As the temperatures tick higher into the 60s and 70s, we’re hoping to soak in some rays. But of course, we have to be careful about it. From protecting our skin and eyes against the sun to keeping ourselves cool and sweat-free, a summer hat is a must-have for any outdoor activity.
We’ve rounded up seven brands offering various styles of sustainable summer hats below, from trucker and baseball caps to wide-brimmed straw hats . Whatever your style (and your preferred level of protection), these responsibly made pieces will be a welcome addition to your warm-weather wardrobe.
Looking for summer shoes? Try these sustainable sandals for ultimate comfort.
1. Cuyana | $118–$128
If style and sustainability are of the utmost importance, you can’t do better than Cuyana’s collection of hats. Dubbed the Panama* Hats, these hats are responsibly made by indigenous women artisans in Ecuador—since they’re not truly Panama hats, the asterisk denotes the brand’s work to reclaim the hat’s true origin story (and you can sign a petition in support as well). Each hat is expertly handwoven using Toquilla straw and features adjustable interior bands and classic details like wide brims and ribbons. These are some of the most expensive on our list, but they’re worth the investment, thanks to the thoughtful production and timeless designs.
2. Girlfriend Collective | $28–$38
Girlfriend Collective promotes getting out and about with its size-inclusive activewear line, and we love the brand’s two active style hats for the added sun protection. (And don’t worry, both are sustainable!) The 50/50 Bucket Hat is made from recycled and organic cotton, and effortlessly completes any outdoor look—beach day, anyone? And if you’re in the mood to move, we like the Recycled Visor, equipped with UPF 50+ recycled plastic material. Easy, breezy, and perfect for the great outdoors.
3. Will & Bear | $69–$179
Designed in Australia but made for the world, Will & Bear’s hats are both gorgeous and green. As a certified B Corp, the team prioritizes fair trade and ethical production as well as sustainable and natural materials for all goods—plus, for every hat sold, a tree is planted. With a number of bucket hats, straw hats, caps, and more, there’s a sustainable style for everyone, and we’re obsessed with the rich and stunning neutral colors. Best of all, Will & Bear offers a number of sizes so there’s no “one size fits all” philosophy here—each hat will fit your crown just as it should.
4. Patagonia | $39–$59
It’s no surprise that Patagonia wants you to be one with Mother Nature. That’s why these hats are made with exceptional function in mind. Whether you opt for the Duckbill Trucker Hats or the Airshed Caps, both are quintessential to the certified B Corp aesthetic—while also leveraging water-resistant, odor-resistant, and sustainable materials. We most appreciate how many color and style options there are (and that Patagonia prioritizes purpose over profit, time and time again). Protect your skin and the planet with one of these affordable caps, visors, or brimmers.
5. Parks Project | $36–$40
Another brand made for the summer? The Parks Project, whose mission is to “leave the world better than they found it.” You can support the protection and preservation of parklands too, from Acadia to Zion, by grabbing one of the brand’s iconic hats. Often made in collaboration with brands like Leave No Trace, National Geographic, and the Prospect Park Alliance, donning one of these while out hiking, walking, or biking is the perfect chance to align your style with your values. Cutie designs, breathable cotton, flexible sizing…what’s not to love?
6. Vitamin A | $45–$99
When you head out for your next beach day (can we join you?), don’t forget to bring along one of Vitamin A’s stunning summer hats. The collection includes four straw bucket hats in natural colors, or three organic cotton bucket hats in extra-groovy patterns. No matter which you pick, a portion of proceeds from every order will go to support environmental causes and it’ll arrive to you in biodegradable and recyclable packaging. We especially love how well these straw bucket hats travel when folded, and that they’re made with recycled Toyo straw. Sustainable summer style, FTW.
7. Sunny’s Book Truck | $25–$30
Hats don’t just have to be accessories—they can send messages, too. That’s why we love Sunny’s Book Truck for all the bookworms in our lives. Sunny’s is a mobile bookstore from Arizona, with a goal to provide accessibly priced books to all and to build community along the way. Inspired by literature, Sunny’s collection of hats have quippy sayings like “Unreliable Narrator,” “Women vs. the Void,” “Lit Fic,” and “Toni Morrison Evangelist.” (And while some options may currently be sold out, reach out and let them know of your interest in a restock!) Let the world know you’re both clever and cultured with one of these bad boys.
Featured image is from Cuyana
