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10 Best Cooling Hats 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MISSION Cooling Performance Hat, Black - Unisex Baseball Cap for Men & Women - Lightweight & Adjustable - Cools Up to 2 Hours - UPF 50 Sun Protection - Machine Washable

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,211
Material
Cooling Technology
Style and Design

Most important from
14325 reviews

Material
Super lightweight and thin material with zero fatigue from wearing it.
Cooling Technology
A great hat for golf at a great price, designed to get wet and cool your body temperature by up to 30 degrees.
Style and Design
The bill seems a bit longer than typical, adding to its attractiveness.

The MISSION Cooling UPF Performance Hat offers several notable strengths that make it appealing for active individuals. Its standout feature is the water and sweat-activated cooling technology, which can cool the hat by up to 30 degrees below body temperature within a minute and maintain this effect for up to 2 hours. This is particularly beneficial for workouts, golf, running, or any outdoor activities where staying cool is crucial. The hat's UPF 50 protection is another strong point, effectively blocking 98% of harmful UV rays, which is essential for outdoor enthusiasts concerned about sun exposure.

The hat is made from lightweight and breathable 100% polyester, ensuring comfort during prolonged use. Its unisex design, with an adjustable hook-and-loop closure, caters to a wide range of head sizes, making it versatile and accommodating for most adults. Additionally, the hat is machine washable and designed to resist odors, which simplifies maintenance and ensures lasting freshness.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The one-size-fits-most approach might not be suitable for individuals with particularly small or large head circumferences. While the cooling technology is impressive, it requires periodic reactivation with water, which might not be convenient in all situations. The design is functional but might not appeal to everyone stylistically, as it prioritizes performance over fashion. In summary, the MISSION Cooling UPF Performance Hat is ideal for athletes, outdoor workers, and active individuals looking for effective cooling and UV protection. Its practical features and comfort make it a valuable accessory, though it may not cater to all size or style preferences.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,211
Material
Cooling Technology
Style and Design

Most important from
14325 reviews

Material
Super lightweight and thin material with zero fatigue from wearing it.
Cooling Technology
A great hat for golf at a great price, designed to get wet and cool your body temperature by up to 30 degrees.
Style and Design
The bill seems a bit longer than typical, adding to its attractiveness.
#2

MISSION Cooling Bucket Hat, Bronze Green - Unisex Wide-Brim Hat for Men & Women - Lightweight, Foldable & Durable - Cools Up to 2 Hours - UPF 50 Sun Protection - Machine Washable

Rating
9.6
Material
Cooling Technology
UV Protection

Most important from
25512 reviews

Material
Perfect for the beach or on a hike, with comfortable material.
Cooling Technology
The cooling effect mainly targets the top and inner rim, providing shade and some cooling relief.
UV Protection
The hat is amazing, with a great color, fit, and it definitely keeps you cooler while protecting your neck from the sun.
Fit and Adjustability
Despite being a bit tight for larger heads, it remains perfectly comfortable for most users.
Style and Design
Lightweight and easy to wear, though the floppy brim can sometimes feel 'bonnet-like'.

The MISSION Cooling UPF Bucket Hat is a versatile unisex hat designed for outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and fishing. One of its standout features is the innovative water and sweat-activated cooling technology, which can cool the hat up to 30 degrees below the average body temperature in under a minute and keep it cool for up to two hours. This is great for anyone who spends extended periods outdoors and needs to stay cool and focused.

The hat also boasts impressive UPF 50 protection, blocking 98% of harmful UV rays, which is essential for sun safety. The hat is made from 100% polyester, making it lightweight and breathable, which enhances comfort during wear. Additionally, it is machine washable and resistant to odors, ensuring easy maintenance and long-lasting freshness.

The design includes an adjustable neck cord and a flexible brim with snaps, allowing for a customizable fit for most adult head sizes. However, while the hat's cooling features are excellent, it may require frequent rewetting for prolonged cooling effects, which might not be convenient for all users. Some might also find the style too sporty for more formal outdoor occasions. Nonetheless, this hat is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts looking for effective cooling and UV protection in a practical, easy-to-care-for design.

