Whether you’re a total beginner or more of an experienced runner, finding the best pair of running sneakers and staying up-to-date with must-have running gear products applies to everyone. If you think running hats are a surefire way to end up with unbearable head sweat, you haven’t checked out the latest gear on the market. Today’s performance-driven designs are lightweight and tailored for movement, meaning they’re well-equipped to shade your eyes and protect your hairline and scalp from the sun without causing you to overheat.
Whether you’re looking for a super lightweight running hat you can forget you’re wearing, a running hat you can keep on when you head to a celebratory post-race brunch, or a UPF-rated running hat that will offer the maximum protection from the damaging effects of UV rays, there’s an option on the market for you.
And so you don’t have to spend hours sifting through running hats at your local store, we narrowed down the list to these 13 running hats that will shade your eyes without making you overheat. Keep reading to find your perfect fit.
— Additional reporting by Lauren Mazzo and Jade Esmeralda
GADIEMKENSD Reflective Outdoor Cap ($10, originally $14)
For less than $15, you can get a comfortable running hat that packs all the features of a more costly brand. This low-cost running hat offers UPF 50+ UV protection, reflective detailing, lightweight fabric, and two mesh vents to help keep you cool and dry.
Why we love it: The snap closure means no velcro to pull your hair, and the price can’t be beat. Amazon reviewers give it a solid 4.5 rating, raving about its ability to fit a variety of head sizes and quick-drying, sweat-wicking properties.
What’s worth noting: The brand recommends hand washing this hat, though one reviewer reports putting it in the washer without seeing any sort of damage. It’s also not adjustable; there’s a single snap closure, and then the elastic stretches to fit your head.
Nike Dri-FIT ADV Club Structured Swoosh Cap ($30)
Protect your skin from the sun in style with this sleek running hat. The Nike Dri-FIT ADV Club Structured Swoosh Cap keeps things cool for you, no matter if you’re headed out for a run or for a day at the golf course. The rows of vent perforations allow for continuous air movement and create an airy, breathable feel.
Why we love it: Made from at least 75 percent recycled polyester fibers, this cap offers structure and technical details while you play and move. The Nike Dri-FIT fabric is designed to wick away sweat and won’t hold on to moisture.
What’s worth noting: “It’s a comfy hat, I am using it for outdoor runs.” One reviewer notes, and adds, “The material is breathable and flexible.”
Sprints Baywatch Buoy Flash Reflective OG Hat Unisex ($35)
With a fun, retro-inspired design, this Baywatch Buoy Flash Reflective OG Hat from Sprints is perfect for beach days or runs in the sun. You’ll feel inspired to jog along the shore, or at least imagine that you are, with this summery running cap. The base color is black with a pop of brat-approved neon green around the edge, along with a “sun vibes” patch to keep things cool. This running hat from Sprints is made with featherweight fabric, 100% polyester, and weighs a mere 1.7 ounces. Tear drop vents allow for easy, breezy ventilation and the built-in headband is designed to absorb sweat.
Why we love it: Reviewers rave about the colors of the design as well as the functionality. “The fit and quality are great [plus] it’s beautiful and unique,” one writes. Based on over six hundred reviews, the main themes included praise for the great fit of the running hat, along with the design, love of the pattern, print and colors.
What’s worth noting: This is a statement-making hat; even the black has neon accents. That said, Springs has tons of other colorways to choose from, so if this isn’t your style you’re sure to find one that is.
TrailHeads Race Day Running Cap-Performance Hat ($20)
One of the top-rated running hats on Amazon, this TrailHeads pick is affordable while still packing all the necessary bells and whistles a running hat needs. That includes an adjustable hook-and-loop closure for a secure fit, a dark underbill to reduce glare, and quick-drying fabric. It is also machine washable for easy cleaning and comes in nine different colors, from neon green to black and white.
Why we love it: Reviewers praise this hat for being breathable, packable, and easy to wash. “I never wear hats. My ears stick out and so most hats don’t sit right,” writes one customer. “But this one fits PERFECTLY. I use it for runs and hiking. It’s easy to wash and I just let it air dry. I even bought the same hat in different [colors] definitely recommend.”
What’s worth noting: This hat does not offer UPF protection, so while it’ll give you shade, it won’t offer the ultimate in sun protection. However, the brand does have other products with this feature for a few extra dollars. Some reviewers also report that the sizing varies from color to color.
