The Best Fishing Hats for Sun Protection

When it comes to fishing, protecting yourself from the sun is crucial. A good fishing hat not only shields you from harmful UV rays but also keeps you cool and comfortable during long hours on the water. In this article, we will explore the best fishing hats for sun protection, highlighting their unique features and benefits.

Key Takeaways

• Optimal Protection: Our hats are tailored to provide you with maximum sun protection, ensuring your skin remains shielded and you stay cool.
• Durability: Crafted to withstand the unpredictability of fishing expeditions, be it saltwater splash or a freshwater drizzle.
• Comfort: Breathable materials and adjustable straps ensure a snug fit without any compromise on comfort.
• Stylish Designs: Who said fishing can’t be fashionable? Our range blends utility with style effortlessly.
• Versatility: Different hats cater to various fishing needs and preferences, ensuring you have the right hat for every situation.

Shelta Seahawk Performance Sun Hat

The Shelta Seahawk Performance Sun Hat ($75) is a great fishing hat, equally suited to kayaking, rafting, and other water sports as it is to all forms of fishing. Its no-flop brim is long enough at the bill and wide enough all around to provide adequate sun protection at any point in the day, from your head to your shoulders. It maintains just enough flexibility to remain comfortable. Yet, it stays in place and provides protection even when the wind picks up.

If you’ve only fished wearing a ball cap, straw hat, or budget boonie hat, which all suffice, then the Shelta Seahawk will be the hat you didn’t know you needed the whole time. This premium hat is expensive in the world of fishing hats, but it is worth every dollar if you value comfort, performance, and protection from the elements.

You’ll find even more value in the Shelta Seahawk Performance Sun Hat if you enjoy fishing from a boat, inflatable, paddleboard, or kayak. You get sun protection benefits, but due to its floating brim, you won’t lose your hat if things get a little hairy while drifting around the next bend in the river or awkwardly trying to land a fish.

Ultimate fishing tips: your go-to resource for all things fishing. Deep sea fishing, gear recommendations, and angling techniques for various preferences and skill levels.

Columbia Bora Bora II Booney

The Columbia Bora Bora II Booney is a fantastic choice for fishing enthusiasts who need reliable sun protection. This sun hat features built-in UPF 50, an ultra-sweat-wicking headband, and a mesh vent panel, making it perfect for long days on the water. While the brim may flop in heavy winds, the adjustable headband and cinching chin strap keep the hat secure and comfortable.

Pros

• Built-in UPF 50 for excellent sun protection
• Ultra-sweat-wicking headband
• Mesh vent panel for breathability
• Adjustable headband and cinching chin strap for a secure fit
• Affordable price point

Cons

• Floppy brim in heavy winds
• May become saturated with prolonged exposure to water

Despite its floppy brim, the Columbia Bora Bora II Booney provides excellent sun protection and comfort, making it a great choice for any fishing adventure.

Simms Superlight Flats Cap

The Simms Superlight Flats Cap is a fantastic choice for those who prefer a minimalist approach to sun protection. Cut glare and spot more fish with this lightweight, long-bill lid that brings proven sun protection performance to the flats fishing game. Even on the hottest days, this cap keeps the sweat out of your eyes, making it a game-changer for many anglers.

Key Features

• Super light: Weighing just 3.68 oz, you’ll forget it’s even there.
• Extremely comfortable: The hook and loop closure ensures a perfect fit.
• UPF 50 rating: Offers excellent sun protection.
• DWR treated: The Teflon coating helps repel water.
• Extra long bill: Provides additional shade for your face.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Super light
• Extremely comfortable

Cons

• No ear or neck protection
• Looks a bit goofy

Specifications

While the Simms Superlight Flats Cap won’t protect the back of your neck or ears from the sun, the ultralight hat is easily sized to your head with a hook and loop closure. Once it is on your head, you’ll forget it is there.

Grunden Waterman Straw Hat

Straw fishing hats like the Grundens Waterman Straw Hat are popular for good reasons. They provide ample protection from the sun and the weave of natural straw materials provides good ventilation. However, while a straw hat will float when it falls in the water, the straw materials are not meant to hold up to any extended contact with water.

Materials

Fishing hats have come a long way from yesteryear’s cotton, wool, and tweed hats when there were no synthetic fabrics. Today’s materials and any treatments applied to those materials can significantly impact performance and durability.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Lots of sun protection
• Comfortable

Cons

• Not waterproof

Fit and Comfort

It provides a secure and comfortable fit, allowing the hat to float on your head. An adjustable chin strap helps keep it locked down when an onshore breeze turns into a strong wind.

