12 Best Hiking Hats for Women for Every Season

Hats are possibly the most underrated hiking wear but, on the contrary, they are particularly important as they cover your crown.

However, when you go online and type the best hiking hats for women the page floods with so many options. 

That’s why, I and my team tested and reviewed the 12 best-hiking hats for women who love outdoor adventures in three categories based on the climate conditions.

To make an informed decision for your next hiking trip, avoid panic shopping and refer to this guide. Familiarize yourself with the features and pros/cons of each hat to gain more knowledge on them.

Our Top Picks for all Seasons

Too busy to read the full article. No dramas. Jump straight to our top picks for women’s hiking hats for all seasons:

Fall and Spring Hats for Ladies

Columbia Unisex-Adult Bora Bora Booney

“Best Brimmed Hats for Ladies”

When you need lightweight mountain hats for spring that have great color options then Columbia Bora Bora Booney holds the position at the top of the list.

This is a premium range hiking headgear that gives you UPF 50 sun protection and a sweat-wicking net that keeps your head dry.

Upon testing this hat, we determined that it makes an excellent choice for women’s hiking, thanks to its adjustable drawcord and toggle that ensures a perfect fit. Additionally, the wide crown circumference makes it a top pick for women with larger head sizes.

This is a versatile hiking hat for women that is ideal for fall and spring hikes. 

Features

• 100% nylon
• Pull-on closure 
• Omni-wick technology
• Handwash – easy to clean/care

PROS

√ Lightweight and collapsible

√ Great sun protection

√ Adjustable fit with drawstrings

√ Massive color options

√ Mesh for cross-ventilation 

CONS

× Pricey

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TrailHeads Women’s Race Day Running Cap-Performance Hat

“Best Women’s Lightweight Baseball Cap”

Trailheads hiking women’s cap is a stylish baseball cap that is breathable, lightweight, and easy to wash. The polyester mesh design keeps your head dry and comfortable.

Our team learned from wearing this hat that it reduces the sun rays from directly falling on the face as the dark underbill gives ample shade.

I could name it my number #1 favorite camping hat, especially for its ponytail hole.

There are several color options to match your hiking outfit. The hook and loop closure makes the hat adjustment simple. It is a high-performing running cap for girls with reflective strips on the rim that increases visibility for darker periods of the day. 

Features

• 100% polyester 
• Hook and loop closure
• Gentle machine wash and air dry
• Reflective trim 

PROS

√ Ponytail compatible 

√ Quick dry and lightweight

√ Ease of wash and care

√ Bargain hiking cap

CONS

× Not for large heads

× Ride up during the run

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Puma Women’s Evercat Running Cap

“Best Waterproof Cap for Hiking”

Springtime brings a mix of temperatures from windy to sunny and light rains so all you need is one cool outdoor hat that serves all your requirements.

Having tried it out ourselves, we can attest that PUMA offers a baseball design cap made entirely of polyester material, complete with an adjustable closure that ensures a comfortable fit.

This high-quality head accessory, which comes in neutral tones, features an HD print logo on its front crown and is built to last.

It is a breathable baseball cap that is also waterproof. The outer fabric makes it suitable for breezy evenings and light showers to protect your hair from getting damp.

This is one of those best women’s hiking hats you need to wear because is lightweight and doesn’t trap sweat after long wear due to its inner lining and mesh technology. 

Features

• 100% polyester
• Velcro for closure
• Mesh design for ventilation 
• Front and back logo embroidery 

PROS

√ Inner layer for sweat absorption

√ Neutral color options

√ Ponytail compatible 

√ Perfect for running, spring hikes, and trail walks

CONS

× Sticky residue

× Not for small heads

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Solaris Plain Hat with Adjustable Strap

“Best Bargain Hiker Cap”

Sun visor caps are an absolute delight for spring walks and fall outdoor sports. When you seek an adjustable head accessory that comes in a huge color range in breathable material then Solaris is worth mentioning.

In our experience, if you’re in search of cute hiking hats that won’t ruin your hairstyle, this particular design is ideal. It features an open top, which prevents your hair from getting pulled or becoming static.

These durable and lightweight head gears surely hold their position in the list of best-hiking hats for women.

