Want to keep your skin safe from the sun when you’re outside?
Millions of people who spend a lot of time outdoors, work outdoors, or do both, suffer from sun damage every year that’s completely preventable. The WHO estimates that almost 1 in 3 deaths from non-melanoma skin cancer can be attributed to working under the sun.
The good news is, a simple piece of equipment can massively reduce your risk.
Boonie hats have been shielding people from UV rays for decades and remain one of the most effective forms of sun protection you can use.
Why Boonie Hats Are The Best Protection Against UV Rays
Think back to the last time you went outside for an entire day.
Did you remember to reapply your sunscreen after two hours? Most people don’t. But boonie hats aren’t sunscreen. A quality Arktis Boonie Hat continues to protect your face, ears and neck all day long without the need for reapplication or wearing off. Arktis Boonie Hats give you dependable coverage wherever you’re hiking, exploring or working.
Here’s why…
Boonie hats were first created during the Vietnam war to give military personnel a sturdy sun protection in tropical environments. The broad brim (2.5-3 inches is typical) forms a barrier that shields vulnerable areas from UV rays. Unlike a baseball cap, boonie hats offer 360-degree coverage.
Academic research found that 79% of outdoor workers used hats often or always for sun protection. That’s more than any other protective measure. And it’s not hard to see why. Hats work, and they work without having to think about it.
Understanding UPF Ratings and What They Mean
You know SPF when it comes to sunscreen… But UPF?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It’s how fabric blocks UV radiation from reaching your skin.
UPF ratings are as follows:
- UPF 15-24: Good (Blocks 93.3% – 95.9% of UV Rays)
- UPF 25-39: Very good (Blocks 96.0% – 97.4% of UV Rays)
- UPF 40-50+: Excellent (Blocks 97.5% – 98%+ of UV Rays)
Most quality boonie hats are UPF 50+ meaning they block around 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
But something you might not realize…
Even on a cloudy day you need protection. Up to 80% of UV radiation still gets through clouds to damage your skin. A boonie hat keeps you covered no matter the weather.
Key Features That Make Boonie Hats Effective
All boonie hats are not created equal. The difference between a quality outdoor hat and a cheap imitation can mean the difference between staying protected and getting sunburnt. Here are the features you should look for:
Wide Brim Coverage
A wide brim all the way around is essential. This means at least 2.5 inches in the front for your face, and the same around both ears, the back of the neck and each side of your head. Less than this and you’re exposing skin unnecessarily.
Breathable Fabric and Ventilation
Mesh ventilation panels in the crown and use of breathable fabrics like polyester or nylon, moisture-wicking technology are all signs of a boonie hat that will keep you cool. Some designs also have vented eyelets in the sides for even more airflow.
Adjustable Chin Strap
A chin strap will help keep your boonie hat secure on windy days, high activity levels or when you’re in the water. Most quality boonie hats will also have a drawstring or toggle at the back for easy sizing.
Crushable and Packable
The best outdoor hats will collapse into your backpack without losing their shape. Look for materials that don’t crease and snap back when opened.
Choosing The Right Boonie Hat For Your Needs
So you know what to look for in a boonie hat. But how do you find the perfect one for you?
The first step is to consider what activities you’ll be doing. Different applications require slightly different considerations.
Hiking and Backpacking
For hiking and backpacking you’ll want a hat that’s lightweight so that it doesn’t weigh you down. Polyester and nylon are best because they dry super fast and are incredibly light. Avoid cotton boonie hats for hiking as they absorb moisture and take a long time to dry.
Fishing and Water Sports
You need a boonie hat with a brim that floats when you’re fishing or doing water sports. Some designs have foam inserts to keep the hat afloat. Quick drying materials, a secure chin strap and a dark underside on the brim to reduce glare are all important.
Tactical and Military Use
Military-grade boonie hats often come with branch loops to attach camo, reinforced stitching for durability and subdued colors. This type of hat is built to last.
Material Matters More Than You Think
The fabric your boonie hat is made from directly affects how well it performs. Here’s what you need to know:
Polyester – This is by far the most common material used in outdoor boonie hats. It’s lightweight, dries very quickly and offers excellent UPF 50+ UV protection.
Nylon – Nylon is similar to polyester but is slightly more durable. You often find it used in tactical and military boonie hats where toughness is paramount.
Cotton – Breathable and traditional but not ideal for heavy-duty outdoor work or play. Cotton boonie hats hold moisture and won’t offer the same level of UV protection as synthetic fabrics unless treated.
Ripstop Fabrics – A special weaving method makes ripstop resistant to tears. These are great for hiking through thickets or rough terrain.
Stick with synthetic materials like polyester or nylon for maximum benefit.
Caring for Your Boonie Hat
Want your boonie hat to last a lifetime? Proper care makes all the difference.
Wash by hand in cool water with mild soap. Harsh detergents can break down UV protective treatments. Submerge hat, soak for 10-15 minutes, rinse well and reshape while damp. Air dry completely before storing.
Never put your boonie hat in the dryer. Heat can damage the fabric and ruin the shape. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fabric damage.
Wrapping This Up
Boonie hats are one of the best forms of sun protection available for outdoor enthusiasts, workers and people who do both. Combining UPF-rated fabric, wide brim coverage and features like ventilation and adjustability, boonie hats offer 360-degree protection that you can’t get from sunscreen alone.
Sun exposure causes serious health issues including skin cancer. But you can dramatically reduce these risks while still enjoying everything the great outdoors has to offer. Get yourself a quality boonie hat designed with the activities you love in mind.
