When choosing a sun hat you may be tempted to go for a super stylish bucket hat or cowboy hat - we can definitely relate. That being said, focusing on the fabric of your hat first (instead of the style) will protect your scalp and the skin on your face and neck. Plus, you may be surprised at how many stylish options made with UPF 50+ fabric.

‍

In case you aren’t familiar with a UPF rating, this is the rating used to gauge a fabric’s effectiveness at filtering both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) light. Think of this as similar to an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating for sunscreen.

‍

The highest rating a fabric can receive is UPF 50+, which indicates that the particular piece will only permit 1/50th (or 2%) UV transmission. As a comparison, a piece with UPF 15 rating allows 6.7% UV transmission. 

‍

To ensure you get the most protection possible for your scalp and skin on your face and neck, we’ve compiled a variety of sun hats that are rated UPF 50+ from a variety of brands, many of which specialize in a variety of clothing made with UPF 50+ fabrics. This way, you can focus more on enjoying the sunshine and less time trying to find a hat that’s truly protective.

‍

‍

Coolibar - Unisex Zayne Cotton Ball Cap UPF 50+

‍

A standard ball cap is the perfect hat to have ready by the door for days when you’re in a rush. This hat from Coolibar offers UPF 50+ protection, an internal elastic sweatband for comfort, and it even has a hidden crown pocket that’s great for holding a key, credit card, or other small item. We also love that this hat is available in stylish colors including a Natural Herringbone, White, and Denim Blue. Style and sun protection in one! 

‍

‍

‍San Diego Hat - Wave Rider Women's Cattleman's Crease Cowboy

‍

Western wear has definitely been on trend lately, and we don’t see that going away any time soon. Plus, the perk of a style of a cowboy hat for women is that it creates a lot of shade on a hot summer day. This specific hat is made from tightly woven 100% paper but still manages a UPF 50+ sun protection rating. Plus, it’s distressed design and faux leather band add a hint of flair to the cowboy style.

‍

‍

UV Skins - Women’s Swim Visor

‍

A good visor is a critical piece in any woman’s wardrobe. After all, they are perfect for days when you just want to wear a high ponytail but also want sun protection. This visor from UV Skins is made with UPF 50+ fabric, so it’s certified to block 98% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Another perk is that it floats and is chlorine and saltwater resistant, so you don’t have to worry about losing or damaging your visor in water. Perfect for days at the beach, lake, river, or pool! 

‍

‍

Solbari - Ultra Wide Cotton Linen Hat UPF50+

‍

Solbari is a brand completely focused on sun protection. In fact, the name Solbari is a combination of the words Sun (sol) and Barrier (bari).  While they offer a variety of UPF50+ rated hats and visors, their Ultra Side Cotton Linen Hat caught our eye. Made with 80% linen and 20% cotton, and rated UPF 50+, this hat is completely designed to provide unbeatable shade and to keep you cool. It’s also an amazing packable sun hat for women, as it doesn’t need to keep it’s shape during packing.

‍

‍

‍Sunday Afternoons - Sundancer Hat

‍

If you’re the type of woman who loves to garden or maybe you’re more into hiking, the Sundancer Hat is definitely worth consideration. It’s rated UPF 50+, has a wicking sweatband, and has a PFAS-free durable water repellent finish, so sweat is no match for this hat. Plus, it has some nice feminine touches that can be tough to find in this kind of style, including a pleated neck cape and a ponytail-friendly opening. 

‍

Regardless of which hat style is your favorite, it’s excellent to know that you’ll be as covered as possible from both UVA and UVB rays with these UPF 50+ hats.