20 Best Bushcraft Hats & Caps For Wilderness Survival
Bushcraft hats serve essential functions like sun protection and thermal insulation when you’re out in the wilderness.
When you’re out there in the wilderness, navigating through the brush, or setting up a shelter, the right gear is vital. But which bushcraft hats or caps should you pick when there are so many options out there?
Luckily, you’re in the right place. The search can be daunting. But rest assured. We’ve done the legwork for you. This guide is your one-stop resource for understanding the ins and outs of these quintessential outdoor accessories.
Here, we have compiled the 20 best bushcraft hats and caps for wilderness survival. They’ve been chosen because they excel in their primary job — protecting you from the elements, whether that’s the blazing sun, the pouring rain, or the chilly wind.
Read on to find the right hat for your needs.
The 3 Best Bushcraft Hats/Caps You Need In Your Survival Bag
In This Guide
The 20 Best Bushcraft Hats & Caps
Dive into our top 20 picks for bushcraft hats that combine functionality with fashion.
- Offers UPF 50+ sun protection
- Durable water-repellent finish
- Moisture-wicking
- Initial fit might be snug
- A bit pricey
Canadian brand Tilley is famous for its line of bushcraft hats known for their exceptional durability and lifetime guarantee.
Many bushcraft enthusiasts swear by the Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat, which features a wide brim for sun protection, breathable construction, and a secret pocket for small essentials.
This Tilley bush hat is machine washable and comes with a pull-on closure for easy wearing. It also has a durable water-repellent finish to keep you dry in unexpected showers.
It also features moisture-wicking hydrofil that keeps you dry and comfortable even when you’re breaking a sweat.
Add in the rated UPF 50+ sun protection, and you have a hat that safeguards your skin from the harsh sun.
- Crushable and packable; easy to carry
- Wide brim provides effective sun protection
- Water-repellant construction
- Sizing can be a bit tricky
- Hat may feel large initially
This felt hat features a generous 3-inch brim that shields your eyes from the sun, helping you keep a clear vision of your outdoor activities.
With the comfortable wool felt material, it’s got that function and style that only quality materials can give.
But here’s where things get really interesting: these bushcraft hats are crushable and packable. That means you can roll it up, tuck it away, and when you’re ready to use it again, a quick shake brings it back to life — perfect for travelers and adventurers who value convenience.
On top of that, it’s water-repellent. So come rain or shine, this hat has your back. With a faux-leather band and feather accent, you’ll look so good you won’t want to take it off — and with its protective features, you won’t need to!
- Made of breathable and durable polyester and cotton materials
- UPF 50+ rating provides superior sun protection
- Sweat-absorbing interior band and lining
- Adjustable chin strap keeps the hat in place
- Hat may run slightly larger than standard sizes
The Outback Hat is an essential piece of gear built for the outdoors made of a balanced blend of 52% cotton for breathability and 48% polyester for strength and durability.
This hat stands up to heat, wrinkles, and tears while keeping you comfortable. It also provides optimal sun protection with its UPF 50+ rating, defending you from harmful ultraviolet rays.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Its interior sweatband and lining are built to absorb sweat, keeping you dry even on the most sweltering days. Plus, it provides a smooth surface to avoid any skin irritation.
The hat’s 2.7-inch rim is shapeable, offering you customizable shade from all angles. Bend it to your liking for maximum comfort and protection for your face, ears, and neck.
And if you’re worried about your hat flying off in the wind or rain, fret not. An adjustable chin strap ensures it stays put.
- Soft and lightweight feel
- Keeps your head and ears warm
- Well-constructed and durable
- Fit might be smaller than expected
The Carhartt Beanie is a reliable ally in your battle against the cold. It’s composed of 100% acrylic rib knit and boasts a soft and lightweight feel — perfect for all-day wear.
This beanie has a lightweight profile, so it’s effortless to take with you wherever you go. Pop it in your backpack, your coat pocket, or even your handbag.
