Boonie Hat for Surfers: What Actually Matters
Dec 25, 2025
If you surf a lot and you’re looking up boonie hats, you’re probably trying to solve the same thing I was: how do I protect my face without wearing some dorky hat that flies off the second there’s wind.
A boonie hat can be a great surf hat, but only if it’s built for the ocean.
What is a boonie hat?
A boonie hat is a wide-brim hat that shades your face, ears, and neck. People wear them hiking, fishing, boating, all that. For surfing, the goal is the same: more shade, less sun, less squinting.
Why surfers wear boonie hats
Because sunscreen alone is a pain in the water. It rubs off, you miss spots, and you always forget your ears or neck. A boonie hat gives you coverage that doesn’t disappear mid-session.
5 things to look for in a surf boonie hat
1) A strap that actually holds
If it doesn’t have a solid chin strap, it’s not a surf hat. Simple.
2) A brim that doesn’t mess with your vision
If the brim flops into your face or blocks your side view, you’ll stop wearing it fast.
3) Lightweight fabric that feels okay when it’s wet
A heavy, soggy hat is the worst. Look for something that stays light and dries quickly.
4) A fit that stays put
Even with the strap, the hat should sit securely on your head and not slide around while paddling.
5) You like how it looks
If you don’t feel cute in it, you won’t wear it consistently. The best hat is the one you actually put on.
Not sure which color? Start here.
Boonie hat vs surf hat
A boonie hat is the shape. A surf hat is the function. A surf-ready boonie hat needs to stay on in wind and wipeouts and still feel comfortable paddling.
The easy sun protection stack
If you’re trying to protect your skin, the best combo is:
Hat + protective clothing first, sunscreen on whatever skin is still showing.
That’s it. No complicated routine. Just consistent habits that make it easier to stay outside longer.
If you want a boonie-style surf hat that’s more surf style and less “camping aisle,” that’s exactly what I built Peach for.