The bucket hat has moved well beyond festival fashion. A good one is a practical piece of outdoor kit that shades your face, sheds a shower and packs away in a pocket. This guide covers the main types of bucket hat, what to look for, and how to get the right fit.
What Is a Bucket Hat?
A bucket hat is a soft, brimmed hat with a sloping brim all the way round. It is lightweight, easy to pack and can be made from cotton, nylon, waxed cotton or insulated fabric, depending on the weather it is built for.
Types of Bucket Hat
Sun Bucket Hats
For summer walking, fishing and travel, choose a lightweight, breathable hat with UV protection. The Tilley T1 bucket hat and the Tilley Tofino bucket hat are both UPF 50+. The Swazi cotton bucket hat is a popular choice for sun and fishing, and the Pinewood bucket hat adds insect-safe UV protection.
Waxed Cotton Bucket Hats
A waxed cotton bucket hat sheds showers and suits the British climate. See the Tilley waxed cotton bucket hat, made from British Millerain waxed cotton, and the block coloured version. Our waxed jackets guide explains how to care for waxed cotton.
Insulated Bucket Hats
For cooler weather, the Tilley Abbott insulated bucket hat is water repellent and quilted for warmth.
Fashion Bucket Hats
If you want something softer and more casual, the Craggi Polla pink sherpa bucket hat has a teddy feel and is part of our Craggi hats range.
What to Look For
- Fabric: cotton or nylon for summer, waxed cotton for showers, quilted for cold weather.
- UV protection: look for a UPF rating if you will be in strong sun.
- Brim: a wider brim shades more of your face and neck.
- Fit: a bucket hat should sit snugly without pressure on your forehead. See our hat size guide.
- Extras: a chin cord stops the hat blowing off in wind, and a packable design is handy for travel.
How to Wear a Bucket Hat
Wear it level on your head, with the brim straight or slightly turned down at the front. In sun, keep the brim down to shade your face and neck. In rain, a waxed or water-repellent hat keeps drips off your face. For more on wet-weather accessories, see our waterproof gloves and hats guide.
Bucket Hat FAQs
Are bucket hats good for sun protection? Yes, particularly styles with a UPF 50+ rating and a full brim.
Can I wash a bucket hat? Follow the care label. Waxed cotton hats should not be machine washed and are usually wiped clean.
How do I find my bucket hat size? Measure your head with a soft tape and compare with the size chart. See our hat size guide.
Shop Bucket Hats at 4 Elements Clothing
Shop Tilley bucket hats or browse all hats, caps and headwear. You may also like our Tilley hats guide.