Plus, its stretchy material provides a snug and cozy fit for different head sizes, enhancing your comfort further.
- Sun protection with a UPF 50 rating
- High-performing Omni-Wick technology for a dry, comfortable fit
- Equipped with a chin strap for windy days
- Adjustable features, including a drawcord and toggle at the back
- Brim may seem a little flimsy
The Colombia Bona Boonet is a high-performance, 100% nylon, imported accessory meticulously designed for ultimate comfort and sun protection.
With a well-engineered Omni-Shade, these bushcraft hats aren’t messing around when it comes to sun protection. It offers robust UV shielding to fend off both UVA and UVB rays, preventing potential sunburns and long-term skin damage.
A full 3-inch brim gives it a stylish touch, while an adjustable drawcord and a toggle size adjustment at the back ensure that this hat fits you just right.
And if you’re worried about those windy days, don’t be. The hat comes with a chin strap that keeps it firmly in place.
- Excellent sun protection with UPF 50+ rating
- Superior ventilation with full mesh liner
- Quick-drying and wicking fabric for sweat-free performance
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Adjustable strap has an opening fastener which might not feel secure enough
- Might not feel as cool as you'd expect given the mesh design
The Swift Cap is not your ordinary baseball cap. It’s thoughtfully designed with a full mesh liner, providing you with superior ventilation on those hot summer days.
With its UPF 50+ protection, this cap doesn’t take the sun’s harmful rays lightly. It ensures that you stay protected while you enjoy your favorite outdoor activities.
The Swift Cap also comes with breathable mesh panels that keep you cool all day long.
And here’s the kicker, the cap’s quick-drying and wicking fabric, so you can say farewell to annoying sweat dripping into your eyes.
- Customizable fit with the flexible chin strap and cord lock
- Material and design can withstand extreme environments
- Wide brim provides sun protection
- With nylon loops for additional camouflage and carrying small items
- Sizing can be a bit off
These bushcraft hats have been constructed to meet US military specs, made from a 50/50 blend of nylon and cotton rip-stop. It features a flexible chin strap with a cord lock, ensuring a custom fit and comfort.
Additionally, it comes with nylon loops, perfect for adding extra camouflage or carrying small items.
It also has brass screen vents, which means, come rain or shine, your head stays dry, keeping your comfort in mind.
And it doesn’t stop there. The high-quality Bemis seam tapes and the wide brim not only provide protection from the sun but also include a built-in internal map pocket.
- Hat comes with ear flaps and a removable, washable mask for full coverage
- Made with high-end, skin-friendly artificial fur for superior comfort
- Machine washable
- The strap's shortest length is a bit too long
- Some users found the mask too small and tight when put on
This hat is engineered using a high-quality insulated polyester shell, forming an impressive waterproof and breathable barrier.
It keeps you cozy and shielded from the chilly external winds while maintaining your comfort.
This hat is outfitted with high-quality, plush faux fur, providing consistent warmth. The mask integrated into the hat is detachable and can be used on its own.
However, when used together, they provide all-encompassing protection for your head, ears, and face.
Cleaning it is a breeze too. Simply throw it in the washing machine, and it’s good as new.
- Lightweight, packable, and fits under a helmet
- High-quality 100% Merino wool construction
- Excellent moisture-wicking and insulation properties
- Machine washable and dryable for easy maintenance
- Can develop an unpleasant smell when wet
- Might not provide sufficient warmth in extremely cold conditions
This soft, ultra-comfortable beanie features cutting-edge easy-care technology, meaning it’s both machine washable and dryable.
With its fusion of comfort, warmth, and breathability, these bushcraft hats become an essential piece of your outdoor gear. Designed as a one-size-fits-most item, it incorporates double fabric for extra warmth while maintaining a simple, stylish aesthetic.
Plus, it’s lightweight and packable, so you can fit it under a helmet. It also efficiently wicks away moisture, keeping you dry while continuing to provide insulation even when wet.
