Are you after a breathable running hats or caps to keep your head cool and comfortable during long runs? Whether you are a committed daily runner taking all distances up to ultra or a weekend jogger, headgear can make all the difference for your performance and comfort level. In this guide, we’ll look at the benefits and key features to look for and then offer up our top picks.
Table of Contents: Breathable Hats & Caps For Runners
Breathable Running Hats & Caps
We’ve researched, tested and compiled this guide with information on some of the best breathable running hats and caps. We’ll cover features to look for, how to choose the best hat or cap for your needs and our top picks.
Why You Need A Breathable Running Hat Or Cap
Wearing a breathable hat or cap during running is extremely important for comfort, performance and safety.
- Comfort-wise: a breathable hat or cap will keep your head cool and dry during hot days.
- Performance-wise: it can help keep sweat away from your face, reducing irritation and increasing visibility.
- Safety-wise: it can protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays and keep you visible in low-light conditions.
Key Features To Look For In A Running Cap
- Materials: Material is an essential factor to consider when choosing a breathable running hats or caps. Moisture-wicking fabrics draw moisture away from the skin, allowing it to evaporate quickly and keep your head cool and dry while running. Breathable materials, such as mesh and cotton, allow air to circulate the head, which can help reduce sweating and keep you cool.
- Fit: Adjustable straps are needed for a secure and comfortable fit. Many hats come with adjustable straps that can be adjusted to fit the shape of your head. It’s also vital to ensure the cap fits snugly so it doesn’t move around when you run and won’t fall off.
- Design: Ventilation holes in the fabric of a running hat or cap provide additional breathability and airflow, which keeps your head cool and comfortable. Other design details include reflective logos and panels for added visibility in low light conditions and a sweatband along the inside of the cap, which can help soak up sweat and stop it from dripping onto your face.
Top Picks For Breathable Running Hats & Caps
Finding the perfect running hat or cap can be a challenge. With so many options available, knowing which one is right for you is hard. That’s why we have put together this guide to show you what we think are the best breathable running hats and caps on the market today.
#1: Salomon XA Unisex Running Cap
- A light, breathable running cap that fits securly onto your head and wont blow-off in high-wind weather.
- Stretch adjustment adds extra comfort and the overall fit can be lossened or tighten using an elasticated strap at the pack.
- All the materials on Salomon XA cap are light and fast drying. Offers road and trail runners effective and practical heat protection from the sun.
- The breathable panels helps airflow while running. When on in use, you take take it off and clip it to your running belt or vest.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Salomon XA Unisex Running Cap: This lightweight cap is designed with breathable mesh panels to help keep you cool and comfortable on your Spring and Summer runs. Incredibly light and features a thin headband liner around the inside of the cap for added comfort. On sweaty running days, I just rinse it under the tap, then hang it on the line to dry.
It also features adjustable straps and a reflective Salomon logo, perfect for long runs in low-light conditions. When not in use, I just clip it to my running belt or pack it down and pop it into my Salomon running vest. A popular choice for trail and ultra runners. I own 4 of these caps in different colours – a huge fan of this brand and this cap. Checkout the slightly different styles and colours here.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Large choice of colours, lightweight material, adjustable elasticated straps and secure fit which won’t blow off.
Cons: None for me, my favourite running caps.
TrailHeads Race Day Performance Running Hat
- A nifty lightweight mesh hat with a dark underbill keeps your face shaded and reduces glare making it a running essential in the summer.
- Moisture wicking 100% polyester fabric works to help keep you dry and comfortablemnand allows air to flow freely on hot days.
- Available in a large range of colours, including high-visability designs to keep you safe in low-light conditioning in the morning or early evening.
- This cap is designed to fit women with heads between 20.5-23.6 inches (52-60 cm) in circumference. If you need something larger, then go for the mens version instead.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
TrailHeads Race Day Performance Running Hat: This performance running hat is designed with moisture-wicking fabric, adjustable back closure and reflective detailing to keep you visible in low-light conditions. Go to the TrailHeads Store, and you’ll find a UV protection version too. They have hats with a gender specific fit, however there no reason why men and women can’t wear either.
- A lightweight running cap made for the trails, it weighs only 2 ounces and is available in a variety of colors. The dark under bill keeps your face shaded and reduces glare.
- Quick-drying polyester mesh construction means air flows freely and allows your skin to breathe.
