Kids' Hats Guide
Size
It's crucial to select a hat that fits properly to ensure comfort and to provide adequate sun protection. Most hats come in a range of sizes, usually determined by age or head circumference. For example, the Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat offers a wide range of sizes starting from XS (circumference of 48cm) to L (circumference of 55cm), allowing you to find the perfect fit for your child. Another option is the Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat, which is available in multiple sizes including S/M and M/L, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit for children of different ages. Additionally, for infants, hats like the iPlay Baby Sun Hat are designed with an adjustable toggle for a customizable fit to accommodate their growing heads. Remember, a well-fitting hat is essential for shielding your child from harmful UV rays and keeping them comfortable throughout the day.
Material
The material of a hat not only affects its durability but also determines the level of comfort and breathability. For warm weather, lightweight and breathable materials such as cotton or polyester are ideal choices. The Under Armour Boy's Blitzing 3.0 Cap is made of polyester fabric that offers excellent breathability. On the other hand, for colder weather, hats made of wool or acrylic provide good insulation. The FURTALK Kids Winter Pom Beanie Hat is crafted from 100% soft acrylic yarn that keeps the little ones cozy during chilly days. Additionally, for outdoor activities, hats with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) can help protect children's delicate skin from harmful sun rays. The Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat with UPF 50+ is a great option to shield children from the sun while enjoying outdoor playtime.
Style/design
There are various styles and designs available on the market that cater to different tastes and preferences. For those looking for a trendy option, the 'Nike Youth Swoosh Futura Heritage86 Adjustable Hat' is a perfect choice with its sleek and athletic design. Additionally, for a more playful and fun look, the 'The Children's Place Unisex Kid's Emoji Baseball Cap' is a great option with its vibrant and cute emoji-inspired design. Alternatively, the 'Mitchell & Ness NBA Hardwood Classic Snapback Cap' offers a retro and sporty aesthetic, perfect for young basketball enthusiasts. These are just a few examples of the wide range of styles and designs available, ensuring that every child can find a hat that suits their unique fashion sense.
Color
Bright and vibrant colors are great for children as they are visually appealing and fun. Some popular choices include the Melondipity Girls Confetti Cupcake Baby Girl Hat, which features a combination of vibrant colors like pink, purple, and blue. It is made with 100% cotton and has a ribbed texture. Another option is the BULA Kids Anthony Beanie, available in multiple colors such as red, blue, and yellow. This beanie is made with a soft and warm acrylic material, perfect for colder weather. A wide range of colors are available in sun hats as well, such as the Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat in colors like lime, teal, and pink. It offers UPF 50+ sun protection and has a wide brim for added sun coverage.
Breathability
It is essential to keep children cool and comfortable during hot and humid summer days. Look for hats that are made from breathable materials, such as cotton and polyester blends, as they allow air to circulate and help prevent excessive sweating. One example is the Nike Youth AeroBill Featherlight Cap, which features Dri-FIT technology that wicks away moisture and provides excellent breathability. Another option to consider is the Columbia Youth Coolhead Ball Cap, designed with Omni-Freeze ZERO technology, which reacts with sweat to lower the temperature of the fabric and enhance breathability. Both hats are great choices to ensure your child remains cool and comfortable throughout the day.
Some other categories of kids' hats include bucket hats and sun hats. Bucket hats, like the iPlay Bucket Sun Protection Hat and the Tickle Toes Baby Boys Wide Brim Sun Hat, feature breathable fabrics and wide brims that provide maximum sun protection while still allowing airflow. Sun hats, such as the Sunday Afternoons Play Hat and the Jan & Jul GRO-with-Me Sun Protection Hat, are specifically designed to offer UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) sun protection in addition to breathability. They often have adjustable straps and moisture-wicking sweatbands for added comfort.
