What makes the perfect surf hat?
Like boards and fins, hats come in a variety of shapes, designs and constructions. So what are the key ingredients that make a perfect surf hat? Since the beginning of time(?) People have had many answers, preferences and differing opinions. We too agree with many and differ from some. Here are SQAWK’s tried and true features we swear by,
-
Quick-drying material
Hats are typically made out of cotton, canvas, polyester or some combination of those materials. Cotton absorbs a lot of water, making it heavy when wet and taking a long time to dry. Polyester or other quick drying materials don’t absorb water the same way keeping them lighter and drying fast once the surf is over. This helps avoid damp mildew and improves post surf comfort.
-
Adjustable snap
Adjustable snaps or cinches help secure the cap while surfing. Surfing is dynamic and you want your hat to stay in place (out of your eyes) while paddling, turning, pumping and getting shacked (see barreled). On the fly resizing also comes in handy once your hair has gotten wet.
-
Low profile
Hats with a low profile are easier to stuff/pack away. Jam it in between your seat, in a surf bag or the trunk. As an added bonus you will be more aerodynamic and as a result surf faster (disclaimer: Although the science is sound, SQAWK cannot prove that a low profile will make YOU surf faster)
Top hat bad > low profile good
-
Cool design
Makes you surf better. Self explanatory, look good, feel good, surf good.
The No Kook surf cap has quick drying material, adjustable straps and low profile. You will have to decide if the design is cool…
Does a surf hat need a chinstrap?
Eh, we don’t think so. A chinstrap can act as an extra layer of security but usually just ends up choking you during a wipeout. Wearing a hat with a chinstrap out of the water is a bold (note: strange) style choice. You will receive odd looks and offhand comments if you wear it around town.
A standard hat can be used surfing and in most social situations with minimal humiliation.
If you are worried about losing the chinstrapless hat- next wipeout:
Simply bring one hand to the top of your head and hold your hat as you fall in. It seems obvious but is incredibly effective.
It’s that easy to choose a hat.
A good surf hats don’t need to be expensive or complex. We gave you our thoughts on the 4-point holygrail for what makes an ideal surf hat…
But really the best hat is the one you enjoy wearing.
See what hat feels good on your head and good while you surf... Even if that’s a high profile, slow drying, hat with a chinstrap.