10 Best Golf Hats for Sun Protection (Updated 2024)

Playing golf under the scorching sun can feel like a challenge. Did you know that the right type of hat not only boosts your performance but also shields you from harmful UV rays? This blog post rounds up the best golf hats, offering unbeatable sun protection for your games and outdoor activities.

Dive in to discover your perfect fit!

Key Takeaways

• Golf hats keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays.
• They can work as ads (sponsorships) for big brands.
• Good golf hats help lower the risk of skin cancer by reducing exposure.
• Some of the top picks are the PGA Tour Men’s Standard UPF 50 Solar Hat, Coolibar UPF 50+ Men's Leo Shapeable Wide Brim Hat, and Titleist Men's Tour Performance Golf Hat.
• Sustainable golf hats, made from eco-friendly materials like organic cotton or recycled fabrics, are on the upward trend with eco-conscious consumers. They combine environmental responsibility with effective sun protection and style.

Why Do Golfers Wear Hats?

Golfers wearing hats is a common sight on golf courses, and this practice is rooted in both practicality and commercial purposes.

Skin Protection

The primary reason for donning headgear is to shield their skin from the sun's intense rays. Golfers, especially professionals, spend extended periods outdoors, often in direct sunlight, which poses significant risks to their skin.

It goes without saying, don't forget your high UVA sunscreen!

A hat serves as a crucial barrier, protecting the face and neck from harmful UV radiation. This protection is particularly important in golf, as the nature of the sport requires long hours under the sun, increasing the potential for sunburn, skin damage, and ultimately, the risk of skin cancer, a concern that is increasingly recognized in the golfing community.

Enhanced Performance

The protection offered by hats extends beyond just health benefits. By providing shade, hats also enhance a golfer's vision and concentration. The brim shades the eyes, reducing glare and helping the player maintain focus on the ball and the course. This improved visibility is vital in a sport where precision and accuracy are important.

Throw your golf hat into a minimalist golf bag, if you're looking to carry light.

Commercial Ads

In addition to these health and performance benefits, hats in golf also serve a significant commercial purpose: advertising. Many professional golfers have sponsorships and endorsement deals, and their hats often feature logos and brands, turning them into walking billboards.

These sponsorships are a critical aspect of a professional golfer's income, making the hat a dual-purpose accessory – it’s both a protective gear and a marketing tool.

This blend of functionality and promotion has led to a diverse array of hat styles on the golf course. From classic caps to visors, each style serves the dual purpose of providing safety and promoting style. The variety of hats seen on the course is not just about fashion; it reflects the evolving nature of golf as both a sport and a business.

Technology in Golf Hats

The evolution of golf hats has kept pace with technological advancements.

Modern golf hats are designed with materials that offer enhanced UV protection, with some even boasting UPF ratings to quantify their effectiveness against UV radiation.

These hats are crafted for comfort and breathability, incorporating features like moisture-wicking fabrics and ventilation systems, essential for keeping cool under the heat.

Golf hats also play a role in temperature regulation. In warmer climates, they provide much-needed shade, while in cooler conditions, they help retain body heat, ensuring that the golfer remains comfortable and focused.

Golf hats are an essential tool for sun protection, reducing the risk of skin-related health issues, enhancing on-course performance, and serving as valuable advertising space for sponsor brands.

10 Best Golf Hats for Sun Protection

Keeping your face shielded from the sun is vital while golfing. Here are the top ten hats that do a stellar job.

Top 10 Golf Hats for Sun Protection

The best choice for a golfer when it comes to headwear often depends on personal preference, the specific conditions of their golf game, and the functionality they require.

Here's a list of top golf hats, including options for sunny or rainy days and the best picks for women golfers.

PGA Tour Men’s Standard UPF 50 Solar Hat

PGA Tour Men’s Standard UPF 50 Solar Hat is a top pick. It keeps your head cool on sunny days at the golf course with its best feature: sun protection. The "UPF 50" is powerful for shielding you from the sun's harmful rays.