- Enahnced visability thanks to a reflective TrailHeads logo on the side.
- Adjustable Velcro closure that delivers a snug, customised, and comfortable fit all day long.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Trail-specific running cap, moisture-wicking fabric, adjustable back closure, reflective logo.
Cons: Women’s version may not fit larger heads shapes.
2XU Unisex Run Cap
- Adjustable strap at the rear of the hat and reflective 2XU logo on the top and peek of the cap.
- Comes with larger than normal mesh inserts for increased levels of breathability.
- Made from highly durable fabric which are also fast-drying.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
2XU Unisex Run Cap: This lightweight cap is designed with an extra large mesh panel on the top to keep you cool and comfortable on your runs. The sweat-wicking fabric helps to keep moisture away from your face and body. Available in a few colour options and a really affordable option from a well-known, quality outdoor gear brand.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Extra mesh panelling, adjustable strap and affordable.
Cons: May not stay put on windy days.
GORE WEAR Mesh Cap
- Lightweight unisex cap for warm weather conditions
- GORE Selected Fabrics that were chosen for their fast moisture-wicking and extreme breathability features.
- Lockable drawcord at rear means it is one size fits all cap.
- Mesh construction for less weight and maximum breathability
- External seams in construction limit rubbing and irritation around the head line.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
GORE WEAR Mesh Cap: A lightweight mesh construction unisex cap made from a mix of GORE WEAR fabrics is ideal for warm weather conditions. The fusion of fabrics helps with transporting perspiration directly to the outside. Made with external seams, so there is no rubbing or irritation around the temple area, this cap also includes a unique-looking lockable drawstring at the back. Available in either black or a hi-viz bright yellow.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Lightweight mesh construction, external seams, lockable drawstring.
Cons: Limited colour range.
Ronhill Unisex Air-lite Split Cap
- Eco-Conscious design and made from recycled fabric and materials. Soft fabric inner lining for comfort around the head.
- Split peak design for quick storage in a pocket or pack when not in use.
- Lightweight and moisture wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry on long summer runs.
- A velcro adjustable strap at the back of the cap will help to give you a customise your fit
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Ronhill Unisex Air-lite Split Cap: This ultra-lightweight cap is designed with mesh panels to help keep you cool and comfortable while running. It also features an adjustable back closure for customisation to the fit. The most unique feature of this cap is the split peek, which means it can be folded down to easily fit into small spaces such as your running shorts pocket.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Soft fabrics, adjustable back closure, split peek design.
Cons: Other caps have a more secure fit.
Buff Unisex Pro Run Cap
- Enjoy running with a cap specifically designed for runners. Protection and fresh look in great performance.
- Designed to improve visibility in low-light conditions. Retro-reflective tech to glow when light hits it.
- The behind-the-head elasticated band provides the right fit for you.
- Built-in inner band to wick away sweat and improve comfort and ensure dry feeling when you are running.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buff Unisex Pro Run Cap: These three performance running caps are designed with breathable and moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool, dry and comfortable during your runs. They also feature adjustable back closures for a secure fit, reflective logos and reflective tech to glow when receiving light for increased visibility in low-light conditions.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, adjustable back closures for a secure fit, reflective logos for increased visibility.
Cons: Style is not to everyone’s taste.
Do You Need A Running Cap?
Running caps and hats are essential for runners of all distances, protecting you from the elements while keeping you cool and comfortable. From 5Ks to ultra marathons, a lightweight running cap will help keep you focused on the task – running your best race. Plus, it adds a bit of style to your running ensemble.
Breathable running caps are essential for runners of all levels, providing protection from the sun, wind, rain and other elements. These caps are designed for comfort and performance with their lightweight materials and adjustable back closures. So whether you’re training for your next race or heading out for a Sunday morning run, a running cap or hat is the perfect addition to your kit.
Final Thoughts On Running Hats & Caps
When looking for a running hat or cap, it’s important to consider features such as breathability and moisture-wicking fabric. These features will keep your head cool and comfortable during long runs in any weather condition. Additionally, having reflective logos and UPF protection is excellent for keeping you visible in low-light conditions while blocking out harmful UV rays from the sun. With all this in mind, we recommend choosing the Salomon XA Unisex Running Cap, designed with performance runners’ needs in mind! I hope this guide has helped you find the perfect breathable running hats or caps for you..
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