Summer sun might have many of us looking a little redder than anticipated and with avid gardeners spending hours on end keeping their gardens looking fresh, there needs to be a way to stay cool and burn-free. The answer? A sun hat.
Regardless of temperature, sunny days can be especially unforgiving on unprotected skin. Wearing a sun hat while gardening mitigates the risk of skin cancer, as well as early signs of ageing. Plus, some have added benefits, like waterproof hats that provide an extra layer of protection in case of summer showers, or veils that cover your neck and back.
Best sun hats for gardeners
Decentron Mesh Sun Hat
This mesh bucket-style sun hat is ideal for keeping you cool and comfortable in the sun. Made from polyester, the hat claims to be breathable, lightweight and quick-drying. The wide brim and mesh vents allow for plenty of airflow, making sure you’re at a comfortable temperature.
Another excellent feature of this hat is the moisture-wicking sweatband, perfect for particularly hot days and the adjustable chin strap is ideal for any garden work that requires any leaning or bending over.
The features of this hat make it particularly versatile, so as well as gardening you could use it for camping, hunting or sailing.
Ayamaya Wide Brim Sun Hat
This extra-wide brim and certified UPF 50+ protection hat, protecting you from 98% of UVA/UVB rays, provides ample sun protection. A water and windproof design, with adjustable chin strap and polyester material, ensures the hat stays put on windy days and stays dry even in sweaty or rainy conditions.
Ayamaya's sun hat is a great choice for regular daily use and outdoor activities, ideal for gardening or farm chores, hunting, camping and more.
Fjallraven Abisko Sun Hat
This sun hat is another great sustainable choice, made from 70% recycled material. The ventilated stretch-fabric is light and quick drying and its wide brim provides welcome shade for your face, neck, and ears, while the well-ventilated stretch keeps you feeling cool.
Fjallraven's hat is also a great choice because of its adjustable chin cord which is perfect in case a strong gust of wind dares to take your hat across the garden.
Coolibar Convertible Explorer Hat
- Buy now from Coolibar (£51)
Two hats in one, this hat can either be worn as a visor or a full coverage one – all you need to do is unzip the detachable drape from the hidden zipper at the back of the brim. The removable chin cord and tie in the back of the hat provide an adjustable fit and offers extra security when leaning down to reach tools or plants. Plus, it's UPF50+.
Hoggs of Fife Caledonia Waxed Hat
Hoggs of Fife improves the traditional fedora silhouette with a 100% waxed material, so water beads on the surface and runs away, great for the eventual garden downpour.
As well as being waterproof, this hat is abrasion resistant which is great for any gardener who always seems to prick themselves on thorny plants.
Yet, its construction is the perfect blend of protective and comfortable - its form is so soft that even after being packed away the hat can regain its shape. The perfect hat for men and women alike.
Columbia Schooner Bank Cachalot
While traditional baseball caps are good, Columbia's hat has the upper hand with its attached veil which saves the back of your neck from the sun's rays. This hat is crafted from nylon, great for a lightweight feel, and combined with the interior sweatband it actively wicks away sweat.
On top of this, be reassured you won't wind up with an uncomfortable burn after a day in the garden as this hat is another pick with a UP50+ rating!
Mountain Warehouse Reversible Bucket Hat
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This bucket hat is great because it includes a Velcro closure at the back and an integrated loop construction for your pony tail, meaning that you can keep your hair up and off your neck to keep you cool in the summer heat.
Other colours of this style also offer a reversible construction, offering two hats in one. Combined with its easy care instructions (machine washable) and low price, this hat is a steal!
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Solbari Sun Hat
The Solbari sun hat is the perfect go-to for maximum coverage and protection. This hat will also keep your face, ears and neck protected from harmful UV rays thanks to a UPF50+ rating whilst also keeping you cool and comfortable in the heat.
The drawcord ensures the hat sits securely on your head while you carry out garden chores.
Jigsaw Cotton Canvas Hat
- Buy now from Jigsaw (£50)
This simple black sun hat is made from soft canvas and is 100% cotton with a durable denim-like texture. It's also quite versatile and will no doubt become the ideal go-to companion for an afternoon spent in the garden or even a sunny evening stroll. All this hat requires is a simple handwash to keep it clean, so it’s perfect for any gardener who always finds themselves a bit messy at the end of the day.
ARKET Raffia Straw Hat
- Buy now from ARKET (£55)
Woven from raffia straw, this lightweight and airy summer hat features a wide brim and provides gentle protection from the sun while outside. The hat features a smaller brim than others listed here, however, it should still provide ample protection for your face and back of the neck.
Both stylish and functional, its soft woven structure, it is easy to fold and pack, making it ideal for bringing along to the allotment or even to the poolside. For added convenience, this hat also comes in multiple sizes ranging from extra small to large.
Failsworth Toyo Straw Safari Fedora
- Buy now from Village Hats (£34.95)
This hat is an excellent choice for any male gardener, the timeless fedora style is an age-old classic. Traditional and stylish, the wide brim provides gentle shade, but crucially it's lined with a cotton head sweatband for extra comfort.
The hat is also perfect for sunny weather thanks to its UP40+ sun protection rating. Certainly a stylish choice, the fedora is ideal for an afternoon of gardening as well as entertaining guests outdoors throughout the evening too.
Mountain Warehouse Legionnaire Sun Hat
- Buy now from Mountain Warehouse (£12.99)
A traditionally designed baseball cap is a practical option for gardening, however, what sets this one apart from the typical design is the attached cover which saves the back of your neck from the sun's rays.
The neck cover also comes with press studs built into the design allowing you to adjust the drape to suit you, whilst the drawcord helps to keep the hat firmly in place on your head.
And rest assured, you won't end up with any uncomfortable sunburn after a day in the garden as this hat has a UP50+ rating!
What to consider when buying a gardening hat
Level of Protection
When selecting a gardening sunhat, it is important to consider the level of protection it provides against the sun's harmful rays. Look for hats with a wide brim, at least 3 inches, to provide adequate shade for your face, neck, and shoulders.
Additionally, check if the hat has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, which indicates the amount of UV radiation the fabric can block. A UPF rating of 50+ is recommended for optimal protection.
Style
While the primary function of a gardening sunhat is protection, you'll also want to consider the style of the hat. There are several styles to choose from, including bucket hats, wide-brimmed hats, and visors. Choose a style that suits your personal taste and provides the level of coverage you need.
Material
The material of the sunhat can impact its level of protection and comfort. Look for hats made from breathable materials like cotton, hemp, or straw, which can help keep you cool and comfortable while working in the sun.
Hats made from synthetic materials like polyester may not be as breathable, but they can be more durable and moisture-wicking.
A gardening sunhat is an essential accessory for anyone who spends time tending to their plants outdoors. With the right sunhat, you can protect yourself from harmful UV rays, stay cool and comfortable, and look great while doing it.
When selecting a gardening sunhat, consider the level of protection, style, and material to ensure you find the perfect hat for your needs.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, a sunhat can help you enjoy your time in the garden while staying safe and stylish. So, grab a sunhat and get ready to dig in!
If you're looking for more garden essentials, why not check out our roundup of the best gardening shoes?