Best kids' sun hats 2023: Designs to keep them protected in the sunshine

Now that summer is finally here, it’s time to start shopping for warm-weather wardrobe essentials — starting with the perfect sun hat.

Children are extra sensitive to harmful UV rays from the sun, so the best kids' sun hats are a summer must-have. Whether they’re playing with the best outdoor toys in the garden, taking a trip to the seaside or jetting off to sunnier climes, a good-quality sun hat will keep them protected when they are outside in the sunshine. 

Of course, getting the sun hat to stay on is another matter. But many modern designs are functional and fashionable, so kids will love the fun styles available, making it a whole lot easier to persuade them to keep the hat firmly on their heads. 

It goes without saying that just like us, children will also need to be covered in the best sun creams too. But a cool sun hat will add an extra layer of protection and give them an opportunity to inject some extra style and personality into their look. 

Best kids' sun hats 2023

From waterproof styles they can wear whilst swimming to under-chin fastenings to help the hat stay put, there are lots of designs out there. So whatever mischief they get up to, you’re bound to find a style to suit you and your little adventurer. 

As we hope to see a lot more of the sun over the next few weeks, we’ve searched high and low to find the best kids' sun hats that tick all the practical boxes as well as looking aesthetically adorable for your warm-weather snaps.

1. Fedora Straw Hat

Sizes: 4-6m to 2-4 yrs 

Made from paper straw with a simple, black grosgrain band, this classic, minimalist style will look great paired with any outfit. The brim will also help to shield little faces and ears from the extremes of the bright sun.

VIEW AT H&M | £6.99

2. Twisted Straw Hat

Sizes: 5-12 years

When the sun comes out, it's time to pop on a broad-brimmed hat. And this twisted straw hat from Boden ticks all the boxes. 

Thanks to the wide brim of this straw hat, your little sunseeker can enjoy coverage to protect their face and eyes from the sun, while the pretty scalloped crochet trim adds a stylish twist. If only it came in adult sizing...

VIEW AT BODEN | £21-£23

3. Floral Recycled Nylon Swim Hat 

Sizes: 6 months to 2 years 

Heading to a pool? This reversible and recycled swim hat not only looks good, but helps protect little ones while swimming. Designed with a longer back to protect children’s necks and a peak to keep the sun out of their eyes too, it hits the spot without compromising on style. It comes with pink stripes on one side and a pretty floral print on the reverse. What’s not to like?!

VIEW AT THE WHITE COMPANY | £14

4. Floral Bucket Hat

Sizes: 2-12 years

Top off your little tot's summer looks with this floral print bucket hat. It's made from 100% machine-washable soft cotton for cool breathability and features a cheerful print that's bound to add some colour and style to their look. The floppy brim is on hand to protect eyes and delicate skin from the sun. It also comes in a denim finish and red option. 

VIEW AT BODEN | £17-19

5. Kids' Pure Cotton Frozen Baseball Cap

Age: 18 monhts - 10 years

The classic baseball cap just got a fresh and fun Frozen update thanks to this Disney-inspired design by Marks & Spencer. With its floral and heart embroidery and image of Princess Elsa and Anna, this cotton accessory will bring a dose of extra magic to a sunny day. Sun Smart UPF50+ fabric helps keep kids safe in the sun while the adjustable riptape fastening makes for the perfect fit. How cool!

VIEW AT M&S | £10

6. Scallop Wide Brim Hat

Sizes: 0-8 years 

As well as the blooming beautiful design, this fancy floral hat which comes with a scalloped brim which is specially shaped to stay on heads. Meaning? It's perfect if you (or your child) is partial to losing items. It ties neatly under the chin and has a cotton lining for comfort. 

VIEW AT BODEN | £17

7. Shark Kids' Baseball Cap

Sizes: S-L

A fun and practical summer accessory, this shark-inspired hat is sure to raise a smile in sunny weather. Made of 100% cotton, it's lightweight for travelling but durable enough for repeated wash and wear. The adjustable head strap helps the hat grow with your child and makes for maximum comfort and a customised fit. Dive in!

VIEW AT JOHN LEWIS| £8.50

8. Recycled Nylon Crocodile Swim Hat

Sizes: XS-M 

If you’ve got a seaside trip on the horizon and your little one loves splashing in the sea, then this reversible sun hat is the one for them. It protects their neck and scalp in and out of the water and when they get bored of the crocodile style, they can reverse it to the stripy side. Here's a tip: place their goggles over the hat to keep it in place when swimming. 

VIEW AT THE WHITE COMPANY | £14

9. Zara baby embroidered cat sun hat

Age: 0-5 years 

Another classic straw hat but this time with the adorable addition of some kitten ears and a sweet whiskered face. Cuteness overload! You won’t want to take this adorable accessory off them. Beautifully made, and top quality for just over a tenner, we can’t resist this one. It also comes in pink and white. 

VIEW AT ZARA| £10.99

10. Fabric Flavours Kids' Batman Retro Cap

Sizes: One size

Got a superhero on your hands? Cast some shade over their eyes with the help of this sponge-clean, 100%-cotton Batman baseball cap. Featuring an embroidered Batman logo, the back of the cap has embroidered images of Batman, Robin, and the Bat Signal. It's a winner in our eyes!

VIEW AT JOHN LEWIS | £22

11. Mango bucket hat

Size: 3-14 years

It wouldn’t be summer without a bucket hat and this pastel design gets our vote. The sun hat is made from cotton and is the perfect addition to their summer wardrobe. Style it with shorts and tees and don't forget a pair of sunnies!

VIEW AT MANGO | £14.99

If your little ones are always losing their hats, it could be worth organising your child's wardrobe and arranging accessories in their own storage box - you won't want to misplace any of the sunhat included on this list.