The pre-curved visor which is more than 2.5” brim and a soft built-in sweatband makes it ideal for jogs, walks, golf, and running. The sturdy bill has eight-row stitches and four needle soft pads to sit perfectly on your crown. 

Features

• 100% washed cotton
• Adjustable Velcro closure
• Wide brim 
• One size fit all

PROS

√ Built-in sweatband

√ Massive color range

√ Bargain sun visor cap

√ Wide front brim from sun protection

√ Fits wide heads

CONS

× Not suitable indoors

× Shows sweat marks

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Stylish Winter Hats for Ladies

TrailHeads Fleece Ponytail Hat with Ear Warmer

“Best Warm Women’s Ponytail Hat”

Winters can make it challenging for outdoor adventure, well not anymore. You can now gear in hats that cover your ears and feel cozy during windy conditions.

Trailhead is one of the innovative and versatile winter hat makers that designs stylish head accessories for unpredictable weather situations. The drop-down ear warmer feature is a bonus that you can fold back for not-so-cold days. 

Having tested this product thoroughly, we can confidently say that it boasts a unique design and is among the best women’s winter hats available.

Not only does it effectively protect you from harsh weather with its curved bill, but it also features a small gap at the rear that accommodates a ponytail without messing up your hair.

Features

• 94% polyester and 6% spandex
• Elastic closure
• Dropdown fleece design
• Neck and ear coverage

PROS

√ Reflective rim for better visibility 

√ Stretchy Fleece keeps warm

√ Ponytail compatible

√ Wide visor brim

√ Ideal for snow and windy conditions 

CONS

× Pricey

× Size too small

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Tough Headwear Womens Beanie Winter Hat

“Best Warm Hat for Hiking”

Knitted yarn hats for winter hikes are perfect as they cover your ears and keep the head warm. This hiking beanie comes in diverse colors and is suitable for ice-skating, skiing, and winter hiking activities.

It is made of premium quality soft yarn with a blend of stretchy material for a cozy fit. 

While there are numerous cute winter hiking hats available for women online, this particular cap stands out due to its use of soft and skin-friendly yarn.

After testing this cap ourselves, we can confirm that its standout feature is its ability to prevent an itchy scalp even after extended wear. For this reason, we consider it to be the top women’s hat for those with short hair on our list.

Features

• 100% premium acrylic 
• High-quality cable knit
• Leather logo patch

PROS

√ Itch free fabric

√ Stretchy fit

√ Bargain beanie

√ Massive color options

CONS

× Poor elastic

× Size not true

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Turtle Fur Beanie

“Best Fleece Hats for Outdoors”

Classic beanies are ideal for colder climates and also for layering during frosty conditions.

There are many warm beanies for women out there, but what you need is lightweight, easy to pack, and comfortable for outdoor adventures.

Turtle fur brings different types of hiking hats for ladies and this simple design fleece cap is flawless for autumn and winter hikes. 

It is made of midweight Chelonia 150 fleece with double layering at the ears for extra warmth.

We’ve found from using this hat that the soft fabric is gentle on the skin, causing no abrasion or irritation. Moreover, the design of the hat makes it an ideal choice for women with short hair and those looking for a hat that accommodates ponytails.

Features

• 100% polyester
• Classic Chelonia 150 fleece
• Machine wash/care

PROS

√ Soft material and multi-seasonal 

√ Bargain fleece hat

√ One size fits all

√ Double-layer for ear cover

√ Lightweight and UPF 50+ protection

CONS

× Runs small

× Fluffs after wash

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C.C Hatsandscarf Knit Hat with Brim

“Best Women’s Knit Hat with a Brim”

You can wander in style with cute beanie hiking hats that are made in 100% acrylic yarn.

When you are looking for the best backpacking hat that is lightweight, warm, and stretchable, check out this C.C cap, which is a great choice.

You can create a fashion statement with this sophisticated accessory that is ideal for snowboarding, skating, camping, and winter bike rides. 

Having field-tested this product, we can confirm that the material is soft and irritation-free, making it comfortable for extended use without causing any itchiness.

One of the reasons why this is a popular hiking hat for women is because it’s available in various color options, allowing you to match it with your outfit.

