The best running hat for 2025

You can wear any hat or cap while running, but not all are designed for performance. If you’re ready to step up your game, it’s time to find a running hat that can keep up.  

Running hats are typically designed to temper the heat that your head generates while you’re pounding the pavement. Different brands have their own technologies for fast-drying, sweat-wicking, and cooling materials that are usually incorporated into the crown and sweatbands. They’re often made with light synthetic fabrics for comfort and mixed with mesh for ventilation.  

In recent years, as running communities have grown, running hats have also become a way to showcase your individual personality. You might be drawn to the cap with the crazy pattern, so you stand out in a race. Perhaps you want to support a brand with an inspiring story. Or maybe a hat with an ice cream graphic makes you feel like a kid again.  

I’ve been a runner for almost 30 years. I always wear a hat while running outdoors, to minimize sun damage to my face. For this guide, I polled and interviewed running experts and scrolled through data from third-party reviews. I also tested some of the final picks as I was training for my third marathon. My overall favorite is the Ciele Athletics GoCap. It’s a classic for good reason: It’s lightweight and made with soft, high-quality fabric. It also has UPF protection and looks good on anyone.     

But every runner is different, so I’ve rounded up top picks that can suit different needs. Choose the hat that feels like you—and makes you want to get out and run.     

When shopping for a running hat, it’s important to make sure it fits the circumference and shape of your head. Look for lightweight, quick-drying materials like polyester and nylon. Breathable elements such as mesh or holes are key for airflow. Besides effectively keeping sweat out of your eyes, sweatbands should feel comfortable against skin. Not all running hats have it, but UPF sun protection is a bonus—absent that, go for darker colors. In our opinion, running hats that you can toss in the washing machine will likely do a better job of getting you out the door than ones you have to handwash.  

Best running hat overall: Ciele Athletics GoCap 

Why we like it: Ciele GoCaps have been popular with runners since the Canadian company launched in 2014, with hats made of soft, breathable “Coowick” fabric and eye-catching color-block designs. “Ciele was one of the brands that really started pushing style,” says Colorado-based running journalist Brian Metzler, “and they did a good job creating a look and vibe that was youthful and cool.”  

The GoCap has a reinforced front panel, which helps the cap maintain its shape. The rims adjust from a flat or curved silhouette and stay put. Reflective detailing helps with visibility during night runs, while designs from monochromatic hues to zebra stripes make day runs fun. 

Keep in mind: The clasp in the back is hard to adjust, but once fitted, you can secure the strap into the circumference of the cap. The GoCap is expensive for a running cap, but the company says each comes with a “million miles guarantee” that repairs, refunds, or replaces your hat, if necessary.  

Product details: Fabric: 100% recycled polyester, according to the brand | Head circumference: 22.8 in. | Weight: 2.2 oz. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 100+ | UPF: 40+ on the brim, front panel, and back panel | Machine washable: Yes

Best running hats for women: Lululemon Fast and Free Ponytail Running Hat, Oiselle Foldable Roga Cap 

Why we like it: The Lululemon Fast and Free Ponytail Running Hat is, by far, the softest hat of the bunch. It’s lightweight and stretchy and has a larger, wider opening in the back so women can pull up their ponytails at any height.  

I also like the Oiselle Foldable Roga cap for women. Oiselle is a running apparel company designed by and for women that claims to put careful consideration into its products. The brim folds in half and secures neatly with a built-in elastic so you can easily stick the hat in a pocket. A tiny zip pocket in the crown is handy for storing an ID, a credit card, or a key. I like that the crown has a cute bird pattern on the side that acts as a reflector for safety and visibility. 

Keep in mind: Some reviewers say these hats fit smaller heads better. Neither hat provides UPF protection. The ventilation on the Lululemon Fast and Free isn’t as good as other models. 

