If you love sailing, you know how important it is to protect your head from the sun, wind, and water. A good sailing hat can make a big difference in your comfort and safety on board. But with so many options available, how do you find the best hat for sailing?
In this blog post, we will help you answer that question by giving you some tips and recommendations based on our experience as a broker that rents sailboats for vacation. Whether you are a beginner skipper or an experienced one, we have the perfect hat for you!
What to Look for in a Sailing Hat
When choosing a sailing hat, there are some factors that you should consider:
- Material: The material of your sailing hat should be durable, breathable, and quick-drying. You want a hat that can withstand the elements and keep your head cool and dry. Some of the best materials for sailing hats are nylon, polyester, and cotton blends. Avoid wool or leather hats, as they can get heavy and uncomfortable when wet.
- UPF: UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, and it measures how well a fabric blocks harmful UV rays from the sun. The higher the UPF, the better the protection. Look for a sailing hat that has a UPF of at least 30, preferably 50 or higher. This will help prevent sunburns and skin damage on your scalp, ears, and neck.
- Brim: The brim of your sailing hat should be wide enough to shade your face and eyes from the sun, but not too wide that it obstructs your vision or gets blown off by the wind. A brim of about 2 to 4 inches is ideal for most sailors. You can also opt for a hat with a removable or adjustable brim, so you can customize it according to the weather and your preference.
- Chin Strap: A chin strap is a must-have feature for any sailing hat, as it helps secure your hat on your head and prevent it from flying away in strong gusts. Look for a chin strap that is adjustable, comfortable, and easy to detach. Some chin straps also have a cord lock or a clip that allows you to attach your hat to your collar or jacket when not in use.
- Style: Of course, you also want a sailing hat that suits your personality and style. There are many types of sailing hats to choose from, such as caps, beanies, brimmed hats, sou’westers, and hard hats. Depending on the season, the occasion, and your mood, you can pick a sailing hat that matches your outfit and mood.
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Hat with a chin strap and a brim that cat protect your neck and probably shoulders
Our Top Picks for Sailing Hats
To help you narrow down your choices, we have selected some of the best sailing hats on the market based on our own experience and customer feedback. Here are our top picks for sailing hats:
Sailing Caps
Sailing caps are simple and classic hats that are great for casual sailing trips and everyday wear. They have a curved bill that shades your eyes from the sun and glare, and they fit snugly on your head without being too tight or loose. Sailing caps are usually made of nylon or polyester, which are lightweight, breathable, and fast-drying materials.
One of our favorite sailing caps is the Henri-Lloyd Mal HL Sailing Cap. This cap is made by one of the most reputable brands in sailing apparel, and it offers a high level of UV protection (UPF 50+). It also has a wicking inner band that absorbs sweat and keeps your head cool. The cap comes in two colors (navy blue or pale grey) and two sizes (medium or large). The chin strap is removable and adjustable, so you can wear it as you like.
Another great option is the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap. This cap has a unique feature: a removable cape that covers your neck and face from the sun. The cape is attached to the cap by snaps and velcro, and it has mesh panels for breathability. The cap itself has a 2.5-inch bill that provides good shade for your eyes, and an inner headband that wicks away moisture. The cap also has an adjustable back band and a cinch cord for a secure fit. The cap is available in four sizes (small to extra large) and several colors.
Brimmed Sun Hats
Brimmed sun hats are ideal for sunny days when you need extra protection from the sun. They have a wide brim that covers your entire face and neck from the sun’s rays, which can help prevent sunburns, heatstroke, and eye damage. Brimmed sun hats are usually made of cotton or nylon blends, which are soft, comfortable, and water-repellent.
One of the best brimmed sun hats for sailing is the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat. This hat has a 4-inch brim at the front and a 7.5-inch brim at the back, which provide excellent coverage for your face and neck. The hat also has a UPF 50 rating, which means it blocks 98% of UV radiation. The hat has an adjustable chin strap and a rear sizing band for a custom fit. The hat also has mesh side panels for ventilation and a water-repellent finish.
Another excellent choice is the Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat. This hat is made by a Canadian company that specializes in high-quality hats for outdoor enthusiasts. The hat has a 3.25-inch brim that is stiff enough to hold its shape in the wind, but flexible enough to be rolled up for storage. The hat also has a UPF 50 rating, which means it offers maximum sun protection. The hat has an adjustable chin strap that wraps under the chin and back of the head for high winds. The hat also has a mesh crown for airflow and a secret pocket for storing valuables.
Beanies
Beanies are cozy and warm hats that are perfect for winter sailing or cold days. They have a snug fit that covers your ears and forehead, and they are usually made of wool or fleece, which are insulating and soft materials. Beanies are easy to wear and pack, and they come in various colors and styles.
One of the best beanies for sailing is the Fleece-Lined Beanie. This beanie is made of acrylic yarn that is durable, stretchy, and comfortable. The beanie also has a fleece lining that adds extra warmth and softness. The beanie comes in one size that fits most heads, and it has a classic ribbed design that looks good on anyone.
Another great option is the Musto Sailing Beanie. This beanie is made by one of the leading brands in sailing clothing, and it has a sleek and stylish design. The beanie is made of polyester fleece that is warm, breathable, and quick-drying. The beanie also has a reflective logo that enhances your visibility in low-light conditions. The beanie comes in one size that fits most heads, and it has a choice of two colors (black or navy).
Conclusion
A sailing hat is an essential accessory for any sailor who wants to enjoy their time on the water without compromising their comfort or safety. A good sailing hat can protect your head from the sun, wind, and water, as well as add some flair to your outfit.
We hope this blog post has helped you find the best hat for sailing based on your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a simple cap, a wide-brimmed hat, or a cozy beanie, we have the perfect hat for you!
If you are interested in renting a sailboat for your next vacation, please visit our website www.yachting.com to browse our selection of sailboats and destinations. We are a broker that rents sailboats for vacation, and we cater to clients of all skill levels and budgets. We would love to help you plan your dream sailing trip!
So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our range of charter boats and head to some of our favourite sailing destinations.