BEST SURF HATS – YOUR COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

best-surf-hats

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We’ve got you covered. This guide dives deep into top-rated surf hats, breaking down their pros and cons so you can cruise the surf shop armed with knowledge. Surf Indonesia has tested these products in and out of the surf in different conditions around the world. The best products are handpicked, and the features are discussed (even argued) and analyzed from our experience. Then the best-of-the-best are selected with reviews written by actual surfers. We aren’t paid to talk about certain brands, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Whether you’re a total newbie to surfing or an expert in catching gnarly barrels, you must know the importance of a good surf hat. It’s not just about looking cool, although that’s a bonus. Having the right headgear can shield your head from the sun’s rays, help you see better, and even keep the water out of your ears. So, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you find the best surf hats.

When we say best, we mean it. We’re talking about hats that can handle the high seas, won’t fly off your head with a gust of wind, and provide all-day comfort. You see, just like in riding waves, in choosing a surf hat, too, you need the right balance between protection and flexibility, style and functionality. And that’s where it gets tricky.

Top Rated Surf Hats: A Closer Look

When choosing a surf hat, you need to take into account a hat’s ability to withstand sun, salt, and surf. But it’s also about comfort. And with so many options, from bucket to baseball style, a surf hat fits every surfer’s preference.

In this detailed analysis, we’ll break down some of the best surf hats. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be set to make a splash with the right surf hat for you.

BEST OF THE BEST 🔥
BEST LIGHT-WEIGHT 
MOST AFFORDABLE
GREAT VALUE & FLEXIBILITY
GOOD DESIGN & FUNCTIONALITY

DAKINE

Indo Surf Hat

FCS

Essential Surf Bucket Hat

QUICKSILVER

Bushmaster Bucket Hat

COLUMBIA

Bora Bora Booney Hat

SEEKTOP

Surf Bucket Hat

THE GUTS
ULTIMATE DURABILITY & FLEXIBILITY🔥

The Dakine Indo Surf Hat is a gem when it comes to flexibility and durability. This hat has it all! We’re talking about an Indo bucket hat designed for function and longevity. Made from quick-drying material, it offers great sun protection, while its breathable mesh keeps your head cool during those hot summer sessions.

Style-wise, it has that classic bucket-style charm coupled with a wider brim for added sun safety. Not to mention the secure chinstrap, made of neoprene. It promises a snug fit without messing with your peripheral vision, no matter how big the waves get. But the noteworthy highlight is its mesh ear flaps and detachable neck protector flap. These handy features ensure you get protection for your head, face, and neck. Talk about comprehensive coverage!

Highlights

  • Top-notch quality materials ensuring impressive durability
  • Featuring ultimate flexibility that comfortably adapts to the wearer’s head shape
  • Unique sun-blocking visor provides excellent eye protection
  • Chin strap for a secure fit even in challenging wave conditions
  • Machine washable
LIGHT-WEIGHT & USER-FRIENDLY

Here’s a headgear that means business on the waves – the FCS Essential Surf Bucket Hat. Drawing from its name, it truly is a vital piece of surf gear. It’s lightweight, making it easier on the head, and user-friendly. Going for the bucket style, it offers a comfortable fit and secure hold – all packed in one stylish surf hat.

Also, the FCS Essential Surf Bucket Hat comes in various colors and sizes and caters to people with different taste buds. With this hat, you get a sturdy piece of headgear built to last. It uses robust materials that keep it in shape, even after years of use. The cap-style surf hat offers neck protection, too, shielding you from the harsh rays of the sun.

Highlights

  • Lightweight material ensures comfort
  • Perfect fit due to adjustable cord
  • Quick-drying feature for easy maintenance
  • Provide full sun protection with its broad coverage
COST-EFFECTIVE OPTION

Surfing enthusiasts searching for a cost-effective option should look no further than Quiksilver Bushmaster. This surf hat is a smart combination of style, comfort, and affordability that outshines many pricey competitors. The Quiksilver Bushmaster Surf Hat is a popular choice for many reasons.

First, the hat is designed with a wide brim that affords excellent sun protection, a blessing for surfers who spend extensive hours in the sun. Comparatively, it offers more coverage than most surf hats. The hat’s unique design features a chin cord, ensuring a secure fit and preventing the hat from being carried away by strong ocean gusts.

