Leveling up your running gear can change your entire experience. Switching to breathable sneakers or high-tech shades makes a significant difference in hot summer weather, and donning a hat, too, will make you more comfortable in the sun or rain.
Nike Dri-FIT Aerobill Featherlight, $30
Nike’s Aerobill directs air across your scalp via ventilation holes scattered across the front and sides. The top is closed for sun protection, while lightweight fabric keeps wearers from getting too hot. As a bonus, the hat’s hook-and-loop closure means you won’t have anything extra dangling from the back of your head as you run.
RNNR Lightweight Distance Hat, $36
Stylish runners should enjoy this hat, which only comes in bright color-blocked designs. Its flexible brim allows you to curve it, flip it, or leave it flat, and maximum ventilation comes through this cap’s huge side netting panels. RNNR also guarantees its lightweight running hat is “indestructible.”
Janji AFO Hyperlight Cap, $38
As its name suggests, the AFO Hyperlight Cap is super lightweight and breathable. Made from a stretch woven fabric, the running hat offers a minimal feeling with a fast dry time and impressive sweat-wicking capabilities. For storage its crushable foam brim allows you to scrunch it up quickly and easily.
Ciele Athletics GOCap, $35
Ciele Athletics products prioritize performance, which should be plainly evident with the GoCap. The hat is made with fast-drying Coolwick fabric that keeps your head dry on hot days, plus a multi-panel construction that offers a sleek, comfortable fit. A bendable brim and reflective accents finish off the multi-feature cap.
Lululemon Race Kit Hat, $48
Lululemon’s running caps are pricy, but its tech is especially helpful for runners with longer hair. The Race Kit Hat is cut higher to make room for a ponytail, while its Swift fabric is stretchy and quick to dry. The hat’s flexible brim allows it to be stored easily, and two adjustable sizes — small/medium and large/extra-large — ensure everyone can find their ideal fit.
BUFF Pack Speed Cap, $18
BUFF’s multifunctional hat is ideal for trail and long-distance runners who can flip its bill up when running uphill and flip it back down when running downhill. A built-in sweatband provides moisture control, while polyester UPF protective materials wick away any extra perspiration. As an added touch, the Speed Cap’s adjustable elastic cord provides a secure fit that’s easy to adjust while running.
Smartwool Go Far, Feel Good Runner's Cap, $35
Running in a wool-lined hat may sound counter-intuitive, but the material is naturally odor-resistant. This cap’s merino-wool interior band keeps sweat out of your face — and later, your nose. Reflective elements and UPF 20 protection finish off the Go Far, Feel Good Runner's Cap, which seems to live up to its name. People with smaller heads should note the hat’s fit skews large.
On Running Lightweight Cap, $40
On Running’s Lightweight Cap is a more expensive option than most, but it comes with all the features a runner could want. Laser-cut ventilation holes make the hat lightweight, fast-drying, and extra breathable, while soft sweatbands keep perspiration at bay. A reflective logo up front will make you visible in low-light conditions, and a tear-proof material means this hat should last you a lifetime.