12 Stylish & Protective Summer Hats for Kids

Protecting your little one’s head in the brutal dog days of summer can be difficult. Sometimes, the best solution is a hat to fight off heat and the sun’s harmful rays. I scouted twelve fashionable hats for kids that are inexpensive and offer the best sun protection. I suggest buying several varieties and keeping them stored by your door, in your stroller, and in the car for use at a moment’s notice.

Bonus: Most of these hat styles can be mixed and matched to fit your child’s gender, color preferences, and daily outfits.

Check out my picks in the slideshow.

More Summer Style for Kids:

12 Stylish & Protective Summer Hats for Kids

All the Way Protection

This Kids' Explorer Cap by Sunday Afternoons, $22.00, offers all the way, worry-free protection. Available for girls and boys.
The Classic Rim Sun Hat

This classic Woven Sun Hat with chin ties from H&M, $4.95, is perfect for any occasion and just about any outfit.
The Hipster Cowgirl/Cowboy

This Dot & Striper Sun Hat by Pottery Barn Kids, on sale for $7.99, is ideal for ages three to twelve months.
The Scout Hat

Perfect for exploring, this Kids' Scout Hat from Sunday Afternoons, $26.00, provides comfortable shaded protection. I love that it's easy to wash, made of light and breathable fabric, offers 50 UPF sun protection, floats on water, and is stain/water resistant.
The Floppy Hat

This Infant Toddler Girls' Floppy Sun Hat by Circo available at Target, $7.99, is ideal for any fashion moment on or off the beach.
The Chic Visor

I love this little number! This Toddler Girls' Visor Hat by Circo from Target, $7.00, is so ultra feminine and can spice up any outfit.
The Fedora

Modern, versatile, and great for either a girl or boy, this Gecko Hat by Sunday Afternoons, $24.00, is perfect for any activity or festivity.
The Sporty Cap

This sporty Sun Tripper Cap by Sunday Afternoons, $22.00, is ideal for adventure because it stays secure through running and all sorts of fun.
The Infant Flap

This Solid Flap Sun Protection Hat by iPlay at Kohls, $11.99, is ideal for babies and offers protection for their sensitive necks.
The Waterproof Hat

This Kids' Drizzle Bucket Hat by Sunday Afternoons, $29.00, is great for rainy days and keeping wetness at bay. I love that it's made from a breathable H20 fabric shield.
The Bucket Hat

A classic and stylish bucket hat is great for all ages. This one is reversible and on sale by J. Crew, $20.50.
The Ultimate Play Date (a.k.a. The All Purpose Hat)

This adjustable Play Hat by Sunday Afternoons, $26.00, is a best seller and even offers a choking-hazard protection system! This particular hat happens to also be unisex. If you want to own just one hat, this one is it!