I Finally Found Sweat-Proof Hats To Run In

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As a self-proclaimed shade queen (I mean this in the literal sense, not the criticizing manner), I’m all about a hat. Next to sunscreen, brims are an absolute must for me outside — those who know me well are aware of my shady-side-of-the -street tendencies (not to mention my habit of hanging back at crosswalks to avoid the extra sun exposure). Somehow, though, I’ve struggled to find the perfect running hat; I can assure you the wide-brim cotton visor I’ve worn for weekly loops through Central Park is the antithesis of cool (or functional!).

The ideal running hat features specific attributes (especially compared to the stylish baseball caps I’ve been rocking with athleisure). Victoria O’Neil, NASM CPT, and Coach for STRIDE told me that lightweight, cool-wicking, and breathable materials are essential. “I sweat a lot when I run, so I want a lightweight hat that ventilates well and doesn’t keep moisture or heat in,” she says. #Relatable! She also notes the importance of a form-fitting silhouette. “I don’t want to keep readjusting the hat as I run, so I look for a form-fitting hat or a hat with an adjustable strap,” O’Neil says.

The trainer says to avoid wool or cotton hats that lack breathability and collect sweat stains (i.e., my cute caps and visor!) and seek out polyester or moisture-wicking fabrics. “Running in a hat is more than a fashion statement. It blocks the sun, whereas sunglasses can slip and slide from the sweat, causing constant readjustments.”

O’Neil points out one more benefit of wearing a running hat (aside from a squint-free workout!) — it blocks out external distractions. “Wearing a hat often allows me to really tune into my body, breath, and stride,” O’Neil says.

Keep reading for the 10 best running hats for women, including top picks from O’Neil and seasoned runners at Women’s Health.

In addition to SPF and sticking to the shady side of the street, a good running hat is a must for me every time I lace up my sneakers and take to the streets. Somehow, though, despite my best efforts to minimize sun exposure when sweating outside, I’ve struggled to find the perfect running hat. (The wide-brim cotton visor I’ve been wearing for my weekly park loops is not doing it for me.)

If you're serious about your pavement (or trail)-pounding gear, you need a hat specifically designed to go the miles with you. The best running hats are made with lightweight, sweat-wicking, breathable materials, says trainer and runner Victoria O’Neil, CPT, run coach for STRIDE. “Wearing a hat allows me to really tune into my body, breath, and stride,” she says. I sweat a lot when I run, so I want a lightweight hat that ventilates well and doesn’t keep moisture or heat in." #Relatable!

Peep some of the best running hats for women here:

A snug sweatband is a must, too. “I don’t want to keep having to readjust my hat as I run, so I look for a form-fitting hat or a hat with an adjustable strap,” she adds. Your best bet is to opt for a topper that's made from a moisture-wicking material like Nylon or polyester.

To keep your next run shady, gear up with one of these picks that have been tested and approved by O'Neil as well as several runners on the Women's Health team. Time to lace up!

Meet the experts: Victoria O’Neil, CPT, is a trainer and run coach for STRIDE. Meghan Clare, CPT, CFSC, is a New York City-based trainer and coach at Session and Mile High Run Club, and host of the Beyond the Sweat podcast. Annie Cooper, CFSC, RRCA, IFA, is a personal trainer and the owner and founder of Tune Into Fitness.

Play Up Heathered Adjustable Cap

If you’re the type to sweat up a storm no matter the workout, this hat, made from a stretchy mesh, is the running hat for you. Its breathability also makes it a must in hot AF weather.

Editor Review: “What I love about this hat is the super lightweight fabric that never makes me overheat." —Jennifer Nied, WH fitness editor

Fast and Free Run Hat

With four-way stretch and mesh panels, this running hat stands up to ultra-active, sweaty workouts without a prob. It's also great for anyone with a smaller noggin.

“Size matters for hats, and this one has a smaller bill and shorter height, so it fits perfectly without squishing your ears,” Nied says. Bonus features include moisture-wicking fabric, an adjustable back closure, and reflective details.

Editor Review: "I wore it on a vaca when I was spending a lot of time in 90 degree weather, right near the equator—it was super hot and humid, but I also wanted sun protection. I loved that I could wear this and feel protected without it feeling heavy on my head or forehead while working out. I didn't have a bunch of sweat bunching up around the lining either. It's super easy to throw in the wash when I'm done, too!" —Neha Tandon, WH senior commerce editor

Race Day Performance Running Cap

This one's made with quick-dry, moisture-wicking fabric that makes it great for hot weather. Not only does it come in a lot of cute colors, it's also sold in sets, so you can buy multiple hats at a time. Lastly, this hat is tried-and-true—it has over 4,000 Amazon ratings and an average of 4.5 stars for its secure fit and breathable feel.

