When the sun’s out and the beach is calling, or you're jetting off on your summer holiday, staying sun-safe shouldn’t be complicated. But when it comes to protecting your skin, is a sun hat enough or do you still need sunscreen?
Spoiler: the real magic happens when you use both. Let’s dive into how they work together, and which Sunday Afternoons hats we recommend for stylish, all-day UV protection.
Why A Wide-Brim Sun Hat Is A Must
A great sun hat doesn’t just look good, it gives you reliable, physical sun protection that doesn’t wear off like sunscreen can. All our hats are UPF 50+ sun protection rated, which means they block 98% or more of harmful UV rays, all day long.
And it’s not just about your face. Our wide-brim designs help protect your neck, ears, scalp, and even shoulders. No reapplying. No fuss.
Our top UPF 50+ sun hat picks:
- Ultra Adventure Hat - One of our best-sellers for a reason. Lightweight, water-resistant, and trail-ready.
- Sol Seeker Hat - Floppy, feminine, and fabulous. A go-to for beach days, garden parties, or holiday strolls.
- Latitude Hat - Looking for maximum shade? This hat features our widest brim and Split-Brim technology for easy storage.
- Kids' Play Hat - Designed for little adventurers with big personalities - and even bigger sun protection needs!
Tip: Aim for a brim that’s 7.5cm or wider for full adult coverage. The wider the brim, the better the protection.
The Role of Sunscreen - Still Essential!
Hats are amazing, but sunscreen is still a must, especially for areas your hat can’t reach, like your shoulders, arms, or legs.
Go for a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen, and make sure you’re applying enough each time you use it. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating, swimming, or towel-drying.
Tip: when it comes to sunscreen, most of us underapply. Don’t be shy - more is more when it comes to sunscreen!
The Smartest Strategy: Pair Up for Total Protection
Here’s how to stay sun-smart wherever the day takes you:
Pop on a wide-brim UPF 50+ hat – Our top picks include:
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- Clear Creek Boonie: Adventure-ready, with excellent ventilation and full-brim coverage.
- Charter Hat: A classic for travel and everyday wear, with hidden passport pocket.
- Passport Hat: Lightweight, packable, and ready for wherever the road takes you.
- Sun Guide Cap: Legionnaire style cap with removable neck cape.
Apply (and reapply) SPF 50+ sunscreen to all exposed skin.
Layer up with UV-protective clothing if you're out for longer.
Seek shade between the hours of 11am–3pm when the sun’s at its strongest.
Final Thoughts
Sun protection should be easy, comfortable, and something you feel good about wearing. Whether you're hiking, gardening, sightseeing, or just enjoying a walk around the block, the right hat makes all the difference.
At Sunday Afternoons, we’ve spent decades designing hats that blend science, comfort, and style - so you can live your sunniest life without the burn. So next time you head out, don’t choose between a hat or sunscreen. Grab both, and get back to doing what you love... safely.
Need help finding your perfect sun hat?
Use our helpful buyers guide to find the perfect sun hat for you.
Information provided is for general guidance only. For personalised advice, consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider.
