According to Elizabeth Hale, MD, board-certified dermatologist at CompleteSkinMD and vice president of the Skin Cancer Foundation, it’s really important for people to recognize that, in addition to sunscreen, there are other steps that can be taken to protect from UV rays, like wearing hats and sunglasses when outdoors. “Hats provide an easy way to keep sun off your face, while also protecting your vulnerable scalp, which is a common area for skin cancer,” explains Dr. Hale.
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Of course, wearing any kind of hat is better than not wearing a hat at all, but what makes bucket hats so great is that, unlike a baseball cap, they offer 360-degree protection. “In an ideal world, hats should shade your ears, the sides of your face, and the back of your neck, which are all very common areas for squamous cell carcinoma. The broader the brim, the better,” says Dr. Hale. When selecting the best bucket hat to sport this summer, the best options for optimal sun protection are ones that are light-colored to reflect sun rays so you don’t overheat, and have UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 50 or higher. Scroll down for the 7 best bucket hats to sport this summer for some serious sun protection.
Shop for the best bucket hats
Ssense Pushbutton Green Logo Bucket Hat — $265.00
This cotton twill number features the chin strap and metal eyelets of the OG fisherman style hats, while still being very street style. The color is eye-catching for the warmer months, the brim is 3.75 inches, making it wide enough to ensure that your nose is shielded from the rays, and the bungee strap means that you can take the hat off inside without fear of losing it since it can hang around your neck.
Lululemon Both Ways Bucket Hat — $48.00
Whether it means rushing around to do errands or going on a long hike, this hat is made for days spent on the go. This lightweight, reversible bucket hat is unisex, comes in five unique color duos, and in three sizes, so there is an option for everyone, and the fabric is sweat-wicking and quick to dry, so it’s perfect for the sweaty summer months.
Lack of Color Wave Bucket Hat — $99.00
If you’re really looking to channel the retro vibe that made the bucket hat famous, this zebra number is here to make a statement. The terry cloth fabric is very reminiscent of ’90s fashion and makes the hat super light and slouchy so it’s easy to toss in a bag when you’re on the go.
Adidas Washed Bucket Hat — $30.00
Reviewers call this sporty bucket hat,”the perfect hat to bring in the spring and summer vibe!” The Trefoil logo is classic, and the washed look is perfectly laid back for daytime wear. The best part is that Adidas’s cotton products support sustainable cotton farming in an effort to help end plastic waste.
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