Quick Answer
A wide-brimmed hat is highly recommended for desert hiking due to its effectiveness in shielding the face, neck, and ears from the intense desert sun.
Protecting Your Skin from the Desert Sun
When hiking in the desert, the sun’s intense rays can be extremely damaging to your skin. A wide-brimmed hat is an essential piece of gear to prevent sunburn, skin damage, and even skin cancer. Look for a hat with a brim width of at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) and a UPF rating of 50+, which means it will block 99% of both UVA and UVB rays.
Choosing the Right Hat
When selecting a wide-brimmed hat, consider the materials used and the fit. Opt for a hat made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials such as cotton, polyester, or a blend. A hat that fits snugly on your head will help prevent wind and sun from penetrating to your skin. You can also consider hats with chin straps to keep them securely in place.
Additional Sun Protection Measures
While a wide-brimmed hat provides excellent protection, it’s essential to combine it with other sun protection measures. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating (at least 30) to any exposed skin, and consider wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants to cover your arms and legs. Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from the intense desert sun.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.