“Bucket hat” is an umbrella term for various wide-brimmed hats. They became popular in 1960s high fashion, but they have come back in vogue several times since.
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Many people wear them to make a bold fashion statement while also protecting their heads from the sun.
What is a Bucket Hat?
A bucket hat is a type of hat known for its down-sloped, wide brim. It usually has a cotton composition, and you can find them with metal eyelets for airflow.
Supposedly, they originated in 1900 from Irish fishermen and farmers to protect them from the rain and sun. They were made with wool felt and tweed.
People who subscribed to the Mod subculture in the 1960s would wear bucket hats. In the 1970s, professional men wore them. Rappers created a resurgence of these hats in the 1980s, and it continued as a fashion staple in the 1990s.
These days, celebrities and street fashion icons have started wearing them for function and fashion.
Where to Wear One
You can wear a bucket hat while playing outdoor sports to protect yourself from the sun. Some are waterproof as well. Many people wear them to music festivals, but you can wear them to most casual outings.
You could also wear a design that is not too loud for a more relaxed work event.
How to Wear One
If you wear your bucket hat for utility, you can keep it secure on your head. For a more fashionable take, try to wear it higher up and further back to reveal your face.
Try to match the colors of your hat to your outfit. If you have a printed one, you should pair it with a plain outfit in neutral colors.
Best Bucket Hats for Men
What are some good bucket hats? We have rounded up nine of the best that will level up your style game.
Pros: Good value
Cons: Hand wash only
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Best for Staying On-Trend: Adidas Originals Unisex Washed Hat
One of the trendiest bucket hats is from Adidas. The sports brand is popular with athleisure lovers, and this item pops. It has a solid black brim and cap with the logo embroidered on the front.
The hat is 100% cotton sourced from sustainable farmers. It has a retro feel, and the color fades with time which enhances the vintage look. However, it only comes in one size and may fit too snug on a larger head.
Pros: Good quality
Cons: Not ideal for larger sized heads
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Best for Stylish Outdoor Wear: Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Ardin Hat
Tommy Hilfiger’s bucket hat resembles a toned-down Indiana Jones hat. The ventilating grommets keep you cool, and its durable cotton lets it last all summer. It comes in beige or navy, and you can choose between two sizes. The logo appears on the side.
The hat is stiff and may run small. Nonetheless, it is breathable, versatile, and wearable for the bucket hat novice.
Pros: Quick-dry fabric
Cons: Not moisture-wicking and may feel quite warm
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Best for Sun Protection: Coolibar UPF 50+ Nate Hat
While not the most attractive option, Coolibar’s bucket hat blocks 98% of UV radiation. The floppy brim offers shade. It has a light, soft, breathable, quick-dry fabric that feels like cotton. You can store it in your pocket, making it great for travel. It comes in several colors and sizes.
If you want your hat for utility purposes, such as gardening, fishing, or hiking, you may like this option.
Pros: Machine washable
Cons: Pricey
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Best for Professionals: Ralph Lauren Polo Reversible Hat
Ralph Lauren’s bucket hat can reverse colors from colorful print to navy. Both sides have the pony logo embroidered on the front. This hat has a more professional look than most, and it matches many outfits.
These Ralph Lauren hats are handsome, but expect to pay for this level of quality. While it has a high-quality cotton build that should last for years, consider your options before deciding.
Pros: Good quality
Cons: Hand wash only
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Best for Casual Wear: Kangol Stripe Lahinch
One of the most casual bucket hats is the Kangol Stripe Lahinch. This light blue hat comes in several sizes and has a cotton build. The hat has a youthful, contemporary look with a shorter brim than most hats. It is a little sturdier and fits snugly, so you may need to size up.
Pros: Good value for money
Cons: Dry clean only
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. Best for a 90s Look: Levi’s Men’s Classic Lightweight Bucket Hat
If you want to dive into the 1990s fashion revival, consider Levi’s reversible bucket hat. Don’t forget Levi’s is known for its high-quality, cotton materials that last years.
This lightweight hat is perfect for a hot day while still maintaining style. This one runs in a small to medium size, so if you are of the large head variety, best to choose another.
Pros: Light and soft
Cons: Pricey
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. Best for Fishing: Stetson Delave Cotton Hat
For a more classic fishermen look, go for the Stetson Delave. This hat has a higher price point, but it offers UV protection, shade, and comfort. You can crush it to carry it in your pocket.
This hat comes in brown, dark brown, beige, dark beige, or blue. It has an embroidered logo and eyelets for breathability.
Pros: Good value for the quality
Cons: Sizes run quite small
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
8. Best Understated: Lacoste Men’s Croc Pique Bucket Hat
Lacoste’s bucket hat is simply black. It has a streamlined, cotton silhouette with a short brim, and that unmistakable Lacoste croc for an understated statement. This hat is easy to store without compromising on style.
Pros: Statement piece
Cons: Not versatile for many occasions
Last update on 2023-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
9. Best for a European Look: Fila Vintage ‘Basil’ Hat
Another popular sports brand is Fila, and you can get genuine Fila bucket hats on Amazon. This one has a red-navy body with a white stripe and Fila logo.
It transports easily because of its floppy design, and it fits most heads. The pattern resembles the French gamine style, giving it a European look.
Wrapping Up
If you want to add bucket hats to your wardrobe, one of the above options may match your style. Consider the appearance and function before buying. Overall, bucket hats are a lasting trend, and there’s no harm in trying one out to elevate your style.
Born and raised in Austin, David is a dedicated writer and avid fragrance lover. When he's not trying out perfumes, he enjoys traveling and exploring new restaurants.