Known for their comfortable outfit and gear, Quiksilver has thin straps on this hat that are barely noticeable, making it an appealing choice for both in and out of water activities. The high-quality fabric used in this hat ensures durability; it’s a hat that’s made to last. 

Highlights

  • Offers reliable UV protection
  • Durable materials with a focus on longevity
  • Mesh ventilation at the ears for added comfort
  • Solid chin strap for a secure fit
IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE

The Columbia Unisex Surf Bucket Hat lives up to its name, offering great value while maintaining impressive performance. Constructed with durability in mind and designed for all-day comfort, this hat surely balances affordability and effectiveness. It is made from high-grade fabric, designed to resist the harsh outdoor environment. Its wide brim is engineered to offer ultimate sun protection while adding to its stylish appeal.

Not skimping on comfort either, Columbia integrates an Omni-Wick sweatband into the design, making it breathable and sweat-resistant. This hat is fashioned to fit all, having an adjustable drawcord and toggle at the back for personalized comfort. To top this all off, its quick-drying feature ensures it keeps up with every water adventure.

Highlights

  • The hat boasts UPA UVB protection, assuring solid sun protection while surfing, an essential factor for long sunny days on the beach.
  • It sports a brimmed bucket hat design that adds shade, helping maintain clear vision while paddling and riding the waves.
  • The hat fits snugly, ensuring it won’t fly off during intense surfing or duck diving.
  • It also features a detachable drawcord for adjustable fit or for those days when wearing hats is unnecessary.
TICKS THE BOXES

Meet the Seektop Surf Bucket Hat. It has it all: a top-notch design, unmatched functionality, and an affordable price point. This hat is a solid contender if you’re seeking top-level sun protection and comfort without breaking the bank. It’s lauded for its exceptional construction, including a chin buckle and drawstring closure for a secure, custom fit. Now, couple that with its impressive UPF 50 protection, and you’ve got a hat poised to have any surfer riding the waves in absolute confidence.

The hat comes in a universal fit, accommodating almost all head sizes. Plus, it’s made with a brim that provides shade and retains clear vision, even when battling against the waves or duck diving.

Highlights

  • The Seektop Surf Bucket Hat boasts an excellent design with top-notch functionality.
  • This hat’s quick-drying feature ensures it remains lightweight even after a dip in the sea.
  • The hat offers optimal sun protection to the wearer with its wide brim.
  • The adjustable chin strap ensures the hat stays put even in windy conditions or rough surf.
THE GOOD
  • A dual cord chinstrap that ensures it adheres to your head.
  • The nylon fabric is as tough as they come, making this a super durable hat.
  • Keep you safe from the sun with its protective sun shield.
  • Rapid-drying fabric for quick and easy clean-up
  • Offers secure fit due to an adjustable chin cord
  • Provides broad coverage for better sun protection
  • Made from high-quality and durable material
  • Great UV protection to shield your head against the sun’s harmful rays
  • Made from sturdy and long-lasting materials.
  • Mesh venting to keep your head feeling cool and breezy.
  • Solid chin straps keep it attached to your head at all times.
  • Multiple color options are available
  • Offers superior sun protection with UPF 50 rating, which shields the wearer from harmful UV rays, an essential when you are out in the sun for extended periods.
  • Snug fit design ensures the hat stays firmly in place even during rigorous activity or high winds.
  • The brimmed bucket design enhances sun protection and maintains vision clarity while paddling.
  • A detachable drawcord ensures a secure fit and versatility in wearing the hat.
  • Available in several color options
  • Holds a stylish design that will make a statement on the beach.
  • Its waterproof material and quick-drying feature mean you won’t have a soggy hat while catching waves.
  • The wide brim helps protect against the sun, while the ventilated sides prevent overheating.
  • The adjustable strap ensures a snug fit for any head size.
THE BAD
  • Lacks a bit of breathability
  • Fit might be a little snug for some
  • It may not provide enough sun protection for those with sensitive skin
  • Not the most budget-friendly option on the list
  • It may lack the style punch some might look for
  • The band is not adjustable
  • It may not be visually appealing to everyone
  • Some customers reported wear and tear over time
  • Some find the brim too wide, which hampers their peripheral vision.
  • It lacks a neck flap, which could have added a layer of sun protection.