Product details for Lululemon Fast and Free Ponytail Running Hat: Fabric: 82% nylon, 18% Lycra elastane (lining); 86% recycled polyester, according to brand, 14% elastane (body) | Sizes: One size | Colors: 6 | UPF: No | Machine washable: No 

Product details for Oiselle Foldable Roga Cap: Fabric: 100% polyester | Sizes: One size | Colors: 5 | UPF: No | Machine washable: No 

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Best running hat for men: Outdoor Research Swift Cap, Nike Dri-Fit Club Unstructured Featherlight Cap 

Why we like it: Reviewers consistently praise the Outdoor Research Swift Cap for its lightweight, comfortable, and breathable build. The crown is completely unstructured (you can scrunch it inside your fist without altering the fit), and it’s made of one layer of tightly woven mesh, with a thin center strip of recycled nylon over the top. One Zappos reviewer compared it to a camping tent: “mesh at the top for airflow, covered by a solid sheet of material for sun protection.” 

The Nike Dri-Fit Club Unstructured Featherlight Cap is another classic choice for men. It conforms to your head and has thin strips of mesh peeking out of the crown for ventilation. Nike Dri-Fit is a tried-and-true polyester fabric used for most of the company’s apparel, including T-shirts, shorts, leggings, undergarments, socks—and hats. It also comes in multiple sizes.  

Keep in mind: These caps have simple designs; they’ll help you fit in, rather than stand out.  

Product details Outdoor Research Swift Cap: Fabric: 100% nylon | Head circumference: 23 in. | Bill length: 2.8 in. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 14 | UPF: 40+ | Machine washable: Yes 

Product details for Nike Dri-Fit Club Unstructured Featherlight Cap: Fabric: 100% polyester | Sizes: S/M, M/L, and L/XL | Colors: 9 | UPF: No | Machine washable: No

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Best running bucket hat: Sunday Afternoons Vaporlite Tempo Bucket Hat  

Why we like it: “Bucket hats are really popular among trail runners now,” says Metzler. “It keeps sun off of your neck and prevents your ears from getting sunburned.” The Sunday Afternoons Vaporlite Tempo Bucket Hat is a soft and stylish option for longer runs. The smooth VaporLite fabric has semicircle vents on each side of the crown, which offers plenty of airflow for those hot, sunny days.  

Extra features include reflective adornments across the brim for visibility, a cinch to fasten the hat to your head, and a lock to secure your shades. Even better for a bucket hat—it’s crushable, so it’s easy to pack away in your bag, jacket, or pocket. 

Keep in mind: Bucket hats provide a looser fit, counting on the chin strap to keep the hat from blowing away. Some might not like the feel of the adjustable cord bouncing around during a workout.  

Product details: Fabric: 100% polyester, excluding decorations | Weight: 2 oz. | Brim length: 2 in. | Sizes: M-L | Colors: 5 | UPF: 50+ | Machine washable: No 

Best trail running hat: Territory Running Co. Runners of the Wild Long Haul Cap; Adidas Terrex Climacool 5-panel graphic cap 

Why we like it: The Territory Running Co. specializes in trail running gear and the Long Haul Cap displays the company’s attention to detail. This hat has five panels dotted with holes to help keep you cool. The flexible brim scrunches down, so you can pop it in your pocket, while taking a snack break in a shady grove. Reviewers praise this hat’s durability during 50Ks.   

With its proprietary sweat-wicking technology, the Terrex Climacool five-panel graphic cap is another great choice for trail running. Terrex is Adidas’ outdoor sports line with apparel designed for adventure activities. This graphic cap has a playful stripe pattern and semicircle mesh vents on each side of the crown.  

Both hats have UPF protection, which is an important consideration for trail runners who are often exposed to intense sun.  

Keep in mind: Runners who want a hat with a subtler design can look into monochromatic Terrex Climacool 5-panel Solid hats. 