Blogilates Women’s Pony Tail Cap ($13)
Designed by Blogilates, this hat is perfect for those in need of extra space for their hair when running. The front of the cap has a whimsical nature-inspired design featuring a moon and leaves, while the back has a large space to allow various gym-approved hairstyles.
Why we love it: Whether you prefer a high ponytail, braid, or low ponytail, this running cap is the perfect fit for you. On the interior, the brand’s signature tagline, “Find the joy in fitness” is proudly displayed as a motivational message from this exclusive hat from Target.
What’s worth noting: “I tend to have a larger head for a woman so a lot of women hats are too snug on me, but this one adjusted so it fit!” One reviewer notes, “I love that I can wear a higher ponytail or messy bun with this hat!”
Sprints Neon Flash Reflective OG Hat (Unisex) ($35)
This running hat from Sprints features an adjustable velcro strap fastening, ample room, and a comfortable, flexible fit. The ultra lightweight polyester fabric makes this an easy option to fold up for travel or pack while on-the-go. For those interested in the technical details, this running hat touts UPF 45+ and boasts protective qualities that block 98 percent of sun rays.
Why we love it and editor quote: “As a strength coach, I have an ongoing collection of hats, but the Neon Flash Reflective OG Hat from Sprints is a standout pick. Finding a comfortable fit that won’t shift around too much with movement, or dig into the sides of my temples, can be tough. This hat from Sprints is lightweight, durable, and secure enough to withstand everything, including walks, jogs, runs and even windy days while stand-up paddle boarding. As a bonus, the spacious area at the nape of the neck and velcro fixture allow me to reshape the hat as needed, whether I want to toss my hair in a ponytail or a messy bun while on-the-go.” — Jade Esmeralda, health and fitness staff writer for PS
What’s worth noting: Hundreds of avid runners and customers love the bright, vibrant colorway, and appreciate the comfortable fit. This bright neon running hat also features subtle tear-drop shaped ventilation along the sides for more breathability. There are other color options available, including pink, green, orange, and black.
Buff Pack Speed Cap HTR Azure Blue ($35)
Designed for runners and movement enthusiasts alike, this minimalist Speed Cap from Buff has cute colorways that are so demure. Featuring a quick-drying material, you’ll have peace of mind when running instead of wiping off buckets of sweat. The fabric content and inner-band is designed to wick away moisture. Not only is this running hat lightweight, it is sustainable, too–made with a whopping 90 percent recycled materials.
Why we love it: Weighing in at a mere 30 grams, this ultra lightweight running hat is perfect to stash in a bag when you’re ready to head out on your next adventure. For the technical details, the flexible cap also features an elastic toggle, which allows for easy adjusting on the fly.
What’s worth noting: Many reviewers praise this hat for being lightweight, adjustable to different head sizes, able to easily pack flat for travel, and overall, love these hats for running.
adidas Running X 4D HEAT.RDY Cap ($35)
This simple Running X 4D HEAT.RDY Cap from adidas is designed to be feather light and unfussy, allowing you more time to focus on your run. Featuring the signature adidas HEAT.RDY technology, sweat and moisture buildup is kept to an absolute minimum, while the sleek laser cut air vents help keep things breezy. The back of the hat includes an adjustable strap to create a more fitted shape for security, or loosen up as you soak up the post-workout endorphins.
Why we love it: With a lightweight design, this running cap includes air ventilation holes that create tons of movement. This means you’ll be less likely to need to stop, mop up sweat, and readjust throughout your run.
What’s worth noting: “Super comfortable, looks rad, great for keeping sweat off your face and out of your eyes,” one reviewer writes. “The peak retains its shape so you can either flip it low to keep the sun out of your eyes or pop it up high to get it out of your eyeline. Dries super fast after a wash too. Love it!”
Lululemon Fast and Free Ponytail Running Hat ($38)
Turn this Lululemon running hat around and check out the big opening in the back, which is wide enough to incorporate ponytails of any height. Get it in four colors, including white, black, storm teal, and sonic pink. But no matter which you choose, you’ll get reflective detailing, an interior mesh sweatband to catch any drips, quick-drying fabric, and an adjustable back closure for a custom fit.
Why we love it: Reviewers are obsessed with the ponytail hole.”I have a ton of hair and have troubles fitting my ponytail or bun through the hole that normal ponytail hats have. This hat is perfect for my average head size with the adjustable band and allows all my hair to be in a comfortable high pony or bun for my runs. It doesn’t slip up or blow off when it’s windy and doesn’t leave a big dent in my forehead like other hats do when I get them tight enough to not blow away.”
