by Keep cool while protecting yourself from the sun. Investing in the proper headwear is an important part of every runner’s kit. So today we’re looking at the best ultra running hats to hit the trails in. Reviewing our favorites based on performance and pricing. And with options ranging from $12.99 – $40.00 there is an option for every price range.
Key Takeaways from Post:
- Invest in Proper Headwear: Ultra runners should prioritize investing in the right headwear for sun protection.
- Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap: Offers serious sun protection with a detachable cape, making it ideal for long sun-exposed runs.
- Nathan Run Hat with Pockets: A well-regarded choice with small pockets for essentials, compact for travel, and available in various colors.
- REI Co-op Swiftland Running Cap: A versatile and packable cap suitable for running and travel, quick-drying, and comfortable.
- GADIEMKENSD UPF 50+ Reflective Running Cap: An affordable and foldable cap with UPF 50+ and reflective features, available in various colors.
- Nathan Reflective Runner’s Hat: Known for its stylish design, fitting well on both men and women.
- GADIEMKENSD Unstructured Reflective Sports Cap: Offers excellent breathability with a large mesh area but may not be suitable for winter or short haircuts.
The Best Ultra Running Hats
Outdoor Research – Sun Runner Cap
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Reviews: 780+
Stars: 4.5
Price: $37.95
Sun Protection: UPF 50+
Material: 100% Nylon
If you’re looking for some serious sun protection then there is really only one choice. The Outdoor Research – Sun Runner Cap performs as well as the best running caps on the market with one huge advantage. This ultra running hat comes with a detachable cape. While this may not be needed for your average days, if you do big miles in the sun or live in a warm weather climate this may be the perfect running cap for you. This is one of my recommended items for any attempting the infamous Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim.
Amazon Review:
“The hat works! To be frank, it’s dorky looking. But since I started wearing it for my runs in the blinding sun of New Mexico, I’ve had far fewer migraines. It’s breathable and despite the extra fabric, I don’t sweat more than I do in a regular Nike running hat. If you really need to keep the sun off while working out, this hat fits the bill. As other reviewers have commented, it runs small. I’m a woman with a regular head and a lot of hair and I had to return the small for a medium. I could have made the small work but would have sacrifice some ventilation.”
Nathan Run Hat with Pockets
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $25-37
Reviews: 40+
Stars: 4.5
Sun Protection: UPF – Company site does not give a rating.
Material: 100% Polyester
Nathan is a well known brand in trail and ultra running. With a reputation for creating great running accessories the Nathan Run Hat with Pockets is no different. Made from 100% polyester with a five panel build, the hat fits great while backing down small for travel and fitting in your gear bag. The pockets are not large. But for me they have plenty of room to put a little money or an energy gel. The pocket is not padded so you will feel what you have in there. Nathan also makes the hat in a veriety of colors which makes it easy to find one that fits your style.
Amazon Review:
“I run in several different hats- Nike, Underarmor, Adidas- etc- this is probably my favorite right now. Comments about “floppy” brim made me nervous. This was not a problem, though. Great weight, great hat.”
REI Co-op Swiftland Running Cap
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Price: $26.95
Reviews: 13+
Stars: 4.6
Sun Protection: UPF – Company site does not give a rating.
Material: 88% Nylon / 12% Spandex
One of my go to running and travel hats. There is a lot to love about the REI Swiftland Running Cap. The packable brim makes it the perfect cap to have in your bag on the trail or at the airport. And the its quick dry material does it’s job perfectly. I’ve ran over 20 miles in this thing and wouldn’t hesitate to do more!
REI Review:
“I love running with this hat. I’ve tried a half dozen other brands, but this is the best. Comfortable, adjustable, washes easily.”
GADIEMKENSD UPF 50+ Outdoor Hat Folding Reflective Running Cap
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Reviews: 3,200+
Stars: 4.5
Price: $12.99 (with shipping)
Sun Protection: UPF 50+
Material: Nylon & Polyester
The number one selling on Amazon. With over 3,000 reviews the GADIEMKENSD (that’s really the name) offers an affordable, foldable, UPF 50+ running cap that’s also reflective. There are a bunch of color options and it’s prices under $15. What more can you ask for? Some reviews mention the fit not being perfect but the majority of verified reviews are glowing on the “value” and many ordered multiple colors.
Amazon Review:
“Made of good materials. Machine washable with no color fading or stuck unraveling. Very pleased with the cap’s reflective brim and bright, safety yellow color. Excellent for wear in low visibility conditions. Absorbs sweat and keeps it out of the eyes. Overall – great running cap, and a solid bang for your buck. Would definitely buy again.”
Nathan Reflective Runner’s Hat
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Reviews: 10+
Stars: 4.5
Price: $24.99
Sun Protection: UPF – Company site does not give a rating
Material: 100% Polyester
Nathan makes it’s second appearance on this list with the Reflective Runner. The 5 panel construction means this hat fits great. And with no pocket it has less fabric which makes it a bit more breathable. but the real reason it makes the list is the look. The Nathan Reflective Runner is one of the better looking hats on the list, fitting both men and women.
GADIEMKENSD Unstructured Reflective Breathable Sports Cap
Link: Amazon Link Click Here
Reviews: 500+
Stars: 4.5
Price: $12.99
Sun Protection: UPF 50+
Material: Polyester
The second GADIEMKENSD on the list. This model sets itself apart with a larger open mesh area on the sides of the head. The hat is incredibly breathable. This large area of mesh can have a downside. It’s not a great hat for winter wear and if you have a low hair cut or shaved head. Make sure to wear sunscreen. This model is unstructured, so it folds easily and is also reflective. And for the price you really can’t go wrong giving it a try.
Amazon Review:
“Great hat for the summer and warm/cool temps. Not good during the winter, unless you’re into freezing cold air flowing through your head. If you’re into that, by all means. This is the hat for you! lol Overall it’s light-weight and comfortable to use during my workouts.”
Conclusion
When it comes to ultra running, protecting yourself from the sun is essential, and the right headwear can make all the difference. The blog post highlighted a range of top-performing ultra running hats to suit different preferences and needs. From the Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap for serious sun protection to the Nathan Run Hat with Pockets for practicality and style, there’s a hat for every runner. The REI Co-op Swiftland Running Cap offers versatility and quick-drying capabilities, while the GADIEMKENSD caps provide affordability and reflectivity. Nathan Reflective Runner’s Hat adds a touch of style to the mix. For exceptional breathability, the GADIEMKENSD Unstructured Reflective Sports Cap stands out. No matter your choice, these hats ensure you can keep cool and stay protected while hitting the trails during your ultra runs. So, invest in the right headwear, stay comfortable, and enjoy your runs to the fullest.
If you feel like I left your favorite ultra running hats off of this list. Let me know in the comments below!
