Best Golf Hats 2026
From caps, to beanies, to bucket hats, we run through some of our absolute favorite golf hats currently on the market.
Golf hats are not considered essential for many golfers, but we're here to change that... Golf hats are not just mere fashion statements either. The best golf hats are designed to deal with the sun, the rain, the wind, the cold and just about every other weather variable—modern-day hats are comfortable, functional pieces of apparel that could potentially enhance your game.
But the golf hat category is vast and can be difficult to navigate. That's why we have taken a look at some of our favorite golf hats—from caps, to bucket hats, to beanies.
If you already have an idea of the type of hat you want, check out our specific hat guides on the best golf caps, best golf bucket hats and best golf beanies.
Best Golf Hats 2026
Golf Caps
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 2
+ Comfortable and looks great
+ Simple performance
- Only a couple of colors to choose from
If you want a no-nonsense golf cap that has simplicity at its core then the Surfer Dude Performance cap from Johnnie-O is well worth considering in my opinion. I've tested a lot of apparel from the brand and the quality is outstanding across the board, and this cap is no exception. To some of you the word simple might be a negative but to me this cap just delivers in every way you would a golf cap to - it is comfortable, lightweight, easy to adjust, breathable and performs well in a variety of conditions.
I also think it looks good and has enough versatility for off course use as well. The only negative I could really think of is I wish there were more colors to choose from because currently there are only two to select.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: 4
+ Comfy fit
+ Simple logo not overly golfy making it versatile
- Logo is quite large
The B-Bahamas cap is a solid offering from TravisMathew, offering good comfort, a wide brim for sun protection and adjustability to suit almost every head shape. In terms of styling the logo is certainly on the big side, which I wasn’t a huge fan of, but the overall shape of the cap is excellent. The synthetic design offers excellent breathability.
While the colour offering is fairly small, the four options can be paired with almost anything. While TravisMathew is a widely recognised golf brand the logo isn’t overly golfy, making it a great choice for those who want to wear the hat on or off the golf course.
Sizes: S/M - L/XL
Colors: 17
+ Ideal for those who prefer a curved bill
+ Huge selection of colors on offer
- Less breathable than others
The classic Nike Club Cap does exactly what it says on the tin, it’s stylish, timeless and won’t let you down. Ideal for on and off course wear this cap comes with a pre-curved bill, and is easily adjusted thanks to the clasp at the back. This is the kind of cap that can be paired with almost any outfit, and thanks to the staggering 17 color options available you will never run out of ideas.
The breathability is ok, but if you want something to wear during really hot days, then a synthetic construction may be a better bet. Finally if you are a fan of Nike gear then take a look at our best Nike golf shirts, and best Nike golf shoes guides.
Sizes: One size
Colors: 10+
+ One size fits all
+ Good breathability throughout
- Front of cap does rub slightly
To begin with, I liked the minimalist design, as the colors available on the cap and the P are subtle and only heighten the outfit of choice. Personally, I think the larger visor will suit a younger demographic, as the more traditional rounded look isn’t as prominent here.
Six holes on the top help with breathability, as does the one size fits all nature of the cap, which has an adjustment tab at the back. The only negative is that, no matter where I put the size adjustor, I could feel the front of the band rubbing against my forehead. However this band does help with sweat so this is only the slightest of negatives.
Sizes: One size fits all
Colors: 4
+ Comfortable, adjustable fit
+ Classic brim design
- Logo will divide opinion
Admittedly the logo design on the Script Sun Hat from Sun Mountain will divide opinion but otherwise this hat is a worthy addition on this list.
Thanks to the Flexfit 110 technology it is a comfortable cap with easy adjustability with the back closure.
I particularly liked the thicker material used to line the inside of the hat as well as it feels comfortable against the forehead, and it deals with sweat nicely too. The classic brim gives a clean look and it comes in four distinct colors with the navy being my favorite despite testing the off-white finish pictured above.