What’s worth noting: Some customers report the hat being too big and say that the adjustable strap doesn’t go far enough to fit their head. Because of this, one reviewer said the hat “rides up constantly and slips up my head.”
Outdoor Voices Doing Things Hat ($28)
You can’t blame us for still loving the iconic Doing Things Hat from Outdoor Voices. It’s heavier compared to the others on our list but great for lower-intensity activities like walking, hiking, playing court sports like pickleball, or going on a casual run.
Why we love it: Reviewers have given it nearly five stars on the Outdoor Voices website. “This is my most fave hat ever. Color goes with everything and fit is perfect! I wear it 5/7 days! It’s now a part of me, I’ve been wearing it so long. I’m actually on here to buy a backup!” one person writes. Another customer vouches that it’s a great running hat: “this hat is so comfy, light, and fits perfectly snug which makes it awesome for running!”
What’s worth noting: Some reviewers shared that the hat doesn’t have much structure; it’s easily crushable, which is great for travel but may leave it wrinkly or keep it from standing upright when on your head.
Adidas Terrex HEAT.RDY Five-Panel Graphic Cap ($30)
This Adidas running hat from the brand’s outdoor-focused sub-brand, Terrex, is made from recycled materials and perfect for taking into the woods. The HEAT.RDY technology manages heat to keep you running, hiking, and exploring in hot weather, and an inner sweatband helps capture any sweat that does arise. If it gets dirty while you’re tearing up the trails, just toss it into the washing machine.
Why we love it: Reviewers call this cap “superb” and say it’s great for workouts of any type. “Great hat for runs, looks good, comfortable and great breathability,” one customer writes.
What’s worth noting: A reviewer noted, “Good cap. Great for exercise. Feels a bit flimsy. Breathable and light. Bit floppy at points.”
Buff 5 Panel Go Cap Domus Blue ($35)
With an adjustable low-profile fit, this running hat has flexibility within the visor and creates a comfortable fit for many different head shapes or sizes. With air-wicking material, this running cap is designed to allow air flow throughout. Crafted in Spain, these hats tout UPF 50 ultraviolet radiation as continuous sun protection for outdoor activities.
Why we love it: The classic blue and black shades of the Domus Blue colorway are edgy and Insta-worthy while on a hike, and totally bound to bring a smile to your face. Or, opt for navy tones for a more neutral look on your next adventure.
What’s worth noting: “I’ve now owned 3 Buff 5 panel hats and love them all! They work well for running, hiking, and athleisurewear”, reviewer Chad H. writes, while several other reviews applaud the design for being, “Super light and quick drying.”
Cat X Richardson 112 Hi-Vis Trucker Hat ($35)
The Cat X Richardson 112 Hi-Vis Hat in Hi-Vis Yellow features a mesh backing, perfect for tucking away loose hair flyaways, and for hiding your mane during those messy hair, don’t care, type of days. While this might not be as ultralight weight as some of the other options, the color is bright and fun.
Why we love it: With a structured, curved bill, the design of this trucker hat is just so classic. Throw on for more for light jogs, or fast walks, and ideal for more of a brat summer, hints of demure travel, and standing out amongst the crowd.
What’s worth noting: The visibility feature is definitely worth taking note of, including a 3-D reflective silicone on the left side panel. Again, it’s for the trailblazers, and the ones who aren’t afraid to stand out, despite low-light settings. The mesh exterior allows for easy breathability, and the hat’s brim provides protection from the elements. Use the easy snapback closure to adjust the fit, based on your liking.
Maggie Ryan was an assistant editor at PS. A longtime runner and athlete, Maggie has nearly four years of experience covering topics in the wellness space, specializing in fitness, sports, nutrition, and mental health.
Lauren Mazzo was the senior fitness editor at PS. She is a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist through the American Council on Exercise. Prior to joining PS, she worked for six years as a writer and editor for Shape Magazine covering health, fitness, nutrition, mental health, sex and relationships, beauty, and astrology.
Jade Esmeralda, MS, CSCS, is a Staff Writer, Health & Fitness. A life-long martial artist and dancer, Jade has a strong passion for strength & conditioning, sports science, and human performance. She graduated with a Master of Science degree in Exercise Science and Strength and Conditioning from George Washington University.
