When playing golf in sunny weather, remember that you could spend up to 4 hours on an 18 holes golf course, and if you are not wearing the right gear, you could be impacted by dehydration or other worse conditions from too much sun exposure.
In this article, based on my experience of playing endless hours of golf in the blistering heat, I will take you through what to look for in the best golf hat to keep your head and neck protected while playing golf.
What to look for in the best golf hats
I will only focus on golf bucket hats. While baseball style hat or visors do provide sun protection for your head and face, they will not protect the back of your neck.
When deciding which golf hat is best suited for your needs there are a few features to consider, such as the amount of UV protection that you require, the size of the golf hat, the width of the brim, and how breathable it is.
UV Protection
The UPF protection rating on the bucket hat will let you know exactly how much it will protect you from the harmful UV rays. Make sure that you pick one with a UPF 50 or higher so that you have the best sun protection.
Material
There are many options when it comes to golf bucket hat materials, so you have to decide what’s important. Some materials will be more breathable or waterproof than others, and some might hold their shape better over time.
You want to purchase a hat that is lightweight and built to last. In general, the higher the price tag equates to better materials which means it will be able to stand up against all types of outdoor weather conditions.
Size
Finding the right fit is an important factor when deciding which golf hat to invest in. There are fitted golf hats that come in specific sizes and one size fits all options with a drawstring for sizing purposes. Make sure you choose a hat that feels comfortable on your head, that is not too tight and that won’t blow off at the first gust of wind!
Best golf bucket hats review
Columbia Bora Bora Booney
You’re not going to find any other golfing hat like this one! This Bora Bora Booney bucket hat by Columbia is not only super stylish, but it also offers some great features.
This wide brim hat will keep your head cool in the summertime heat, and with UPF 50 rating you’ll be protected from sun’s harmful rays too.
It comes complete with a ultra sweat wicking headband so that you can play all day without worrying about sweat dripping into your eyes when playing outside activities during hot weather conditions.
Material: 100% Nylon
Einskey Sun Hat
The Einskey Sun Hat is the ultimate golf hat for comfort and fit. With an elastic band at its base, adjustable neck cord, mesh vents on both sides of the crown and a built-in sweatband to keep you dry and cool – this sun hat has it all!
This golf hat includes a wide brim (3.7 – 3.9 inches) to keep your head and neck covered from the sun.
The Einskey sun hat is made of 100 % polyester material which will keep you dry in the rain but may be heavier and less breathable than other non-waterproof blended materials.
This bucket hat comes in six different colors, but one downside is that it only comes in one size (it will fit most adult head circumference between 22 and 24 inches).
Material: 100% Polyester
Coolibar Kaden Crushable Ventilated Hat UPF 50+
The Coolibar UPF 50+ Ventilated Hat is the best golf hat for breathability. Thanks to its mesh vented crown, this bucket hat will keep your head cool in the hot sunny weather. It also includes a UPF 50 rating to protect you from the harmful rays.
This Coolibar hat includes a 3 inch stiff brim that will keep its shape no matter the conditions on the course.
This golf hat also includes an adjustable chin cord that can be tightened on windy days so that your new favorite hat stays put.
The Coolibar UPF 50+ Ventilated Hat comes in three colors and three sizes.
Material: 100% Polyester
Nike Golf Bucket Hat
If you’re a fan of Nike apparel, the Nike Golf UV bucket hat is for you.
This innovative style includes Nike’s Dri-Fit technology, keeping your head equally as cool and dry with its mesh lining around it and the Nike flex fabric to ensure a perfect fit around your head.
It comes in three colors; white, black and dark gray to match any outfit or mood and four sizes.
Some of the drawbacks of the Nike Golf UV bucket hat is that it doesn’t have an adjustable chin strap, which could be a problem if you’re playing in windy weather.
Another downside is its UPF 40 rating which will give you the same sun protection as many golf hats.
Material: 88% Polyester, 12% Spandex
Under Armour ArmourVent Warrior Bucket Hat
No matter the weather, you can stay cool and protected in this Under Armor Warrior Bucket Hat.
With an extended wide brim for maximum coverage, it also features the Cooling Armor Vent technology which allows maximum breathability and UPF 50+ sun protection for your skin while on the golf course.
Material: 84% Polyester 16% Elastane
Froggs Toggs Breathable Boonie Hat
Frogg Toggs waterproof golf hat is perfect for the golfer on-the-go. Thanks to its crushable and foldable design, it can be easily stored in any pocket of your golf bag!
It includes a good wide brim size that provides plenty of protection from harmful UV rays down to your chin and the back of your neck.
This bucket hat is made of Polypropylene which like Polyester is waterproof but also much more breathable.
Material: 100% Polypropylene
FAQ
Can you wash a golf hat?
The best way to clean your golf hat is with cool water and detergent. It only takes a few minutes of effort, but it will be enough to get all the sweat stains out! If you decide to put it in the washing machine, make sure to check the label first!
What are golf hat clips for?
A golf hat clip is used to mark the position of a golf ball, allowing the ball to be removed and then put back on the same spot. The golfer clips this piece onto their golf hat brim so that they can reach for it more conveniently.
How do I know what size I need for my golf hat?
To figure out your golf hat size, measure the circumference of your head by making sure that you keep the tape measure straight and firm. Make sure you position the tape measure across your temples and above eyebrow ridges.
Final Thoughts
Golf is a great game to enjoy the outdoors in all types of weather. Make sure you are well prepared for those sunny days by wearing long sleeves, applying sun cream, a pair of good golf sunglasses and sporting that good ol’ golfing hat.
When choosing the best golf hats for sun protection, make sure it is a wide brim bucket hat that is big enough to cover most of your face and the back of your neck.
Choose a breathable hat so it won’t get too hot or humid when you’re playing golf in warm weather.
Also make sure it has a UPF 50+ rating for great sun protection!