Designed for multi-season use, this beanie provides a snug fit and covers the whole ear — a key feature for those sensitive to cold and wind.
- Plush inner lining ensures comfortable wear while protecting against cold weather
- One size fits most with an adjustable chin strap
- Made from sturdy polyester
- Removable windproof mask helps you adapt to different weather conditions and user preferences
- Some users report the hat occasionally swivels on their head, requiring readjustment
- The straps may not be glove-friendly
Made of polyester with a warm plush inner lining, this hat boasts superior warmth. It fits most head sizes and features an adjustable chin strap for a customized fit.
It’s also durable and thick, offering unbeatable windproof qualities. With removable windproof masks and large ear flaps, this hat ensures your face, ears, and neck are fully protected and warm in cold weather.
This hat is most praised for its effectiveness in blocking wind and insulating against the cold during tasks like snow clearing.
- Activated by water, the hat can cool up to 30 degrees below average body temperature
- UPF 50 fabric for excellent sun protection
- Lightweight, foldable, and travel-friendly
- Reinforced stitching for a brim that doesn't flop
- Some users reported that the hat runs small
- Few users found the brim to be too soft and hanging in their face
This bucket hat boasts an impressive cooling activation feature. So if you’re out hiking or doing yard work, and the heat is starting to get to you, all you need to do is wet this hat, wring it, and wave it.
It will then cool down to 30 degrees below your average body temperature in less than a minute. And this isn’t just a fleeting chill — the cooling effect lasts up to two hours!
With a 3-inch brim and UPF 50 fabric, this hat provides excellent sun protection for your face, ears, and neck.
This hat is also a great travel companion. It’s lightweight and foldable, meaning you can easily pack it in your bag or even stick it in your back pocket.
And for the perfect fit, there’s an adjustable elastic string chin strap.
- Durable and comfortable 100% cotton material
- Low-profile design and customizable
- Adjustable strap back can fit most head sizes
- A few users found the hat a bit too wide
- Some users reported the color fading quite quickly with regular outdoor use
Crafted from 100% cotton, this low-profile six-panel baseball cap ensures durability and a lightweight feel, delivering an optimal combination of breathability and sturdiness.
It sits comfortably on your head, so it’s comfortable even during long hours of wear.
Plus, the front of the cap is designed to allow patch customization, giving you the freedom to personalize your headgear according to your style and needs.
The unconstructed design also means that this cap can easily be packed away in your bag when not in use. It won’t take much space, and it won’t lose its shape, ready for when you need it next.
- Sweat-wicking and odor-fighting
- One-size-fits-all design, complete with an adjustable closure
- Lightly-structured, medium-profile cap with a pre-curved visor
- A bit of inconsistency in the fit between different colors of the same cap model
- Few people have reported that the cap doesn't hold its shape as well as they'd like
The cap is made from 100% cotton washed canvas, a robust material known for its resilience in diverse weather conditions.
Its Force technology and FastDry feature work tirelessly to wick away sweat and keep odors at bay, ensuring you remain cool, dry, and comfortable throughout your bushcraft endeavors.
Additionally, the pre-curved visor is designed to provide shade, protecting your face and eyes from harsh sunlight, a factor of utmost importance in preventing discomfort or potential health risks like sunburn or heatstroke.
Plus, its medium-profile structure ensures stability on your head, while the adjustable strap caters to a snug fit for any head size.
- Excellent breathability and comfort
- Large bim provides ample sun protection
- Drawstring closure keeps the hat secure in windy conditions
- Durable construction lasts long
- Adjustment strap may feel slightly cheaply made
- A bit large for those with smaller heads
This Large Brim Sun Hat, built with 100% cotton and fitted with a sturdy drawstring closure offers crucial shade with its wide brim, keeping the harmful rays off your face.
Its large size offers a generous fit with ample room to adjust, so you can comfortably wear it.
