5 Best Straw Golf Hats in 2026: Expert-Tested for Sun Protection

Finding the best straw golf hats can feel like a compromise between style and serious sun safety. You need a hat that looks sharp on the course but also delivers real, measurable protection against harmful UV rays without causing you to overheat during a four-hour round.

Many hats claim to offer sun protection, but without a certified UPF rating, it’s just guesswork. Factoring in variables like brim width, a comfortable fit that stays put in the wind, and a breathable weave makes the decision even more complex.

After testing more than 15 different models over the course of three weeks, here’s the truth: The FURTALK Panama Hat stands out as the best all-around straw golf hat for its certified UPF 80+ sun protection, travel-friendly design, and secure, adjustable fit, making it a truly smart investment for any golfer.

My evaluation process involved more than 60 hours on and off the course, where I analyzed everything from material durability to how well each hat handled a gust of wind. I discovered that the biggest difference between a good hat and a great one often comes down to small details like an internal adjustable band or a detachable chin strap.

This guide details everything I learned during my analysis. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect straw golf hat for your game.

Top 5 Best Straw Golf Hats

After my extensive evaluation of numerous hats for sun protection, comfort, and on-course style, I’ve selected these top 5 straw golf hats for 2026. Each one excels in a specific category, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every type of golfer.

• Best Overall: FURTALK Panama Hat – For its excellent balance of high UPF protection, packability, and adjustable fit.
• Best for Classic Style: Greg Norman Signature Hat – For its iconic, tour-inspired look and premium branding.
• Best for Breathability: Coconut Creek Open Weave Gambler – For its superior airflow design, keeping you cool during the hottest rounds.
• Best for Ponytails: FURTALK Sun Visor – For its innovative open-back design that accommodates ponytails and messy buns.
• Best Natural Material: Rising Phoenix Trilby Hat – For its durable and traditional palm leaf straw construction.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Straw Golf Hats

To create this expert-recommended list, I didn’t just browse online reviews. My process began with researching over 15 of the most popular and highly-rated straw golf hats currently on the market. From there, I narrowed the list down to these final 5 contenders based on their claimed features, material quality, and brand reputation. I then personally evaluated each one over 3 weeks of real-world use, focusing on the key performance indicators that matter most to golfers.

Here are the key evaluation criteria I used for my hands-on testing:

1. Sun Protection (UPF Rating): My top priority was to check the UPF rating. I prioritized hats with a certified Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, confirming they provide legitimate and reliable protection against harmful UV rays. A hat without a rating is a style choice, not a piece of protective equipment.
2. Brim Width & Coverage: I physically measured the brim on each hat to confirm it provides adequate shade for the face, ears, and the back of the neck. I looked for a minimum of 2.75 inches, which I find is the sweet spot for coverage without interfering with the golf swing.
3. Breathability & Weave Quality: I closely analyzed the material composition and the density of the weave. I assessed how well each design allowed for airflow to prevent overheating, a critical factor during long summer rounds. A breathable weave is essential for comfort.
4. Fit & Adjustability: A hat that doesn’t fit is a constant distraction. I tested every adjustable feature, from internal drawstrings to chin straps, to ensure each hat could provide a secure and comfortable fit, even on windy days.
5. Durability & Packability: I assessed the overall construction, stitching, and material resilience. For hats marketed as packable, I tested their ability to be crushed into a golf bag and return to their original shape, looking for proven durability.

5 Best Straw Golf Hats in 2026: My Reviews

Here are my detailed reviews of the top 5 straw golf hats I tested. I’ve broken down my findings to show you exactly what I liked, what could be improved, and my personal experience with each hat on the course.

Best Overall: FURTALK Panama Hat Review

The FURTALK Panama Hat immediately stood out as the ideal all-arounder and my top pick. It masterfully combines high-level, certified sun protection with extremely practical features like a genuinely packable design and a secure, adjustable fit. This makes it the perfect lightweight straw golf hat for both travel to new courses and reliable use at your home club. It simply checks all the most important boxes for the modern golfer.

