Best Running Hats 2025: Stay Cool, Protected, and Comfortable on Every Run

Running can be tough on a hot, sunny day if your gear isn’t really up to par. A regular cap might feel heavy, sticky, or just plain uncomfortable during a long run. That’s where running-specific hats come in. Designed with lightweight, breathable, and sweat-wicking fabrics, these hats help you stay cool, dry, and protected from the sun.

We’ve tested a range of running hats for different needs—whether you’re chasing a new personal best, tackling long distances, or just looking for something affordable and functional. Here’s our guide to the best running hats for 2025, complete with pros, cons, and expert tips.

How to Choose the Perfect Running Hat

When picking a running hat, you should consider a few important things:

• Fit & Comfort: Hats should sit snugly but not too tight. Adjustable closures are great, but some unstructured caps work fine too.
• Sun Protection: A UPF rating blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays. UPF 30 or higher is best for sunny runs.
• Climate Considerations: Lightweight, vented fabrics are best for hot weather, while thermal hats help in colder runs.
• Storage & Extras: Some hats got pockets for gels, keys, or even ice packs—handy for long runs.

Top Running Hats of 2025

1. Ciele GOCap SC – Best Overall Running Hat

Specifications:

• Materials: 100% recycled polyester
• UPF Rating: 40+
• Sizes: One size, adjustable
• Best for: All head sizes, summer runs

Pros:

• Soft, pre-curved brim is packable
• Great sun protection with high UPF
• Lightweight and quick-drying
• Reflective accents for visibility

Cons:

• Washing instructions a bit strict
• Some might prefer firmer structure

The Ciele GOCap SC is stylish and reliable. Its SOFTcurved brim molds naturally to your head, so it’s easy to pack without losing shape. The COOLmatic fabric wicks sweat well, while reflective details keep you safe on early or late runs.

2. Nathan Quick Stash Run Hat – Best for Long Distances

Specifications:

• Materials: Polyester
• Sizes: One size, adjustable
• Best for: Long-distance running

Pros:

• Side pockets for gels, cards, or ice
• Lightweight mesh construction
• Very adjustable

Cons:

• No reflective detailing
• Mesh can feel tight in hot weather

The Quick Stash Hat is perfect for longer runs. The side pockets can carry essentials safely, or even ice to cool down. Lightweight and foldable, it’s a good choice for marathon training or long runs.

3. Headsweats Performance Race Hat – Best Budget Option

Specifications:

• Materials: Polyester
• Sizes: One size, adjustable
• Best for: Everyday running

Pros:

• Affordable
• Adjustable mid-run
• Comfortable for most heads

Cons:

• Sweatband can bunch
• Mesh may feel a bit stifling
• No reflective accents

For runners on a budget, the Headsweats Race Hat works really well. Soft polyester mesh and adjustable closure make it comfy, and the snug fit keeps it secure while running.

4. Ciele ALZCap – Best for Warm Weather

Specifications:

• Materials: Recycled polyester with COOLmatic
• UPF Rating: 40+
• Sizes: One size, adjustable

Pros:

• Maximum sun protection
• Flat brim works with sunglasses
• Super lightweight

Cons:

• Pricey
• Small fit may not suit larger heads

The ALZCap is an upgrade from the GOCap with more COOLmatic mesh and a flatter, shorter brim. You can wear sunglasses comfortably and its UPF 40+ rating shields from most sun rays.

5. Lululemon Fast and Free Ponytail Hat – Best for Women

Specifications:

• Materials: Nylon/Lycra/Elastane
• Sizes: One size, adjustable
• Best for: Small to medium head sizes

Pros:

• Wide back opening for ponytails or buns
• Lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric
• Snug and secure fit

Cons:

• Expensive
• Might rub ears
• Tight for larger heads

This hat is perfect if you want to keep your hair up. The wide back opening allows a high ponytail or bun without discomfort. Lightweight and breathable, it’s great for summer runs.

6. ON Lightweight Cap – Best Lightweight Option

Specifications:

• Materials: Polyester
• Sizes: One size, adjustable

Pros:

• Very light
• Tear-resistant, suitable for all weather

Cons:

• Side vents expose scalp to sun
• Hard to adjust size

The ON Lightweight Cap feels almost weightless. Smooth polyester dries fast, even in sudden rain. Side vents help with airflow. A bit pricey but ideal if you want a “barely-there” hat on long runs.

7. Buff Pack Speed Visor – Best Running Visor

Specifications:

• Materials: Recycled polyester/elastane
• UPF Rating: 50
• Sizes: One size, non-adjustable

Pros:

• Excellent sun protection
• Lightweight and stretchy
• Packs down very small

Cons:

• Non-adjustable
• Sweatband gets soaked on long runs

For runners who don’t want a full cap, the Buff Pack Speed Visor lets hair flow freely while shielding your face from sun. Packs down tiny for easy storage.

Quick Comparison Table

Hat	Best For	UPF	Price	Unique Feature
Ciele GOCap SC	Overall	40+	$$$	Soft-curved brim
Nathan Quick Stash	Long Runs	N/A	$$	Side pockets
Headsweats Race	Budget	N/A	$	Adjustable mid-run
Ciele ALZCap	Warm Weather	40+	$$$$	Flat brim for sunglasses
Lululemon Fast & Free	Women	N/A	$$$	Wide ponytail opening
ON Lightweight Cap	Lightweight	N/A	$$$$	Barely-there feel
Buff Pack Speed Visor	Hair freedom	50	$$$	Foldable & stretchy

FAQs About Running Hats

1. Can a running hat really keep you cool?
Yes. Most hats are ventilated and sweat-wicking, letting air flow and drying quickly.

2. How often should I wash my running hat?
After 2–3 runs usually. Follow the instructions, or hand wash and air dry if unsure.

3. Can I wear any hat for running?
You can, but running-specific hats are more comfortable, breathable, and protect better from sun.

4. What color hat keeps me coolest?
Lighter shades like white or pastels reflect sun and help keep you cooler.

5. Are hats with UPF really necessary?
If you run a lot in the sun, yes. UPF hats protect your skin from harmful rays.