This hat also sports a drawstring closure, ensuring a secure fit and preventing it from being blown away in the wind, a handy feature when you’re out there braving the elements.
Some users have mentioned the adjustment strap feels a bit cheaply made. But hey, no product is perfect, and it’s something worth considering.
Yet, overall, the benefits significantly outweigh the slight cons, given the hat’s robust and functional design that adds value to your outdoor gear.
- Water-repellent nylon shell
- Warm plush lining provides extra warmth and comfort
- Adjustable ear flaps can be worn up or down for convenience and practicality
- Earflaps may not provide optimal wind protection
- Slippery lining may cause the hat to slide off when bending over
Constructed with a water-repellent nylon shell, this hat ensures that rain and snow slide right off, keeping your head dry and secure, even on those extremely chilly days.
On the inside, its plush lining provides remarkable warmth and a smooth touch that feels good against your skin, making the cold days not only bearable but comfortable too.
Its earflaps, conveniently placed on either side of the hat, can be buttoned up or worn down. Also, an adjustable belt at the back of the hat helps you find your snug fit.
Now, nothing is perfect, and this hat is no exception. The inside material, while soft, is a bit slippery, causing the hat to slide off when bending over. But hey, that’s a small price to pay for such comfort.
- Broad brim and extended back flap offer comprehensive sun protection
- Mesh side panels and moisture-dispersing sweatband ensure cooling and airflow
- Foldable brim for convenience
- Microfiber fabric provides SPF 100/UPF 50 protection
- Back flap may blow around, reducing its effectiveness when windy
- Toggle fastener on the chin strap may lose its grip
This full-coverage hat is constructed with an impressive 4-inch wide brim and a long back flap that provides all-around protection from the sun’s harsh rays.
It features a drawstring closure and an adjustable chin cord to secure the hat in place, even in windy conditions.
The hat’s real magic lies in its superb ventilation. The two mesh side panels, coupled with a moisture-dispersing sweatband, work together to keep your head and neck cool and comfortable.
This hat is also foldable, making it easily storable in your luggage, backpack, or even your pocket.
- The 100% polyester fabric ensures quick-drying and comfortable wear
- Hat is fitted with mesh vents for cooling airflow
- Adjustable or removable chin strap enhances the hat's flexibility
- Hat effectively blocks 98%+ of harmful sun rays
- Brim tapers to a narrower width at the back, limiting some coverage
Crafted with 100% polyester, this hat assures breathability, rapid drying, lightness, and comfort in any weather.
A versatile piece, it offers an adjustable or removable chin strap for a personalized fit.
The hat comes with a broad brim, while the mesh openings in the crown and rear flap to allow a cooling breeze to flow through.
It also comes with an impressive UPF 50+ rating, warding off 98% or more of harmful UVA/UVB solar radiation – an indispensable asset for those frequently under the sun.
- UPF 50+ protection, keeping harmful rays at bay
- Removable and tuckable flaps offering versatile protection
- Lightweight, collapsible, and portable
- Ventilated design keeps your head cool in the heat
- Neck protector might not fasten securely, and could be blown off by wind
Made from 100% nylon, this imported hat carries an impressive UPF 50+ rating, so you’re shielded from the sun’s harmful rays.
The hat is fitted with removable flaps, granting you flexibility in how you choose to protect yourself.
If your face is getting a little too much sun, just use the face shield. And if your neck is feeling the sun’s intensity, the neck flap has you covered, literally. And when the sun dips low, you can either tuck them into the hat or remove them entirely.
The hat is also designed with mesh side panels, which, together with two large meshed brass eyelets, allow for excellent ventilation. This keeps your head remaining cool, even in the heat of the day.
It’s also windproof and quick-drying, making it an excellent choice for a range of weather conditions.
The size of the hat? It’s designed to fit all. The lightweight design and fine collapsibility make it a breeze to carry.