Rave Review: "This is my third purchase of Trailhead hats. They are lightweight and I barely feel them on a run. The adjustable Velcro tab means I can tighten it on the go on windy days. Best of all: they're completely washable in the washing machine!"

Superlite Relaxed Fit Performance Cap

With over 2,400 five-star ratings on Amazon, this cap is so lightweight, you'll forget you're even wearing it. Reviewers love the fit and how durable it is. Plus, the cooling fabric will help you feel comfortable no matter how hot it is out.

Rave Review: "I love this hat! This is my go-to everyday hat. It's super breathable and looks good with anything. I've had it for almost a year, and it still looks like new. I highly recommend!"

Norvan Cap

This cap from Arc'teryx has a glowing review from WH fitness editor Jennifer Nied for its lightweight but sturdy feel—even while running in super high winds. It's best for trail running in summer weather, and it has a headband that helps give you a secure fit, and it also has reflective elements for low-light visibility. Nice!

Editor Review: "It feels like I'm wearing nothing, it's super lightweight and doesn't squish my ears or get in the way of my around-the-ear headphones. The big test was a gusty headwind, and the hat didn't budge." —Jennifer Nied, WH fitness editor

Iso-chill Launch Wrapback Cap

This comfy and lightweight cap is perfect for those who love a high ponytail, but still want to wear a running hat. (I know I personally hate doing a low pony for traditional baseball caps.) WH associate news editor Currie Engel tested this hat, and reported back that it stays on great, no matter if she's sprinting or running long distances.

Editor Review: "This running hat fits snugly on my head with plenty of breathability from the back (thanks to the generous open ponytail area at the back). It stays on during long runs and sprints, which is always key for a stellar running hat choice!" —Currie Engel, WH associate news editor

Unisex Baseball Cap

This hat features UPF protection to really guard yourself against the harsh rays of the sun—a must-have for those beach vacations. Plus, it's unisex so you and your running team can all get matching ones for that upcoming marathon.

Rave Review: "This hat actually fits my big head of thick curly hair. Hats like this with 'one size fits all' claims usually don't mean me. I first bought another high-quality hat that didn't fit me at all and gave it to a friend. This was my next and last attempt at something to wear to hike in the summer heat, and it's perfect."

Fast Paced Wide Band Running Visor

WH lifestyle director Lindsay Geller tried this visor and loved it. It comes in adorable colors and is super stylish. Since it's mostly open, you can pretty much rock any hairstyle with this, whether you're running or not. It's specifically designed for running, but you can easily pair it with your next brunch or beach 'fit.

Editor Review: "I love how lightweight it was because I often forgot I was wearing it, even though it never budged once I put it on. I also love the light lilac color (so cute!) and the fact that it's a visor means I can wear it on morning walks/runs with my dog and not worry about having hat hair for the rest of the day." —Lindsay Geller, WH lifestyle director

Dri-FIT Swoosh Perforated Cap

If your style skews minimalist (like me) and you’re working with a larger noggin (also me), this simple Nike hat is sleek and sweat-proof. Yes, it's technically a men’s hat, but it’s one of the only options that I’ve found that fits comfortably and looks pretty chic. I love it in Anthracite and Navy, but fret not, color lovers—it comes in a brighter sapphire color, too.

Rave Review: "The color, design, and material are what you’re looking for as a runner! I highly recommend!"

Trail Summit Beanie II

Outdoor runs in frigid temps are a hard pass without a hat—but you won’t want to rely on the same cap you’d wear in the heat. Enter this stretchy, breathable, moisture-wicking skullcap, complete with a thermal-reflective lining to ward off icy gusts. “When it gets colder out, keep your noggin and ears warm yet dry with this super-fitted beanie,” O'Neil says.

Rave Review: "I have a thicker Columbia fleece hat with omni-heat, and was searching for the same hat in a different color. I purchased this hat by mistake, and to my surprise, I actually like this one better. It has better coverage, is flexible, and is just as warm even though it's thinner. I've purchased three so far. They're perfect for my outdoor cardio and weightlifting."

Athletic Hat

Aether’s unisex hat looks like a trendy baseball cap, but it's built to perform. Made from 100-percent Nylon and featuring a moisture-wicking mesh sweatband on the interior, it’s lightweight and breathable. Plus, the adjustable back closure helps you get an optimal fit.

While this hat doesn't have any reviews yet, I had to include it because it's lightweight and even has a moisture-wicking sweatband inside.

Unisex Pack Run Cap

This running hat is exceptionally lightweight—it weighs only one ounce. It’s also great for travel and long days in the sun thanks to its crushable brim and UPF protection.

