These Chic Straw Hats Will Save You From Sun Damage This Summer

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Many people have their go-to summer outfit planned from head to toe. A chic pair of sunglasses, some breezy linen clothes, and sandals made for walking are all must-haves. And, the piece de resistance? The perfect straw hat.

A straw hat isn't a summer essential only because it's stylish. Like a good SPF and anti-UV hair spray, it can help keep you safe from those powerful rays that can often lead to sunburn. If you've had five or more sunburns in your life, you're at a higher risk of developing melanoma, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

“Ninety percent of the time, skin cancers come from too much sun and not enough sunscreen,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale University. “That's why sun safety is so essential.”

To help protect your scalp and face from sun damage, Gohara recommends getting a hat that has an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating. “Hats that say UPF 50 are the best because that means they’re blocking out the majority of the sun’s rays,” she explains.

When shopping for a sun-protective straw hat, it’s also important to be mindful of its weave density, color, and coverage. For example, make sure to look for a hat that’s broad-brimmed so that your ears are fully covered. “You want tightly woven fabrics so the rays can’t get through,” Gohara says. “Materials that are brighter or darker in color have more protection to them.”

Meet the expert: Mona Gohara, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor at Yale University.

So, whether you're planning your next beach getaway or trying to complete that cute resort outfit that’s been sitting in your closet, here are the 16 best straw hats for sun protection this summer 2023, per online reviews.

Joanna Straw Hat

This straw hat from Brixton features a 4-inch brim to shield your skin in any sunny circumstances. Available in five sizes, its inner circumference measures 21.5 to 24.5 inches. The wide black ribbon band adds a finishing touch to this classic look.

Rave review: "I just dug this hat out to start wearing with spring and summer in mind! This is hands-down my favorite hat purchase to date. I love that it comes in various sizes so you can get a perfect fit! The quality of this hat and budget-friendly pricing can't be beat!"

Packable Paper Straw Panama Hat

There's never enough space in your suitcase when you go on vacation. Luckily, this packable straw hat from Nordstrom is flexible enough to easily fit around other items in your checked bag. Use the inner ribbon to adjust its size for the perfect fit once you get to your destination.

Rave review: "This hat looks & feels wonderful. The fit is perfect because it is adjustable!! My favorite feature is it is packable!! How many times have you wished you could take your favorite hat along on your trip?! This hat looks far more expensive than it is. I'm buying it again in a different color!!"

White Paper Straw Panama Hat

Want to make sure your beach hat goes with all the vacay outfits you've painstakingly picked out? Consider this Panama hat in white. It also features an adjustable inner band to fit your head.

Rave review: "Great sun hat that has style. I got the white with black ribbon. Highly recommend. It was packaged perfectly ❤️"

Jo Straw Rancher Hat

If you're looking to tap into your country side, this straw rancher hat, available in four sizes, is the way to go. (But, don't worry—it looks great at the beach, too—not just the ranch.) And, its structured look and ribbon detailing will keep you looking sharp.

Rave review: "This hat is definitely a showstopper! Excellent quality and fit."

Wide Brim Sun Visor

With the benefits of sun protection for your face and the added benefit of being able to wear your hair in a high pony, a straw visor is a must. This one from Amazon is adjustable and able to be rolled up to fit into the smallest spaces left in your suitcase. Available in 14 colors at a budget-friendly price point, there's no reason not to have at least one in your closet.

Rave review: "What a great hat! Purchased for a trip to Florida and couldn't have been more pleased. Easy to pack in my carry-on and day pack, and it unrolled/fit superbly for complete sun protection."

Lanzom Floppy Straw Sun Hat

Whether you’re enjoying a day on the beach or simply relaxing outdoors in the sun, this floppy straw hat can be paired with just about any outfit. It comes with an adjustable chin strap and is made with UPF 50+ fabric. The 7-inch brim gives you extra shade and sun protection in this one-size-fits-all pick.

Rave review: “I wore this on vacation to Cozumel for 5 days. I burn very easily and wanted a wide brim hat for the sun. It packed well and retained its shape throughout the trip. It provided great sun protection. I even got it wet a few times and it kept its shape fine. I would highly recommend this for sun protection and travel.”

'Hampton' Straw Sun Hat

This lightweight baby is oh-so-chic. Available in five other colors, it's flattering enough for dressy events but versatile enough for more casual occasions as well. The elastic inner band also helps make this a one-size-fits-all and a fits-all-moments hat.

