10 Best Cooling Hats 2025 in the United States

The MISSION Cooling Anywhere Boonie Hat is a solid choice if you're looking for a hat that keeps you cool and protected outdoors. Made mostly of polyester with mesh vents, it's lightweight and breathable, which helps with airflow and comfort during warm days. Its standout feature is the HydroActive Wet-to-Cool technology—it cools your skin quickly by up to 30 degrees below body temperature and lasts for about two hours after activation with water. This is great if you spend time hiking, fishing, or just being outside in the sun. The hat also offers strong UPF 50 sun protection, shielding your face, neck, and ears effectively.

Fit-wise, it has an adjustable chin cord that ensures it stays in place and suits different head sizes, making it comfortable for both men and women. Plus, the pull-on design and wide brim add to its protective coverage. The built-in zipper pocket is a convenient touch for small essentials. On the downside, while the cooling effect is impressive, it requires re-wetting to maintain coolness, so you need access to water during long outings. Also, since it’s mostly polyester, some might find it less soft compared to natural fabrics.

It’s machine washable and resists odors, which is handy for regular use. Style-wise, the etched camo black forest pattern is functional but may appeal mostly to outdoor enthusiasts rather than casual wearers. If you want a dependable, cooling hat for outdoor adventures with solid sun protection and good ventilation, this hat does a great job.

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 Sunday Afternoons Unisex Charter Hat is designed to offer solid sun protection and comfort for outdoor activities. Made from 100% nylon, it’s lightweight, water-repellent, and stain-resistant, making it a good choice for those spending time near water or in variable weather. The hat features a UPF 50+ rating, which means it blocks most harmful UV rays, helping to protect your skin during long sun exposure. Ventilation is well thought out, with breathable mesh on the crown to keep your head cool, while the moisture-wicking sweatband helps manage sweat, enhancing comfort in hot conditions.

Its fit is adjustable with a drawstring and chin strap, which is especially useful on windy days to keep the hat secure. The brim size is balanced, providing ample shade without being cumbersome. Style-wise, it offers a casual, functional look suitable for both men and women, and it’s crushable for easy packing, which is great for travel. Some may find the nylon fabric less soft compared to cotton hats, and while the adjustable sizing covers a good range, those with very small or larger heads might find the fit less ideal. Also, care requires hand washing, which might be less convenient for some users.

This hat is well suited for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable sun protection, cooling features, and a durable, travel-friendly design.