Versatility

The Grundens Waterman Straw Hat is equally suited to a wide range of serious angling, as it is to boating or casual days at the beach. If you pass out in your beach chair while waiting for your fishing bell to jingle, it won’t be from sunstroke as this model provides ample sun protection and is comfortable enough to sleep in.

Even if a hat provides 360 degrees of protection, it is less useful if you are constantly adjusting your hat for comfort. But, that is where the Grundens Waterman Straw Hat stands out from other straw hats. Not only is it great for protection from the sun and glare reduction, but the elastic headband is also the most comfortable headband among straw hats we’ve tested.

Sun Guide Hat

The Sun Guide Hat is a fantastic choice for those long fishing trips under the sun. Designed for maximum sun protection, this hat features a wide brim and UPF 50+ fabric, ensuring you stay safe from harmful UV rays. It’s lightweight and breathable, making it comfortable to wear all day.

Key Features

• UPF 50+ sun protection
• Wide brim for enhanced coverage
• Lightweight and breathable material
• Adjustable chin strap for a secure fit

Price

The Sun Guide Hat is priced at $46.00, offering great value for its high-quality features and durability.

Why Choose the Sun Guide Hat?

If you’re looking for a hat that combines style, comfort, and safety tips, gear essentials, and techniques for successful bass fishing, the Sun Guide Hat is an excellent option. Its thoughtful design ensures you can focus on your fishing without worrying about sunburn or discomfort.

The Sun Guide Hat is a must-have for any serious angler looking to stay protected and comfortable during long hours on the water.

Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat

The Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat is a top choice for anglers seeking both style and functionality. This hat is designed to provide excellent sun protection while keeping you cool and comfortable during your fishing adventures.

Key Features

• Material: Made from a blend of nylon and polyester, this hat is both durable and lightweight.
• UPF Rating: With a UPF 50+ rating, it offers superior protection against harmful UV rays.
• Ventilation: The mesh insert around the crown ensures excellent airflow, making it perfect for hot days on the water.
• Water-Repellent: Treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, it can handle unexpected splashes and light rain.
• Floats: Yes, this hat floats, so you don’t have to worry about losing it in the water.

Pros

• Ultimate sun protection with UPF 50+ rating.
• Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear.
• Excellent ventilation to keep you cool.
• Water-repellent and floats, making it ideal for fishing.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to other fishing hats.
• Limited color options.

For the ultimate fishing experience, the Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat is a reliable companion that combines style, comfort, and protection.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this hat is a great addition to your fishing gear. Don’t forget to check out our ultimate fishing tips for more advice on how to make the most of your time on the water.

Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat

The Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat is a top choice for those who need reliable sun protection during their outdoor activities. Priced at $50.00, this hat is a best seller and offers a range of features that make it stand out.

Key Features

• UPF 50+ sun protection
• Water and stain resistant
• Adjustable sizing
• Packable and lightweight

Durability

This hat is known for its durability, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an Australian hiker or a casual walker, this hat will withstand the elements.

Comfort

The Ultra Adventure Hat is designed with comfort in mind. It features a moisture-wicking sweatband and ventilation to keep you cool.

Best Uses

Suitable for any situation where you need sun protection, from hiking to fishing. It’s versatile enough to be your go-to hat for various outdoor activities.

One of the dorkiest hats you’ll ever see (I wear one), but its functionality is unmatched.

What We Don’t Like

While the hat offers excellent sun protection and comfort, its style might not be for everyone. Some might find it a bit too functional-looking.

Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat

The Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat is a top choice for anglers seeking maximum sun protection. This brim is very wide and stiff enough to withstand light to moderate winds without losing shape. The hat features an elastic cinch strap around the crown, which helps keep it in place even on windy days.

Key Features

• UPF 50+ Rating: Offers excellent protection from harmful UV rays.
• Wide Brim: Provides ample shade and is stiff enough to maintain its shape in the wind.
• Adjustable Chin Strap: Ensures the hat stays secure on your head.
• Breathable Fabric: Keeps you cool and comfortable during long fishing trips.

Pros and Cons

Pros

1. High Sun Protection: With a UPF 50+ rating, this hat offers some of the best sun protection available.
2. Comfortable Fit: The elastic cinch strap and adjustable chin strap make for a secure and comfortable fit.
3. Durable: Made from high-quality materials that can withstand the elements.

Cons

1. Limited Ventilation: The hat has small ventilation holes, which might not be sufficient for extremely hot days.
2. Floppy Brim: While the brim is wide and stiff, it can become floppy in very strong winds.

