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10 Best Hiking Hats UK 2021 | Columbia, SealSkinz and More

10 Best Hiking Hats UK 2021 | Columbia, SealSkinz and More

Hiking at any time of the year means that it’s important to get the right gear to keep you comfortable – be it safe sun protection, breathability in the heat, waterproofing for when the rain hits, or thermals to keep you cosy in winter. When it comes to headwear, a hat designed for outdoor adventures can deliver all of these; you just have to find the right one for the job, or rather, the hike!

Feeling like you’re going round in circles trying to navigate your way to the best hiking hat? We’ve got the guidance with our top tips and buying advice, as well as a list of our favourite online picks from Amazon and eBay, from popular brands such as SealSkinz and Columbia. Wide brim or bucket hats, baseball caps or beanies, there’s a hat for all hikers, men or women, and you’ve arrived at the right coordinates to help you find one!

Last updated: 07-12-2021

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Hiking Hat in the UK – Buying Guide

As you can imagine, getting the best hat for your expedition will mostly depend on the season or climate of where you plan to hike, which will denote the style, portability and fabrics you go for. You’ll also want to get a hat that fits not just your budget but your head too, all of which we’ll get down in this guide.

Match the Style of Hat to the Climate and Intensity of the Hike

Though your style preferences do play a small part in the hat you choose (you’re not going to wear something you can’t stand the look of!) practicality trumps fashion when it comes to the appropriate headwear for your hike. Think firstly about the weather you’ll be hiking in, whether at home or abroad, whilst reading over the options.

Get a Big Brim and an Extra Neck Covering If You Need Sun Protection

Probably the image that pops into your mind when you think of a hiking hat, these wide brimmed varieties will offer the best protection from the sun, shielding your eyes from bright sunlight and protecting your face and neck from sunburn.

We recommend choosing a hat with a brim of around 3 inches; too short and it won’t do its duty, and too wide and floppy and you won’t be able to see where you’re going. If you’re easily burnt or you’re exploring somewhere very hot with little shade cover, you could opt for a design with an additional longer neck cover.

Another top tip for hiking in very humid climates is to go for a pale coloured hat that won’t absorb as much heat as a darker shade. And if you do so, look for a darker fabric stitched beneath the brim that will further help reduce glare from the sun.

Baseball Caps Are Fine for Casual Hikes and Can Also Be Worn Day to Day

The old familiar baseball cap is another warm weather hiking option, albeit a more casual one. The peak will offer you some protection and shield your eyes from bright sunlight, but on the whole they’re one for shorter hikes and those who don’t burn too easily.

The great thing about baseball caps is of course value for money and flexibility of use — you can wear them for numerous other activities or excursions, or just day to day. Travellers who like to get out and about in nature whilst on the road will also find their multi-use status appealing, as you’ll be able to get away with only packing one hat for your trip.

For On-Trend Style That's Better for Milder Heat or Rain Protection, Go For a Bucket Hat

A nod to the 90’s trend the UK is smitten with at the moment, bucket hats are a more casual, and perhaps more style-conscious version of a wide brimmed hiking hat.

They too can function as an all-rounder for trips incorporating both beach time and outdoor rambles, but the narrower brim will make them another one for milder rather than scorching sunshine. Bucket hats are commonly worn for fishing, and can be a great way to keep your head dry and the rain out of your eyes during wet hikes, so long as you find a waterproof design.

Beanies Keep You Warm and Comfortable in Cold Weather

You know the old saying about losing half your body heat through your head? Well, it may not be quite half but it’s certainly a good proportion! Being cold or wet whilst out on a hike is a miserable way to spend your time, so you’ll want to keep cosy in a beanie hat if you’re heading out in low temperatures.

Whilst there are numerous beanie hats out there for general cold weather wear, for hiking we’d recommend finding one that covers your ears, which you should be able to determine from the product images or description. Some may also feature longer ear flaps, so if you’re going sub zero this could be a wise choice.

Include the Right Fabrics and Features to Protect You From the Elements

Alongside the style of the hat, the fabrics and materials that it is constructed from will make an enormous difference to how it performs, whether that’s keeping you cool and sun safe or warm and dry. Here are some technical features to be aware of for most weather conditions.

Summer Hiking Hats Should Have Breathable Fabrics and Preferably a UVF Rating

Regardless of the style you like the look of, a summer hiking hat needs to act as a sun shade whilst keeping your head cool. Synthetic fabrics are lightweight, moisture-wicking and breathable, so hats made from nylon or polyester are a good choice here. Some are also waterproof, which may be useful if a sudden shower catches you off guard mid-hike.