Sizes: Small, Classic, XL
Colors: 10
+ Color choice
+ Feature-packed
- Does feel a touch tall
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a hat is the aesthetic aspect, and Melin’s Odyssey Stacked Hydro effort is a great-looking accessory. And because the main section has a square front but is round at the back, it is eye-catching all while being practical.
The comfort was much appreciated, too, not always a given for people with larger heads. Additionally it is water-repellant, floatable, breathable, and comes in loads of good colors. Plus, the little pocket under the brim was so cool and a really nice feature that sets it apart from its competitors.
Beanie/Bobble Hats
Sizes: One size fits all
Colors: 3 (heather/black, heather/navy, heather/white)
+ Excellent warmth
+ Fashionable design
- Less appropriate for autumn golf
It's not all about caps though. The Titleist Boardwalk Pom Pom is a simple, smart beanie that is designed for those chilly days on the course.
There is a microfleece liner that creates a snug fit and a cosy feel that you will notice as soon as you put this beanie on. I loved the simple styling Titleist has gone for. All three color options look modern and can easily be worn with various other layers for a smart overall look.
Sizes: One Size
Colors: 5+
+ Thick and warm
+ Versatile and can be used away from the course
- Quite a long beanie
For many players, finding a hat they can wear on and off the course is a priority. This beanie from Nike is versatile and can do exactly that.
Made from a soft thick fabric, it provides a dense layer of insulation around your head that will keep you nice and toasty during the colder months of the year. This hat is also very comfortable to wear as it stretches and molds itself around your head depending on how you want to wear it. It comes in five colors and features a stylish Nike label on its lip.
Size: One size
Colors: 8
+ Lovely soft material
+ Good insulation
- Large branding text could be divisive
The Under Armour Halftime Pom Beanie is made up of ribbed acrylic knit fabric, which feels so soft to the touch and against your head. It doesn’t have a lining like other brands might and it is slightly thinner than some I’ve tested before, but I really don’t think that’s a bad thing. It kept my head perfectly warm in cooler or windy conditions and I seemed to avoid that frustrating feeling of being slightly too hot with a beanie on. The large branded writing won’t appeal to everyone, but perhaps one of the eight available colors might help you look past that.
Sizes: One
Colors: 4
+ Exceptional warmth
+ Soft interior for comfort
- Adidas branding subtle and somewhat hidden
The new adidas Climawarm pom beanie is a stylish and functional winter golf essential. adidas’ COLD.RDY fabric traps warmth effectively while remaining breathable, keeping you comfortable during chilly rounds.
The soft knit construction feels premium and fits snugly without being tight. Its playful pom design adds personality without sacrificing performance. Ideal for cold mornings on the course, it offers excellent warmth-to-weight balance and dependable comfort in classic adidas style. Speaking of style, there are currently three colors to choose from at the moment, including black, slate, collegiate navy and maroon. The latter maroon design in fact is my personal favorite.
Sizes: One size fits all
Colors: 1
+ Very versatile, easy to wear off-course
+ Traditional fold-over cuff adds warmth
- Not a technical, weather-resistant fabric
The Puma Pom Beanie is a fantastic choice for a classic, stylish winter hat that looks just as good on the course as it does away from it. It's a cold-weather essential, and I found the soft knit provides plenty of warmth for a chilly round and hugs your head really nicely. The main appeal for me is the timeless look, as I'm a big fan of the traditional pom design, and I think the Deep Navy and Bright White colorway looks particularly sharp and makes this beanie extremely versatile.
The fold-over cuff is comfortable and long enough, adding that extra bit of warmth around the ears. It's not a technical, weather-repellent hat like some on the market, but it's a comfortable, warm, and incredibly versatile beanie that will no doubt be overused this coming off-season.
Sizes: One Size
Colors: 4
+ Soft alpaca and wool blend
+ Clean, versatile design with subtle stretch
- Hairy-textured yarn finish may not appeal to everyone
Pulling on this beanie, you immediately notice the ultra-soft blend of alpaca, wool, and nylon, which creates a cozy, hairy texture with a comfortable, non-gripping fit. It provides dependable insulation for crisp commutes or frosty morning rounds without risking overheating. The addition of spandex ensures excellent stretch and recovery, allowing the knit to maintain its structure after repeated wear.