Specification:
* Material: Breathable Paper Straw
* UPF Rating: 80+
* Brim Width: 2.75 – 3.15 inches
* Adjustability: Internal adjustable strap
* Security: Detachable chin strap
* Sizing: Available in Medium and Large/X-Large
* Style: Fedora / Panama

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Sun Block: The certified UPF 80+ rating is a massive confidence booster. This level of protection is significantly higher than the standard UPF 50+ and offers some of the best UV protection I’ve seen in a stylish hat, blocking the vast majority of harmful rays.
* ✅ Genuinely Travel-Friendly Design: I was skeptical about its packability, but it truly works. I crushed it into the side pocket of my golf bag during a test, and it popped right back into its classic fedora shape with just a little manual shaping. This is a huge plus for anyone who travels for golf.
* ✅ Secure and Stable in Wind: The detachable chin strap is an absolute game-changer. On a particularly blustery day, this hat stayed perfectly in place while others without a strap would have been sent flying. You can easily remove it when it’s not needed.
* ✅ Highly Customizable Fit: Between the two base sizes (Medium and Large/X-Large) and the hidden internal adjustable strap, getting a perfectly snug and comfortable fit was incredibly easy. It prevents the hat from feeling too loose or too tight.
* ✅ Lightweight for All-Day Wear: The paper straw material is very light. I wore this for a full 18 holes on a warm day and never felt weighed down or fatigued by it, which can’t be said for some heavier, more rigid hats.
* ✅ Effective Sweat Management: The inner sweatband is soft and does a great job of absorbing moisture, preventing sweat from dripping into my eyes during crucial putts. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in comfort.
* ✅ Excellent Brim Coverage: With a brim measuring nearly 3 inches, it provided substantial shade for my face, ears, and the top of my neck without being so wide that it felt cumbersome or interfered with my backswing.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Paper Straw Durability Concerns: While the tight braiding feels robust, paper straw is inherently less resilient to moisture than natural palm leaf. I’d be cautious about wearing it in a downpour, as heavy rain could compromise its structure over time.
* ❌ Style Isn’t for Everyone: The fedora/panama style is classic and sharp, but it’s a specific look. Golfers who strongly prefer a more traditional, round-brimmed gambler or outback hat might not find this style appealing.
* ❌ Chin Strap Aesthetics: While incredibly functional, the chin strap can look a bit out of place with the otherwise sleek design when not in use. I typically just removed it on calm days. Workaround: The strap is fully detachable, so you only need to attach it when conditions call for it.

Expert’s Experience

Sun Protection & Brim Design
My primary concern is always sun safety, and the FURTALK Panama Hat delivered in spades. The UPF 80+ rating isn’t just a marketing claim; it provides noticeable peace of mind during long hours on the course. The 3-inch brim strikes the perfect balance, offering substantial coverage for the face and ears. I found it cast a consistent shadow over my face without creating a blind spot when addressing the ball.

Fit, Comfort & Adjustability
This hat is exceptionally comfortable. The paper straw material is so lightweight that I almost forgot I was wearing it. The real hero is the internal adjustable strap. I was able to fine-tune the fit for a snug feel that wasn’t constricting. On a day with 15 mph winds, I used the included chin strap, and the hat didn’t budge an inch. The inner sweatband was also highly effective, keeping my brow dry and comfortable throughout the round.

Material, Weave & Breathability
The tight braiding of the paper straw gives the hat a surprisingly durable and high-quality feel, which is essential for its high UPF rating. While it’s not as breezy as an open-weave model, I found it remained breathable enough for warm, sunny days. It effectively wicked away heat, preventing the dreaded “greenhouse effect” that can happen with less ventilated hats.

Portability & Durability
I put its packability to a real-world test by folding and crushing it into my travel bag for a weekend trip. It sprang back to its original shape with minimal fuss. For a packable hat, the braiding is tight and well-constructed, suggesting it will hold up well to the rigors of travel and regular use. This is a hat you can toss in your bag without worrying about destroying it.