- Provides excellent sun protection and comfort
- Breathable, foldable, and easy to carry
- Quality construction with a leather strap and copper button
- Adjustable and removable belt
- Some users found it slightly heavy for prolonged hiking or backpacking
The KeepSa Sun Hat is your reliable shield against the sun. Thanks to its retractable brim, it keeps your face, eyes, and neck well protected from those harsh sun rays.
Plus, it’s cotton, so on those extra hot days, you can dampen it for some evaporative cooling.
These bushcraft hats serve as your shield against the sun, and it’s an ideal companion for your outdoor escapades.
Crafted with breathability, compactness, and portability in mind, you can conveniently tuck it into your backpack or pocket, so you can have it on hand whenever you need it.
- High-quality and wind-resistant
- Soft, breathable, and skin-friendly
- Provides extreme warmth and comfort with its warm and windproof fleece thermal
- May not suit individuals with long hair due to full head covering design
- Once wet from breath, sweat, or snow, it can remain damp or freeze
- Sizing issues
The KOOLSOLY Ski Mask isn’t just about keeping you warm; it offers excellent protection against the wind, dust, rain, snow, sleet, and harmful UV rays.
Constructed with a warm and windproof fleece thermal, this balaclava not only feels extremely soft but also ensures you remain toasty no matter your activity.
This fleece hood doubles down on warmth and comfort, designed with soft, breathable, and skin-friendly material. It keeps you cozy throughout the winter months without causing any irritation or discomfort.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to wear as a full-face mask, open balaclava, half mask, ski mask, neckerchief, or under a helmet or hat with goggles or glasses.
What Is A Bushcraft Hat?
Bushcraft hats are an essential piece of gear designed to protect the wearer from various environmental factors while engaging in bushcraft activities.
Bushcraft, a term primarily used to describe wilderness survival skills, involves activities such as firecraft, tracking, hunting, shelter-building, and navigation.
During these activities, one can face diverse weather and environmental conditions, and the right hat can be instrumental in providing protection and comfort.
They come in various styles and materials, each with its own set of benefits. They can offer protection from harsh sunlight, insulate against cold weather, keep the rain off, or even act as an emergency water container or signal flag in survival situations.
Types Of Bushcraft Hats
Now lets explore the different varieties of bushcraft hats designed for various outdoor adventures.
Wide-Brimmed Bushcraft Hats
Wide-brim bushcraft hats offer optimal sun protection for long days outdoors. It is commonly associated with the Australian outback, is a classic choice for bushcraft hats. These hats provide protection from extreme heat, shading not only your head but also your neck and shoulders.
Many new products in this style include a chin strap for windy situations, making them a superb choice for your backpacking trips.
Beanie Style Bushcraft Hats
Beanie style hats are ideal for cold weather and lightweight packing. Beanies are an essential piece of bushcraft gear in colder climates. They provide excellent warmth, as they’re designed to cover your ears and trap heat that would otherwise escape from your head.
Merino wool is a preferred material due to its exceptional warmth and breathability.
Boonie Bushcraft Hats
Boonie hats offer a blend of comfort and tactical utility. These hats were made popular by the military, and their practicality has seen them adopted by bushcrafters worldwide.
They feature a medium-sized brim that offers sun protection without obstructing visibility. They also often include ventilation eyelets and a chin strap.
Bushcraft Hats/Caps
Bushcraft caps are your everyday go-to. While they might not offer as much protection as other bushcraft hats, caps are lightweight and convenient for temperate weather. They usually have a small brim at the front to shield your eyes from the sun.
Trapper Style Bushcraft Hats
Trapper hats feature side flaps for cold climates that can be tied up to the crown of the hat or lowered to protect the ears, neck, and chin from the cold. Pair them with thermal gloves to beat the chill. Trapper hats are excellent for bushcraft in frigid environments.
Felt Bushcraft Hats
Felt hats are an excellent choice for bushcraft hats due to their durability, water resistance, and thermal properties. Made from tightly matted wool or fur fibers, these hats can retain heat in cold weather and also provide shade during sunny days.
