The Best Sun Hats to Protect Skin and Hair for Women Over 50: See 8 Summer Headwear Options
See the convertible visor that's sporty-chic and many other options for sun protection
Kick back and relax — summer is here! But before you head outside, here’s your friendly reminder that with those hot, summer sun rays in full swing, it’s essential that you have the proper sun protection for your skin. This not only includes sunscreen — which dermatologists advise applying every day regardless of the season — but also protective clothing and accessories. We love a good pair of sunglasses to shield our eyes, but we also need to shield our face and skin with a hat! Whether you’re a baseball cap and visor connoisseur or tend to lean more toward big and statement-making sun hats, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best summer sun hats for women over 50 that offer stylish sun protection.
Related: Best Sunglasses for Women — 16 Styles from Readers to Bifocals and Regular Sunnies
Why do we need sun protection?
By now, you probably already have an idea of how imperative it is to protect your skin from the sun. For starters, UV rays are the leading cause of skin cancer — and it can usually be prevented by applying the proper sun protection, like an SPF of at least 30, covering exposed skin with protective clothing and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
Not only can sun protection help prevent skin cancer, it also can help prevent signs of premature aging. The sun’s rays can lead to dark spots, loss of elasticity and wrinkles, just to name a few. It also can cause skin to feel rough and dry, and for mature skin that already may feel extra dry due to menopause, rough skin from the sun can feel even more uncomfortable.
Last but not least, we’ve all experienced a painful sunburn (or many!) from not applying sunblock or wearing a sunhat. Sunburns are never fun, and can last for days or even weeks. But they can easily be prevented with the right protection like a sun hat.
Related: 12 Best Stylish Summer Sandals for Women Over 50 With Arch Support, Cushioning and More
What to look for in a sun hat
When looking for the perfect hat for summer, there’s a few key things you should keep in mind. Here, we break down what to be on the hunt for when finding your new favorite summer accessory.
1. A sun hat with a wide brim
Not only are wide-brimmed hats stylish and trendy, they also are the most protective for your skin! The wider the brim, the more your face will be covered. The standard recommendation is at least 3 inches wide.
2. A sun hat made with a breathable material
Most people already sweat more in the summer with the hotter temperatures, but wearing a hat can sometimes lead to more sweating. To combat, look for fabric this breathable, moisture-wicking and/or lightweight, such as linen or cotton.
3. A sun hat with built in UPF
You’ll want to look for hats that have ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) properties. This is similar to SPF, but rates the protection of the fabric/clothing. UPF of at least 50 is typically recommended.
Related: 7 Best Face Sunscreens for Mature Skin To Ward Off Wrinkles and More
4. A sun hat with a secure fit
Make sure the hat fits your head right, and isn’t too big that it would blow off with the wind or too small that it feels uncomfortable.
The 8 best sun hats for women over 50
Keep reading to see the best sun hats for women over 50 that will protect you from the sun in chic style (without overheating!).
Solbari Traveller Broad Brim Sun Hat UPF50+
We love the two-toned colorway of this sun hat (and that it comes in five color options!), but even better we love that it has UPF50+ and a 3-inch front brim and 3.5-inch back brim. Even better, it features an adjustable chin strap for extra security.
Athleta Water-Resistant Bucket Hat
This more subtle hat option is great for the beach or pool as it’s water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about getting it wet. Plus, it’s made from lightweight polyester and is adjustable for the right fit.
Hairbrella Satin-Lined, Waterproof All Weather Sun Hat
Another option perfect for water-related activities, this waterproof sun hat has breathable mesh vents, and to prevent frizz/a bad hair day, it’s lined with satin on the inside.
Coolibar Women’s Stella Scarf Detail Hat UPF 50+
Want to make a statement? Opt for a bright and vibrant sun hat! This one gets extra points for the chic patterned scarf around the middle, and even better, for having UPF 50.
You can’t go wrong with a cool, cotton sun hat. Choosing a white or other neutral option will make it easy to pair with any outfit. It has UPF 50, a wide brim and an inner drawstring.
Solbari Wanderlust Visor UPF50+
This may look like a regular wide-brimmed baseball cap, but it’s so much better! And it’s actually a convertible visor. Simply unzip the top off and on to switch between a fully-covered hat and a visor so you get two looks in one!
Coolibar UPF 50+ Women’s Ariel Reversible Pool Hat
Want the look of a straw hat but worried about protection? Fear not, this sun hat looks beachy and boho like a straw hat but is actually made from lightweight, woven polyester with UPF 50. What’s more, it features a moisture-wicking headband on the interior.
TrailHeads UV Protection Running Hat
This cap is perfect for any physical exercise, like running, walking, pickleball, tennis or golf. It has UPF 50 protection, is moisture-wicking and feels incredibly lightweight.
For more of our favorite summer finds, click through these stories:
11 Best Cooling PJs for Women Over 50, Plus Other Cooling Sleep Extras
13 Best Body Sunscreens Beloved by Dermatologists and Skin Pros
20 Best Summer Makeup Formulas and Products That Can Stand Up To the Heat
