Hat-ology for Dads: Stay Stylish While Protecting Your Face From Sunburn

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What are your absolute must-haves when going out? What items do you make sure to grab before leaving the house, whether you’re running an errand or going out with your family?

If your answer doesn’t include a “hat” or “cap,” then you’re doing something wrong. 

Wearing a hat or cap doesn’t mean being unfashionable — it’s quite the opposite! Hats are very much in fashion this season, from bucket hats and fedoras to the trusty baseball cap. Moreover, hats aren’t just a fun fashion accessory. They offer practical and health benefits, too!

More Than a Style Statement, Hats  Can Save Your Skin!

The right style of hat can provide reliable sun protection, helping you avoid sunburn and protecting your face against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. As you grow older, your risk of certain skin issues also grows — and many of these are exacerbated by neglecting proper sun protection.

Direct exposure to UV rays can damage skin cells. Excessive exposure to the sun and UV rays can cause skin discoloration, wrinkles, and premature aging. Even worse, it can potentially cause skin cancer.

Prevent skin cancer by using a great hat

Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer — and it primarily develops in areas of your body that are exposed to the sun. This is why the face, ears, and neck are the most common places to get this type of cancer. More importantly, older men — especially those with fair skin and eyes — have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Wearing hats can also reduce the risk of damage to your eyes, helping you avoid cataracts, macular degeneration, and similar conditions.

Choosing the Right Hat for Sun Protection

When it comes to hats to prevent sunburn, not all are created equal. You want to make sure you invest in hats that truly do the job. Below are the basics of what to look for to get the best hats for sun protection:

• Wide Brim: Look for hats with at least three-inch brims to ensure your face, ears, and neck are adequately covered.
• Material: Opt for hats with tightly woven fabrics like heavy cotton, wool, canvas, leather, or straw to better block out UV rays.
• UPF Rating: Just like sunscreen has SPF ratings, hats have Ultraviolet Protection Factor or UPF ratings. Aim for hats with UPF 50+ for the maximum level of sun protection.

Heads Up: Rocking Your Sun Protection in Style

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what to look for in the best hats for sun protection, let’s dive into some recommendations for stylish hats that don’t compromise on safety. Here’s our top list of fashionable and protective hats that are perfect for any dad who loves spending time in the great outdoors.

214 Fedora Hat

214 Fedora Hat

This is a certified cool hat for sun protection — and it’s perfect for formal outdoor occasions. The 214 Fedora Hat's straight and wide brim offers enough shade while the 100% wool material will help keep your head cool even in the summer. With a variety of color options and a fancy feather in the cross piece, you won’t have to worry about losing any style points!

Wind River® Switchback Outback Hat

Wind River® Switchback Outback Hat

The Wind River® Switchback Outback Hat — with its Cassidy crown and braided leather hatband — offers a classic cowboy style that’s perfect for both rugged adventures and casual wear. The wide three-inch brim works to shield your face and eyes from sunlight and other harsh elements. Crafted from water-repellent premium wool felt and the brand’s LiteFelt manufacturing process, you can rest assured of this hat’s durability. 

Airflo® Broad Brim Outback

Airflo® Broad Brim Outback

The Airflo® Broad Brim Outback top seller hat is constructed from 100% recycled nylon, making it both a stylish and sustainable hat. The hat offers a broader brim for optimal sun and rain protection. It also features mesh around the crown for ventilation and a Hydrofil® sweatband for optimum moisture-wicking. Best of all, it’s lightweight and has a UPF50+ rating for superior sun protection! 

Straw Sunbucket P Hat

Straw Sunbucket P Hat

If you’re looking for a cool hat for sun protection the next time you visit the beach, the Straw Sunbucket P Hat is perfect for you. It effectively combines style and sun protection with its 100% straw material. This hat sports a tall crown and wide brim, offering ample shade and sunburn prevention. Meanwhile, the polyester under the brim gives off a fun vibe with its white palm tree print. The pull-on style and secure drawstring closure ensure it always stays put, too.

Pars & Stripes Rope Cap 

Pars & Stripes Rope Cap 

The Pars & Stripes Rope Cap is a great option for a daily driver sun hat. Made from a blend of 95% polyester and 5% elastane, this hat offers moisture-wicking properties for maximum comfort on sweltering days. The polyester material also means this hat is sturdy enough to withstand everyday wear. Plus, it has the flag colors! 

Leather Patch Mesh Back Cap 

Leather Patch Mesh Back Cap 

This Drake® Leather Patch Mesh Back Cap is another strong and stylish contender for everyday sun protection. Made from 100% cotton twill and 100% polyester mesh back panels, this hat is super comfortable and offers great ventilation during hot days. The structured crown construction and adjustable snap back closure offers a snug yet comfortable fit, so it won’t fly off your head on windy days.

Sunbriolet Sun Hat 

Sunbriolet Sun Hat 

The Outdoor Research® Sunbriolet Sun Hat has practically everything you need for sun protection — starting with its UPF 50 rating. It also has a dark underbrush to reduce glare and protect your eyes. Additionally, the hat’s Supplex nylon under brim offers added durability while the moisture-wicking TransAction headband ensures comfort and coolness on sweaty days. 

Soaker Cooler Hat 

Soaker Cooler Hat 

If you’re looking for a cool hat, then this one’s for you. The mesh sidewalls of the Dorfman Soaker Cooler Hat help cool your head when temperatures rise and you have too much fun under the sun. Made from lightweight canvas, this hat also boasts a UPF 50+ rating, so it pulls double duty as a stylish accessory and a shield against harmful sun rays. 

Set a Good Example for Sun Safety

As a father, you want to always be a good role model. Wearing hats is a practical and easy way to model sun protection for your kids. Getting started on sun protection while young is a great way to help reduce their chances of getting skin issues, especially once they’re older.

Whether you’re planning a camping trip or just spending the day in the park, make sure to grab a hat that will sufficiently protect your face from sunburn or skin damage.