Hats for summer should preferably provide safe sun protection, which will be stated as a UPF(Ultraviolet Protection Factor). This will protect you from harmful UVB and UVA light, whereby a UPF rating of 50 equates to protection from 98% of these rays. So, this should be the minimum you seek out.

Mesh panels are another way to limit overheating and promote air circulation to your head on summer hikes, and will usually be found on the crown or sides of the hat. Bear in mind the UVF won’t be present on these sections, but they should be small enough not to affect it too much.

Winter Hats Should Be Woollen or Thermal, and Waterproofing Is a Bonus

A mix of wool and acrylic is perfect for a beanie or winter hiking hat, particularly Merino wool, which is known for its ability to keep you warm but not sweaty, and is odour resistant. Or if you’re not too keen on wool, a polyester and acrylic mix is fine too.

Additional linings such as fleece are also recommended if you’re planning on hiking in particularly cold climates, as well as thermally insulated hats. A waterproof treatment is sometimes applied to these fabrics, so seek this out if you need it.

Consider the Sizing and Adjustments Such as Chin Straps for Security

A hat that fits correctly is not only more comfortable, but less likely to fly off with every gust of mountain wind or sudden movement. Generally hiking hats of all varieties will be unisex or one size, or you could seek out specific men’s or women’s designs. They will differ in that the former will be roomier than the latter, so could be a better fit for those with larger heads.

Some types such as baseball caps may also come with adjustable bands for a more personalised fit, but the main adjustability you will come across is a chin strap. Chin straps are a smart addition that ensure a secure and snug fit, and you can use the cord to rest the hat on your back or clip it to your pack when you don’t need to wear it.

Foldable and Packable Hats Are Handy for Travel or Multi-Day Hikes

With the exception of beanie hats that are brimless and whose fabric is happy to be crushed, some hiking hats are able to be folded or stuffed into a bag without losing their shape or bending their brims. They’re ideal for travel or those heading out on a longer hiking adventure, as they’ll take up barely any room and you won’t have to worry about ruining them.

If this sounds like something that would make your hiking life easier, have a read of the specs of the hat and look for those describing themselves as crushable, foldable, or packable.

Top 10 Best Hiking Hats in the UK

Hopefully you’re feeling a bit more clued up on the fixtures and fittings of all the types of hats for hiking, so you should be ready to choose your favourite. Rated highly by us and other reviewers, here are the 10 products that get our seal of approval for hiking head gear.

amazon.co.uk

ResultUnisex Lightweight Thinsulate Thermal Hat

£4.05

Style of Hat	Beanie
Materials	100% polyacrylic
UV Protection	No
Waterproof	No
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	No
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

amazon.co.uk

PULIWomen’s Foldable Bucket Hat with Chin Strap

£10.99

View product on Amazon

Chic, Waterproof and Adjustable Bucket Hat

It’s rare to find a bucket hat with a detachable chin strap, but this simple and chic offering has just that, as well as a 2.7″ brim that’s just wide enough to keep the glare off and your neck protected.

It’s made from cotton so is fairly breathable, and is completely packable making it the perfect lightweight pick for holidayers planning casual hikes. Although one size, measurements are provided so you can check your own and compare before you buy.

Style of Hat	Bucket hat
Materials	100% cotton
UV Protection	No
Waterproof	Water resistant
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	Chin strap (detachable)
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

amazon.co.uk

Danish EnduranceBeanie

£19.98

Real Wool Makes This a Cosy Beanie

Scandinavian outdoors company Danish Endurance always come up with the goods when it comes to kit – they have merino wool clothing that can cover you from head to toe, from socks to hats, and this product is the perfect addition to any winter walk.

It’s long enough to cover your ears, and although it's only one size, the muted grey is a versatile enough colour that it would look great on men and women. You can also adjust the size by rolling it up and down, so there is some flexibility.

Style of Hat	Beanie
Materials	55% merino wool, 45% polyester
UV Protection	No
Waterproof	No
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	No
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

amazon.co.uk

SealskinzWaterproof All Weather Cap

£18.50

Perfectly Simple Multifunctional Cap

Sealskinz do know their stuff when it comes to technical fabrics. Specialising in creating wet weather gear, you can wear this cap out and about come rain or come shine. It’s also casual enough to wear day to day, whether at home or on holiday.

