Stay Cool and Play: Best Women’s Sun Hats for Golf (2023)
Golf is just around the corner in my region – and one thing I’ve been looking for is a great golf hat for sun protection that I can bring with me this year. What are the best women’s sun hats for golf? I’m on a mission to find out.
I love enjoying the beautiful weather that spring brings and the ability to spend more time outside. One thing I usually forget in my excitement to get out and play is how important it is to have good sun protection. I do always keep sunscreen in my bag, and in the past I’ve usually worn a baseball cap and sunglasses.
Anyone who has forgotten sunscreen or a hat on the course learns their lesson the first time: protecting yourself from the sun is key to enjoying a great round of golf. This year, I want to be even more prepared for the sun, so I’ve been researching my options.
I’ve found lots of great men’s sun hats for golf, but wanted to see what might be out there for women. Finding the perfect golf hat is not as easy as I thought, and I’ll share a number of options based on my search for the best women’s golf hats.
What’s important to me? Something that is comfortable, lightweight, breathable, actually provides sun and/or UPF protection, is affordable, and is relatively stylish. I thought this might be a tall order, but I really did find some great options.
Sun Protection on the Golf Course is Important
Playing golf is a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, but it’s also important to remember that spending hours in the sun can lead to sunburns and overexposure. In my list of qualities, choosing a golf hat with actual sun protection is most important.
Different Types of Golf Hats for Every Type of Golfer
I’ve really only worn baseball hats, which do block some sun, but probably aren’t the best when it comes to sun protection. In doing my research, I found some different styles that might work.
Wide-brim hats are a popular choice for sunny days. There are many styles available in lots of colors and sizes, so I think if it’s a style you’re interested in, you’ll find one you love. For some serious sun protection, try this Sunday Afternoons sun hat.
The wider brim provides more coverage for your face and neck, and making sure to choose a hat with an adjustable chin strap ensures that the hat stays put even on windy days.
For windy conditions, a baseball cap just may be your best bet. Baseball hats are always classic, and do keep sun out of your eyes while still allowing you to see the ball. I have a big head so fitted caps never seem to work for me (sometimes even women’s hats don’t work for me!) The best strategy? Look for a cap with an adjustable strap to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Bucket hats are also a great choice for hot days, and there seem to be a million options this year – they are definitely popular with younger golfers and the stylish set. Bucket hats provide a wider brim than a baseball cap, but not as wide as a traditional wide-brim hat. They come in a variety of colors and styles, and you can find lots of options that are made from breathable materials that help keep you cool and comfortable on the course.
I was surprised to come across this next style, but I think it’s actually pretty popular in some parts of the country. If you’re looking for a hat with a classic look, a straw hat may be just what you need. These hats work well on a sunny day on the golf course, and depending on the type of weave and brand, they can provide excellent sun protection (this really surprised me!) Look for a hat with a moisture-wicking sweatband to keep sweat from running down the back of your neck.
Features to Look for in a Golf Hat:
When choosing a golf hat, there are a few features you may want to keep in mind. Like I mentioned earlier, sun protection is what’s most important to me this year in choosing a good golf hat. If this is important to you too, make sure the hat has a UPF rating.
Sunny days on a course without shade can also get hot quickly. Look for hats with moisture-wicking sweatbands to keep sweat from running down the back of your neck, and adjustable chin straps to keep the hat in place on windy days.
Hats made with breathable and/or mesh fabric can also be a great feature. Comfortable fabric that is lightweight and breathable will make those hot and humid days on the golf course more bearable.
Another feature I only recently discovered – hats that are designed to accommodate a ponytail. I didn’t even know these existed – but there are a number of styles that include an opening if you like to put your hair up.
On hot days, I can’t stand to have my hair down, so I really appreciate this feature!
These hats are made with high-quality materials and have a UPF rating of 50+, which means they block 98% of UVA and UVB rays. They also come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them a great option for women golfers of all levels.
If you’re looking for a UPF hat with a wider brim, you might like the Einskey Sun Hat -it’s lower price and sun-blocking style may be the perfect choice for you. These hats have a brim that measures 4 inches, providing excellent sun protection for your face and neck. They also have a cooling sweatband that helps keep you comfortable on hot days.
What Golf Hats do the Pros Use?
Professional golfers often turn to Coolibar UPF hats. I have had these hats on my wish list even before I got into golf – while they are a bit more expensive, they are well-known for their advanced sun protection features.
Brands with the Best Options for Golf Hats for Women:
Whether you prefer a wide-brimmed hat, a bucket hat, a classic baseball cap, or a stylish straw hat, there are plenty of options out there for women golfers. Some of the best brands to check out include Coolibar, Henschel, and Callaway Golf. Don’t be afraid to try out different colors and sizes to find the hat that suits your style and fits your head comfortably.
What Sun Hats for Women’s Golf Have You Found?
Do you have a favorite women’s golf hat for sunny days? What brands and styles would you recommend? Let me know in the comments below, and happy golfing!