#1 on this list
Sun Runner Cap
Outdoor Research
The Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap has long been the gold standard for high-exposure environments where standard ball caps fail. Built around a lightweight, quick-drying baseball-style cap with a substantial curved bill, it pairs with a snap-on fabric cape that shields your ears, neck, and the sides of your face. For exposed desert washes, glaciated snowfields, or high-altitude ridges, this legionnaire setup provides comprehensive protection without the wind-catching profile of a traditional full-brim hat. On the trail, the Sun Runner's adaptability shines. When early mornings are cool or you are moving under heavy tree canopy, you can strip the cape off and run it as an airy, highly breathable running cap with mesh side panels. When the sun crests the canyon rim, snap the cape back on. OR updated the cape closure system to cinch cleanly under the chin, meaning high winds will not tear it off your head like a wide-brim hat. The fabric carries a UPF 50+ rating, dries exceptionally fast after drenching sweat, and folds completely flat into any pocket. The trade-off is aesthetics and ambient warmth. With the cape buttoned up, you look like you are joining the French Foreign Legion, and the wrapped fabric naturally traps some heat around your collar. Even so, when the sun is relentless, physical shade beats airflow every single time. **Highlights** - Removable snap-on sun cape offers modular, 360-degree neck and ear coverage - UPF 50+ lightweight fabric blocks harsh radiation - Breathable mesh crown panels vent heat effectively in cap-only mode - Secure chin cinch on the cape prevents blow-offs in gale-force gusts - Packable build stuffs flat into running vests or hip-belt pockets **Watch-outs** - Cape can trap heat and humidity around the neck when there is zero breeze - Legionnaire styling is utilitarian rather than casual
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#2 on this list
Helios Sun Hat
Outdoor Research
The Outdoor Research Helios Sun Hat strikes the ideal balance between wide-brim coverage, featherweight construction, and packability. It is designed for hikers who want 360-degree shade across the face, ears, and neck without the bulk or stiffness of traditional expedition hats. Weighing in at under three ounces, you can crush it into a backpack sleeve or dry bag, and the foam-stiffened brim bounces right back to its original circular profile without stubborn creases. The Helios uses a UPF 50+ ripstop fabric that handles abrasion from low-hanging branches and brush well. Its under-brim uses a darker fabric treatment to swallow blinding ground glare, which pays dividends when hiking over granite slabs, white sand, or around water. A simple one-handed drawcord at the rear allows you to dial in crown tension, while a sturdy chin cord keeps the hat anchored when winds whip across an open saddle. Because the brim is relatively flexible foam, it will fold up in strong head-on gusts or sustained high winds. It does not catch wind as violently as a rigid brim, but the front can occasionally flap down into your field of view during a headwind. For moderate conditions, forest travel, and standard summer backpacking, it remains one of the easiest hats to live with. **Highlights** - Flexible foam-stiffened brim rebounds cleanly after being packed away - Dark fabric under-brim reduces ground and water glare - One-handed rear adjustment cord dials in a secure, custom crown fit - Broad chin strap with cord lock holds hat secure in alpine winds - Lightweight, quick-wicking headband handles sweat saturation **Watch-outs** - Front brim can flap or buckle inward against direct, stiff head-on gusts - Crown lacks large mesh cutouts, relying mostly on breathable main fabric
- Price
- $65 MSRP
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Sun Runner Cap | Helios Sun Hat |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 2.8 oz (79 g) | 2.3 oz (65 g) |
| Main Fabric | 100% Supplex nylon with polyester mesh | — |
| UPF Rating | UPF 40+ | — |
| Brim Length | 2.75 inches (7 cm) | — |
| Adjustment | Rear quick-release buckle and cape chin cord | External one-hand drawcord and chin strap |
| Care | Machine wash cold, line dry | — |
| Brim Width | — | 2.75 in (7 cm) |
| Sun Protection | — | UPF 50+ |
| Crown Fabric | — | 86% nylon, 14% polyester ripstop |
| Sweatband | — | TransAction wicking headband |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Sun Runner Cap
- Modular cape detaches instantly when sun drops or wind shifts
- Streamlined profile will not blow off your head in heavy ridge winds
- Folds completely flat for effortless packing in running vests or pockets
- Fast-drying nylon and wicking browband manage heavy sweat buildup
- Comprehensive coverage shields ears, nape, and sides of face from harsh UV
- Fabric skirt can trap heat around the neck on windless, humid days
- Hook-and-loop attachment points can collect trail debris over time
- Distinct French Foreign Legion aesthetic lacks casual crossover appeal
Helios Sun Hat
- Crushable foam brim packs down completely flat and springs back without creasing
- Dark under-brim fabric significantly cuts down ground and water glare
- Lightweight build and wicking headband keep it comfortable during all-day wear
- Multiple distinct sizes paired with an external cinch cord deliver an exact fit
- Flexible front brim can flap or buckle downward in stiff, head-on winds
- Lacks mesh crown vents, causing heat buildup during humid, steep climbs
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.