Customer Reviews

Many customers appreciate the wide brim and the elastic cinch strap around the crown, which helps keep the hat in place. The hat is praised for its durability and high sun protection, making it a favorite among anglers.

Price and Availability

The Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat is available for around $30 at various retailers, including REI and Backcountry. It’s a great investment for those who spend a lot of time fishing under the sun.

HUK Kryptek Icon X Straw Hat

The HUK Kryptek Icon X Straw Hat is designed to provide extra sun protection for those seriously hot days on the water. This hat features an adjustable chin strap to keep it secure even in windy conditions. The wide brim offers excellent coverage, ensuring your face and neck are well-protected from harmful UV rays.

Key Features

• Adjustable chin strap for a secure fit
• Wide brim for maximum sun protection
• Lightweight and breathable material

Pros

• Provides excellent sun protection
• Comfortable to wear for long periods
• Stylish design suitable for various outdoor activities

Cons

• Higher maintenance compared to other hat types
• Cannot be folded or stuffed into small compartments without damage

If you’re looking for a stylish and functional hat for your fishing trips, the HUK Kryptek Icon X Straw Hat is a fantastic choice. Its design ensures you stay cool and protected, making it a must-have for any angler.

Patagonia Bimini Cap

The Patagonia Bimini Cap is a top choice for anglers seeking both style and functionality. Known for its retro and eclectic color choices, this cap stands out not just in design but also in performance.

Design

The Patagonia Bimini Cap features a boonie-style design with a medium brim size, providing ample sun protection. The brim is malleable, ensuring it holds its shape even in strong winds. This makes it ideal for various fishing environments, from backcountry trips to pier fishing.

Materials

Constructed from 99% recycled nylon and 99% recycled polyester, the cap is eco-conscious and fair trade certified. It also boasts a UPF 50 rating, offering excellent sun protection.

Features

• Flexible brim: Holds shape in strong winds
• Eco-conscious: Made from recycled materials
• Fair trade: Certified for ethical manufacturing
• Adjustable headband and chin strap: Ensures a secure fit
• DWR treated: Provides water resistance

Pros and Cons

The Patagonia Bimini Cap is a versatile and eco-friendly option for any angler, offering both style and substantial sun protection.

Discover the ultimate in sun protection and style with the Patagonia Bimini Cap. Perfect for all your outdoor adventures, this cap offers unparalleled comfort and durability. Don’t miss out on this essential gear for your next fishing trip. For more tips and gear recommendations, visit our website.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fishing hat is essential for a comfortable and safe fishing experience. Whether you’re looking for optimal sun protection, durability, or stylish designs, there’s a hat out there that meets your needs. Our selection of the best fishing hats for 2024 ensures that you stay protected from the sun’s harmful rays while enjoying your time on the water. Remember, the best fishing hat is one that suits your specific requirements and preferences. So, gear up with the perfect hat and make your next fishing trip both enjoyable and safe!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fishing hat?

The best fishing hat is the one that suits your sun protection, comfort, and fishing needs. No one hat handles all angling situations perfectly. Rather, fishermen should have a couple of hats to match angling styles, the day’s specific conditions, and personal preferences.

Why should I choose your fishing hats?

Our fishing hats offer optimal protection by shielding your skin from the sun, ensuring you stay cool. They are durable, crafted to withstand the unpredictability of fishing expeditions, and comfortable with breathable materials and adjustable straps for a snug fit. Plus, they come in stylish designs that blend utility with fashion.

Are boating hats made to protect me from the sun?

Yes, all of our boating sun hats are designed to protect your head, neck, and ears from sun exposure. A UPF 50+ sun rating prevents 98+% of the sun’s rays from penetrating the fabric of your hat. Additionally, our dark underbrims help protect your eyes from glare.

What colors do fishing hats come in?

Fishing hats come in a variety of colors to suit your style and preference. Common colors include shades of blue, green, beige, and grey, which are ideal for blending into natural surroundings.

How do I care for my fishing hat?

To care for your fishing hat, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, straw hats require more maintenance and may last one season, while boonie hats are more durable and can be easily cleaned and stored. Quick-drying and moisture-wicking materials are beneficial for long-term use.

What features should I look for in a fishing hat?

When choosing a fishing hat, look for features such as wide brims for maximum sun protection, quick-drying and moisture-wicking materials, and ventilation for comfort. Adjustable straps and a snug fit are also important for ensuring the hat stays in place during your fishing expeditions.