When the sun is out and skies are blue, life is good. But even when it feels like anything under the sun is possible, you can't forget that outdoor activities pose serious risk of sun damage. Whether you're heading to the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean, embarking on an adventuresome walkabout Down Under, or simply plan to take advantage of a relaxing Sunday afternoon soaking up some rays, a sun hat is a must.

To help you out, we’ve compiled this list of the best mens sun hats that come in a variety of materials, colors, and styles that best suit your face shape. You can also browse our full selection of mens sun protection hats for even more options.

Mens Sun Hat Checklist

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When it comes to choosing the best sun hats, make sure to consult this checklist so you don't end up with buyer's remorse. Or worse, a sunburn.  

Wide Brim

Most guys throw on an old baseball cap and call it a day, no matter how sunny it is. But if you're serious about saving face (and you should be), a wide brim is a must. Not just a womens hat style, a wide-brimmed hat is one with a brim that measures at least 3 inches to protect your face, ears, and neck from harmful UV rays. Plus, let's face it: They look way cooler than adding a neck flap to a baseball hat.

Breathable Material

To help keep the fun in functional, choose a hat made of breathable materials. Cotton, straw, linen, and synthetic fabrics designed for breathability such as breathable mesh are your best bets. Also, look for sweatbands that are quick-drying and breathable for an even better hat-wearing experience.

Flexibility and Comfort

Be flexible. It's good advice for life and for sun hat shopping. Flexibility not only means that a hat is crushable, it also means that a hat can be easily adjusted. Look for details such as Velcro, chin straps, and adjustable drawstrings so that your hat will stay on no matter what the day brings. After all, even the best sun hat won't do you any good if it doesn't feel comfortable and stay put.

UPF Rating

Slathering on sunscreen is never fun, but neither is burning your skin to a crisp. Wearing SPF is recommended even on cloudy days, so it's even more important to take proper precautions when the sun is out in full force. To that end, wear hats with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, preferably UPF 50. Hats and clothing with UPF offer UV protection against UVB and UVA rays, which is key to preventing sun damage and skin cancer. Learn more about what makes a good sun protection hat with our guide to the best sunblock hats.

A Few Good Mens Sun Hats

Muirfield by Scala

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An instant classic by anyone's standards, Muirfield by Scala is as much an adventure hat as it is a fashionable statement maker. Perfect for any occasion under the sun, this hand-woven straw hat features a vented crown for optimum breathability and a three-inch brim for plenty of UV protection. The slim, stitched leather band adds a stylish yet understated touch while the Dry-Lex Eco sweatband will keep you feeling as cool as you look.

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Albuquerque by Scala

Nothing says summertime like a handwoven Panama straw safari hat. Lightweight to keep you cool, wide brimmed for sun protection, and a classic accompaniment to any summer outfit, the Albuquerque Panama outback will keep you fresh and footloose in the heat

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Driver by Dorfman

What’s a spring golf outing without a hand-crocheted gambler hat with straw as finely tuned as your backswing? Next time you need a wide brim for sun protection in style, take one of the instant classics with you, like the crushable, UPF50+ Driver gambler hat by Dorfman Milano. JEquipped with aelasticized sweatband, this hat is all about creating maximum comfort while playing the green.

Dublin by Stacy Adams

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Proving that sun hats are anything but boring, this bold fedora hat from Stacy Adams will instantly amp up any wardrobe. Made from shiny, smooth polybraid straw, this topper is for the guy who appreciates attention to detail and isn't afraid to be seen. The 3-pleat silk band and feather accent create a touch of formal flair while the 2 1/4-inch brim and cotton sweatband will keep you comfy at a sunny destination wedding, chilling poolside, or enjoying al fresco lunch.

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Dakota by Scala

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Who says a sun hat has to be made of straw or cotton? This water-repellent wool felt outback hat from Scala is a game changer. A must-have for the guy who likes to keep things unpredictable yet smart, Dakota is a study in urbane functionality with a 3-inch wide brim and sleek leather band. Shown in pecan, this hat is also available in olive, khaki, putty, chocolate, and black.

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Loudon by Scala

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Warm summer nights mean music festivals and country concerts and what better way to enjoy your favorite act than with the Loudon straw western hat. This item works great as sun protection and event accessorizing alike. Along with a stylish concho band and chin cord, this western straw topper is ideal for sunny excursions with its 4-inch and shapeable brim. The toyo straw and elasticized sweatband ensure  a breathable, comfortable wearing experience so you can feel as rockin' as you look.

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Masa by Scala

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Go big or go home. That's your motto and this is your spirit hat: the big-brim Panama by Scala Classico. Made in the U.S. of carefully hand-woven Ecuadorian straw, this handsome headgear doesn't mess around with an upturned 3 3/4-inch brim that capably keeps the sun at bay. The simple yet elegant 12-linge olive grosgrain band speaks volumes about its quality without saying a word.

Keep It Cool

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Once you know what to look for in a mens sun hat, there's no need to sacrifice fashion for function. Whether you're sporty, sophisticated, or a little bit of both, finding the best hats to keep you safe from harmful UV rays is not just something to wish about — it’s now completely within reach so you make the most of those bright, sunshiny days.