A good golf hat keeps the sun out of your eyes, protects your skin, keeps rain off your face and keeps you warm in winter. There are plenty of options, from classic caps to wide-brimmed sun hats and winter beanies. Here's how to choose.
Types of golf headwear
| Hat | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cap | Classic, shades eyes | Ears and neck exposed |
| Visor | Cool, light | Scalp exposed |
| Bucket hat | All-round shade, packable | Brim can catch wind |
| Wide-brim hat | Best sun protection | Bulkier |
| Rain hat | Keeps rain off face and neck | Warmer |
| Beanie or winter hat | Warmth | Not for sunny days |
Sun protection
- Wide brims protect ears and neck.
- UPF-rated fabrics add protection.
- Sunscreen for areas the hat doesn't cover.
Read sun protection for golfers and hot weather golf.
Rain and cold
- Waterproof caps or bucket hats for rain. Read our golf rain gear guide.
- Beanies and ear warmers for winter. Read winter golf.
Fit and materials
- Adjustable or fitted caps.
- Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Sweatbands to keep sweat out of your eyes.
- Ball marker clips on many caps.
Etiquette
- Remove your hat indoors at traditional clubs. Read clubhouse etiquette.
- Remove your cap when shaking hands at the end of the round. Read golf traditions and customs.
Hat styles compared
| Style | Sun protection | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baseball cap | Face and eyes | Everyday golf | Leaves ears and neck exposed |
| Visor | Eyes and forehead | Hot weather, women's golf | Cool, but no scalp protection |
| Bucket hat | All round | Sunny and wet weather | Good neck and ear coverage |
| Wide-brimmed hat | Excellent | Strong sun, older golfers | Can catch wind |
| Beanie or bobble hat | Warmth only | Winter golf | Wear under a hood in rain |
| Waterproof rain hat | Rain and some sun | Wet weather | Brim keeps rain off glasses |
Sun protection in more detail
The head, ears and neck are common sites of sun damage. To protect yourself:
- Choose hats with UPF ratings where possible.
- Wear a wider brim in strong sun, or combine a cap with sunscreen on your ears and neck.
- Reapply sunscreen to exposed areas every couple of hours.
- Check your skin regularly and see a doctor about changes. Read sun protection for golfers.
Hats and visibility
A brim shields your eyes from glare, helping you follow the ball and read greens. Combine a hat with good sunglasses for the best vision. Read golf sunglasses guide. If you wear glasses, a brim also keeps rain and sun off the lenses. Read golf with glasses.
Hats for hot weather
- Breathable panels and mesh backs.
- Sweatbands to keep sweat out of your eyes.
- Light colours that reflect heat.
- Cooling hats that can be soaked in water.
Read hot-weather golf.
Hats for cold weather
Wear a warm hat on cold days and, in rain, a waterproof hat or a beanie under your hood. Read winter golf guide and golf rain gear guide.
Caring for your hats
- Hand wash caps in cool water with mild detergent.
- Air dry on a ball or a cap shaper to keep the shape.
- Avoid the dishwasher and tumble dryer.
- Rotate a few hats so each dries between uses.
Hat etiquette
Remove your cap when shaking hands at the end of a round, and indoors in some clubhouses. Read clubhouse etiquette and golf traditions and customs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best golf hat for sun protection?
A wide-brim or bucket hat.
Can I wear a visor in hot weather?
Yes, but protect your scalp with sunscreen.
Should I take my hat off in the clubhouse?
At traditional clubs, yes.
What should I wear on my head in winter golf?
A beanie or thermal hat.
Are bucket hats allowed on golf courses?
Most courses allow them, but check the dress code at more traditional clubs.
What's the best hat for sun protection?
A wide-brimmed or bucket hat with a UPF rating gives the most coverage.
The bottom line
Choose headwear for the conditions: a cap or visor for everyday golf, a wide brim for strong sun, a waterproof hat for rain and a beanie for winter. For more on clothing, read what to wear on the golf course.