Product details for Territory Running Co. Runners of the Wilds Long Haul Cap: Fabric: 100% polyester | Head circumference: Up to 22.8 in. when stretched out | Weight: 1.8 oz. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 10 | UPF: 40+ on the brim, front panel, and back panel | Machine washable: Gentle cycle, but brand recommends handwashing  

Product details for Adidas Terrex Climacool 5-panel graphic cap: Fabric: 90% recycled polyester, according to brand, 10% elastane | Head circumference: 23 in. | Bill length: 2.8 in. | Sizes: One size for each youth, women, men, and large | Colors: 2 | UPF: 40+ on the brim, front panel, and back panel | Machine washable: Yes

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Best running trucker hat: Patagonia Duckbill Running Trucker Hat

Why we like it: The Patagonia Duckbill Running Trucker hat has sweat-wicking materials and a mesh crown with large holes for ventilation. The foam brim has a black underside that helps reduce eye strain and glare. While the hat is foldable, flexible, and lightweight, it has a sturdy front panel to keep the trucker-hat look. 

In accordance with Patagonia’s widely known commitment to the environment, the front crown and bill of this trucker hat is made of recycled fishing nets. Additionally, the hat is made with a finish that’s free of polyfluoroalkyl substances, which can harm wildlife and contaminate water sources.  

Keep in mind: Trucker hats generally aren’t as practical for running as other styles. The large holes may let in more UV rays and burn your scalp, which may impact runners with thin hair or shaved heads.  

Product details: Fabric: NetPlus recycled nylon faille and recycled polyester mesh, according to the brand | Weight: 2.2 oz. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 5 | UPF: None | Machine washable: Yes  

Best 5-panel running hat: Runnr Distance Running Hat, New Balance 6-Panel Pro Run Hat 

Why we like it: Runnr hats are known for their lively designs, from scribble fonts to graffiti-inspired patterns and cartoon rabbits. The brand’s SPDwick performance fabric is quick-drying. We like that the side mesh panels have large holes for extra ventilation during hard runs. Charitable runners may also appreciate that Runnr says it donates a portion of its profits to local youth running programs. 

Yuta Sano, a runner and general manager of Sports Basement in California, recommends Runnr hats in general because of their moisture mitigation. He owns a pink-and-blue tie-dye Rnnr Pacer hat that “does a good job keeping sweat away from my eyes,” he adds. The Distance hat is taller and has more coverage, while the Pacer is floppier and molds to your head.  

The New Balance 6-Panel Pro Run Hat is another great option. The front panel is divided into two, creating an extra sixth panel and round silhouette on top that conforms to the shape of your head. The crown is crushable and soft, almost silky, and the brim is curved and sturdy.  

Keep in mind: The larger mesh holes in both hat models might let in more UV rays.  

Product details for Runnr Distance Running Hat: Fabric: 100% polyester | Head circumference: 22 in. (standard), 22.8 in. (large) | Bill length: 2.8 in. | Weight: 2.1 oz. | Sizes: Standard and large | Colors: 10 | UPF: 40+ on solid panels | Machine washable: No 

Product details for New Balance 6-Panel Pro Run Hat: Fabric: 100% polyester | Sizes: One size | Colors: 2 | UPF: 50 | Machine washable: No 

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Best winter running hat: REI Co-op Active Pursuits Earflap Hat 

Why we like it: The REI Co-op Active Pursuits Earflap hat has a thin layer of fleece for those extra-cold running days. It’s both wind-resistant and water-resistant, plus it has subtle ear flaps that tuck into the sides when they’re not needed.  

Keep in mind: It only comes in one color, and some reviewers say the size runs small.  

Product details: Fabric: 47% recycled polyester, according to the brand, and 53% polyester | Head circumference: 22 to 23.6 in. | Bill length: 2.8 in. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 1 | UPF: No | Machine washable: Yes   

Best mesh running hat: Janji Hatchback Mesh Cap 

Why we like it: The Janji Hatchback Mesh Cap has a shorter front panel, while the rest of the crown is made of an ultra-light micromesh that’s praised by reviewers for being both fast-drying and cooling.  

The crushable, foam brim easily packs away. The back has an adjustable bungee cord to ensure a snug fit. We love that the fabric used to make this hat is Bluesign-certified.  

Keep in mind: A mesh hat isn’t the best choice for colder weather. Mesh is usually not as durable as solid fabrics. This hat doesn’t have UPF protection.  