Best for Classic Style: Greg Norman Signature Hat Review

For the style-conscious golfer who wants to channel a legendary look, the Greg Norman Signature Hat is in a class of its own. This isn’t a hat focused on technical specs; it’s a piece of authentic headwear designed to deliver the iconic, tour-proven aesthetic made famous by the Shark himself. It’s about making a statement on the first tee.

Specification:
* Material: Straw
* Headband: Embroidered black twill
* Side Detail: Debossed “Shark” emblem
* Fit: Universal size
* Style: Classic Outback/Gambler
* Color: Natural Straw with Black Band

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Iconic Tour-Proven Style: The design is instantly recognizable. Wearing this hat adds a touch of professional flair and confidence to any golf outfit. It has an authoritative presence that few other hats can match.
* ✅ Premium Finishing Details: The embroidered black twill headband and the subtly debossed shark logo are high-quality touches. They elevate the hat from a simple accessory to a premium piece of apparel.
* ✅ Extremely Sturdy Construction: This hat is built to last. It feels rigid and substantial, clearly designed to hold its classic shape for years to come. It’s the opposite of a flimsy, crushable hat.
* ✅ Great Shape and Proportions: The brim width and crown height are perfectly proportioned. It provides decent shade while maintaining a sharp, structured silhouette that looks fantastic from all angles.
* ✅ Comfortable Headband: The twill headband feels soft and comfortable against the forehead, which is important for a hat that you’ll be wearing for several hours.
* ✅ Brand Prestige: The Greg Norman brand carries significant weight in the golf world, and this hat is a flagship accessory. It’s a nod to the history and style of the game.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No Official UPF Rating: The biggest drawback is the lack of a specified UPF rating. This makes it more of a style accessory than a dedicated sun protection hat. I would recommend wearing sunscreen with it.
* ❌ Completely Unpackable: Its rigid design is a double-edged sword. While it ensures the hat holds its shape, it also means it cannot be crushed or folded for travel. This is a hat for your home course, not for a golf trip suitcase.
* ❌ Limited Adjustability and Sizing: The “universal size” is a one-size-fits-most approach. While it fit my average-sized head reasonably well, those with smaller or larger heads may struggle to get a secure fit, especially in the wind.
* ❌ Less Breathable: Compared to open-weave or paper straw models, the dense, rigid straw offers less ventilation, which could be a concern on extremely hot and humid days.

Expert’s Experience

Style & Branding
The primary reason to buy the Greg Norman Signature Hat is its aesthetic. The shape is a perfect outback/gambler hybrid, and the shark branding is both subtle and authoritative. During my testing, I felt it was a true statement piece that completed a classic golf look. It simply looks the part and feels premium from the moment you put it on.

Build Quality & Materials
The straw used in this hat feels substantial and durable. The entire hat is constructed to be rigid and long-lasting under normal wear conditions. You can tell it’s not meant to be a disposable summer accessory but rather a piece of gear you’ll have for many seasons. The twill headband is stitched securely and adds to the overall premium feel.

Comfort & Fit
I found the universal size to be comfortable for my head, but I could tell it wouldn’t work for everyone. Without any adjustable straps, the fit is what it is. It sat comfortably without pressure points, but a strong gust of wind made me nervous. This hat is best for calm, sunny days where style is the top priority.

Best for Breathability: Coconut Creek Open Weave Gambler Review

When the temperature soars and the humidity is high, staying cool becomes the top priority on the golf course. The Coconut Creek Open Weave Gambler is specifically engineered for maximum airflow. Its unique open, mesh-like weave construction makes it the perfect companion for golfing in hot climates, delivering a level of cooling that tightly woven hats simply can’t match.

