One of the most iconic accessories on the trails. Trucker hats seem to be more popular than ever in the trail running and ultra running scene. With runners repping hats with their favorite brands, races, breweries and more. But why do trail runners wear trucker hats? Is it just a fashion statement, or are there real benefits? Let’s find out!
Key Takeaways:
- Trucker hats provide vital sun protection and ventilation for trail runners.
- Their lightweight design allows for convenient on-the-go use.
- Snapback trucker hats can be easily attached to running packs.
- They offer rain protection and help keep long hair out of your face.
- Trucker hats are affordable and often available for free, making them a practical choice.
- With various styles and customization options, there’s a trucker hat for every runner.
- The “Forrest Gump effect” adds to their appeal, making them a popular choice in the trail running community.
Why do Trail Runners Wear Trucker Hats?
Protection From the Sun
The most important reason most people wear hats when running is to keep the sun off your face and out of your eyes. Having a hat with a firm bill is great for this. You can tilt it down when running into the sun, to protect your eyes. Or it can be turned around and tilted down to protect your neck when it’s hitting you in the back.
Ventilation
Trucker hats are incredibly breathable. That’s one of the major benefits of the mesh back. So while they can protect you from the sun. They also let in a ton of airflow. This is a major advantage when running in the warmer weather.
Light Weight
Another big advantage to the mesh design is that they are really lightweight. I know a lot of times I’ll start with my hat in/on my pack. And will put it on once the sun gets a little higher in the sky. Being such a lightweight accessory makes this possible.
Snapback Can Attach to Running Pack
As I mentioned above, I’ll often start a run early with beanie on and my hat attached to my running vest. Snapback trucker hats are amazing for this. I just clip it to the top hanging strap and pop it off and on as needed.
Shielding Against Rain
It’s common knowledge that trucker hats are your go-to for safeguarding against sun rays, but their protective prowess doesn’t end there. Just as they shield you from the scorching sun, they double as a reliable defense against raindrops. While your hair might still catch a sprinkle, your face won’t be subjected to a deluge of rain.
Keep Your Hair Contained
If you’ve got long locks, you’ll relate to this struggle. Few things are as irksome as your hair clinging to your perspiring face during a run. Trucker hats serve as the perfect solution, corralling your hair and keeping it far from your face without causing your head to overheat. Additionally, they prevent your hair from getting tangled while in motion, and the opening at the back accommodates a ponytail if you’re sporting one.
Trucker Hats are Cheap
I might want to move this one to the top of the list. But one of the biggest reasons that trail runners wear truckers hats is because they are cheap. And often given out for free by brands for promotions (because they are cheap to make). Since they are going to take a beating and get sweaty, cheap or free makes a lot of sense.
A Trucker Hat for Every Style
Being cheap means runners can get a lot of different styles, make custom designs, and go with options they may not normally wear. As with most running accessories, the brighter or more iconic the statement they make, the better. Anything involving drinking and running will score you extra points.
The Forrest Gump Effect
There is no question the Forrest Gump effect is a real thing. I mean if the most iconic runners of all time (j/k) wear one. Why wouldn’t you?
Conclusion
Trucker hats have firmly established themselves as an iconic accessory in the world of trail running and ultra running. Beyond their fashionable appeal, these hats offer practical benefits, such as sun protection, ventilation, and lightweight design. Their affordability and the ability to customize them make them a popular choice among runners looking to express their unique style. Furthermore, the “Forrest Gump effect” reminds us that even the most iconic runners can’t resist the charm of a good trucker hat. So whether you’re seeking functionality, style, or a bit of both, there’s a compelling reason why trail runners choose to don these classic hats on their running adventures.