Rating
9.6
Material
Cooling Technology
UV Protection

Most important from
25512 reviews

Material
Perfect for the beach or on a hike, with comfortable material.
Cooling Technology
The cooling effect mainly targets the top and inner rim, providing shade and some cooling relief.
UV Protection
The hat is amazing, with a great color, fit, and it definitely keeps you cooler while protecting your neck from the sun.
Fit and Adjustability
Despite being a bit tight for larger heads, it remains perfectly comfortable for most users.
Style and Design
Lightweight and easy to wear, though the floppy brim can sometimes feel 'bonnet-like'.
#3

MISSION Cooling Anywhere Boonie Hat, Charcoal - Unisex Wide-Brim Hat for Men & Women - Lightweight & Durable - Cools Up to 2 Hours - UPF 50 Sun Protection - Machine Washable

Rating
9.4
Material
Cooling Technology
UV Protection

Most important from
315 reviews

Material
The hat’s flexible material conforms nicely to the shape of your head.
Cooling Technology
The HydroActive Wet-to-Cool Technology really works – just dunk it, squeeze it, and wear it for instant cooling.
UV Protection
The brim size provides excellent sun protection, almost like working in the shade.
Fit and Adjustability
Lightweight and comfortable, it’s perfect for extended wear.
Ventilation
The mesh design ensures great ventilation, making it feel like a light breeze on your head.

The MISSION Cooling Anywhere Boonie Hat is designed to provide comfort and protection during outdoor activities. One of its key strengths is the HydroActive Wet-to-Cool Technology, which cools the hat by up to 30 degrees below the average body temperature within a minute and keeps it cool for up to two hours. This feature is excellent for staying cool during hikes, gardening, or any other outdoor activities. Additionally, the hat offers UPF 50 sun protection, shielding your face, neck, and ears from harmful UV rays.

It’s made from lightweight and breathable polyester fabric, which includes mesh venting for added ventilation, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The hat is also machine washable, making it easy to clean and maintain, and it resists odors, ensuring long-lasting freshness. A practical built-in zipper pocket allows you to store small items securely. The adjustable chin cord ensures a snug fit, and its unisex design makes it suitable for both men and women.

On the downside, the hat's cooling effect lasts only up to 2 hours, so it may need frequent reactivation with water during long outings. Additionally, the hat is imported, which might be a consideration for those looking to buy domestic products. Despite these minor drawbacks, the hat's durability, cooling technology, and sun protection features make it a solid choice for anyone looking to stay cool and protected in the sun.

Rating
9.4
Material
Cooling Technology
UV Protection

Most important from
315 reviews

Material
The hat’s flexible material conforms nicely to the shape of your head.
Cooling Technology
The HydroActive Wet-to-Cool Technology really works – just dunk it, squeeze it, and wear it for instant cooling.
UV Protection
The brim size provides excellent sun protection, almost like working in the shade.
Fit and Adjustability
Lightweight and comfortable, it’s perfect for extended wear.
Ventilation
The mesh design ensures great ventilation, making it feel like a light breeze on your head.

Buying Guide for the Best Cooling Hats

Cooling hats are a great way to stay comfortable and protected from the sun during hot weather. They are designed to keep your head cool and reduce the risk of heat-related issues. When choosing a cooling hat, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a cooling hat.
MaterialThe material of a cooling hat is crucial because it affects breathability, moisture-wicking, and overall comfort. Common materials include polyester, nylon, and cotton blends. Polyester and nylon are lightweight and quick-drying, making them ideal for intense activities. Cotton blends are softer and more comfortable for casual wear. Choose a material based on your activity level and comfort preference.
Cooling TechnologyCooling technology refers to the methods used to keep the hat cool. Some hats use evaporative cooling, where you wet the hat, and it cools as the water evaporates. Others use phase change materials that absorb and release heat. Evaporative cooling hats are great for short-term cooling and are easy to use, while phase change materials provide longer-lasting cooling. Consider how long you need the cooling effect to last and how easy the hat is to recharge or reactivate.
UV ProtectionUV protection is important to shield your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Look for hats with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. A higher UPF rating means better protection. For example, a UPF 50+ rating blocks 98% of UV rays. If you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially during peak sun hours, a hat with high UV protection is essential.
Fit and AdjustabilityA good fit ensures that the hat stays in place and provides maximum comfort. Many cooling hats come with adjustable features like drawstrings, elastic bands, or Velcro straps. These allow you to customize the fit to your head size and shape. If you plan to wear the hat during active pursuits, a secure and adjustable fit is important to prevent it from slipping or falling off.
VentilationVentilation refers to the hat's ability to allow air to circulate, which helps keep your head cool. Look for hats with mesh panels or ventilation holes. These features enhance breathability and prevent overheating. If you are engaging in high-intensity activities or spending long hours in the sun, good ventilation is key to staying comfortable.
Style and DesignWhile functionality is important, the style and design of the hat also matter. Cooling hats come in various styles, such as caps, wide-brim hats, and bucket hats. Choose a style that suits your personal preference and the activities you will be doing. For example, wide-brim hats offer more sun protection for your face and neck, while caps are more compact and sporty.

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