Best summer hats 2026: Beach hats, sun protection and more

Summer is in full swing and your best companion to any summer adventure is a great hat.

Whether you’re planning beach vacations, camping trips, afternoons by the pool, music festivals or long days spent sightseeing, the right hat can provide stylish sun protection while keeping you cool and shaded.

When it comes to hats, fashion and function can easily go hand in hand. The secret is reading reviews and doing the research first.

We shopped out everything from packable straw hats to UPF rated styles designed for hiking and other outdoor adventures.

Scroll on to check them out.

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Best cooling hat

Home Depot

1-Size Fits Most Cooling Wide Brim Hat Navy

This hat is designed with cooling technology and a wide brim to keep you comfortable even on the hottest days. It’s a practical pick for gardening, outdoor work, sporting events or long afternoons in the sun.

• $19.98

• The Home Depot

The Home Depot

Best beach hat

Jenni Kayne

Crochet Raffia Sun Hat

This chic crochet raffia hat brings effortless coastal style to any beach or poolside look. The silhouette offers generous shade while elevating everything from swimsuits to linen dresses.

• $195.00

• Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne

Best affordable straw hat

63% off

Old Navy

Straw Sun Hat for Women

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, this classic straw hat delivers the look of a much pricier style while providing lightweight coverage for everyday summer outings.

• $8.49
• $22.99

• Old Navy

Old Navy

UPF protection

Land's End

UPF 50 Active Wide Brim Sun Hat

Built with UPF 50 sun protection, this hat is made for everything from hikes to afternoons by the pool.

• $44.95

• Land's End

Land's End

Best for camping

REI

Vented Trailsmith Hat

Whether you’re camping, hiking or exploring a new trail, this vented hat is designed to keep air flowing while offering reliable sun coverage.

• $59.95

• REI

REI

Best packable visor

Target

Packable Straw Full Visor Hat - Shade & Shore Tan

This packable visor rolls up easily, making it a convenient addition to your beach bag or suitcase.

• $12.00

• Target

Target

 Best lightweight and breathable

Anthropologie

Cotton Crusher Hat

Made from breathable cotton, this easygoing hat is lightweight enough for everyday wear throughout the season. Its relaxed shape pairs effortlessly with everything from casual errands to weekend getaways.

• $40.00

• Anthropologie

Anthropologie

Best reversible bucket hat

Lululemon

Reversible Cotton Bucket Hat

Get two looks in one with this reversible bucket hat that easily switches up your summer style. The soft cotton construction makes it a comfortable option for travel and everyday wear.

• $48.00

• Lululemon

Lululemon