This hat comes in different colors and sizes for a perfect fit. It also stands up to windy conditions with an adjustable chin strap. Its wide brim offers shade for your face, ears, and neck.

It can handle those long summer golf games without worry of too much sun exposure!

Nike Golf Dri-Fit Swoosh Front Cap

Nike Golf Dri-Fit Swoosh Front Cap is is a baseball cap style made to keep the sun out of your eyes. It has a underbill that cuts glare from the sun. The cap is built with eight panels and it sits low on your head.

You can make it fit just right using the snap closure in the back. A special layer helps sweat dry fast so you stay dry too. This hat keeps you safe from harmful rays while adding style to your golf gear!

Coolibar UPF 50+ Men’s Leo Shapeable Wide Brim Hat

Coolibar UPF 50+ Men’s Leo Shapeable Wide Brim Hat is a top pick for sun protection on the golf course. It has an oversized canopy to block the summer sun. This hat is made of high-quality materials, so it feels comfy to wear all day.

The wide brim packs easy when you need it in your golf bag. It comes in a big XX-Large size and two colors: Khaki and Navy. You'll love how this hat shields you from harmful UV rays during outdoor activities like golf games!

Titleist Men’s Tour Performance Golf Hat

Titleist Men’s Tour Performance Golf Hat is more than just a stylish golf hat. Made from performance material, it's designed to stay put on your head. The stretch clasp closure lets you adjust the fit to feel just right for you.

Crafted with sun safety in mind, this hat gives 50+ UPF protection against harmful rays. Its standard curve bill enhances its sleek look while adding extra shade. This awesome golf hat mixes fashion and function in one package!

Callaway Golf Bucket Hat

Callaway Golf Bucket Hat shines as a top pick for sun protection. This hat keeps its shape well and fights off stains. It doesn't just cover your head, it also cools you down on the golf course.

With laser-cut holes to let air in and a sweatband that stays cool, this hat is perfect for hot days. Some say it fits just right. Others love how light it feels when worn. Besides bucket hats, Callaway gives many choices like trucker caps and golf visors too.

TaylorMade High Crown Visor

TaylorMade High Crown Visor is great if you don't mind a bit of sun on your hair. This visor will shield your eyes but leave your scalp exposed. But it uses breathable fabric to cool you down when it gets too hot.

Both men and women can wear it because it fits all unisex styles and also comes in various wide and large sizes.

EINSKEY Reversible Bucket Hat for Men/Women

EINSKEY Reversible Bucket Hat for men/women is a top pick for golf in 2024. Both men and women can wear this hat. It protects from the sun and is waterproof too, great for those rainy games. This hat is light and easy to fold into bags, perfect for golfers on the go.

It has an adjustable chin strap to stay put even on windy days at the golf course. The wide brim gives good sun protection while mesh panels keep you cool. A built-in sweatband pulls moisture away from your face and eyes.

Titleist Golf Tour Aussie Hat Legacy Collection

Titleist Golf Tour Aussie Hat Legacy Collection is a favorite among many golfers and a top pick for the best golf hats. This hat does a great job in sunny weather. It shields you from the sun’s harmful rays with UV treated materials.

The wide-brim design covers the back of your neck too. There's an adjustable chin strap that won't let it fly off in windy conditions. The hat comes in a cool black/white color which fits with many outfits.

Henschel Hats Aussie Breezer Cotton Mesh Hat

Henschel Hats Aussie Breezer Cotton Mesh Hat is perfect for a day on the golf course. It's light and made from cotton and polyester. The mesh top lets your body heat out, making it comfy to wear on sunny days.

This hat offers UPF 50+ sun protection and won't fall off while you swing because of the chin cord that you can adjust for a perfect fit.

The brim measures 3 1/2", giving your neck enough shade. It comes in different sizes from S to 3XL, fitting any head size. You can choose from many colors too! It’s designed to make it easy to pack if you're traveling or want to put it in your golf bag.

Women’s Golf Day - Performance Bucket Hat

Women’s Golf Day Performance Bucket Hat is made for fun in the sun. It works well for sports and other outdoor activities, marrying style with function. The hat can fold up, making it easy to bring with you on trips. It’s lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking.

