Caps & Headwear

The best hiking hat depends on the weather conditions. For sun exposure and hot days, a wide-brimmed bucket or boonie hat or a breathable cap with UPF protection shields the face and neck across long days on exposed ground. For cold or wet conditions, a fitted beanie or a windproof, water-resistant hat holds heat and blocks driving weather. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric matters as much as the shape, since a hat that traps heat becomes uncomfortable on a climb. 

Yes. A hat regulates body temperature and protects against the two conditions that end a hike early: sunburn and heat loss. A significant share of body heat escapes through the head, so a beanie or fleece hat holds warmth in cold conditions. In strong sun, a brimmed hat or UPF-rated cap protects the face, ears and neck from prolonged UV exposure. Whatever the terrain, from UK hills to alpine ascents, a hat is a small piece of kit that does a lot of the work.

The string, or chin cord, is functional rather than decorative and is designed to sit under the chin, with the toggle or clasp adjusted at the front or side for quick tightening. Its purpose is to keep the hat secured to the head in wind or on fast-moving pursuits, not to hang loose at the back. Tighten it enough to stop the hat lifting in a gust, but not so much that it restricts comfort. Function first: if it is not doing its job under the chin, it is not doing its job.

A bucket hat gives all-round coverage owing to a wider brim, shielding the face, ears and back of the neck from sun in a way a cap cannot. Built from durable, technical fabric, it is packable, lightweight and holds its shape after being folded into a bag or pocket. Beyond sun protection, it works as a practical layer against light rain and wind.

A bucket hat should sit snugly on the head without pinching, with the brim level and the crown close enough that it will not lift or blow off in wind. Too loose, and it slides down over the eyes or comes off in stormy conditions. Too tight, and it will mark the forehead over a long day. 

A cap should sit level on the head, with the brim two to three finger-widths above the eyebrows and the crown close to the head without gripping tightly. There should be no gap at the temples and no pressure points after extended wear. An adjustable strap or closure allows the fit to be fine-tuned for comfort during high-output activity, when the head warms and swells slightly. A well-fitted cap stays in place through movement rather than needing constant readjustment.