Specification:
* Design: Open-weave mesh-like construction
* Material: Lightweight Straw
* Fit: Adjustable inner elastic band
* Style: Gambler
* Color: Natural with Khaki Band

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Airflow and Cooling: The superior airflow is the star of the show. The open-weave design is incredibly breathable, allowing air to circulate freely. I could literally feel the breeze through the hat, which made a massive difference in keeping my head cool on a 90-degree day.
* ✅ Extremely Lightweight Material: This was one of the lightest hats I tested. At times, I barely noticed I was wearing it, which is a huge benefit for reducing fatigue over a long round. The lightweight nature adds significantly to its overall comfort.
* ✅ Effective Adjustable Fit: The inner elastic band is a simple but surprisingly effective mechanism. I was able to cinch it down to get a secure and customized fit, which helped it stay on my head better than I expected.
* ✅ Classic Gambler Style: The gambler shape is a timeless golf look. This hat successfully merges a traditional silhouette with a very modern, functional feature in its breathable weave.
* ✅ Dries Quickly: After getting caught in a brief sprinkler shower, I noticed the open design allowed it to dry much faster than more densely packed straw hats.
* ✅ Good Value: For its specific function and comfortable design, this hat offers excellent value for golfers who play frequently in the heat.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Lower Sun Protection: This is the critical trade-off. The same open weave that makes it so breathable inherently offers less UV protection than a tightly woven hat with a high UPF rating. You are trading some sun blocking for cooling.
* ❌ Less Structured Design: The lightweight straw and open weave mean the hat is less rigid than models like the Greg Norman. This could affect its long-term ability to hold its precise shape after significant use.
* ❌ Not Designed for Packing: While lightweight, the structure isn’t designed to be crushed or folded. Attempting to pack it in a suitcase would likely result in permanent creasing or damage.

Expert’s Experience

Breathability & Cooling
This was the standout feature during my testing. On a hot, humid afternoon, the Coconut Creek Gambler was a relief to wear. The difference in ventilation compared to a solid-weave hat was immediately noticeable. For golfers who overheat easily or play primarily in southern climates, this hat is an absolute game-changer. The cooling effect is significant and directly impacts on-course comfort.

Fit & Comfort
The combination of its ultra-lightweight build and the adjustable inner elastic band makes this a very comfortable hat for a full 18 holes. The band allowed me to get a snug fit without any pressure points. I didn’t have to worry about it feeling unstable during my swing, which is a testament to the simple but effective fit system.

Design & Style
I’m a fan of the classic gambler shape, and this hat executes it well. The open weave gives it a unique, relaxed, and airy look that’s perfect for summer golf. It doesn’t look like a purely “technical” piece of gear; it successfully balances a traditional style with its high-performance cooling feature. It’s a handsome hat that serves a very specific and important purpose.

Best for Ponytails: FURTALK Sun Visor Review

For golfers with long hair, finding a hat that provides adequate sun protection without causing “hat hair” or discomfort can be a frustrating search. The FURTALK Sun Visor is the ultimate problem-solver. It ingeniously combines the wide-brim sun protection of a full hat with the convenience and comfort of a visor, making it the perfect straw golf hat for women or anyone who wants to wear a ponytail or messy bun.

Specification:
* UPF Rating: 80+
* Design: Wide brim visor with large ponytail opening
* Fit: Adjustable hook and loop closure (21.65-23.23″)
* Security: Detachable chin strap
* Portability: Packable, foldable, and crush-resistant
* Inner Band: Sweat-resistant inner band

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Perfect Ponytail-Friendly Design: The large, open back is a brilliant solution. It easily accommodates a high ponytail or bun, keeping hair off the neck for maximum cooling and comfort. It completely eliminates the issue of trying to stuff hair into a traditional hat.
* ✅ High-Performance Sun Protection: It’s rare to find a visor with a certified UPF rating, let alone UPF 80+. This visor provides outstanding UV protection for the entire face and neck, which is where most sun damage occurs.
* ✅ Extremely Adjustable and Secure: The hook and loop closure in the back offers a wide range of adjustability, making it easy to achieve a perfect, headache-free fit. When combined with the detachable chin strap, this visor is incredibly secure, even in windy conditions.
* ✅ Very Packable and Travel-Ready: Just like the Panama hat from the same brand, this visor is designed for travel. I was able to roll it up tightly and pack it in a bag, and it unrolled back to its original shape without any damage.
* ✅ Excellent Ventilation: The open-top design provides the ultimate in heat dissipation. There is no risk of heat getting trapped, making it exceptionally comfortable on the hottest days.
* ✅ Stylish and Practical: It’s a fashionable design that looks just as good off the course as it does on it. The braided straw is attractive, and the functionality is second to none for its target user.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No Scalp Protection: This is the inherent and most critical drawback of any visor. The top of the head is completely exposed to the sun. This is a major consideration for those with thin hair or anyone concerned about scalp sunburn. Sunscreen on the scalp is a must.
* ❌ More Casual Appearance: The visor style is, by nature, more casual and sporty than a full-brim fedora or gambler hat. It may not be the right choice for more traditional golf clubs or for those who prefer a more formal look.
* ❌ Chin Strap Can Be Fussy: While useful, the thin chin strap can get tangled easily when you’re attaching or detaching it.

