Ah, the great outdoors. There's nothing else quite like being out in nature. Whether you're a newbie to backpacking or a well-traveled trekker, hiking in the desert or the mountains, one thing remains the same: You need a hat to protect your face, keep you comfortable, and ensure a safer sojourn.

They say the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, so get ready to hit the trails after following these steps to find the best mens hiking hats.

Mens Hiking Hat Checklist

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Hiking gear? Check. Sleeping bags? Check. Hiking Hat? That's what we're here for. Before you can decide on the right adventure hat, it's crucial to know which features make a good hat for your next journey.  

Brim Size

A wide-brim hat — that is, one that measures 3 inches or bigger — is ideal when it comes to selecting a hiking hat as it provides the most sun protection. Being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays increases the risk for skin cancer, so this isn't something to ignore.

According to the American Cancer Society, this is especially important between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when UV light is strongest, not to mention the time frame when many people are hiking. What's more, UV rays reach the ground all year, even on cloudy or hazy days.

With this in mind, all the sun hats on this list have wide brims. It also helps if the brim's underside is a dark color to reduce the sun's glare on snow or other surfaces.

Material

Even though you're an au naturel guy who enjoys Mother Nature's splendid beauty, there's something to be said about synthetic materials when it comes to hiking hats.

Man-made materials such as polyester and nylon often block UV rays better than natural fabrics like cotton, straw, and wool. They're also made in such a way to provide moisture-wicking and quick-drying cooling action. But as our list demonstrates, you can still find hats made from natural materials that get the job done.

UPF Rating

Just as you protect your skin by putting on sunscreen, so too should you protect yourself with UPF-rated sun hats. An acronym for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, UPF indicates how much UV radiation gets through the fabric.

Since hiking exposes you to the sun for prolonged periods of time, look for a UPF rating of 40 or above — UPF50 is ideal, although you can find plenty of good hiking hats without a UPF rating. Learn more in our guide to the best sunblock hats for men and women.

Fit

If the hat fits, wear it. No matter how high the UPF rating or how wide the brim, a hiking hat will do you no good if it doesn't fit and feel right. A comfortable fit is essential, so consult our hat sizing guide to make sure you get the right size.

Along with how it feels, fit includes adjustability. Look for features such as chin straps, neck capes, and inner drawstrings that will help keep your hat in place.

Packability

You're going on a hike, so it only makes sense that you would want a hat that is easily packed. Hats that are crushable make the best travel companions because they bounce back to shape even if they've been folded, stashed, smashed, or otherwise abused.

Check out our list on the best crushable sun hats for travel.

A Word About Baseball Caps

As comfortable as your favorite baseball cap might be, consider leaving it behind during your hike or only wearing it once the sun has gone down. A ball cap's brim doesn't offer optimum sun protection — it only shields part of the face while your neck, ears, and cheeks are exposed to the elements.

Mens Hiking Hat Favorites

Check out some of these top styles for your next hiking adventure.

Berghund by Stetson

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It doesn't get much more comfortable than this UPF50+ safari hat from Stetson. Made with a mesh nylon crown, and equipped with a moisture-wicking sweatband, this hat is lightweight enough to wear on a hike any time of the year.

Everest by Scala

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A perennial favorite for outdoor adventurers, the Everest by Scala is made from water-repellent wool felt. Along with it's weather resistance feature, this hat is also packable. Crushable hats are ideal for travel, as you can pack them tightly in your suitcase or backpack without ruining their shape, making the Everest the perfect wintertime adventure companion.

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Willow by Dorfman Pacific

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If you're looking for the perfect all-around outdoor hat, look no further. Not only is the Willow outback hat a soaker and have a UPF50+ sun protection rating, but it is easily packable and can be folded into your travel pack.

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Cooler by Dorfman Pacific

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When the warm weather calls your name out onto the porch at night, you're going to want your favorite hat with you. This polyester aussie hat with mesh crown is lightweight and stylish, ensuring the ideal summer night. Not only will this hat let your head breathe, but it's soaker style allows you to immerse it in water, so that you stay cooled down when the heat starts to turn up. Available in natural (seen above), tan, and grey.

Happy Trails

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They say that life is about the journey, not the destination. The same can be said for hiking. And to ensure that you have the best journey possible, finding the right hiking hat is a must. Not only will it protect you from the sun's powerful rays, but it can also help keep you warm during cooler treks.

So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our full selection of mens wide-brim hats and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.