Bucket Style Bushcraft Hats
Bucket hats are ideal for casual adventures. Pair them with lightweight clothing for optimum comfort. Bucket hats or bush hats are similar to boonie hats but with a more casual style. These can be useful for light bushcraft activities.
They offer 360-degree shade and are usually made of cotton or polyester, making them lightweight and easily packable.
Balaclavas Bushcraft Hats
Balaclavas offer full-face protection. Use them in tandem with goggles for extreme cold or windy conditions. For extreme cold weather and wind, a balaclava is the best option. Covering most of the face and neck, they offer maximum protection against freezing temperatures.
Oilskin Bushcraft Hats
Oilskin hats repel water. It’s best to combine them with a raincoat for wet outdoor activities. Originally made from sailcloth treated with oils, modern oilskin bushcraft hats are crafted from durable cotton fabric infused with a proprietary blend of oils and waxes, making them water and wind-resistant.
Packable Bushcraft Rain Hats
These hats are lightweight and waterproof, and complement a raincoat and water-resistant boots. For those venturing into wet environments, packable rain hats are a must-have.
Made from waterproof materials like nylon or Gore-Tex, they provide excellent protection from rain and can be easily stowed away when not in use.
Insulated Bushcraft Hats
Insulated hats keep your head warm, which is perfect with thermal wear for snowy adventures. Insulated bushcraft hats, often filled with materials like down or synthetic fibers, offer excellent warmth for bushcraft in frigid temperatures.
Legionnaire Bushcraft Hats
These hats offer neck coverage. Named after the headgear worn by the soldiers of Ancient Rome, Legionnaire hats offer formidable protection from harsh sunlight, making them ideal for bushcraft in sunny and hot climates. Pair them with long sleeves for sun protection.
The hallmark feature of a Legionnaire hat is its distinctive flap that extends down the back, safeguarding the neck from sun exposure.
Leather Bushcraft Hats
Leather hats combine style, durability, and practical weather resistance, making them a go-to choice for many bushcraft practitioners.
With the inherent toughness of leather, these hats are designed to withstand the test of time, enduring exposure to elements and gradually developing a distinct, rugged patina.
Fur Bushcraft Hats
Fur hats offer the ultimate in cold protection. They’re an unrivaled choice when it comes to surviving frigid temperatures. Pair them with a down jacket for Arctic adventures.
Whether lined with real or faux fur, these hats provide maximum insulation, making them indispensable for bushcraft in Arctic conditions or during bitter winters.
Waxed Canvas Bushcraft Hats
Waxed canvas hats are water-resistant and durable, making them perfectly suited for bushcraft in areas prone to rain and snow. These bushcraft hats owe their resilience to the wax finish, which creates a sturdy barrier against moisture, keeping your head dry in damp conditions.
Deerstalker Bushcraft Hat
Deerstalker hats are best-suited for hunting trips, especially when paired with camo gear. This hat is an incredibly versatile piece of headgear, suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities.
It has a double-brimmed design with a projecting visor at both the front and rear, providing ample shield from the sun and rain.
Typically, it’s crafted from heavy-weight or woolen fabric for durability and warmth. A signature feature of the deerstalker is its flexible earflaps, which can be fastened up to the crown or let down to protect the ears during colder climates.
What To Consider When Buying The Best Bushcraft Hats & Caps
Before you invest in a bushcraft hat, consider several key factors. Material and durability top the list, followed by design and functionality. Aside from these two, below are the essential features you need to look for in detail:
Material
The material of your bushcraft hat plays a pivotal role in its durability and comfort. Natural fibers like wool offer breathability. Whether you opt for leather, waxed canvas, or synthetic fabric, it can significantly impact your comfort, protection, and the hat’s longevity.
