Outdoor Research Swift Cap – Lightweight UPF Sun Hat with Breathable Mesh for Men & Women, Hiking, Running and Travel

I forgot my hat on a recent climbing trip to Moab. The sun was ferocious, and fortunately a friend lent me his OR Sun Runner cap. As a testament to how much I liked the hat, I ordered an OR hat immediately after I returned. I didn't want the side panels of the Sun Runner cap (I always bring a bandana, and I unfold it and wear it under my hat if I really need to cover my ears and neck), so I ordered the Swift Sun Hat in fatigue. The hat is typical Outdoor Research quality, which is to say excellent. As with the hat I wore in Moab, I think it will be excellent as a sun hat. It is very light and has a very comfortable fit. The adjustment tab has a quick release buckle, which seems useless to me but is very low profile, so that's fine. I really like the 'fatigue' color, which is a nice olive, light enough to not absorb too much sunlight and without the slightly dumpy army-navy store color common to olive drab. It's casual enough looking to not look like I'm trying to golf at Mara-Lago and neat enough looking that I wore it in the rain to an engineering meeting without looking unprofessional. There is one kind of odd aspect to the hat: the mesh side panels are actually the sides of a complete mesh cap. The top of the mesh cap is hidden because the nylon top panel (the olive part, in my case) is actually a completely separate 'awning' secured at the front and the back of the brim. I think the purpose is to provide a bit more insulation and ventilation between the head and the sun. It makes the hat a tad heavier (it's still really light) and I suppose could theoretically catch on brush if you're thrutching through dense vegetation, but honestly I don't think the difference would be really noticeable. Either the Swift or Sun Runner seem to be good choices. Final analysis, I don't see much to criticize. It seems very practical for hot weather and sun, and probably fine in cool weather as well. It packs well and looks cool. It'll probably end up as my go-to hat for hiking, running, and activities in sunny and/or arid areas. Highly recommended.

This is my favorite hiking hat. I run hot and it's perfect for me. Vents well and dries quickly. Great fit and look. I would absolutely recommend.

I picked up this OR Swift Cap for hiking and travel, and it’s been excellent. The hat is incredibly light — I barely notice it on my head, even on long walks — and the UPF sun protection gives extra peace of mind on bright days. The breathable mesh keeps air flowing so I stay cool instead of hot and sweaty, and the brim provides solid shade without being too stiff. It packs down easily into a backpack or luggage, which has been perfect for trips. If you want a comfortable, functional sun hat for outdoor activities, this one checks all the boxes.

Had two of these for years. Finally got worn to the point had to replace. great sun protection, light weight, breathes well and I thought I might have difficulty finding something I liked as much. Alas OR still makes them. I bought two more and plan on wearing them for years to come.

The hat met my expectations for fit and coolness. I've got a 7-1/4" hat size and the adjustable strap enabled it to fit just fine. It is quite airy with mesh all around and exposed directly to air on the sides. I like the fabric strip across the top, as it is light enough to breath while also blocking sunlight. I run with it 3 times per week and use it during other outdoor activities and it has held up very well. The liner around the forehead and sides is soft and holds perspiration, so both comfortable and no sweat in your eyes. I would give it five stars if it was a little more airy and cool, but I'm not sure if any hat is better.

My new favorite hat. Wear it constantly. Light weight, looks decent. The white will yellow with sweat, so heads up.

I like these so much I have three colors of this same hat. Perfect for travel, hiking, and everyday wear. Folds down pretty small so it’s easy to pack or tuck away until you need it. Very breathable so I don’t overheat when it’s hot. I also use them to make rainy walks much more pleasant - they keep the rain off my face very well, and they dry quickly. I’m not sure it’s recommended but I throw them in the wash when they get stinky - the brim sometimes gets a little wonky (the bend goes off center) in the spin cycle, but it’s not too hard to straighten out with a little heat and coaxing.

This hat is exactly what I was looking for... it's lightweight, cool and fits great. I have had other OR products in the past and this like their other products does not disappoint! I was looking for a hat that I could wear while hiking on hot Summer days that would keep my head cool and the sun off of my face. This hats unique design helps wick moisture away while allowing for a lot of air flow so, if you hate having a sweaty hat like I do this hat is for you. I also love how easily this hat adjusts for different sizes and how travel friendly it is. If your on the fence about this purchase just go for it because you won't be disappointed.