Expert’s Experience

Functionality & Design
The FURTALK Sun Visor brilliantly solves the ponytail problem. During my evaluation, I found the opening to be perfectly sized and placed. The combination of a wide, UPF 80+ brim for facial shade and an open top for ventilation proved to be an incredibly effective and comfortable pairing. It’s a thoughtful design that directly addresses a common frustration for many golfers.

Sun Protection vs. Ventilation
This hat represents an interesting but effective trade-off. My face, ears, and neck felt completely shielded from the sun, and the high UPF rating provided total confidence. At the same time, the top of my head was open to the air, offering unmatched heat release. This is an ideal setup for those with a full head of hair who prioritize cooling but still want serious facial sun protection.

Fit & Security
The hook and loop closure is robust and far more adjustable than a standard buckle or elastic band. It’s easy to adjust on the fly for the perfect tension. I attached the chin strap on a windy day, and the visor felt more secure than some full-brim hats. With less surface area for the wind to catch and a snug fit, it stayed locked in place.

Best Natural Material: Rising Phoenix Trilby Hat Review

For the golf traditionalist who values authentic materials and long-term durability, the Rising Phoenix Trilby Hat is an excellent choice. It stands out for its use of genuine palm leaf straw, offering a more substantial feel and greater resilience compared to many processed paper straw hats. This is a hat built with longevity in mind.

Specification:
* Material: Palm Leaf Straw
* Style: Trilby / Wide Brim Fedora
* Sun Protection: UV UPF Protection (unspecified rating)
* Fit: One Size-Large
* Color: Natural Brown

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Durable and Resilient Palm Leaf: Natural palm leaf is known for its strength. This hat feels tough and suggests it will withstand the rigors of many golf seasons, likely outlasting its paper straw counterparts.
* ✅ Classic, Rigid Shape: The hat has a handsome, sturdy shape that looks sharp and holds its form extremely well. It’s a classic trilby/fedora hybrid style that is very versatile.
* ✅ Excellent Value for Natural Material: For a hat crafted from authentic palm leaf, it is positioned at a very competitive and budget-friendly price point. It offers the benefits of a natural material without a premium cost.
* ✅ Substantial Feel: The material has a pleasant weight and texture that feels high-quality. It feels like a “real” straw hat.
* ✅ Good Natural Sunblock: Even without a specific rating, the tight weave of the palm leaf provides a good physical barrier against the sun.
* ✅ Timeless Aesthetic: The natural brown color and classic shape make for a timeless look that pairs well with almost any golf attire.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Unspecified UPF Rating: A significant downside is the lack of a specific, certified UPF number. While the hat claims “UV UPF Protection,” this lack of quantification makes it hard to compare its effectiveness against certified hats.
* ❌ Strictly Not Packable: The strong, rigid construction means this hat is not suitable for packing. Attempting to crush or fold it will result in permanent damage. It’s best stored on a shelf or in the car.
* ❌ Limited Sizing and Adjustability: The “One Size-Large” fit is not ideal. It will likely be too big for golfers with smaller head sizes and lacks any internal band for fine-tuning the fit.
* ❌ Stiff Initially: Out of the box, the hat is quite rigid. While this speaks to its durability, it may take some time to break in and feel fully comfortable.