DAKINE

Indo Surf Hat

THE GUTS
ULTIMATE DURABILITY & FLEXIBILITY 🔥

The Dakine Indo Surf Hat is a gem when it comes to flexibility and durability. This hat has it all! We’re talking about an Indo bucket hat designed for function and longevity. Made from quick-drying material, it offers great sun protection, while its breathable mesh keeps your head cool during those hot summer sessions.

Style-wise, it has that classic bucket-style charm coupled with a wider brim for added sun safety. Not to mention the secure chinstrap, made of neoprene. It promises a snug fit without messing with your peripheral vision, no matter how big the waves get. But the noteworthy highlight is its mesh ear flaps and detachable neck protector flap. These handy features ensure you get protection for your head, face, and neck. Talk about comprehensive coverage!

Highlights

  • Top-notch quality materials ensuring impressive durability
  • Featuring ultimate flexibility that comfortably adapts to the wearer’s head shape
  • Unique sun-blocking visor provides excellent eye protection
  • Chin strap for a secure fit even in challenging wave conditions
  • Machine washable
THE GOOD
  • A dual cord chinstrap that ensures it adheres to your head.
  • The nylon fabric is as tough as they come, making this a super durable hat.
  • Keep you safe from the sun with its protective sun shield.
THE BAD
  • Lacks a bit of breathability
  • Fit might be a little snug for some

FCS

Essential Surf Bucket Hat

THE GUTS
LIGHT-WEIGHT & USER-FRIENDLY

Here’s a headgear that means business on the waves – the FCS Essential Surf Bucket Hat. Drawing from its name, it truly is a vital piece of surf gear. It’s lightweight, making it easier on the head, and user-friendly. Going for the bucket style, it offers a comfortable fit and secure hold – all packed in one stylish surf hat.

Also, the FCS Essential Surf Bucket Hat comes in various colors and sizes and caters to people with different taste buds. With this hat, you get a sturdy piece of headgear built to last. It uses robust materials that keep it in shape, even after years of use. The cap-style surf hat offers neck protection, too, shielding you from the harsh rays of the sun.

Highlights

  • Lightweight material ensures comfort
  • Perfect fit due to adjustable cord
  • Quick-drying feature for easy maintenance
  • Provide full sun protection with its broad coverage
THE GOOD
  • Offers superior sun protection with UPF 50 rating, which shields the wearer from harmful UV rays, an essential when you are out in the sun for extended periods.
  • Snug fit design ensures the hat stays firmly in place even during rigorous activity or high winds.
  • The brimmed bucket design enhances sun protection and maintains vision clarity while paddling.
  • A detachable drawcord ensures a secure fit and versatility in wearing the hat.
  • Available in several color options
THE BAD
  • It may not be visually appealing to everyone
  • Some customers reported wear and tear over time

QUICKSILVER

Bushmaster Bucket Hat

THE GUTS
MOST AFFORDABLE

Surfing enthusiasts searching for a cost-effective option should look no further than Quiksilver Bushmaster. This surf hat is a smart combination of style, comfort, and affordability that outshines many pricey competitors. The Quiksilver Bushmaster Surf Hat is a popular choice for many reasons.

First, the hat is designed with a wide brim that affords excellent sun protection, a blessing for surfers who spend extensive hours in the sun. Comparatively, it offers more coverage than most surf hats. The hat’s unique design features a chin cord, ensuring a secure fit and preventing the hat from being carried away by strong ocean gusts.

Known for their comfortable outfit and gear, Quiksilver has thin straps on this hat that are barely noticeable, making it an appealing choice for both in and out of water activities. The high-quality fabric used in this hat ensures durability; it’s a hat that’s made to last. 

Highlights

  • Offers reliable UV protection
  • Durable materials with a focus on longevity
  • Mesh ventilation at the ears for added comfort
  • Solid chin strap for a secure fit
THE GOOD
  • Great UV protection to shield your head against the sun’s harmful rays
  • Made from sturdy and long-lasting materials.
  • Mesh venting to keep your head feeling cool and breezy.
  • Solid chin straps keep it attached to your head at all times.
  • Multiple color options are available
THE BAD
  • It may lack the style punch some might look for
  • The band is not adjustable

COLUMBIA

Bora Bora Booney Hat

THE GUTS
GREAT VALUE & FLEXIBILITY

The Columbia Unisex Surf Bucket Hat lives up to its name, offering great value while maintaining impressive performance. Constructed with durability in mind and designed for all-day comfort, this hat surely balances affordability and effectiveness. It is made from high-grade fabric, designed to resist the harsh outdoor environment. Its wide brim is engineered to offer ultimate sun protection while adding to its stylish appeal.

