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10 Best Cooling Hats 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MISSION Cooling UPF Bucket Hat - Unisex Sun Hat for Hiking, Golfing & Fishing - Sweat & Water Activated Technology, Bronze Green

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,183
Material
Cooling Technology
UV Protection

Most important from
25617 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
9.9
Chosen by1,183
Material
Cooling Technology
UV Protection

Most important from
25617 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'.
#2

MISSION Cooling UPF Performance Hat - Unisex One Size Cap for Workouts, Golf & Running - Sweat & Water Activated Technology (White)

Rating
9.8
Material
Cooling Technology
Fit and Adjustability

Most important from
14440 reviews

Material
The hat maintains its shape well even after repeated wetting and drying.
Cooling Technology
The cooling effect kicks in quickly when wet, providing refreshing relief on hot days.
Fit and Adjustability
Fits true to size for men, especially those who prefer a medium-large fitted style.
Style and Design
The unstructured, slightly baggy design may not suit those seeking a more form-fitting or feminine fit.

The MISSION Cooling UPF Performance Hat is a solid choice for anyone needing a cooling hat for workouts, golf, running, or other outdoor activities. Its standout feature is the water- and sweat-activated Wet-to-Cool Technology, which can cool the hat by up to 30 degrees below body temperature within a minute, offering refreshing relief for up to two hours with simple reactivation. This makes it particularly useful for hot, sunny days when staying cool is a priority.

The hat also provides excellent sun protection with UPF 50, blocking 98% of harmful UV rays, making it a smart pick for outdoor use. Comfort hasn’t been overlooked either—the lightweight, breathable fabric promotes airflow and ventilation to keep your head feeling fresh. The adjustable hook-and-loop closure allows a good range of head sizes to find a comfortable fit, though the unstructured design might not appeal to those who want a more rigid or form-fitting cap.

It’s also machine washable and resists odors, which is convenient for frequent wear. This hat is versatile and practical, especially for active people looking to stay cool and protected from the sun without using chemicals or complicated gadgets.

Rating
9.8
Material
Cooling Technology
Fit and Adjustability

Most important from
14440 reviews

Material
The hat maintains its shape well even after repeated wetting and drying.
Cooling Technology
The cooling effect kicks in quickly when wet, providing refreshing relief on hot days.
Fit and Adjustability
Fits true to size for men, especially those who prefer a medium-large fitted style.
Style and Design
The unstructured, slightly baggy design may not suit those seeking a more form-fitting or feminine fit.
#3

Sunday Afternoons Charter Hat, Sun Hats for Men, Women, UPF 50+ Protection, Safari Hat with Ventilation, Water Repellent Fishing Hat, Chin Strap, Packable, Quarry, Large

Rating
9.6
UV Protection
Fit and Adjustability
Ventilation

Most important from
1 reviews

UV Protection
The brim stays stiff and secure even in heavy wind and wet conditions, ensuring reliable sun protection without flopping around.
Fit and Adjustability
Its adjustable internal band keeps the hat firmly in place during active pursuits like sailing and windsurfing.
Ventilation
Lightweight and breathable design keeps the head cool even on the hottest days, enhancing all-day wearability.
Style and Design
This hat offers exceptional comfort and quality, making it a top choice for fishing, boating, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

The Sunday Afternoons Charter Hat stands out as a solid choice for anyone seeking reliable sun protection combined with comfort. Made from 100% nylon, it offers a lightweight feel that’s easy to wear for long periods. Its UPF 50+ rating provides excellent defense against harmful UV rays, and the breathable mesh ventilation on the crown helps keep your head cool on hot days. The wide brims, with a foam core that even floats, add both sun coverage and practicality for water activities.

Adjustable sizing and a chin strap ensure the hat stays put, even in windy conditions, which is great for outdoor adventures. The moisture-wicking sweatband adds to comfort by managing sweat, and the stain-resistant, water-repellent fabric makes it a low-maintenance option suitable for fishing, hiking, or gardening. The interior crown pocket and patented Sunglass Lock are thoughtful touches that enhance convenience.

The sizing covers a relatively narrow range, which might not fit everyone perfectly, and the care instructions require gentle handling, meaning the hat cannot be machine washed or dried. While the style is practical and unisex, it may not appeal to those looking for a more trendy look. This hat is a dependable pick for outdoor enthusiasts looking for functionality, sun protection, and comfort in a cooling hat.

Rating
9.6
UV Protection
Fit and Adjustability
Ventilation

Most important from
1 reviews

UV Protection
The brim stays stiff and secure even in heavy wind and wet conditions, ensuring reliable sun protection without flopping around.
Fit and Adjustability
Its adjustable internal band keeps the hat firmly in place during active pursuits like sailing and windsurfing.
Ventilation
Lightweight and breathable design keeps the head cool even on the hottest days, enhancing all-day wearability.
Style and Design
This hat offers exceptional comfort and quality, making it a top choice for fishing, boating, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

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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