10 of the Best Surf Hats

Why wear a surf hat?

When we’re young – in childhood, teens and twenties – sun protection is an afterthought. We know we should slip, slop, slap but this can easily be forgotten when we’re presented with a perfect lineup on a hot summer’s day. Watching our skin darken is a game of youth and the feeling of surfing in only a bikini or boardshorts is freedom. We look and feel wonderful. Until we hit our thirties and notice laugh lines becoming permanent crevices. Previously tanned skin becomes uneven pigmentation. We may even have our first melanoma scare. If you haven’t had a melanoma scare yet, then allow us the privilege.

Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the US and third in Australia. Surfers are six times more likely to develop melanoma than the general population. The most common melanoma sites are those where the skin is exposed to sunshine, such as the chest, legs and face. While survival rates are high when the melanoma is detected early, treatment involves surgery and can result in significant scarring. If the melanoma is detected late and has spread to lymph nodes or remote parts of the body, the survival rate drops to as low as 25% after 5 years.

Surf hats: a simple sun protection solution

As surfers, wearing a hat may seem rather unappealing. Firstly, surf hats are usually associated with crusty old longboarders (who have learned their lesson). Secondly, they’re often really flimsy and uncomfortable. Old-style bucket hats used to obstruct lateral vision, making surfing less intuitive. Then when waves get bigger you can kiss that hat goodbye. So who needs a surf hat anyway?

You do. Getting sunburned is no fun. Short term it is painful. Long term damage is irreversible. The Better Health Channel says, “The long-term effects of repeated bouts of sunburn include premature wrinkling and an increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma (the most dangerous type of skin cancer). Once DNA damage occurs, it is impossible to reverse. This is why prevention is much better than cure.”

Surf hats provide a physical barrier between your epidermis and the sun. So wear one on days when the waves are small to average – when you’re not going to lose your hat. In big surf, by all means, go au naturale and let your head soak up some rays. I’ve lost many surf hats when the waves are pumping. But aim for the 80/20 rule – wear a surf hat 80% of the time and you’ll enjoy long term benefits.

Remember, a surf hat only covers the area where a shadow is cast over your skin. A peak-style hat will only cover part of your face and it certainly won’t protect your neck.  A bucket hat may provide increased all-round protection but your nose, lips and chin could be exposed. You also need to factor in the reflection from the water. Sunsmart NZ says, “Water offers minimal protection from UV radiation. Reflection from water can increase your exposure to UV radiation.”

So wear a hat but also apply a mineral zinc or reef-safe sunscreen to your neck, cheeks, nose and chin. Your forehead probably doesn’t need sunscreen if you wear a surf hat. Of course, wear a rash vest or wetsuit to protect your body.

We’ve been testing surf hats for many years. Here are the best options money can buy.

Kaiola Surf Hat

The Kaiola surf hat is a seriously good-looking option. Much more like an everyday cap, the design is contemporary and comfortable. The brim angles slightly upward and is much less distracting than competing hats. We also love that it is a little longer than the Rip Curl Surf Series Hat (below), meaning that you get more protection over your nose and cheeks. The chin strap is unobtrusive and easy to use. The unique design survived some pretty good beatings in solid waves and we liked that it didn’t obstruct peripheral vision.

We’re big fans of the Kaiola surf hat and it is often our #1 choice when paddling out.

From Kaiola

Kaiola surf hat is designed to protect you from the blazing hot sun, blinding glares and spray blurring your vision so you can surf better and longer. And your hat will stay on, no matter your maneuver,  so you can focus on catching those waves.

Yes, finally a surf hat with style in mind! ‘No’ to chunky black chin straps and ‘Yes’ to colour choices! We wanted a surf hat that looks cool in and out of the water.

Our nearly invisible, yet super strong signature chin strap can easily be tucked away when not in use. We got you covered – both for surf style and street style.