Age range
For infants and toddlers (age 0-2 years), hats with adjustable chin straps are recommended to ensure a secure fit during active play. The Baby Banz Outdoor Sun Protection Hat is a great option for this age group, featuring a soft and lightweight fabric that offers UPF 50+ protection. For preschoolers and young children (age 3-6 years), hats with wider brims provide excellent sun protection. The Sunday Afternoons Play Hat is a popular choice with a wide brim to shield the face, neck, and ears from harmful rays. Teenagers (age 12+) can opt for stylish options like the Nike Youth Featherlight Cap, which offers lightweight construction and breathable fabric for utmost comfort during sports activities.
UV protection
The harmful rays of the sun can be especially damaging to children's delicate skin, making it crucial to provide them with proper protection. Look for hats that offer a high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating, such as the Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat which provides UPF 50+ sun protection. Another great option is the Coolibar UPF 50+ Kids' Marina Sun Hat that comes with a generous brim for extra sun coverage. These hats are made using special fabrics with built-in SPF protection and have been tested and approved to provide excellent UV protection for your little one's head, face, and neck. Remember, it is essential to opt for hats that offer broad coverage to shield your child's skin from harmful UV rays.
Waterproof
It is crucial to keep children's heads dry during rainy or snowy weather to prevent discomfort and potential health risks. When looking for waterproof hats for kids, it is advisable to explore options with features that ensure effective protection from moisture. For example, the 'Columbia Youth Watertight Hat' is a great choice as it is made with Omni-Tech waterproof and breathable fabric. It also features an adjustable chin strap that secures the hat in place even during windy conditions. Another suitable option is the 'Outdoor Research Kid's Helios Rain Hat', which utilizes 2.5-layer Pertex Shield waterproof and breathable fabric to provide reliable protection against wet weather. It even has UPF 50+ sun protection, making it suitable for outdoor activities in any weather condition.
Insulated
Insulated hats are designed to keep your child's head warm and cozy in colder weather conditions. One excellent option is the Columbia Kids' Youth Hat. It features Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining, which reflects the body's heat and keeps it within the hat. This technology, along with the insulated construction, ensures maximum warmth even in freezing temperatures. Another reliable choice is the The North Face Youth Winter Hat. It is designed with lightweight and low-bulk insulation to provide warmth without creating excessive bulk. Its soft and cozy fleece lining traps heat effectively, making it an ideal choice for winter adventures.
In terms of segments, there are two main categorieze of insulated kids' hats: fleece hats and insulated winter hats. Fleece hats, like the Polarmax Kids' Insulated Fleece Hat, are lightweight, breathable, and provide good warmth for cold but not extremely cold weather. Insulated winter hats, on the other hand, are specifically designed to withstand harsh winter conditions and usually include additional features such as wind and water resistance. Examples of insulated winter hats include the LL Bean Kids' Thinsulate Insulated Hat and the Outdoor Research Kids' Peruvian Hat, both of which offer excellent insulation and protection against the elements.
Adjustable strap
An adjustable strap ensures a secure and comfortable fit for your child's head, allowing them to enjoy various activities without constantly adjusting the hat. One great option that offers an adjustable strap is the Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat. It features a unique sizing system with a toggle that allows you to adjust the hat's size effortlessly. Another excellent choice is the Columbia PFG Mesh Snap Back Ball Cap. This hat boasts a snapback closure that provides a customizable fit, accommodating growing heads of all sizes. These adjustable strap hats are perfect for active kids who need a hat that stays in place during sports, adventures, or everyday play.
Chin strap
A chin strap ensures that the hat stays securely in place on windy days or during active play, reducing the risk of it flying off or getting lost. An excellent example of a kid's hat with a dependable chin strap is the SunBusters Kids Reversible Bucket Hat. Made with UPF 50+ UV protection fabric, this hat features an adjustable chin strap, ensuring a comfortable fit for kids of all ages. Another option to consider is the Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat. Constructed with a moisture-wicking and water-resistant fabric, this hat also comes with a breakaway chin strap for added safety. With these kid's hat options, parents can feel confident that their little ones will stay protected and their hats will stay in place no matter the adventure.