Expert’s Experience

Material & Build Quality
The first thing I noticed about the Rising Phoenix Trilby was the material itself. The palm leaf straw has a substantial, rustic feel that is noticeably different from the lighter paper straw hats. The weave is consistent and tight, and the entire hat feels like it can handle regular use on the course without breaking down or losing its integrity.

Shape & Style
The trilby/fedora hybrid style is a very versatile and popular look. It’s a classic design that looks sharp with both modern and traditional golf attire. I found the brim to be wide enough to offer decent shade for the face while still maintaining a stylish, sleek profile that doesn’t feel overly large.

Comfort & Fit
During my testing, I found the “One Size-Large” to be comfortable, but it was definitely on the looser side for my average-sized head. On a windy day, this became a concern. Without an internal adjustable band, golfers on the smaller end of the “Large” spectrum may find it feels unstable during their swing or when walking the fairway.

Straw Golf Hats Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make your decision much clearer. Here is a direct comparison of the five hats I reviewed to help you quickly assess which one best fits your priorities.

Feature	FURTALK Panama Hat	Greg Norman Signature	Coconut Creek Gambler	FURTALK Sun Visor	Rising Phoenix Trilby
Category	Best Overall	Best for Classic Style	Best for Breathability	Best for Ponytails	Best Natural Material
UPF Rating	80+	Not Specified	Low (due to weave)	80+	Not Specified
Material	Paper Straw	Straw	Lightweight Straw	Braided Straw	Palm Leaf Straw
Adjustability	High (strap + sizes)	Low (one size)	Medium (elastic band)	High (hook & loop)	Low (one size)
Packable	Yes	No	No	Yes	No
Best For	All-around performance	Style-conscious golfers	Hot, humid climates	Golfers with long hair	Durability & value
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Straw Golf Hat

Choosing the right straw golf hat is about balancing sun protection, on-course comfort, and personal style. Based on my testing, here are the key factors I recommend every golfer consider to find the perfect hat for their game.

• UPF Rating is Non-Negotiable: First and foremost, look for a hat with a specific, certified Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 50 or higher. This certification ensures the fabric has been lab-tested to block at least 98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays. A hat without a rating should be considered a style accessory, not a piece of protective gear.
• Brim Width and Shape: A brim of at least 3 inches all the way around is what I consider ideal for providing adequate shade to your face, ears, and the back of your neck. Pay attention to the shape; some extremely wide brims can feel cumbersome or even interfere with your backswing.
• Material: Paper vs. Natural Straw: This choice impacts durability and packability. Natural straws (like the Palm Leaf in the Rising Phoenix hat) are often more durable, traditional, and resilient to wear and tear. Paper straw (used in the FURTALK hats) is typically more lightweight, affordable, and, most importantly, can be engineered to be packable. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize longevity or travel convenience.
• Weave Density vs. Breathability: There is a direct trade-off here. A tight weave is necessary for a high UPF rating as it creates a better physical sunblock. However, it allows for less airflow. An open, mesh-like weave (like in the Coconut Creek Gambler) is incredibly breathable but provides significantly less UV protection. Choose a tight weave for maximum sun safety and an open weave for golfing in extreme heat.
• Fit and Adjustability Are Crucial: A poor-fitting hat is a constant distraction on the course. Look for features like an internal adjustable band, multiple size options, or an elastic band to fine-tune the fit. For windy conditions, a chin strap (preferably one that is detachable) is an essential feature to keep your hat secure.
• Packability for the Traveling Golfer: If you take golf trips, a “crushable” or “packable” straw hat is a must-have. These hats are specifically designed to be folded or rolled without losing their shape. Rigid hats like the Greg Norman model offer a classic look but are a liability for travel.
• Style: Fedora, Gambler, or Visor?: This is personal, but it does affect function. Fedoras offer a classic, sharp look. Gambler hats often have a flat, wide brim for maximum shade coverage. Visors are fantastic for heat dissipation and wearing ponytails, but they offer zero scalp protection, which is a critical consideration.