A single fold-up brim and a subtle rubber Bridge logo lend it an understated, modern aesthetic that effortlessly transitions off the course. While the plush knit lacks the sleek finish of traditional performance headwear, its lightweight construction fits easily beneath larger hoods or over tailored collars.
Bucket Hats
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 3
+ Super stylish
+ Keeps rain out
- Hard to fault
Bucket hats seem to be somewhat coming back into fashion and the adidas option right here is as good as any we’ve tried. It provides ample protection from the rain and while it technically only comes in one size fits most, it features an adjustable elasticated and Velcro strap hidden on the inside for a customizable fit.
There are three cool colors to choose from and the finish looks great on and off the course, adding to its versatility. It is worth saying it is constructed with 100% recycled nylon as well so their is an environmental consideration in the design.
Sizes: S/M and L/XL
Colors: 1
+ Wide brim provides excellent shelter
+ Fully waterproof
- May be a little heavier than some of the other hats on this list
The Sunderland Waterproof Bucket Hat is designed to keep golfers dry without adding unnecessary weight or bulk. Constructed from 100% polyester, it features a lightweight waterproof outer fabric with fully sealed seams to prevent rain from penetrating.
A micro-mesh lining helps improve breathability, while the wide brim provides additional protection from the elements. An adjustable drawcord at the back allows golfers to secure the fit in windy conditions, while subtle Sunderland branding completes the look. Based on testing, it’s great in the rain but in very windy conditions it can flap around a bit.
Sizes: One Size Fits Most
Colors: 2 (Grey, Black)
+ Stretch design fits nicely around most head sizes
+ Water-resistant
- Only comes in two colors
Bucket hats don't come much better than this excellent offering from TaylorMade which, notably, can be worn in both the rain and sunshine. Yes, this hat is water-resistant and while it isn't completely waterproof, it'll keep your head pretty dry when the elements get tough. Meanwhile, on a sunny day, this is perhaps one of the best hats to wear to protect you from the glare of the sun. What's more, its visor is the perfect length to keep your eyes sheltered from the sun's glare and also shade the back of your neck. It also comes with a dark underbill that helps reduce glare even further.
Size: One size fits most
Color: Black
+ Comfortable
+ Excellent protection from rain
- Brim can obscure sight-lines
The Stuburt Cassowary bucket hat is a great option for any golfer that likes to do things differently. While others rock their caps and bobble hats, the cool design on the Cassowary offers an alternative that really helps you to stand out on the course. Functionally, the adjustable fit means it's comfortable throughout the round and the showerproof material means you can play well and look great irrespective of the weather conditions. While the black looks great with the majority of my golf clothing, I would like the option to don a range of different colors and patterns for any occasion. We had a bit of everything during my testing, from strong winds to the odd shower, and I still came off pleased that I had chosen this particular headwear.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 2
+ Lightweight
+ Multi use
- Some may prefer the cap on course
Most people enjoy a bucket hat when listening to their favorite band at a festival or event with a cold beverage in hand and a smile on their face, well with the Zero Restriction bucket hat you can take that same approach to the golf course. This model is waterproof so goes well with their excellent clothing range on offer, it's lightweight so you barely notice it on your head and it's breathable so you wont get too hot, perfect for the summer when you want to keep yourself protected from the sun. This hat is completely adjustable so it fits all head types, a great one to lend to a friend in that regard, not to mention its machine washable which is a bonus. It folds down compactly into your golf bag so is great to always have at the ready, should the weather take a turn.
Sizes: One Size Fits Most
Colors: 2 (Black, Navy)
+ Handy chin strap
+ Fully seam sealed
- Only comes in two colors
Galvin Green's Aqua bucket hat is fully seam sealed like most other bucket hats but it's made unique by the extra wide brim at the back, the storm strap and the elasticated sweatband.
