I sunburn easily and do not like glare. I have often backpacked or hiked with a hat or a visor.
So I’m writing about (a) which hat and (b) why a hat. And why I settled on a cheap hat.
Which hat?
Since I’ve become more bald I’ve given up the visor. That has meant using a hat. And not a cowboy hat you might wear around local hikes if you live in Texas.
For backpacking I started with a Costco hat on a backpacking trip and liked it before I managed to lose it.
I switched to a Tilley Hat.
Pros:
- It looks nice.
- Lifetime guarantee covers losing it or it getting stolen.
- People recognize them and are positive.
- Ear and neck protection from the sun.
Cons:
- It is heavy.
- It is not waterproof and even with a lot of waterproofing it does not get waterproof.
- It is hot. The airflow system is better than not having it, but not good enough.
- Expensive if you don’t get it at the REI garage sale.
- Banged into my backpack too often.
I tried an outdoor research hat that we had (so no additional cost).
Pros:
- Very pretty blue color like my wife’s eyes.
- Deep. Many “ball cap” style hats are not deep enough. Since I like to put my phone and headlamp in my hat at night deeper is better, not to mention it fits my head better.
- Light.
- Fits well under the hood of rain gear and the brim sheds water well.
- Dries quickly.
Cons:
- When the hostel laundry gets it, it disappears forever and no one can account for why.
- No ear protection.
Replacement ball caps have not been as deep, or have stayed wet forever. None look good enough to disappear.
Currently I use a Frogg Toggs hat. https://www.trailspace.com/gear/frogg-toggs/waterproof-breathable-boonie-hat/
Waterproof. Very light. Inexpensive. breathes well. Protects my neck and ears. So light I’m not bothered by the weight if conditions work out so I don’t need to wear it.
Cheap enough that if it disappeared I’d be willing to buy a replacement. Did I mention it is light?
Why a hat?
Some trails make sunglasses and hats redundant and a waste of effort. I’ve been so much happier since I gave up on sunglasses on the Appalachian Trail.
On the other hand, some trails you will go snow blind without sunglasses and you will burn without sungloves and a hat.
Hats can often help with rain. A lot of raingear could use much better brims or head gear. Even great rain gear sometimes feels better and breathes better with a wider brim.
Hats provide warmth. Admittedly much less with my current choice.
They are also a great place to stash your headlamp at night when you go to sleep.
But the truth is that a hat is often not justified and can readily be replaced with a buff or even just long hair in many circumstances.
Everyone finds what works for them.