Brim width
The brim width determines the amount of sun protection the hat provides. A wider brim can provide more coverage and protect sensitive skin from the harmful rays of the sun. For instance, the Sunday Afternoons Kids Play Hat features a 2.5-inch brim that shields the face, neck, and ears. It has a UPF 50+ rating, offering excellent sun protection. Another option is the Columbia Kids' Sun Ridge II Hat, which has a wide brim measuring 2.75 inches and offers UPF 30 protection. For those seeking a hat with a slightly narrower brim, the The North Face Kids Norm Hat with a 2.25-inch brim is a great choice.
Ear coverage
Protecting your child's ears from the cold or harmful sun rays is crucial for their comfort and health. Look for hats with extended flaps or earflaps that provide full coverage to keep their ears warm during chilly days. For example, the Columbia Kids' Polar Hat is designed with a fleece lining and extended coverage for optimum warmth. Additionally, consider the Sunday Afternoons Kids' Play Hat which features a UPF 50+ sun protection rating and an innovative neck cape to shield the ears from the sun. These hats ensure that your child's ears remain adequately protected regardless of the weather conditions.
Comfort
Look for hats made from soft and breathable materials that won't cause any irritation, such as the Columbia Unisex-Kids Pack Friendly Bucket Hat and the Tilley Kids Mesh Hat. These hats are crafted from lightweight and moisture-wicking fabrics, ensuring your child stays comfortable even during hot summer days. Additionally, hats with adjustable straps or drawstrings like the The North Face Kids' Bucket Hat provide a secure and personalized fit, ensuring that the hat doesn't slip or become uncomfortable for your child. Remember, always prioritize the comfort of your child when choosing a hat to ensure they enjoy wearing it.
Durability
A durable hat will last longer and be able to withstand the wear and tear that comes with active kids' outdoor activities. One example of a durable kids' hat is the Columbia Kids' Silver Ridge III Hat. It is made from 100% nylon, making it lightweight yet sturdy. It features an adjustable chin strap, ensuring a secure fit even during high-intensity play. Another durable option is the Tilley Kids LTM6 Airflo Hat, which is made from lightweight and durable nylon fabric. This hat also has a moisture-wicking sweatband to keep kids cool and comfortable during hot weather.
Easy to clean
Kids' hats can easily get dirty and involved in various activities, so choosing a hat that can be easily cleaned will make parents' lives much easier. Look for hats that are made from materials that are machine washable or can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Some great examples of hats that are easy to clean include the Nike Youth Feather Light Cap, which is made with a Dri-FIT fabric that is machine washable, and the Columbia Youth Trail Adventure Hat, which is constructed with a stain and water-resistant fabric that can be wiped clean. These hats belong to the segment of hats made from technical fabrics that are designed to resist stains and moisture, making them the perfect choice for active kids.
Weight
Look for hats that are lightweight and won't feel heavy on your child's head, allowing them to move freely without being hindered. One such product that fits this criterion is the 'Columbia Kids Bora Bora Jr. III Booney Hat', which weighs just 3 ounces. Made from a lightweight nylon fabric, this hat provides UPF 50 sun protection and has a moisture-wicking sweatband for added comfort. Another good option is the 'Outdoor Research Kids' Rambler Sombrero Hat', which alongside its UPF 50+ sun protection, weighs only 2.7 ounces thanks to the nylon ripstop fabric used in its construction. Both hats are suitable for warm weather and outdoor activities, making them ideal choices for active kids.