Plus, it pulls away sweat to keep your head cool when the weather gets hot.

Buyers Guide to Golf Sun Hats

When looking for a men’s golf sun hat, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here’s a comprehensive buyer's guide:

1. Material: The material of the hat is crucial for both comfort and protection. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester, nylon, or mesh. These materials are typically quick-drying and offer good ventilation. Some hats also feature moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry and comfortable.
2. Sun Protection: One of the main purposes of a golf sun hat is to protect you from harmful UV rays. Look for hats with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. A UPF rating of 30 or higher is generally considered good, but the higher the better.
3. Brim Size: A wider brim offers more sun protection for your face, ears, and neck. However, make sure the brim is not too large as it can obstruct your vision, especially during swings. A brim of about 3-4 inches is typically sufficient.
4. Fit and Comfort: The hat should fit snugly on your head without being too tight. Many golf hats come with adjustable features like drawstrings or Velcro straps for a customizable fit. Also, consider the hat’s weight; a lighter hat is more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
5. Style: Golf hats come in various styles, including bucket hats, caps, and visors. Bucket hats offer more coverage and are a popular choice for sun protection. Caps are a classic option and can be easily paired with casual attire. Visors are ideal for those who prefer a lighter, more breathable option, but they offer less coverage.
6. Color: Lighter colors reflect sunlight and tend to keep you cooler, while darker colors may absorb heat. But choosing a color is also a matter of personal preference and style.
7. Additional Features: Some hats come with extra features like sweatbands, mesh inserts for extra ventilation, or even insect-repellent properties. Consider which additional features might be beneficial for your golfing experience.
8. Brand and Price: There are many reputable brands that offer quality golf sun hats. While brand-name hats can be more expensive, they often provide better quality and durability. However, there are also many affordable and sustainable options that don’t compromise on quality and protection.
9. Maintenance: Look for hats that are easy to clean and maintain. Some hats are machine washable, which is a convenient option.
10. Personal Needs: Consider any personal requirements you may have, such as hats designed for larger head sizes or those with special comfort features for sensitive skin.

Remember, the best golf sun hat for you is one that meets your specific needs in terms of protection, comfort, style, and budget. It’s worth taking the time to find a hat that you feel comfortable wearing for long periods on the golf course.

Best Sustainable Golf Hats for Sun Protection

Wide-Brimmed Straw Hats

• Description: Ideal for maximum sun coverage, wide-brimmed sun hats offer both style and functionality. Look for ones made from sustainable materials like organic straw.
• Patagonia - Patagonia often offers a range of sustainable accessories, including straw hats made with eco-conscious materials.

Recycled Fabric Baseball Caps

• Description: Baseball caps made from recycled fabrics are a staple for golfers. They are lightweight and provide good sun protection for the face.
• Adidas - Adidas has a line of products made from recycled materials, including sustainable baseball caps.

Organic Cotton Hats

• Description: Bucket hats made from organic cotton are breathable and offer all-round sun protection. They are a great eco-friendly choice.
• Tilley - Tilley produces high-quality sun visors and hats, some of which are made from sustainable organic materials.

Recycled, Handmade Golf Hats

• Description: These hats are unique, eco-friendly, and crafted with care. Recycled, handmade golf hats often use upcycled materials, reducing waste and offering a one-of-a-kind style.
• Conner Hats - Conner Hats offers a selection of handmade hats made from sustainable, recycled materials.

Each of these hat types combines functionality in sun protection with a commitment to sustainability. By providing these options in your blog, you can guide your readers towards making environmentally conscious choices in their golf apparel.

Conclusion

The best golf straw hat for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize sun protection, comfort, style, or durability, there's a hat on this list that will meet your requirements.

Remember to consider the hat’s material, brim size, ventilation, adjustability, and sustainability when making your choice. A good golf straw hat not only protects you from the sun but also adds a touch of style to your golfing ensemble.

You're set for sunny days on the green (pun intended)!