Gear
Radar Pocket Cap
sun, rain, paddling, and trekking
Topic summary
sun, rain, paddling, and trekking
Key takeaways
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Folding brim for easy packing
- TransAction™ sweat-wicking headband
- 100% nylon plain weave fabric
- Adjustable rear closure
- Excellent UPF 50+ sun protection
Intended uses
- Hiking and backpacking
- Paddling and boating
- Travel and commuting
- Everyday sun protection
Verification notes
Evidence: expert reviewed. Last verified July 14, 2026.
Editorial take
The Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap is a well-established piece of headwear, a staple for those who prioritize sun protection without bulk. It's built primarily from a 100% nylon plain weave fabric, which makes it inherently quick-drying and gives it a fairly robust feel for its weight. The cap features a simple, effective design with a folding brim, allowing it to pack down to a truly pocketable size – a significant advantage over rigid-brimmed caps.
In terms of real-world performance, this cap excels in warm, sunny conditions. The UPF 50+ rating provides excellent sun protection, which is crucial for extended exposure. The TransAction headband wicks moisture away, keeping sweat out of your eyes during active pursuits. While it's not a heavy-duty rain cap, the nylon offers decent water resistance against light showers, shedding drops effectively before becoming saturated. Its breathability is adequate for most summer activities, though in extremely humid, still conditions, any cap will feel warm.
Durability is impressive for such a lightweight item; the stitching is solid, and the fabric resists snags and tears well under normal use. It's designed to be tossed in a pack, sat on, and generally abused, and it holds up. Compared to other packable caps on the market, the Radar Pocket Cap hits a sweet spot between price, protection, and packability. It's less technical than some trail running-specific caps but more durable and versatile for general outdoor use. This cap is for anyone needing reliable sun protection that disappears into a pocket when not needed.
Best for
- Hiking and backpacking
- Paddling and boating
- Travel and commuting
- Everyday sun protection
Not ideal for
- Folding brim can feel less structured than rigid caps
- Limited ventilation in very hot, still conditions
- Not fully waterproof for heavy rain
Verified specifications
- Country of manufacture
- 🇺🇸 United States
- Key features
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Folding brim for easy packing
- TransAction™ sweat-wicking headband
- 100% nylon plain weave fabric
- Adjustable rear closure
Warranty and repair information: contact Outdoor Research directly for the most current terms. Outdoor Research support
Related
Related skills
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Data sources & verification
- Source: products.csv
- Manufacturer: Outdoor Research
- Last verified: 7/14/2026
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