Foldable/packable
Foldable or packable hats are perfect for families on-the-go or for those who want to easily stow away their hats when not in use. One great example of a foldable kids' hat is the Sunday Afternoons Kids' Clear Creek Boonie Hat. Made with a lightweight and crushable material, this hat can be easily rolled up and stored in a bag or pocket without losing its shape. Another option to consider is the Columbia Kids' Packable Sun Hat, which comes with a collapsible brim that allows for easy storage and transportation. Both hats have a wide brim to provide ample sun protection and feature adjustable chin straps to ensure a secure fit on your child's head.
Quick-drying
Kids tend to be active and play in various environments, often leading to their hats getting wet from sweat or water. For quick-drying hats, consider options like the Columbia Kids' Bonehead Youth Snapback Hat which is made from a blend of polyester and cotton for optimal moisture-wicking and fast drying. Additionally, The North Face Youth Brimmer Hat features the company's QuickDry fabric technology that accelerates the evaporation process, keeping your child's head dry and comfortable in no time. Don't overlook the Columbia Kids’ Sandy Shores Bucket Hat either with its quick-drying properties thanks to its durable nylon material. It's essential to prioritize quick-drying features to ensure that your child's head stays dry and bacteria-free, preventing any discomfort or potential health issues.
Wind resistance
A good kids' hat should be able to stay in place even on windy days, providing protection and ensuring that it doesn't fly off easily. There are several options on the market that excel in wind resistance. One such option is the Outdoor Research Kids' Flurry Beanie, which is made with a wind-resistant material that stays in place even during gusty conditions. Another excellent choice is the Columbia Kids' Urbanization Mix Beanie, designed with windproof fabric and a snug fit to withstand strong winds. Additionally, the The North Face Kids' Wind Fleece Hat is crafted with a wind-resistant exterior and a fleece lining for warmth. All of these hats are specifically designed to provide excellent wind resistance, ensuring that your child's hat stays put even in blustery weather.
Sweatband
A sweatband helps keep sweat away from the eyes and face, keeping your child cool and comfortable during outdoor activities. Look for hats that feature a moisture-wicking sweatband, which helps absorb and evaporate sweat quickly. An excellent example of a kids' hat with a sweatband is the Columbia Kids' Bora Bora Jr. III Booney Hat. Made with an Omni-Wick sweatband, this hat ensures your child stays dry and protected from the sun. Another option is the Sunday Afternoons Kids' Play Hat which also features a moisture-wicking sweatband, along with UPF 50+ sun protection. These hats are designed to provide excellent functionality and comfort during any outdoor adventure.
- Columbia Kids' Bora Bora Jr. III Booney Hat
- Sunday Afternoons Kids' Play Hat
Logo/branding
A well-known brand signifies the quality and reliability of the product. One such brand that offers excellent kids’ hats with logo/branding is The North Face. Their hats are known for their durable materials and stylish designs. Another renowned brand to consider is Nike. Nike kids’ hats often feature their iconic swoosh logo and are made with high-quality materials, ensuring both comfort and durability for your child. Whether you choose The North Face or Nike, you can trust that their logo/branding represents a commitment to producing top-notch hats for kids.
Hat band
The hat band not only adds style but also provides functionality. Look for hats with adjustable hat bands that offer a secure and comfortable fit for your child. An excellent example of a hat with a customizable and secure fit is the Outdoor Research Kid's Rambler Sombrero. It features an adjustable drawcord and a removable chin cord, ensuring that the hat stays in place even during active play. Another option is the Sunday Afternoons Kids' Ultra Adventure Hat, which has a switchback drawcord adjustment that allows fit customization and makes it suitable for various head sizes. Additionally, this hat boasts a customizable chin strap with a breakaway safety clip feature, ensuring both a secure fit and added safety.
Ventilation
Look for hats that have strategically placed ventilation panels or mesh inserts. For instance, the Sun Hat with Mesh Panel features a wide brim to provide ample protection from the sun, while the mesh panel in the crown promotes airflow and prevents overheating. Similarly, the Breathable Baseball Cap is designed with mesh ventilation on the sides and back to ensure proper air circulation.