For instance, a leather hat can withstand years of use, gaining character with time, while a waxed canvas hat offers superior rain resistance, keeping your head dry during unexpected showers.
Also, consider the environment you’ll be in.
For colder climates, a fur or wool hat might be your best bet, providing warmth and insulation.
On the other hand, a lightweight, breathable material like cotton or nylon is suitable for warmer, sunnier locations.
Understanding your needs and matching them to the right material ensures a hat that is both comfortable and functional.
Durability
Durable hats not only last longer but, also maintain their shape and functionality after repeated use.
If you’re navigating through thick, overgrown foliage, and your hat constantly scrapes against branches and twigs, a hat made from a flimsy material won’t last long in these conditions. That’s why durability is a critical factor to consider.
Materials like waxed canvas and leather are known for their robustness and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
So whether you’re hiking up a rocky hill or fording a fast-flowing stream, durable bushcraft hats will stand the test of time.
Breathability
For activities like hiking, opt for breathable fabrics. These include cotton and synthetics. A breathable hat allows for air circulation, helping to evaporate sweat and keep your head cool. Look for bushcraft hats with ventilation features such as mesh panels or ventilation eyelets.
When the going gets hot, a breathable hat will ensure your comfort, letting you enjoy your bushcraft expedition without feeling like you’re in a sauna.
Brim Width
The width of the hat’s brim can affect how much sun and rain protection you get. Wider brims are ideal for desert conditions. They are your best friend in sunny weather.
It shades your face, neck, and even shoulders, reducing the risk of sunburn and heatstroke.
But if you’re traipsing through dense forest or high winds, a hat with a narrower brim or even a cap might be more practical, as it’s less likely to catch on branches or get blown away.
Remember, finding the right balance between protection and practicality is key when choosing the brim width.
Fit and Comfort
Getting the right fit is crucial when buying bushcraft hats as comfort is also essential. Ensure the hat fits well and doesn’t chafe.
Too tight, and it can cause discomfort or headaches. Too loose, and you risk losing your hat to a gust of wind.
Many bushcraft hats come with adjustable straps or bands for a more custom fit. Remember, comfort is king. You want a hat that you can wear for hours without feeling any discomfort.
A well-fitted hat should feel snug but not tight and sit comfortably on your head without sliding down or constricting your forehead.
Design and Functionality
Check if there are ventilation holes for breathability. Also, see if your hat comes with a chin strap to secure it in windy conditions. Another is to check if there’s a neck flap for added sun protection.
For example, a Legionnaire hat, with its distinctive neck flap, offers superior sun protection, making it a suitable choice for bushcraft in intense sunlight.
The design elements of a hat can significantly enhance its usefulness in different conditions and scenarios. Always look for a design that aligns with your needs and the challenges you’ll be facing in the wilderness.
UV Protection
Bushcraft hats aren’t just about style or keeping the rain off; they should also provide UV protection. This is crucial as prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to sunburn, heat stroke, or even long-term skin damage.
A good bunch of hats out there boast a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. This number measures the amount of UV radiation that penetrates the fabric.
A hat with a high UPF rating, such as UPF 50, can block 98% of harmful UV rays. Having a hat with UV protection will significantly reduce the risk of sunburn, allowing you to enjoy your adventures without worrying about the harsh sunlight.
Weather Resistance
A waxed canvas or waterproof synthetic hat can keep your head dry during a downpour, while a fur hat provides warmth in icy conditions.
Bushcraft means being out in all sorts of weather conditions — the blazing sun, torrential rain, or heavy snowfall. That’s why bushcraft hats must be weather-resistant.
Consider the weather patterns of your usual outdoor destinations and pick a hat accordingly.
If you’re preparing for an unexpected shower in the wilderness, you’ll appreciate a hat that’s not just water-repellent but also quick-drying.
Weight and Packability
Weight is a crucial factor to consider, especially for longer expeditions. A heavy hat can weigh you down and cause discomfort over time. Materials like nylon are ideal.