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Buy from Kaiola

Salt Gypsy x Sunward Bound Surf Hat

Salt Gypsy x Sunward Bound joined together to create a bold new surf hat that’s ready to pair with anything. It stays put incredibly well, provides great sun protection (no detachable neck flap though), and as a cool added feature it has a velcro hidden pocket inside the hat to hide a key.

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From Salt Gypsy

Drawn from a lifetime chasing long period swells, Salt Gypsy is a women’s surf lifestyle company celebrating female surf athleticism and style in the lineup. We focus on developing stylish & long-lasting products for discerning women of the sea.

Buy from Salt Gypsy

Patagonia Surf Brim Hat

We love everything about the Patagonia brand. Their gear is quality yet affordable and they have been the inspiration for many eco-surf brands that have emerged in the past decade.

Made from NetPlus® recycled nylon (from reclaimed fishing nets), Patagonia’s surf brim hat is eco-conscious and performance-driven. It’s packable, glare-reducing, and stays put in the water thanks to a removable four-point chin strap.

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From Patagonia

Our recycled nylon, brimmed bucket hat designed for use on the water. Fair Trade Certified™ sewn.

Everything we make has an impact on the planet.

Buy from Patagonia

Rip Curl Surf Series Hat

The Surf Series Hat is a reliable, comfortable, good-looking all rounder. The floating brim offers a unique design, while the adjustable shock cord crown and secure chin strap keep it in place. Breathable mesh vents and a neoprene headband provide comfort, and the removable neck flap gives you extra protection. Plus, it’s quick-drying to keep you cool under the sun.

From Rip Curl

The Surf Series Hat is an investment in your wave-count… You can’t shred if you’re suffering sun-stroke! This amphibious cap features a detachable chin cord with toggle, a soft and flexible floating peak, and removeable neck flap. Chuck on this tech little sun smart number and surf yourself into oblivion!

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Buy from Rip Curl

Dakine Surf Cap

Okay, the Dakine surf cap may be a little more reminiscent of a jockey’s hat but the construction can’t be faulted. Breathable mesh over the ears provides even more protection where the other models don’t.

From Dakine

Breaking waves and bright sun. The Dakine Surf Cap stays put wave after wave to shade your eyes. A mesh chin strap keeps this quick-drying water hat securely in place, while ventilated ear covers maintain breathability.

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Buy from Amazon

O’Neill Eclipse Bucket Surf Hat

For optimal protection the O’Neill Eclipse Bucket Surf Hat is your best bet. This is serious sun protection for the adventurous – or those mad enough to surf in the midday sun. A wide, floppy brim and neck protector will ensure that your skin stays in the shade, while a heavy duty strap will keep the hat firmly attached.

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Buy from O’Neill

FCS Wet Bucket Surf Hat 

FCS have been making surf hats for many years. Their bucket hat is simple, no fuss and reliable. Designed in collaboration with world-class surfers, this hat is ideal for those who want functionality without extra fuss.

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Buy from Amazon.com

Ocean & Earth Indo Stiff Peak Surf Hat

Like the O’Neill Eclipse, OE have designed a serious bucket hat for complete protection from the sun. It has a stiff front brim and a safety loop to keep it connected. Possibly the best option for surfers planning to spend all day in a tropical lineup.

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Buy from Ocean & Earth

El Dingo Wide Brim Surf Hat

The El Dingo Wide Brim Surf Hat is perfect for those who want sun protection without sacrificing edge. Its firm, non-floppy brim protects your face without blocking your view, and the all-black ripstop fabric looks sharp in and out of the water.

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Buy from El Dingo

Billabong Surf Hat

Made with recycled Pro Stretch fabric, the Billabong Surf Hat fits snug, stays on, and offers solid sun protection without extra bulk. Designed to reduce drag and increase comfort, it’s a sleek choice for performance surfers.

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Buy from Amazon

What if I don’t want to wear a surf hat?

No problems. Your options are clear:

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