Not skimping on comfort either, Columbia integrates an Omni-Wick sweatband into the design, making it breathable and sweat-resistant. This hat is fashioned to fit all, having an adjustable drawcord and toggle at the back for personalized comfort. To top this all off, its quick-drying feature ensures it keeps up with every water adventure.

Highlights

  • The hat boasts UPA UVB protection, assuring solid sun protection while surfing, an essential factor for long sunny days on the beach.
  • It sports a brimmed bucket hat design that adds shade, helping maintain clear vision while paddling and riding the waves.
  • The hat fits snugly, ensuring it won’t fly off during intense surfing or duck diving.
  • It also features a detachable drawcord for adjustable fit or for those days when wearing hats is unnecessary.
THE GOOD
  • Offers superior sun protection with UPF 50 rating, which shields the wearer from harmful UV rays, an essential when you are out in the sun for extended periods.
  • Snug fit design ensures the hat stays firmly in place even during rigorous activity or high winds.
  • The brimmed bucket design enhances sun protection and maintains vision clarity while paddling.
  • A detachable drawcord ensures a secure fit and versatility in wearing the hat.
  • Available in several color options
THE BAD
  • It may not be visually appealing to everyone
  • Some customers reported wear and tear over time

SEEKTOP

Surf Bucket Hat

THE GUTS
GOOD DESIGN & FUNCTIONALITY

Meet the Seektop Surf Bucket Hat. It has it all: a top-notch design, unmatched functionality, and an affordable price point. This hat is a solid contender if you’re seeking top-level sun protection and comfort without breaking the bank. It’s lauded for its exceptional construction, including a chin buckle and drawstring closure for a secure, custom fit. Now, couple that with its impressive UPF 50 protection, and you’ve got a hat poised to have any surfer riding the waves in absolute confidence.

The hat comes in a universal fit, accommodating almost all head sizes. Plus, it’s made with a brim that provides shade and retains clear vision, even when battling against the waves or duck diving.

Highlights

  • The Seektop Surf Bucket Hat boasts an excellent design with top-notch functionality.
  • This hat’s quick-drying feature ensures it remains lightweight even after a dip in the sea.
  • The hat offers optimal sun protection to the wearer with its wide brim.
  • The adjustable chin strap ensures the hat stays put even in windy conditions or rough surf.
THE GOOD
  • Holds a stylish design that will make a statement on the beach.
  • Its waterproof material and quick-drying feature mean you won’t have a soggy hat while catching waves.
  • The wide brim helps protect against the sun, while the ventilated sides prevent overheating.
  • The adjustable strap ensures a snug fit for any head size.
THE BAD
  • Some find the brim too wide, which hampers their peripheral vision.
  • It lacks a neck flap, which could have added a layer of sun protection.

HOW WE TEST PRODUCTS

We recommend these products based on many different surfers’ perspectives and real experiences using the products. Those expert perspectives are discussed and evaluated in depth to cut through the many products available online. Based on hours of intensive research and the consideration of many factors, we bring you only the best-of-the-best for consideration. 

12

Surfers consulted

20

Factors considered

40

Hours evaluation

OUR GO-TO’S

ULTIMATE DURABILITY & FLEXIBILITY 🔥

DAKINE

Indo Surf Hat

THE GUTS OF IT…

The Dakine Indo Surf Hat is a gem when it comes to flexibility and durability. This hat has it all! We’re talking about an Indo bucket hat designed for function and longevity. Made from quick-drying material, it offers great sun protection, while its breathable mesh keeps your head cool during those hot summer sessions.

    LIGHT-WEIGHT & USER-FRIENDLY

    FCS

    Essential Surf Bucket Hat

    THE GUTS OF IT…

    Here’s a headgear that means business on the waves – the FCS Essential Surf Bucket Hat. Drawing from its name, it truly is a vital piece of surf gear. It’s lightweight, making it easier on the head, and user-friendly. Going for the bucket style, it offers a comfortable fit and secure hold.