You need something lightweight yet sturdy enough to retain its shape after being stuffed into your pack. Bushcraft hats made from lightweight materials like nylon or thin leather can be ideal.
Care and Maintenance
While it might not be the first thing on your mind, the ease of care and maintenance of bushcraft hats is important. Understanding how to care for your bushcraft hat can extend its lifespan. Most hats come with specific care instructions. You don’t want a hat that requires professional cleaning after each trip.
Many hats can simply be wiped clean with a damp cloth or are even machine-washable. And when it comes to maintenance, a little bit of wax can go a long way in preserving a waxed canvas or leather hat.
You want a hat that not only protects you from the elements but also one that doesn’t add to your workload when you return from your adventures.
How-To Guide: Accurately Measuring Your Head for Bushcraft Hats
Getting the right fit is crucial for both comfort and function. Here’s how to measure your head accurately.
1. Gather Your Tools
Start by gathering the tools you’ll need. A flexible measuring tape is crucial. If you don’t have one, a piece of string and a ruler will work just fine.
2. Find Your Head Circumference
Measure your head’s circumference. This will guide you in choosing the right size. Take your measuring tape or string and wrap it around your head where your hat would naturally rest. It’s usually about an inch above your ears and across the mid-forehead.
Hold the tape firmly, but not too tight, you don’t want to leave a mark or skew the measurement. Once you have that number, congratulations, you’ve got your head circumference!
If you used a string, mark the circumference length and then measure the string using a ruler.
3. Refer to a Size Chart
Refer to the brand’s size chart for an accurate fit. Always measure more than once for best results. Most hat makers will provide a sizing chart — use this to find the equivalent hat size for your head circumference.
Remember, hat sizes can vary by brand or style, so always check the size chart for each hat you’re interested in.
4. Consider the Hat’s Material and Adjust Accordingly
Leather or waxed canvas bushcraft hats, for example, may be stiff initially but usually break in and mold to your head shape over time, whereas a knitted wool hat will have a lot of stretch from the get-go. Different materials may stretch or shrink. Adjust your size choice accordingly.
Now, let’s say you find yourself caught between two sizes. The golden rule is to always size up.
A slightly larger hat is better than one that’s too tight, and you can often adjust the fit with hat-sizing tape or a hat band.
FAQs About The Best Bushcraft Hats
Can I wear bushcraft hats in other scenarios beyond wilderness survival?
Absolutely. Bushcraft hats are incredibly versatile. They’re suitable for fishing, hunting, hiking, or simply as protection against the sun during outdoor activities. Some designs are stylish enough to be worn casually.
Are there specific bushcraft hats for winter or summer?
Yes, different designs and materials cater to different weather conditions.
For example, insulated bushcraft hats with a fleece lining are better for winter, while lightweight, breathable hats are ideal for summer. Some hats are built to be versatile for year-round use.
Is it better to have a lighter or darker colored hat?
This can depend on your specific needs. Lighter colored bushcraft hats can reflect more sunlight, keeping your head cooler in hot climates.
Darker bushcraft hats may not reflect light as well, but can often hide dirt and stains better, a practical consideration in the wilderness.
What if my hat gets damaged while in the wilderness?
Some minor repairs might be possible with a needle and thread or some duct tape, which are handy to have in your survival kit.
However, the best way to avoid this situation is to invest in a high-quality, durable hat that can withstand rough conditions.
Selecting the Best Bushcraft Hats & Caps: Key Takeaways
From your hat’s water resistance to its cache cap’s ability to stash away small items, surviving in a survival situation can depend on the headgear you choose.
Whether it’s a cowboy hat, a sun hat, a wide-brimmed hat, or a bent-brim cap, ensure it matches your specific needs and the environmental challenges you’ll encounter in the wilderness.
After all, the best bushcraft hats are the ones that not only looks good on you but also offers protection and comfort for a long time, no matter the weather conditions you face.