This cap is perfect for warm weather or between-season hikes; it manages to be breathable whilst being waterproof and lightweight so it won't weigh you down. The button adjustment offers a more comfortable tailored fit when compared with the usual poppers.

Style of Hat	Baseball cap
Materials	100% polyester
UV Protection	No
Waterproof	Waterproof
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	Button at rear
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

ForclazMountain Trekking Cap

£3.99

View product on Decathlon

The Most Flexible Hiking Hat

If you're having to pack light, constantly moving from place to place or know you'll experience a mixed range of weather on your hikes, this hat is the one for you. It can be worn either as a normal baseball cap, with a neck flap, or as a visor.

Each shape is easy to create with the tie on the back, and this also means you can adjust the size to suit you. This hat, whilst quick-drying and sweat-wicking, is not fully waterproof, so it's not suited to very rainy hikes - it's best kept for the drier summer months.

Style of Hat	Baseball cap
Materials	86% polyester, 14% elastane
UV Protection	No
Waterproof	No
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	Tie
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

Buff Solid Pack Trek Cap

£21.94

Ultra Light With Technical Features and Smart Looks

Don’t be fooled by the unpretentious and frankly great looking design of this cap, because it packs in the practical features. The peak is longer than the average to properly block out strong rays, it has a UPF of 50 and an inner sweatband, and is also machine washable.

Going on a multi-day hike? Weighing a mere 33 grams, you’ll barely notice it on your head or in your pack, and it can be folded into a pocket-sized compact roll without crushing the brim.

Style of Hat	Baseball cap
Materials	100% polyester
UV Protection	UPF 50
Waterproof	Water resistant
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	Velcro strap at rear
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

amazon.co.uk

SealSkinzBobble Hat

£20.00

Stylish and Superbly Cosy Waterproof Beanie

A bobble hat is a firm winter favourite, both for its style credentials and the warmth it can offer. This one is fashionable enough to be the only winter beanie you own, but in terms of hiking it still beats the competitors with its 100% waterproof and windproof outer.

There’s just as much thought put into the inner fabrics too, with its micro-fleece lining for breathable moisture control during long treks. Choose from several colours and a number of sizes to get your match!

Style of Hat	Beanie
Materials	100% acrylic outer, 100% polyester lining
UV Protection	No
Waterproof	Water repellent
Sizing	S-M, XXL
Adjustments	No
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

amazon.co.uk

Columbia Unisex Coolhead II Baseball Cap

£28.87

Style of Hat	Baseball cap
Materials	92% polyester, 8% plastane
UV Protection	UPF 50
Waterproof	Water resistant
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	Velcro strap at rear
Foldable/Crushable	No

amazon.co.uk

Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat

£32.09

High Performance Fabric for Warm Weather Comfort

Another great pick for a warm weather hiking hat that doesn’t skimp on performance features, Outdoor Research’s wide brimmed hiking hat is very lightweight, comfortable and moisture-wicking with a UPF of 50.

The removable draw cord chin strap can be adjusted with one hand, and there’s an additional toggle too. We love the fact it’s available in more than one size, and the added dark fabric under the brim whether you go for this blue or a paler shade option.

Style of Hat	Wide brim hat
Materials	86% polyamide, 14% polyester
UV Protection	UPF 50
Waterproof	Water resistant
Sizing	M, L
Adjustments	Chin strap (detachable), toggle cord at rear
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

ebay.co.uk

GisdanchzWide Brim Outdoor Sun Hat

£14.88

The Ultimate Summer Hiking Hat

A consistent favourite, this hat is so adjustable it will work for hikers of all genders and ages. The chin strap can be secured nice and tightly to stop it blowing off in the wind and the toggle on the back means you can tighten that too. Making this hat truly stand out though is its removable top, opening up a vent that will keep you cool.

It certainly meets all of the requirements for a summer hiking hat, offering relief on the hottest of treks with mesh ventilation and UPF 50. It scores particularly high for value for money, minimal weight, and dual adjustability. You won’t regret it!

