Sun Protection

The Best Wide-Brimmed Hats to Wear as Extra Sun Protection This Summer

If you're eager to soak up every ounce of sun this year after a seemingly endless stretch of winter, that's understandable. But it's still important to remember how harmful the sun can be for your skin, and that doesn't just mean covering your bases with sunscreen. Thankfully, one of the easiest ways to go the extra mile when it comes to sun protection is by being more mindful about some of the clothes and accessories you're already wearing — especially when it comes to wide-brimmed hats. According to California-based dermatologist Nita Patel, they're a great way to not only protect your scalp from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, the right hat will protect your neck and face, too. As for what makes the "right" hat? Patel notes that hats with a four-inch brim and UPF 50+ offer the best protection. Luckily, plenty of stylish, on-trend options meet those requirements. Here, we've rounded up eight of our favorites, starting at $17.

By Tanisha Pina

May 29, 2018

Courtesy of brand
1/8
Eugenia Kim Mirable Straw Hat
This Eugenia Kim option is basically the La Mer of sun hats. The curved, oversize brim makes this hat an overachiever, not only shielding the face and neck, but the shoulders, too.
$515 (Shop Now)
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2/8
Columbia Global Adventure Packable Hat
For the perpetual adventurer, this Amazon favorite features UPF 50 sun protection, a sweat-wicking headband, and an adjustable strap to keep it secure. Reviewers love that the hat is easy to pack and that it "retains its shape" after unfolding.
$30 (Shop Now)

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3/8
Topshop Wide Brim Straw Hat
The exaggerated wide brim on this Topshop option checks the sun-protection box, and the all-black look is refreshing in a sea of natural straw and wicker. Plus, it's almost like Kendall Jenner's beloved Jacquemus hat, but a few hundred dollars cheaper.
$52 (Shop Now)
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4/8
Madewell Bandana Trim Straw Hat
This is the perfect hat, should you be looking to lean into that Western-chic trend this summer. It's simple enough for the minimalist crowd, but with just a little bit of added fun for those looking for something special. Plus, it clears the four-inch brim rule, so it's perfect for everyday wear during the summer.
$48 (Shop Now)

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5/8
Eric Javits Hampton Sun Hat
Eric Javits is known for making sturdy, long-lasting hats, and this colorful option is no exception. With a brim just over four inches, the brand claims to block 95 percent of UVA and UVB rays. Reviewers all seem to agree that this hat is the best of fashion and function, with one noting, “It’s a piece that I can wear over and over again.”
$198 (Shop Now)
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6/8
Lola Hats Espartina Hat
With its wide, up-turned brim measuring eight inches — double the recommended measurement for sun protection — this hat definitely gives off some Handmaid's Tale vibes, but it's super chic nonetheless. Plus, the adjustable closure means you can get the perfect secure fit.
$275 (Shop Now)

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7/8
Siggi Summer Flap Sun Hat
While certainly the most functional on the list, this option is beloved by Amazon shoppers, with over 400 five-star reviews. It's made of cotton, is easy to pack, offers UPF 50+ protection, and features a nearly five-inch brim to protect the forehead, eyes, and cheeks.
$17 (Shop Now)
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8/8
Off-White by Virgil Abloh Logo-Band Straw Hat
For those who love to follow high fashion, can we interest you in a hat by none other than designer of the moment Virgil Abloh? The hat is subtle and sleek, even with the white band touting the brand. And with a brim at just over six inches, it exceeds the four-inch brim requirement, too. Win, win.
$255 (Shop Now)