The Best Running Hats For Men
We looked at the top 9 Running Hats For Men and dug through the reviews from 18 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Running Hats For Men.
Our Review Process
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Although runners tend to focus more on their footwear and clothing, a reliable running cap is just as important because it can impact your health. A hat protects from UV rays that can lead to skin cancer, as long as the color is bright or dark enough to prevent the sun from getting through. It’s best to avoid pale colors when choosing running hats for this very reason. Also, look for hats with brims that are wide enough to keep the sun completely out of your eyes, unless you are wearing a pair of sunglasses.
Running caps also prevent heatstroke and keep your head at the proper temperature as you move because you don’t want to overheat. Most are made from polyester, which repels water and offers sun protection. Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like this for summer running caps, and look for added features like mesh panels that allow for more airflow. If you run at night, reflective panels and neon colors will make you more visible to others.
If your hair is longer and you put it in a ponytail when working out, be sure that the running cap has a big enough opening in the back to accommodate your hair. Adjustable closures are necessary no matter the hair length, but remember that long hair can get stuck in hook-and-loop closures (also called Velcro). Buckles can work well, but some people don’t like them because they can feel them in the back; this is a matter of personal preference. Other fastener options include plastic snaps, sliding adjusters and bungee pulls.
Our Picks For The Top Running Hats For Men
- 1. GADIEMKENSD Unstructured Stretch Men’s Running Hat
- 2. TrailHeads Race Day Performance Men’s Running Hat
- 3. ELLEWIN Full-Mesh Men’s Running Hat
- 4. HH HOFNEN Quick-Dry Sun-Protection Men’s Running Hat
- 5. Fitcare2go Reflective Men’s Running Hat Set, 2-Pack
- 6. ZZEWINTRAVELER Quick-Dry Men’s Running Hat
- 7. Fitdom All-Sports Lightweight Men’s Running Hat
- 8. Headsweats Reflective Race Men’s Running Hat
- 9. CLAPE UPF50+ Curved-Brim Men’s Running Hat
Here’s a breathable, comfortable running hat that offers four-way stretch thanks to nylon and spandex. It also has laser-perforated back panels for ventilation, a soft 2 3/4-inch brim and a durable, adjustable back buckle. It weighs 1.8 ounces.
Moisture-Wicking and StylishYou’ll stay dry and look great while wearing this well-ventilated, quick-drying cap.
Incredibly comfortable and lightweight at just 2 ounces, this 100% polyester mesh sports hat has a breathable construction allowing air to flow as you move. It features reflective accents for visibility and a dark underbill to reduce glare.
Weighs Just Two OuncesThis high-performing headwear is so lightweight that you’ll forget you’re wearing it!
Talk about cool: Ellewin’s full mesh running hat is made from 100% polyester panels built into a traditional cap shape. It dries incredibly fast and has a sturdy, adjustable strap, so it’ll never feel too tight or loose once you set it to your size.
The Ultimate in VentilationWhen staying cool while running is the priority, this breezy hat is the optimal choice!
This soft and durable running hat is an excellent value with built-in UV protection, lightweight 100% polyester material and reflective material for better visibility. You’ll also appreciate the adjustable Velcro closure in the back.
Your New Go-To HatThis cute and sporty cap for smaller heads dries quickly and weighs next to nothing!
Why we recommend these running hats for men?
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Our experts reviewed the top 9 Running Hats For Men and also dug through the reviews from 18 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Running Hats For Men.
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The Best Bang For Your Buck
ELLEWIN Full-Mesh Men’s Running Hat
Our Take
Talk about cool: Ellewin’s full mesh running hat is made from 100% polyester panels built into a traditional cap shape. It dries incredibly fast and has a sturdy, adjustable strap, so it’ll never feel too tight or loose once you set it to your size.
What to Look For
- Some running hats also have built-in UPF technology (ultraviolet protection factor, used for apparel) that offers more sun damage protection.
- You can also find running caps with a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. This finish makes them more water resistant, but you won’t be able to remain completely dry when out in the rain.
- Flexibility is also crucial for running caps; avoid trucker-style hats that do not bend.
- Running caps should be soft, but they won’t hold their form and do their job if they are too floppy.
- All-around mesh panels can be very cooling, but you might want to spray sunscreen on your head for extra protection.
- Some running hats have a bit of wool inside the brims to help manage sweat and odor.
- Hats with shorter brims will not provide as much face protection from the sun.
- Unless the manufacturer’s label says otherwise, do not launder running hats in the washing machine; hand-wash and air-dry them in most cases.
- If your running cap is giving you a headache, loosen the closure.
More to Explore
Some serious runners believe that running caps make them more aerodynamic. That’s because the hat keeps the hair covered and prevents it from creating unwanted drag. It’s the same reason many runners shave their heads or body hair.
However, researchers involved with a study from Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) noted that you’re faster without a hat, especially if you shave off all your hair. But since they also acknowledged that most people prefer some kind of head covering, the researchers studied the topic and found that the best hat for running is a visor, worn backward. The lightweight quality of the visor combined with less drag from the backward-worn flap made for a winning combination.