Product details: Fabric: 88% recycled polyester, according to the brand, 12% elastane | Weight: 1 oz. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 3 | UPF: None | Machine washable: Not listed  

Best lightweight running hat: Soar Run Cap, On Lightweight Cap  

Why we like it: The Soar Run Cap is so light, it almost feels like paper. It’s actually made of polyester and has an adjustable elastic cord at the back for a snug fit. One nifty detail: it’s designed with a longer bill that flips up at a 45-degree angle so it’s easier to see when you’re running uphill. Ventilation holes on both sides of the crown provide breathability and cooling effects.  

Another popular lightweight hat is the On Lightweight Cap, which also has ventilation holes on the side of the crown. Reviewers praise it for its smooth, matte material, and quick-drying technology—particularly great for sudden sprinkles.  

Keep in mind: These are among the most expensive hats on this list and may feel too light for some. 

Product details for Soar Run Cap: Fabric: 100% polyester | Weight: 1 oz. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 8 | UPF: None | Machine washable: Yes 

Product details for On Lightweight Cap: Fabric: 100% recycled polyester, according to the brand | Weight: 2 oz. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 5 | UPF: None | Machine washable: No

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Best fun fashion running hat: Sprints OG Hat  

Why we like it: Sprints is known for making hats with an extensive gallery of fun, patterned designs—there are 70 options for the OG hat alone. Besides animals and foods, Sprints also has designs celebrating cities from Austin to Miami. If you don’t like any of the existing looks, you can upload your own. 

But this hat has much more going for it than just fun aesthetics. Reviewers praise them for their lightweight, comfortable, and quick-drying construction.   

Keep in mind: Runners who are out in the sun for longer periods of time may benefit from a hat with UV protection.  

Product details: Fabric: 100% polyester | Head circumference: 22.8 in., expanding to 24.3 in. | Sizes: One size | Colors: 70 | UPF: None | Machine washable: Yes

Best reflective running hat: Headsweats Reflective Running Hat 

Why we like it: The Headsweats Reflective Running Hat prioritizes visibility, not only with a reflective trim around the entire cap, but also with fluorescent colors.  They’re made with Eventure knit fabric, which has sweat-wicking and cooling properties. The dark underside on the bill helps shade your eyes from the sun.  

If you’re not into the neon look, Headsweats also has a variety of other color-block and vintage designs. But their most unique hat is the performance ice hat, which has pockets you can fill with ice cubes on those extra scorching days. 

Keep in mind: At about $25, this hat is less expensive than other hats on this list, making it a good option for budget-conscious shoppers. It doesn’t have UV protection.  

Product details: Fabric: 100% polyester | Sizes: One size | Colors: 12 | UPF: None | Machine washable: Yes 

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Best running hat for ultimate sun protection: Fractel L-Sahara Legionnaire Hat; Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap 

Why we like it: Sano says hats with capes are increasingly popular with runners who go long distances. “If you’re gonna do a 5K or 10K, sunscreen will probably do it for you. But if you’re out four hours in really sunny, bright conditions, you can get sunburned,” he says.

With this type of hat, you can let the flaps hang in back like a cape or secure it so it covers parts of your cheek that the brim may miss. 

The Fractel L-Sahara Legionnaire Hat is made of the brand’s recycled Repreve lightweight mesh that’s soft and stretchy. Jess Mena-Garcia, a running coach and physical therapist who leads SoCalTrail events in California, recommends the fit of Fractel hats in general. “They have a nice-sized brim, and they dry well,” she says, adding that they don’t lose their shape after a wash. 

The Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap is another good choice. It has ventilated side panels on the crown, and the soft nylon cape has elastic banding in the back to ensure a secure fit. It’s also customizable: you can detach the flaps to wear it as a regular cap or detach the chin cord if you’d rather wear the flaps loose for more ventilation.  

Keep in mind: The flaps may not look the coolest, but this hat is for the runner who prioritizes function over style.    