Rave review: "If you are nervous about wearing a hat in public, stiffen and your spine and go for it. There's something about wearing one that will make you walk a little taller and find the 'model' inside you. The quality of Eric Javits hats is seen as soon as you take it out of the box."

A New Day Floppy Straw Boater Hat

Looking for a wide-brim boater hat for your next beach trip? This straw boater from A New Day is stylish enough for land or sea excursions. It features a 4-inch brim to help shield your eyes and ears from the sun, and is available in two sizes and colors.

Rave review: “Nice fit and style. I like the adjustable band. Took on my vacation to Belize and it was perfect.”

Fedora Beach

Need a hat in every color of the rainbow? This pick from Amazon comes in 21 different colors to get you started. Made from paper straw and polyester, it's foldable and packable, so just roll it up, toss it in your bag, and you're ready to roll to the beach.

Rave review: "Let me start off by staying I've never been a beach hat type person...until now! I love this hat!!! When I bought it, I wasn't sure if I could pull it off. (You know, it looks good on others but not so good on me.) Well, I just got back from Belize and this hat was amazing."

Wide Brim Straw Panama Hat

You'll hear the ocean breeze calling as soon as you put on this Amazon bestseller. Foldable for easy packing, this Panama hat also features a 3-inch brim for extra sun protection. Plus, you've got 16 different band-hat color options to choose from.

Rave review: "Instead of buying clothes for the summer, I bought this hat and it looks so good with EVERYTHING. I've worn it every day since I purchased it. All of a sudden my clothes have new life... I have a bigger head and thought this might not work on me, but I get compliments even while wearing my face-mask. It also keeps me very cool despite the 100-degree weather in California. Overall, extremely happy with my purchase."

Fedora Beach Hat

Get in a vacation state of mind with this fedora. It's crushable for packing, and easily pops back into shape when you arrive at your destination. You've also got adjustable sizing, a detachable chin strap, and 10 colors to choose from.

Rave review: "I bought this hat for a vacation to Florida and New Orleans. I absolutely love it!! I Had at least a half dozen strangers compliment me on my hat in the first 24 hours in New Orleans!!"

Wide Brim Straw Hat

Packable and lightweight, this wide brim Panama hat is always ready for your next adventure. The design includes a stylish buckle accent and breathable materials, and it's available in 16 colors. So, what are you waiting for?

Rave review: "I could honestly rave about this hat for ages. If you're looking for a quality Panama Hat, look no further!"

Universal Thread Paper Straw Panama Hat

With a teardrop shape and shaded ombre design, this straw Panama hat from Universal Thread is your new favorite summer vacay accessory. Made entirely from lightweight paper straw, it’s a super comfortable fit for all-day wear on your next adventure. This hat also has a 3.5-inch brim and is available in four colors.

Rave review: “Love this hat! Super cute and adjustable. Exactly what I’ve been looking for and great price!!”

Floppy Sun Hat

You'll have all-around UV protection with the 4 inch-wide brim hat from Jendi. And, the paper straw-polyester blend is flexible enough to fold into the smallest space in your beach bag. It also features an adjustable inner brim and a chin cord to keep your new fave hat securely on your head, even on the windiest days.

Rave review: "This is a really cute hat. I bought it for a beach vacation. It packed well and I love that the back is made for a ponytail or bun, or to easily rest your head on a lounge chair."

Pom Pom Straw Beach Hat

It's "sun's out, fun's out" with this wide brim straw hat. It features a 5.5-inch brim for extra protection and pom pom accents for extra whimsy. Available in four colors and foldable for packing, this hat from women-owned brand, The Chic Soul, is a must-have.

Rave review: "Probably my fave hat purchase from Amazon!! It's very stylish! Wide enough but not too wide, well made! And I love the design overall. It protects my face from the sun. I bring it everywhere I go especially now that it's summer time."

Oversized Beach Straw Hat

If you're gonna go for it, go for it. This foldable hat (just steam gently to release any wrinkles) features a 28-inch brim. A statement piece like this will definitely get you noticed—but luckily, you've got an oversized brim you can hide behind if you want.

Rave review: "I wore this to an outdoor festival and it kept me cool. I felt elegant, mysterious, and classy! There’s a tie inside to secure it to your head (because the wind will get under it). It has a metal rim, so it will keep the shape you give it. I steamed it upon arrival to get the folds out, worked like a charm!"

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