You can find a range of kids' hats that offer excellent ventilation. Some hats are specifically designed for outdoor activities and have added features to enhance ventilation, such as the Outdoor Adventure Hat with mesh sections and an adjustable chin strap. Others, like the Bucket Hat with Vent Holes, come with small ventilated holes throughout the crown to maximize airflow. Overall, opting for hats with ventilation will help ensure your child stays cool and protected from the sun.
Lining
The lining of a hat determines its insulation and comfort level, making it a crucial aspect for ensuring your child stays warm and cozy during colder seasons. For instance, the The North Face Kids' Winter Camp Hat features a soft, brushed lining that provides excellent warmth and comfort. Similarly, the Columbia Kids' Frosty Slope Set includes a hat with a microfleece lining that offers exceptional insulation and a snug fit. These linings effectively trap body heat, keeping your child protected from chilly winds and frigid temperatures. Additionally, the Patagonia Baby Retro-X Fleece Hat is lined with soft polyester fleece, providing a cozy feel and enhanced insulation for your little one's head. Therefore, it's essential to consider the lining material and construction when selecting a kids' hat to ensure maximum comfort and insulation.
Inner adjustable band
This feature allows for a customizable fit, ensuring that the hat is comfortable and doesn't slip off. There are several products on the market that offer this feature. One example is the Columbia Kids Adjustable Hat, which has an inner adjustable band that can be easily tightened or loosened depending on the child's head size. Another option is the Tuga Sunwear Kids Hat, which features a hook and loop closure on the inner band, allowing for an adjustable fit. The Jan & Jul Kids Foldable Sun Hat is another great choice, as it has a toggle system on the inner band that allows parents to tighten or loosen the hat easily. Overall, selecting a hat with an inner adjustable band ensures a perfect fit for your child's head shape and size.
Reversible
Reversible hats offer double the style options, allowing your child to switch up their look effortlessly. One great option is the NIce Caps Kids Reversible Adjustable SPF 50+ Swim Flap Sun Hat. This hat is made with UPF 50+ fabric for excellent sun protection and features a large brim to shield the face, ears, and neck from harmful UV rays. Additionally, it has an adjustable strap for a secure fit and can be easily reversed to showcase a different design. Another option is the Connectyle UPF 50+ Kids' Reversible Bucket Hat. This hat also provides superior sun protection with its UPF 50+ rating and has a wide brim for maximum coverage. It is adjustable in size and offers two different patterns. The reversible feature allows for versatile styling, making it a practical and stylish choice for your child.
Multi-functional
One example of a multi-functional kids' hat is the 'Tuga' brand UPF 50+ reversible bucket hat. This hat is designed to provide superior sun protection with its UPF 50+ rating, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities in sunny conditions. It is also lightweight and quick-drying, which makes it perfect for water play or beach trips. Another multi-functional kids' hat option is the 'Sunday Afternoons Play' hat, which offers UPF 50+ sun protection and includes a neck cape for added coverage. This hat is also water and stain repellent, ensuring durability and long-lasting use.
Health and safety compliances
Look for hats that meet key safety standards such as being free from harmful substances. One example is the Sunday Afternoons Play Hat which is made from a fabric that has a certified UPF (Ultra-Violet Protection Factor) rating of 50+, providing excellent protection against harmful UV rays. Another product to consider is the Tilley Kids Hat which is UPF 50+ certified and also offers enhanced moisture-wicking properties to keep kids cool and comfortable. These hats have been designed with the safety and well-being of children in mind, ensuring parents have peace of mind when it comes to protecting their little ones from the sun's rays.
Compatibility with other clothing/accessories
Look for hats that match or complement their existing wardrobe, ensuring that the colors and styles are in harmony. One example of a hat that provides compatibility with other accessories is the Tough Headwear Kids Sun Hat which can be easily paired with sunglasses an ideal combination for outdoor activities in sunny weather. Alternatively, the Under Armour Kids' Blitzing 2.0 Cap offers compatibility with various athletic wear, making it suitable for sports activities and can be effortlessly paired with running shoes and sports gear. Overall, selecting kids' hats that complement other clothing items and accessories will help create a cohesive and stylish look.