Product details for Fractel L-Sahara Legionnaire Hat: Fabric: 100% recycled polyester, according to the brand | Head circumference: 23.2 in. (S/M), 24.4 in. (L/XL) | Sizes: S/M, S/M with ponytail hole, X/XL | Colors: 2 for L-Sahara; 18 for Legionnaire | UPF: 50+ on panels | Machine washable: Yes 

Product details for Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap: Fabric: 60% recycled nylon, according to the brand, 40% nylon | Brim length: 2.8 in. | Cape length: 10.8 in. | Weight: 3 oz. | Sizes: S, M, L, XL | Colors: 6 | UPF: 40+ | Machine washable: Yes

How we chose the best running hats 

I’ve been a runner for almost 30 years, and I always wear a hat for sun protection. For this guide, I talked to running experts, polled my running friends, consulted third-party reviews, and tested samples myself while training for my third marathon. 

• Third-party reviews: I scoured customer reviews, expert analysis, best-of lists, and video commentary on running hats. 

 • Expert opinions: I got advice from Brian Metzler, a Colorado-based running journalist and content strategist who is a videographer for the L.A. Marathon; Yuta Sano, a runner and general manager of Sports Basement in California; and Jess Mena-Garcia, a running coach, physical therapist, and leader of SoCalTrail events in California. 

• Informal polling: I chatted with family, friends, run club members, and running apparel associates about the hats they recommend.  

• Testing: I received samples of many of the products. 

Tips for buying a running hat 

Fit  

A good fit considers not only the shape and circumference of your head, but also the volume of your hair. Most hats have an adjustable strap or cord to make sure the hat doesn’t move while you’re bouncing up and down, but it shouldn’t feel tight or leave any marks on your forehead after you take it off. Most of the hats on our list are adjustable in some way. Keep in mind that a hat’s fit can change over time and after many washes. 

Materials 

Running hats are commonly made from polyester and nylon because these materials are lightweight, quick-drying, and sweat-wicking. Polyester often feels smoother, while nylon feels silkier. Mesh is commonly used alongside polyester and nylon because it provides extra ventilation and breathability.  

Sweatband 

The sweatband does more than help keep sweat from dripping into your eyes. It can also play a role in comfort.  

Brim 

The length of the brim determines how much shade you get and how heavy the hat feels while you’re running. Some hats, like our top pick, the Soar Run Cap, have bills that flip up for when you need an unobstructed view of the sky or when you’re tackling a hill. 

UV Protection 

Any hat helps provide shade from the sun, but a UV-protective running cap is better for preventing sunburn and skin damage, especially for running hats that are lighter colors or made with lightweight fabrics. It’s a greater consideration if you don’t have as much hair to protect your scalp from getting burned. 

Runners especially concerned with sun damage may want to consider a bucket hat, like our top pick the Sunday Afternoons Vaporlite Tempo Bucket Hat, or a cap with flaps, such as our favorites, the Fractel L-Sahara Legionnaire Hat and Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap. 

Weather 

People who run in windier weather may want to choose snug hats with shorter brims. Rainy weather runners should look for hats made with water-repellent materials like tight fabric weaves or coatings like DWR. Winter runners would do well to wear hats that cover their ears for extra protection against freezing temperatures. The REI Co-op Active Pursuits Earflap Hat may be a good choice. 

Washability 

Choosing a hat that’s machine washable or must be handwashed is a matter of preference. Whichever method you choose, it’s important to wash your running hat regularly to prevent the buildup of sweat, oil, and odors. Usually, it’s best to air dry.  

Frequently asked questions 

Why wear a hat while running? 

A hat protects you from the elements. It can help shield you from UV rays, keep rain from getting in your eyes, and help prevent heat loss in the winter. It doesn’t hurt that they’re also in vogue and can help you stand out in a race.    

What material is best for a running hat? 

Popular running hat materials include polyester, mesh, microfiber, and nylon. Mesh provides ventilation. Synthetic fabrics tend to be lightweight and have moisture-wicking properties.  

What type of running hat is best for summer? 

Look for a hat with quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials for hot, sweaty days. Many running caps also have cooling technologies that will draw heat away from your head as your perspiration evaporates.