Outdoor workouts are the best workouts. Prove me wrong. When the weather is nice, heading outside for a long run, walk, hike, or even a HIIT workout on your driveway is a literal breath of fresh air. You clear your head, enjoy the day, and work up a sweat all at the same time. As far as I'm concerned, the best part — the sunshine! — is also the only downside. (Well, that and bugs. One thing at a time.) As much as you and I love soaking up the warm sunlight, our skin begs to differ. Sunburns aren't a good look, but they're even worse for your health, and getting a tan isn't any better. Both light- and dark-skinned people can develop skin cancer [1], and any time your skin changes colour after sun exposure — tan or burn — your risk of skin cancer increases. (Check out more little-known facts here [2].)
That means it's a really good idea to wear protection when you're exercising outside this Summer: lathering up the sunscreen (here are our favourites for exercising [3]) and wearing a hat or visor to protect your face. Luckily, there are many lightweight, breathable choices that won't get sweaty and uncomfortable on a hot run or hike. And frankly, these nine hats are so versatile, we'd rock them sitting by the pool or the beach, too.
TrailHeads Race Day Performance Running Cap
You can buy the TrailHeads Race Day Performance Running Cap [5] ($18) in a variety of colours, from neon green to purple. All the perforations make it ultra-breathable and comfy, and the brim is lined with reflective coating if you want to take it out for a night run.
Nike Feather Light Dri-FIT Cap
The subtle mesh vents on the sides of this Nike Feather Light Dri-Fit Cap [6] ($24) keep you cool; elsewhere, the hat's solid material protects your scalp from sunburn.
Zella Perforated Run Hat
The mesh side panels on the Perforated Run Hat [7] ($25) make the lightweight cap the perfect cooling accessory for your sunny Summer runs. It wicks sweat like a dream.
Swiftie Running Cap
The Swiftie Running Cap [8] ($30) from Sweaty Betty is easily adjustable and durable for any kind of weather, just in case a Summer storm rolls through on your jog.
Adidas by Stella McCartney Training Cap
The sleek Training Cap [9] ($45) from Adidas by Stella McCartney is perfect for Summer training runs: laser-cut perforations and a thin but durable material for total comfort.
Court AeroBill Tennis Visor
More of a visor person? We get it — the freedom to put your ponytail as high as you please is pretty great. This Court AeroBill Tennis Visor [10] ($24) from Nike shields your eyes from the glare and protects your face from burn while staying light and breathable.
Dri-Fit Low Profile Swoosh Cap
Simple, durable, and light, the Dri-Fit Low Profile Swoosh Cap [11] ($19 - $31) is a versatile option for running, walking, or relaxing poolside.
Outdoor Voices Doing Things Hat
You can't blame us for being a little obsessed with the Doing Things Hat [12] ($25) from Outdoor Voices. It's heavier compared to the others on our list, but great for lower-intensity activities like walking or hiking. The dark colour gives it some extra sun protection power.
Lululemon Baller Hat Run Ponytail
Lululemon understands our needs. The cool patterns of its Baller Hat Run Ponytail [13] ($38) (it also comes in sherbet orange and wine red!) aren't even the best part about it: turn it around and check out the big opening in the back, which is wide enough to incorporate ponytails of any height.