Seasonality (for warm/cold weather)
For warm weather, it is important to find hats that provide protection against the sun while keeping children cool and comfortable. One great option is the 'Columbia Unisex Youth Bora Bora Jr III Hat', specifically designed with a UPF 50 rating to block harmful UV rays. It features a wide brim to shade the face and neck, and a moisture-wicking headband to keep sweat away.
In colder weather, hats should offer insulation to keep kids warm. The 'The North Face Kids Cable Minna Beanie' is an excellent choice as it is made of soft acrylic yarn for cozy comfort. It has a cable knit design to provide an extra layer of warmth while retaining heat effectively. Another option, ideal for extreme cold, is the 'Columbia Infant Tiny Bear II Bunting'. This bunting not only includes a hat but also covers the entire body in a plush, fleece material, providing excellent insulation for little ones. Both of these are perfect for chilly days and winter activities.
Fashion trends
Nowadays, there is a wide variety of trendy and stylish hats available for kids that not only protect them from the sun but also add a touch of style to their outfits. One popular trend is the bucket hat, which offers excellent sun protection with its wide brim and is available in vibrant colors and playful patterns. Another fashionable option is the snapback cap, a versatile hat that can be adjusted to fit different head sizes. It is often adorned with trendy logos or graphics, allowing kids to express their individual style. Other stylish options include the fedora hat, which adds a touch of sophistication, and the beanie, perfect for keeping kids warm during colder seasons while also making a fashion statement. With the fashion market continuously evolving, there are endless options to choose from that will suit every child's unique fashion preferences and enhance their overall style.
Price
It's essential to find a hat that fits within your budget but still offers quality and durability. One option is the JOOWEN Sun Hat, which is made from 100% cotton and provides excellent sun protection. Priced at a budget-friendly range of $15-$20, this hat features a wide brim, adjustable straps, and a breathable fabric to keep your little one comfortable.
Another affordable choice is the Durio Kid's Hat, available at a price range of $10-$15. This hat is designed with a quick-drying polyester material and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Additionally, the Durio hat has an adjustable chin strap to ensure a secure fit during outdoor activities. For those looking for a more premium option, the Outdoor Research Solstice Sun Bucket is available for around $40. This hat is constructed with a high-quality nylon fabric that is both lightweight and water-resistant. Its wide bucket brim and moisture-wicking sweatband make it ideal for sunny or wet conditions.
Variety of brands
Different brands offer unique features and styles suited to varying preferences and needs. For example, the Columbia Kids' Sun Hat is crafted from a combination of nylon and elastane, providing excellent sun protection with its UPF 50 rating. Additionally, the hat features a moisture-wicking sweatband and an adjustable chinstrap to keep it securely in place. On the other hand, the Tough Headwear Kids' Safari Hat boasts a playful design with wide brims, offering extra sun protection. This brand also focuses on durability, using high-quality, tightly woven fabric to ensure the hat's longevity.
Moreover, some brands specialize in hats designed for specific activities or environments. For outdoor adventures, the Sunday Afternoons Child Fun Bucket Hat offers a water-repellent fabric, moisture-wicking sweatband, and a UPF 50+ rating. This hat specifically targets young adventurers who attend camps or spend extended periods outdoors. Alternatively, the Overland Kids Adventure Hat is designed for hiking and features a durable nylon construction, removable chin cord, UPF 50+ rating, and a moisture-wicking sweatband. These brands cater to families who prioritize outdoor activities and require hats specifically engineered for formidable conditions. Overall, considering the variety of brands allows parents to select the right hat that meets their child's distinct needs and preferences.