Hiking and trail caps

The sun at altitude

In the mountains, the intensity of ultraviolet rays increases with altitude, and snow or light-coloured rocks reflect some of it back towards the face. An anti-UV cap, like those from Élémenterre, is made from a fabric with a UPF rating that measures protection: a UPF of 50 only allows about one-fiftieth of UV rays to pass through. Its brim protects the eyes and nose, the areas that burn first, and complements sunglasses.

Neck protectors and children's caps

The neck is another area exposed while hiking, especially when walking with the sun behind you. Caps with a neck protector, like the Regatta Protect for kids, have a flap of fabric that covers the neck and the tops of the shoulders. For children, who are more sensitive to the sun, this is the most effective protection, along with sunscreen on exposed areas.

Breathable, lightweight, or waterproof

Trail and fast hiking caps, like the Buff five-panel cap, the Nnormal Hike, or the Instinct Elite Tech, use very lightweight fabrics, with mesh inserts and a sweat-wicking headband at the front. The waterproof cap, like the Avid Hydro-Force, protects the face in the rain, under the hood of the jacket. Classic baseball caps, like those from Salewa, Haglöfs, or 4F, are suitable for casual hiking and everyday wear. A technical cap should be hand-washed in warm water to keep the brim's shape.

Other accessories

The cap is complemented by boonie hats and caps, which protect all around the head, and headbands, neck gaiters, beanies, balaclavas, water bottles, GPS watches, navigation accessories, all on the accessories page.

Good deals and new arrivals

The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, sales feature discounted items, and clearance sells end-of-line products. Items shipped within 24h are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Cap or hat: what to choose for hiking?

The cap is lightweight, stays on in the wind, and doesn't get in the way with a high backpack. The wide-brimmed hat also protects the ears and the neck but catches the wind more. A neck protector cap combines the advantages of both.

What does the UPF rating of a cap mean?

The UPF rating measures a fabric's protection against ultraviolet rays. A UPF of fifty only allows about one-fiftieth of UV rays to pass through: this is the level to aim for in the mountains, where their intensity increases with altitude.

Which cap should you wear for trail running?

A trail cap is very lightweight, made of airy or perforated fabric that allows air flow, with an inner band that absorbs sweat. Those from Nnormal or Buff can be folded into a pocket and dry within minutes.

How do you choose the size of a cap?

Measure your head circumference just above your eyebrows and ears. Most hiking caps can be adjusted with a strap at the back or a cord: check the adjustment range, especially for a small or large head.

How do you wash a hiking cap?

By hand, in warm soapy water, focusing on the band that absorbs sweat, then let it air dry while keeping the shape of the brim. Avoid machine washing for models with a rigid brim, as they can warp.