Style of Hat	Wide brim hat
Materials	100% nylon
UV Protection	UPF 50
Waterproof	Water repellent
Sizing	One size
Adjustments	Chin strap, toggle cord at rear
Foldable/Crushable	Yes

Compare the Best Hiking Hats

Image	1 Gisdanchz	2 Outdoor Research	3 Columbia	4 SealSkinz	5 Buff	6 Forclaz	7 Sealskinz	8 Danish Endurance	9 PULI	10 Result
Name	Wide Brim Outdoor Sun Hat	Helios Sun Hat	Unisex Coolhead II Baseball Cap	Bobble Hat	Solid Pack Trek Cap	Mountain Trekking Cap	Waterproof All Weather Cap	Beanie	Women’s Foldable Bucket Hat with Chin Strap	Unisex Lightweight Thinsulate Thermal Hat
Features	The Ultimate Summer Hiking Hat	High Performance Fabric for Warm Weather Comfort	Sun Protection That Cools While You Hike	Stylish and Superbly Cosy Waterproof Beanie	Ultra Light With Technical Features and Smart Looks	The Most Flexible Hiking Hat	Perfectly Simple Multifunctional Cap	Real Wool Makes This a Cosy Beanie	Chic, Waterproof and Adjustable Bucket Hat	A Budget Thermal Beanie for Chilly Days
Price	£14.88	£32.09	£28.87	£20.00	£21.94	£3.99	£18.50	£19.98	£10.99	£4.05
Style of Hat	Wide brim hat	Wide brim hat	Baseball cap	Beanie	Baseball cap	Baseball cap	Baseball cap	Beanie	Bucket hat	Beanie
Materials	100% nylon	86% polyamide, 14% polyester	92% polyester, 8% plastane	100% acrylic outer, 100% polyester lining	100% polyester	86% polyester, 14% elastane	100% polyester	55% merino wool, 45% polyester	100% cotton	100% polyacrylic
UV Protection	UPF 50	UPF 50	UPF 50	No	UPF 50	No	No	No	No	No
Waterproof	Water repellent	Water resistant	Water resistant	Water repellent	Water resistant	No	Waterproof	No	Water resistant	No
Sizing	One size	M, L	One size	S-M, XXL	One size	One size	One size	One size	One size	One size
Adjustments	Chin strap, toggle cord at rear	Chin strap (detachable), toggle cord at rear	Velcro strap at rear	No	Velcro strap at rear	Tie	Button at rear	No	Chin strap (detachable)	No
Foldable/Crushable	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Link	View Amazon View eBay	View Amazon View eBay	View Amazon View eBay	View Amazon View eBay	View Amazon View eBay	View Decathlon	View Amazon View eBay	View Amazon View eBay	View Amazon	View Amazon View eBay

Keep Hiking All Year Round With the Right Kit

Whether you're hiking in the summer heat or battling through snow on the ground, keen hikers won't want to let a little thing like the weather stop them. To be ready for anything, you need to have the best kit possible, so why not check out our favourite hiking essentials that will help you overcome any obstacles en-route.

Top 10 Best Hiking Boots for Women in the UK 2021 (Berghaus, Merrell and More)

Top 10 Best Hiking Socks in the UK 2021 (SmartWool, Darn Tough and More)

Top 10 Best Hiking Jackets in the UK 2021 (The North Face, Berghaus and More)

Summary

Choosing a hiking hat can seem like an uphill battle, but remember to look for the right fabrics for the climate, a hat that you can adjust to fit comfortably, and any helpful extra features and you’ll be conquering the trails in no time!

Author: Natasha Dziubajlo

You've Hiked, Now It's Time to Camp!

Camping is a fantastic way to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, even more so if you decide to go solo-camping! That's where Emily's top picks come in. She has put together a brilliant list of must-have items for solo camping from cooking sets to power banks and even security cases so that you won't be left stuck in the mud.

Specialist's
mybest

argos.co.uk

SummitFirst Aid Survival Kit

£10.00

View product on Argos

Ensure You Keep a First-Aid Kit for Any Emergencies

A first aid kit sometimes feels a bit like overkill, but if you're camping solo it can be such a useful piece of gear. If anything goes wrong while you're out there on your own, you'll need to be able to take care of it. Hopefully you won't need them, but if you get a cut while you're camping it's incredibly important to keep it clean.

You'll want antiseptic wipes, plasters, bandages, and maybe some sterilisation fluid. You might also want to add a few of your own key items into the kit such as pain killers, rehydration tablets, or anti-diarrhoea medication (just in case!). For solo camping, your first aid kit should also include a few key survival items such as a whistle, compass, and emergency matches for any worst case scenarios!

Emily's Top 10 Must-Haves for Solo Camping