    MOST AFFORDABLE

    QUICKSILVER

    Bushmaster Bucket Hat

    THE GUTS OF IT…

    Surfing enthusiasts searching for a cost-effective option should look no further than Quiksilver Bushmaster. This surf hat is a smart combination of style, comfort, and affordability that outshines many pricey competitors. The Quiksilver Bushmaster Surf Hat is a popular choice for many reasons.

     

    GUIDE TO BUYING THE BEST SURF HATS:

    Investing in the best surf is about more than just looking good while riding the waves. It’s about practicality and protection, too. You know, keeping your head from frying under that hot sun. But with so many hats to choose from, like the affordable surf hat, it can make your head spin more than a wipeout. So here’s what you need to keep in mind:

    Remember, stylish surf is something every surfer dreams of, but with the right gear, you might be able to play catch up. So choose wisely!

    Effectiveness of Sun Protection

    First, a surf hat must protect you from the sun. If it’s not doing that, what’s the point? You’re out in the open sea, under the blazing sun; you don’t want to end up with a sunburnt face or, worse, have your scalp sizzled.

    So, opt for a surf hat with a wide brim that can cover your face, ears, and neck. Also, consider hats with UPF protection. This gives an extra layer of security against those harsh UV rays. So remember, when it comes to sun protection, get the right hat and ride those waves worry-free!

    Durability and Material Quality

    One significant factor in deciding the best surf hat is the durability and quality of the material used. Now, you might have heard whispers about all these big surf companies getting their hats from the same manufacturer and that there might be little difference in the fit or the materials they use. Many surf hats seem similar in quality, but not all are created equal. It’s all about the weave and the threads they use!

    Secure Fit and Comfort

    Nothing takes the fun out of a good surf than the annoyance of a hat flying off your head when riding that wave. That’s why, no matter how stylish or expensive a surf hat is, it’s nothing more than a fancy head decoration if it doesn’t stay where it needs to. A surf hat should be like your reliable best friend – always there, sticks around, and comfortable.

    So, when picking a surf hat, make sure it comes with an adjustable strap or a mechanism at the back to tighten it up, or better yet, both! That is how you ensure your hat stays where it needs to be, even in the roughest waters.

    Price and Value

    Let’s tackle that big elephant in the room – the cost-value equation. Like anything else, the ‘best’ surf hat for you hits that sweet spot between price and value. Now, value doesn’t always mean the cheapest. Think of it as getting the most out of your buck. Because even if a hat may cost you a few extra bucks initially, if it’s durable, fits well, and is comfortable to wear, you save a lot in the long run.

    Nothing hurts the wallet more than having to buy a new surf hat every few months because the previous one didn’t live up to the hype or the price tag.

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

    What are the specific styles of surf hats?

    When it comes to surf hats, they mostly fall into three broad categories: bucket hats, ball caps, and brimmed hats. Each surf style has its strengths. Bucket hats and brimmed hats offer premium sun protection, especially for your neck. At the same time, ball caps are aerodynamic but might expose your neck. So, when you choose a style, make sure it matches your needs and the styles of surf hats you’re accustomed to.

    Why do some surf hats have neck flaps?

    The simple answer is for extra sun protection. Surfing uncovers your neck to that relentless, everyday sunshine. Over time, that constant exposure could lead to a sunburn. But the neck flap, adjusted to your preferred angle, swoops in to shield your sensitive neck area. Better than slathering on sunscreen every half an hour. Furthermore, it’s like an adjustable back closure, maintaining a snug fit even when the sea winds pick up. 

    Take the time to try on a few pairs and walk around. It’s like finding the perfect dance partner— you want a good fit, one that’ll glide with you effortlessly through the water.

    Can I wear any hat while surfing?

    Technically, yes. But you shouldn’t. Surf hats aren’t ordinary headwear. They’re crafted explicitly for the rough and tumble of marine environments. We’re talking hats made from sturdy fabrics, water-resistant, and offering UV protection. Better yet, these hats pack in features like secure straps that ensure they stay waved onto your head even as the sea thrashes about. And don’t forget, they dry quicker than a surfer can catch a wave.

    What makes a good surf hat?

    A good surf hat provides adequate sun protection with a wide brim to shield your face from harmful ultraviolet rays. It should be made of durable materials to withstand the harsh sea environment and float if a wave knocks it off. Additionally, a good surf hat should have a secure fit to avoid being lost during rough waves.

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