booney Hat boasts a wide brim that offers ample
coverage for your face, neck, and ears. But what really sets it apart is the
UPF 50+ fabric, which effectively blocks out harmful UV rays. Whether you’re
hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic, this hat has you covered –
literally.
One of the standout features of this hat is its exceptional ventilation. The strategically placed mesh panels allow a constant flow of air, preventing that dreaded feeling of a stuffy hat on a hot day. Paired with the moisture-wicking sweatband inside, you can say goodbye to uncomfortable sweat trickling down your forehead. This hat keeps you cool and comfortable even during the most demanding outdoor activities.
Ever had a hat blown away by a gust of wind? The Bora Bora Booney Hat eliminates that worry with its adjustable drawstring cord. You can tailor the fit to your liking, ensuring it stays firmly in place no matter how windy the conditions. The lightweight design also means you won’t feel burdened by it, allowing you to focus on your adventure ahead.
Outdoor gear needs to withstand rugged conditions, and this hat does just that. The durable construction and quality materials give it a reassuring sturdiness. Whether you’re tackling rough trails, kayaking down rivers, or simply exploring new terrains, the Columbia Booney Hat stands up to the challenge.
While functionality is key, style also plays a role. The Bora Bora Booney Hat strikes a perfect balance between practicality and aesthetics. With its neutral tones and sleek design, it complements a wide range of outdoor outfits. From active hikes to leisurely strolls, this hat effortlessly blends in.
In my experience, the Columbia Bora Bora Booney Hat is more than just a piece of outdoor gear – it’s a true companion for your explorations. Its exceptional sun protection, comfort, durability, and style make it a standout choice for hikers, anglers, campers, and anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. With this hat by your side, you can face the elements with confidence and enjoy every moment of your journey. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your outdoor experience – grab the Bora Bora Booney Hat and embark on your next adventure with the perfect gear at your disposal.
rUNNER-UP:
Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat
Price: $18.86
Weight: 4 oz
Things we love: price, good sun protection, good moisture management, packable design
Things we don’t: shape retention, one size fits most- may not fit “most”
As a dedicated outdoor enthusiast, finding gear that perfectly balances performance and comfort is a thrilling quest. The Sunday
Afternoons Adventure Hat has garnered a reputation among adventurers, and
rightfully so. In this comprehensive review, I’ll delve into the remarkable
features that make this hat a must-have, while also addressing a few areas
where it falls short of perfection.
The Adventure Hat excels at sun protection, offering a wide
brim that effectively shields your face, neck, and ears from the sun’s harmful
UV rays. The UPF 50+ fabric provides an added layer of defense, ensuring you
can explore under the sun with confidence.
Ventilation is a priority during outdoor activities, and the Adventure Hat addresses this with mesh panels that allow for decent airflow. The moisture-wicking sweatband efficiently absorbs sweat, enhancing your comfort on hot days. You’ll feel comfortable and dry, even during extended adventures.
The adjustable cord lock system deserves applause for its practicality. This mechanism allows you to customize the fit according to your preferences, ensuring the hat stays in place during dynamic activities. It’s a boon for hikers and explorers who don’t want to fuss with constant adjustments.
Durability is evident in the Adventure Hat’s construction. The stitching and materials speak to its ability to withstand outdoor conditions. The hat holds its own, even after exposure to diverse environments.
The hat effortlessly merges functionality with style, boasting a classic design that complements various outdoor outfits. It’s equally at home on challenging trails or leisurely strolls through nature.
However, no product is without its flaws. The Adventure Hat does have a few areas where it falls short. One notable drawback is its ventilation. While the mesh panels help, they might not be sufficient for intense heat or high-energy activities, leaving you wishing for more efficient airflow.
Additionally, the hat’s aesthetics, while decent, could benefit from a more modern touch. The design may feel slightly dated compared to other contemporary outdoor accessories.
In conclusion, the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat brings a lot to the table. It excels in sun protection, offers a secure fit, and holds up well under demanding conditions. While its ventilation and aesthetics might leave a bit to be desired, these drawbacks don’t overshadow the hat’s overall performance. If you’re seeking reliable gear for your outdoor pursuits, the Adventure Hat remains a strong contender that offers both comfort and functionality. With a few improvements, it could easily reach new heights of excellence.
hONORABLE MENTION:
outdoor research women's sombrero
Price: $44.95
Weight: 4.3 oz
Things we love: good sun protection, durable, comfortable
Things we don’t: weight, shape retention, price
The Outdoor Research Women’s Sombrero has caught our
attention with its promises of sun protection, durability, and style. In this
review, we’ll take a closer look at the hat’s impressive features while also
shedding light on its potential inadequacies.
The Women’s Sombrero stands out with its wide brim that
provides excellent coverage against the sun’s harsh rays. The UPF rating gives
peace of mind during prolonged outdoor activities. Additionally, the hat’s
durability is evident in its sturdy construction and high-quality materials,
making it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures.
The adjustable chin cord ensures a secure fit, making sure the hat stays put even in windy conditions. The moisture-wicking sweatband adds comfort during hot days by keeping sweat at bay. However, the ventilation could be improved, especially during intense activities, to prevent overheating.
The Women’s Sombrero’s packability is a boon for travelers and adventurers on the go. It can be folded and stashed in a bag without losing its shape. However, this pack-and-go convenience comes with a trade-off—once unpacked, the hat may take some time to regain its original form, which might be a drawback for those seeking immediate use.
The hat’s elegant design adds a touch of style to outdoor outfits, which is a major plus. However, the aesthetics could be further enhanced with more color and pattern options to cater to various preferences.
While the Women’s Sombrero offers several impressive features, it’s important to acknowledge its potential inadequacies:
- Limited Ventilation: The mesh panels, while helpful, might not provide sufficient airflow during strenuous activities or extreme heat.
- Shape Retention: The hat’s packability is convenient for storage, but some users might find it bothersome that the hat takes time to regain its intended shape after being packed.
- Price: The Women’s Sombrero’s quality and features come at a cost, making it relatively more expensive compared to basic sun hats.
The Outdoor Research Women’s Sombrero is a solid choice for those seeking reliable sun protection, durability, and style in an outdoor hat. While it excels in various areas, such as sun shielding and packability, it does have room for improvement in terms of ventilation and price point. If you prioritize sun safety and a hat that can withstand the elements, the Women’s Sombrero is worth considering. However, for those who prioritize maximum ventilation and quick shape retention, exploring alternative options might be worth the cost.