A few other pros for O’Neil: “It’s stylish, has a built-in sweatband, and is compressible,” she says. Oh, and did I mention the unique adjustable drawstring at the back? It'll be great for any head size.

Rave Review: "It is light, breathes well, and looks really good on the head. The brim is not too big, but offers the right amount of protection. Great product!"

Small Bird Cap

Real talk: Ill-fitting hats are often more trouble than they're worth—but this one has cushioning in the inside that . Nied has enjoyed her time using this hat, and one major perk is that it can (and should) be used for more than running, since it's so dang comfy. It's also great for hiking, the beach, and chilling out.

Editor Review: There’s so much I love about this cap. The bill and strap adjust for a totally custom fit. It’s so light that I forget I’m wearing it, and the interior, sweat-wicking, cushioned mesh make it a must on hot, sunny runs.” —Jennifer Nied, WH fitness editor

Norvan Visor

Yes, this is another Arc'teryx rec but the brand reigns supreme when it comes to high-quality, high-performance materials. This visor style comes in three fun colors and can be used for a variety of sporty activities, whether you want to trail run, hike, or play sports. It's breathable with a minimalist design, so it'll be able to match any outfit you wear as well.

Just note that it isn't adjustable, and has a bit of a smaller fit, so you'll like this if you had a tinier head size.

Editor Review: "While the fit was good for me, it isn't adjustable, so I'm worried that this wouldn't really be suitable for anyone with a larger skull size. That said, I think this would be great for more sedentary activities like tennis or pickleball!" —Currie Engel, WH associate news editor

Dri-FIT AeroBill Featherlight

This lightweight hat is great for running in hot weather since it features Nike's signature Dri-FIT fabric. The moisture-wicking hat will keep the sun off of your face, and it fits best with people who have medium- to larger-sized heads. It stays on securely, and the classic design is also great for lower-key activities outside of running, like relaxing at the beach, hiking, or walking.

Editor Review: "This hat was super light and felt like it kept my whole face pretty covered, but it didn't fit me the best. I think it would work for people who have slightly bigger heads, especially since the back strap is adjustable. I also love the bright green color it came in!" —Addison Aloian, WH editorial assistant

AeroBill Tailwind

Want something classic and with no frills? You can't go wrong with this stylish and functional Nike pick that'll easily transition from your workout to errands. Reviewers adore how lightweight and breathable it is, too. Tested by WH editorial assistant, Sabrina Talbert, it even features reflectors for those late evening runs.

Editor Review: "It is very lightweight which I think will be a good option for running in warmer weather if a visor isn’t someone’s thing. Because it’s so lightweight, I think it’s a great option for people who don’t want to risk getting distracted during a run because something's not fitting right, or something feels like it’s in the way." —Sabrina Talbert, WH editorial assistant

How Our Team Chose The Best Running Hats

At WH Labs, our team tests a wide range of products and services to provide our readers with reliable, honest, and trustworthy information. It's our belief that our readers deserve the best, which is why our recommendations have been thoroughly tested and vetted by our very own editors. For the past month, six Women’s Health editors tested the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated running hats. Our team consulted professional runners Victoria O'Neil, CPT, Meghan Clare, CPT, CFSC, and Annie Cooper, CFSC, RRCA, IFA, and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best 16 items for a wide range of needs and preferences.

What is the benefit of a running hat?

There are a few ways that your outdoor run can become a bit easier with a running hat.

"Especially in the warmer summer months, a good running hat can go a long way in blocking out the sun from your face and also will help absorb sweat so that you aren’t getting it in your eyes," says runner Meghan Clare, CPT, a New York City-based trainer and coach at Session and Mile High Run Club, and host of Beyond the Sweat podcast. "The worst feeling is when that nasty stingy mix of sunscreen and sweat drips into your eyes."

It'll be easier to focus on your running path if there isn't sun in your eyes either, adds personal trainer Annie Cooper, CFSC, RRCA, IFA, owner and founder of Tune Into Fitness. "Wearing a hat can help keep sweat from getting in your eyes, and will keep hair off of your face." True!

What makes a good running hat?

You'll want to look for a few different things when shopping for a running hat. "Make sure you get a hat that is made of sweat-wicking material—classic baseball caps are fine and cute, but if you plan to be out on a hot day, you might want something lighter that feels more breathable," Clare says.

"For me, I want the hat to almost feel like it’s not on, but is still providing that sweat and sun protection so I can focus more on my miles." You'll also want a running hat with lightweight, stretchy material, and an interior sweatband so sweat isn't dripping down. your face.

A plus is if the hat is adjustable "so you're able to customize the size to comfortably fit your head," Cooper adds. "You don't want the hat to fall off as you run."

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