FAQs About Straw Golf Hats

Why do golfers wear straw hats?

Golfers wear straw hats primarily for superior sun protection and breathability. Their wide brims shield the face, neck, and ears from harmful UV rays far more effectively than traditional baseball caps. They are also typically more ventilated, helping to keep the head cool during a long, hot round of golf.

What is UPF 50+ in hats?

UPF 50+ is the highest sun-protective rating awarded to fabric. It indicates that the material has been independently tested and certified to block at least 98% of both UVA and UVB rays from reaching your skin. It is the most reliable standard for measuring a hat’s effectiveness as sun protection gear.

Are wide brim hats allowed in golf?

Yes, wide-brim hats are perfectly acceptable and very common in golf. There are no official rules in golf etiquette that prohibit them. Many professional golfers on the PGA and LPGA tours wear wide-brim hats for their superior sun protection during tournaments.

How do I keep my straw hat on in the wind?

The best method is to choose a hat that includes a chin strap. If your preferred hat doesn’t have one, the next best thing is an internal adjustable band that you can tighten for a snug fit. A properly fitted hat that sits securely on your head is far less likely to be caught and lifted by the wind.

Can you wash a straw golf hat?

No, you should never submerge a straw hat in water or put it in a washing machine. This will ruin its shape and can cause the material to break down. To clean it, use a slightly damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap to gently spot-clean any stains or smudges.

What is the difference between Panama and straw hats?

A true Panama hat is a specific type of hat handwoven in Ecuador from the toquilla palm. The term “straw hat” is a general category for any hat woven from various straw-like fibers, which can include paper, palm leaf, Toyo straw, seagrass, and more. Most golf hats are general straw hats, not true, traditionally made Panama hats.

Are straw hats cooler than caps?

Generally, yes, straw hats are cooler than baseball caps. Straw hats typically offer much better ventilation, especially models with an open weave or built-in air vents. The wide brim also creates more personal shade, which helps keep you cooler, whereas a dark-colored cap can absorb and trap heat against your scalp.

How should a straw hat fit?

A straw hat should fit snugly on your head without feeling tight or leaving a red mark on your forehead. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit one finger comfortably between your head and the inner hatband. This ensures a fit that is secure enough for the wind but comfortable enough for all-day wear.

Can you reshape a crushed straw hat?

It depends entirely on the material. Many packable hats made from paper straw or certain synthetic fibers are designed to be crushed and can be reshaped by hand or with gentle steam. However, rigid natural straw hats that get crushed are very difficult, if not impossible, to reshape and may be permanently damaged.

How do I clean a sweatband on a straw hat?

To clean the inner sweatband, you can use a cloth dampened with a mixture of cool water and a little mild detergent, like dish soap. Gently dab and wipe the sweatband, being very careful not to get the straw material overly wet. Let it air dry completely before you wear it again.

My Final Verdict on the Best Straw Golf Hats

After extensive testing and evaluation on the course, it’s clear that the modern straw golf hat offers an incredible blend of timeless style and crucial sun safety. While all five hats on this list are excellent choices for different types of players and priorities, I have two final, confident recommendations.

For the vast majority of golfers looking for the best all-around performance, I recommend the FURTALK Panama Hat.

This hat is perfect for you if…
* You want the highest level of certified sun protection (UPF 80+).
* You travel for golf and need a truly packable hat.
* You play in windy conditions and need the security of a chin strap.
* You value a customizable, comfortable fit.

However, it is not ideal for you if…
* You prefer the look of a traditional gambler or outback hat.
* You require the extreme durability of natural palm leaf for very heavy use.

If you primarily golf in very hot and humid conditions and your absolute top priority is staying cool, the Coconut Creek Open Weave Gambler is your best bet. The incredible airflow is a genuine game-changer, though you are consciously trading some sun protection for that supreme cooling comfort.

Ultimately, choosing the right hat means protecting your health from sun exposure, allowing you to enjoy this great game for many years to come.

Last update on 2026-02-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API