10 Best Cooling Hats 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

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.