Features

• 100% Acrylic
• Yarn knit design
• 2.17” front brim
• Suitable for frosty and winter conditions

PROS

√ Wide front brim

√ Stretchable soft material

√ Massive color options

√ Beautiful, ribbed knit

√ Comfortable beanie with visor

CONS

× Size runs small

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Women’s Hats for Summer

FURTALK Womens Beach Sun Straw Hat

“Best Wide Brim Hat for Women”

Panama hats are classic straw summer head accessories that have adorned women for centuries. Furtalk brings you one of the simplest yet stylish wide-brim hiking hats.

You get complete UV protection from the harsh sun rays with this stylish unisex cap.

The crown circumference is wide and hence, it is suitable for large heads. You can either go for the classic beige color or can choose from the many soft color options. 

These women’s outdoor hats are made from paper straw which makes them breathable, lightweight, and summer-friendly.

We really enjoyed the adjustable contrasting band that helps in getting a comfortable fit. You will fall in love with the teardrop crown that makes the best hiking sun hats.

Features

• Made of paper straw
• Machine woven
• Classic fedora design
• Adjustable band 
• Anti-UV coat

PROS

√ Sun protection

√ Lightweight and breathable 

√ Great for big and small crown size

√ Fits in backpack

√ Comfortable and skin-friendly 

CONS

× Less stylish

× Could look cheap

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Dukars UPF 50+ Wide Brim Sun Hat

“Best Sun Hat with Chin Strap”

Another great option for waterproof summer hats that are lightweight and ponytail compatible is this 100% polyester wide brim hat with an opening at the back.

Dukars are one of the bargain range hat makers and this particular women’s vented sun hat is the ultimate piece of clothing for summer hikes.

This is a one size fits all head accessory and a casual-style foldable hat. It promises UPF 50+ protection and is an ideal sun hat for travel, fishing, beach walks, and hardcore summer treks. 

The adjustable chin strap makes it a great fit for windy conditions. This hat is also highly breathable, featuring a mesh panel that makes it one of the best options for those with sweaty heads.

Not only does it help you stay cool, but it also provides 98% protection from the sun, making it an excellent choice for women’s hiking sun hats.

Features

• 100% polyester
• Drawstring closer
• Handwash – easy care/clean
• UPF 50+ protection
• Mesh panel

PROS

√ One size fits all

√ Bargain range

√ Waterproof and Anti-UV 

√ Lightweight and breathable  

√ Massive color options

CONS

× Too flimsy

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Hicosky Women Sun Wide Brim

“Best Women’s Mountain Summer Hat”

On your mountaineering hikes, you need an all-in-one hat that serves extreme heat and sweaty conditions. Hicosky brings you a portable, wide-brimmed UV protection summer hat.

This 4-in-1 hat has a wide front brim, turns into a sun visor, covers your neck/back, and has a face mask. It is lightweight, breathable, and has a sweatband lining to keep you dry. 

You have more than five color options and the hook and loop closure make it a perfect fit. The smart design has many removable and attachable elements that make it a unique summer hiking hat. 

Features

• 100% synthetic 
• Wide brings and ponytail compatible 
• Detachable flaps and the zip top
• Hook and loop closure
• Adjustable Velcro and mesh panel

PROS

√ Unique and versatile

√ Removable parts

√ Wide brim and crown circumference

√ Moisture-wicking sweatband

CONS

× No-wash/care options

× Face mask too big

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Hurley Women’s Bucket Hat

“Best Ladies Hiking Bucket Hat”

Summer makes everything sweaty and challenging so, you need great hiking accessories that are both functional and fashionable.

If you fancy stylish hiking hats for women then you must check lightweight and outdoor-friendly caps. Hurley brings you beautiful two-tone reversible women’s caps for summer.

Yes! You can flip out to a different Playa anytime you desire. One side of the playa has a feminine floral print and the other solid tone. 

We recommend the wide bucket hat for ladies for scorching summer days. It has a narrow brim to cover your eyes from harsh sun rays.

We also loved this hat because you can easily fit it in your handbag and it’s a simple handwash. It is truly a no-hassle cute women’s summer hat.