What's the benefit? That all combines to give players maximum protection and comfort when they need it most in terrible weather.
However, it's the wider brim at the back that is perhaps the best addition, as it keeps the rain from running down the back of your neck. It works so well for a variety of head sizes, that we also included the Aqua in our guide on the best women's golf hats too.
How we test golf hats
When it comes to testing golf hats our comprehensive methodology revolves around, as you would expect, playing a lot of golf. We feel putting golf products to the test on the golf course, on the range and in practice is the best way to find out how usable and well-designed some hats are.
As such I organize two testing days a year for Golf Monthly in which we meet up as a team and test golf apparel sent to us by brands. We do two a year to cover Spring/Summer, and then Autumn/Winter ranges, and included within both are a wide range of hats. Caps of course get covered all-year round but beanies and bucket hats are usually tested during the Autumn/Winter test day.
We feel it is particularly important to use all golf hats in different conditions, whether that be rain, wind, hot or cold, to give a clear idea on the protection on offer. We also looked to use the hats off the course as well to see how versatile they were. Importantly, every member of the Golf Monthly team is a regular golfer so we put hats to the test over a number of rounds. The final point we should mention is no manufacturer can buy a good review. This is because our testing team tells it how it is and we seek to be as insightful and honest as possible.
How to choose a golf hat
There are many things to consider when purchasing your next golf hat. From comfort to type, we've put together a list of considerations you should keep in mind when purchasing your next golf hat.
Type
First things first, what type of hat are you after? Do you want a regular golf cap? Or maybe you need a beanie when it is cold, or a bucket hat so you can prepare yourself for bad weather. Knowing what you want to use the hat for will help you narrow down your search straight away.
Comfort
One factor that is applicable across all golf hats, and golf apparel is comfort. If something is uncomfortable on your head you are going to take it off, or it is going to distract you from your round. As such, we would always recommend trying models before you buy so that you have some idea on what is comfortable for you.
Protection
All golf hats are there to protect us from something. If it's caps then it is sun protection, beanies the cold, and bucket hats the rain. Therefore you need to know what gaps you have in your current golf gear and plug them with whichever hats you don't have.
Color
This section kind of excludes bucket hats as they tend to be in black or grey, but beanies, caps and other golf hats these days come in lots of different colors and styles. As such, have a think about what you want your hat to look like out on the course and we would also recommend having a think about whether you want to use the hat off the golf course too, so you can pick a more versatile color or design, rather than one specifically for the golf course.
Budget
Finally, we would be remiss if we didn't mention budget. Whatever design or type of hat you are after, there are models at different price points so it is a case of working out how much you are willing to spend on a golf hat, and then picking accordingly.
For more information on some of the best weatherproof apparel to go with your new hat, take a look at our guides on the best golf windbreaker, best golf sunglasses, and best golf umbrellas.
FAQs
Why do all professional golfers wear hats?
Pro golfers are rarely seen not wearing a hat mostly because of sponsorship deals. They are paid a lot of money to be seen wearing hats that have logos and brand names on them and are rarely allowed to be seen without them in order to abide by their brand deals. They also wear hats because they predominantly play in hot, sunny conditions and need to keep the sun out of their eyes.
Can you play golf in a bucket hat?
Yes, you can play golf in a bucket hat. Although some might think they are too large to play in, bucket hats can be extremely useful in wet weather. While their large surface area means they can blow off, bucket hats are great for golfers looking to stay dry but not have to carry around an umbrella all day.
What hats do golfers wear?
Golfers tend to wear caps, beanies or bucket hats whilst out on the golf course. All three designs do something a little different and protect us from the sun, cold and rain respectively. Tour players tend to wear caps mainly, but when they play events in the cold, beanies are used on occasion.
For more golf buying advice, be sure to have a read of our guides on the best golf hoodies, best golf vests, or best golf rain pants.
