Best UPF Sun Hats: 3 Picks Compared (2026)
Three sun hats with a brim all the way around, compared on what each maker publishes. We have not tested them.
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CDC’s advice is simple: a brim all the way around, in tightly woven fabric. All three picks meet that, with different trade-offs in coverage and airflow.
Quick picks
- Best coverageUltra Adventure HatCheck price
- Best everyday wide brimLeo Shapeable Wide Brim HatCheck price
- Best for airflowBora Bora II BooneyCheck price
Side-by-side specs
| Spec | Top pickSunday AfternoonsUltra Adventure Hat | CoolibarLeo Shapeable Wide Brim Hat | ColumbiaBora Bora II Booney |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Hiking with full neck coverage | Gardening and travel | Hot days and fishing |
| Weightlower is better | 0.16 lb★ Best2.6 oz (73.7 g) | 0.38 lb6 oz | Not listed |
| UPF | 50+ (includes mesh) | 50+ (blocks 98% of UVA/UVB, per Coolibar) | 50 (not on mesh) |
| Coverage | 3.5 in brim, 6 in neck cape | 10 cm front, 8 cm sides and back brim | 3 in brim |
| Fabric | 88% nylon, 12% polyester body | Coolibar Lite fabric | 100% nylon poplin |
| Features | Sunglass Lock, chinstrap, folding brim, PFAS-free DWR | Wicking sweatband, vent grommets, drawcord, chin cord | Omni-Wick sweatband, chin strap, back toggle |
| Price | Check price | Check price | Check price |
Specs from each manufacturer's US product page. Bars compare each spec against the best value in this table; they are not test scores. Prices change often, so we link out instead of quoting them.
The picks
★Best coverage
Sunday AfternoonsUltra Adventure Hat
Best for: Hiking with full neck coverage
A light hiking hat with a 3.5 in brim, a 6 in neck cape and UPF 50+ fabric that includes the mesh.
What we like
- Neck cape covers ears and neck
- Mesh is UPF rated
Watch out for
- Cape style is not for everyday wear
A 3.5 in brim plus a 6 in neck cape, UPF 50+ including the mesh, at 2.6 oz.
★Best everyday wide brim
CoolibarLeo Shapeable Wide Brim Hat
Best for: Gardening and travel
A shapeable wide-brim hat, UPF 50+, with a 4 in front brim and 3 in sides and back.
What we like
- Brim all the way around
- Three sizes including XXL
Watch out for
- Heaviest hat here
A 4 in front brim and 3 in sides and back, UPF 50+, at 6 oz, in three sizes.
★Best for airflow
ColumbiaBora Bora II Booney
Best for: Hot days and fishing
A vented nylon booney with a 3 in brim and Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric. The rating does not cover the mesh.
What we like
- Lots of venting
- Adjustable chin strap
Watch out for
- Mesh panels are not UPF rated
A 3 in brim with lots of mesh. The UPF 50 rating covers the fabric, not the mesh.
How to choose
- Brim all the way around. Baseball caps leave ears and neck bare, CDC notes.
- Look for UPF 50+. See what UPF means.
- Pair with a sun shirt. See best sun shirts and hoodies.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of hat does CDC recommend?
A hat with a brim all the way around that shades the face, ears and back of the neck, in tightly woven fabric.
Is the mesh UPF rated?
On the Ultra Adventure, yes, per Sunday Afternoons. Columbia says the Bora Bora II rating does not cover its mesh.