Features

• 100% polyester
• Handwash and care
• Overall brim
• Lightweight and foldable
• Reversible two playa 

PROS

√ Two designs in one hat

√ Ease of packing and cleaning/care

√ Durable and keeps your head cool

√ Sun protection

√ Stylish and functional 

CONS

× Pricey

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Types of Hiking Hats For Women 

1. Beanie Hats: Insulated hats are ideal for winter and snowy conditions. You can either wear the warm yarn caps with hoodies to layer or can simply go for cute fleece beanies. These keep your head and ears warm but if they don’t have a brim it gives zero protection from the sun.
2. Wide Brim Hats: For spring and summer hikes you must check out wide-brim hats that give a sun shield. You have an impressive range of material choices like straw, nylon, cotton, polyester, and paper. These are ideal for summer, spring, fall, and rainy adventures. You can opt for lightweight, breathable, and waterproof material brim hats. 
3. Baseball Cap: This is the most preferred headgear for outdoor and indoor activities. It comes with a front brim and is generally colorful with back closure. Baseball cap designs are unisex and are bargain hat options. 
4. Gore-Tex Hats: For wet hikes, it is important that you pick a Gore-Tex hat as it is weather-resistant and quite sturdy. The waterproof membrane on top of the material makes it a weather shield.
5. Sun Visor Cap: When you are seeking only sun protection without any head cover then a sun visor is your accessory. A simple-looking hiking gear that is breathable, lightweight, and doesn’t mess up your hair. 

Should I Wear a Hat on a Hike?

Yes, you should wear a hat on a hiking trip. Hats and headcovers are hiking essential as they not only protect your crown but also, shield you from harsh weather conditions.

Look for lightweight, breathable, portable, and wide-brim hats for summer hiking trips. For spring and fall check for hats that come with a chin strap to secure during windy treks.

Insulated fleece and knitted beanies are perfect for winter and snowfall outdoor adventures.

Season, geographical location of the hike, and time of outdoor adventures are some of the prime factors that determine the type of headgear you require.

The last thing you want is to get drenched and be soggy all day after the hike. Or getting sunburns and boils on your head after a scorching summer trek. So, wear sensible and stylish hats.

How Do You Pick a Hiking Hat for Women?

Women are smart and choosy about their outfits, and accessories are very important so when you pick a hat for a woman look for the following features.

Material/Fabric

Most hiking hats are either available in polyester or mixed fabric. However, if you are seeking specific requirements like waterproof or quick-drying, or pure cotton then opt for the right fabric.

Being itch-free, the skin-friendly material cap is of paramount importance.

Weight

Hiking is all about traveling light and therefore the weight of any hiking gear is crucial. You cannot wear a heavy hat all day on your head, it is tiring and too much on the backpack. Always choose lightweight and portable hats for hiking.

Fit/size

The circumference of the crown is crucial. You must always check the fit of the hat before ordering. Some hats are suitable for large heads however, some are only standard size.

You don’t want to keep one hand on your head while trekking to ensure that the wind doesn’t blow away the cap.

Durable and sturdy

An outdoor adventure accessory must be durable and strong to withstand harsh weather conditions. Look for small features like elastic closure, chain strap, and hook/loop for fastening the hat to the head.

Extra features

Is the hat waterproof, gives sun protection, comes with sweatband lining, and has rivet holes for ventilation? These are some bonus features that make a regular hat one of the top choices for a backpacking trip.

Women Hiking Hat FAQs

What’s the Best Hat for Hiking?

The best hat for hiking is the one that offers you great support and protection for each season. You should consider the material and how much sun protection or warmth it gives, also features like lightweight, breathable, sun shield, waterproof, and skin-friendly fabric should be taken into consideration.

What Are Female Hats Called?

Female hats are called in different ways based on their shapes and designs. You will find them under Fedora, Beanie, baseball cap, trucker hat, safari hat, wide brim hat, floppy straw hat, fur box hat, pom-pom hat, and trapper hat. There are other varieties also schoolboy caps, military hats, berets, and golf caps.  

Are Nylon Hats Hot?

Nylon is a material that traps heat and generates sweat. This makes the scalp and crown extremely hot. It is not the best choice for summer and spring hiking trips. Look for winter hats that are made of nylon to keep your head warm. 

Should You Cover Your Head in the Sun?

Yes! To protect the scalp and hair from scorching sun rays it is important to cover your head. You can suffer from scalp boils, dry hair, and skin burns if you do not properly shield your head.

What Does UPF50+ Mean?

UPF50+ means Ultraviolet Protection Factor followed by the numerical factor to indicate how effective is the protection.