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How Do I Choose the Best Sun Hat?

K. K. Lowen
K. K. Lowen

There are many factors to consider before selecting the sun hat that will be best for you, which include its purpose and your personal taste preferences. The size of the sun hat is a fundamental decision because they are available with a wide assortment of brim lengths. Another aspect that can be quite significant is style, color, and design. The function of the hat also may play an important role in the selection process.

Consider the purpose that the sun hat will serve. The obvious use for this type of hat is to protect a person from the sun, but many people choose to wear the hats simply because they find like the style or find them comfortable. Some high-fashion sun hats may not necessarily offer the best protection from the sun’s rays, and additionally, they may be manufactured from materials that could be hot and uncomfortable if worn in the sun.

Hats with wide brims block out the most light.
Hats with wide brims block out the most light.

It may be important to think about whether or not you want the sun hat to have a chin strap or other type of string to hold it onto your head. Some people may not like the way chin straps look, whereas others may enjoy the functionality on windy days. Strings, ties, and straps are sometimes included as a fashionable part of the hat and may be made from colorful ribbons or have sequins or other decorative items. Other straps are strictly functional and add little to the overall style of the hat.

Many people choose sun hats based on style or comfort.
Many people choose sun hats based on style or comfort.

The style of a sun hat is often quite important. Choosing a sun hat with a neutral or basic color is preferred so that people can wear the hat with a variety of different outfits. Some people buy sun hats that will look nice with a single outfit, while others may like to wear uniquely colored or design sun hats, particularly for use as a fashion statement or to emphasize their individuality.

When purchasing a sun hat as a functional item to block out the sun when traveling or gardening, there are a number of things to think about. You may want the maximum amount of sun protection, and hats with wide brims can block out the most sunlight. Straw hats are often desirable because they can keep the head cool, depending on how tightly the straw is woven. Khaki sun hats are often preferable for travelers, and the primary feature of this type of hat may not be the brim but draping fabric that goes around the sides and back of the head and neck. Additionally, light colors may reflect more sunlight and keep you cooler.

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    • Hats with wide brims block out the most light.
      By: Nobilior
      Hats with wide brims block out the most light.
    • Many people choose sun hats based on style or comfort.
      By: Christian Schwier
      Many people choose sun hats based on style or comfort.