How to Choose the Best Sun Hats and Sunglasses for Kids

Protecting your child’s eyes and skin from the sun is just as important as applying sunscreen. A high-quality sun hat and a good pair of sunglasses can help prevent sunburn, eye damage, and discomfort during outdoor adventures. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right ones? Here’s everything you need to know about picking the best sun hats and sunglasses for kids.

Why Sun Protection Matters for Kids

Children’s skin and eyes are more sensitive to the sun than adults, making sun protection a must.

☀️ Prevents Sunburns: The scalp, face, and ears are common sunburn spots that a good hat can protect.

👓 Shields Eyes from UV Damage: Kids’ eyes have larger pupils and clearer lenses, allowing more UV rays to penetrate.

🧴 Reduces Risk of Long-Term Skin and Eye Damage: Protecting kids now helps prevent skin and eye conditions later in life.

Learn about the importance of sun protection for children's eyes from the American Optometric Association.

How to Choose the Best Sun Hat for Kids

A good sun hat provides shade, stays put during play, and keeps kids cool. Here’s what to look for:

✅ Wide Brim

A brim of at least 3 inches shades the face, ears, and neck.
Bucket hats, legionnaire-style hats, and wide-brim hats offer the most protection.

✅ UPF-Rated Fabric

Look for UPF 50+ fabric, which blocks 98% of UV rays.
Breathable, lightweight materials like cotton or polyester keep kids comfortable.

✅ Chin Strap & Adjustable Fit

Keeps the hat secure in windy conditions or during active play.
Adjustable toggles help get the perfect fit for growing kids.

✅ Packability & Durability

A crushable, foldable design makes it easy to pack for travel and outdoor adventures.
Quick-drying materials are great for beach and water play.

Explore Play Outside’s sun-protective apparel for kids who love adventure.

Top Picks: Best Sun Hats for Kids

🧢 Best for Everyday Use: Lightweight bucket hat with UPF 50+ and moisture-wicking fabric.
🏖 Best for the Beach: Wide-brimmed sun hat with a neck flap and chin strap.
🚶 Best for Hiking & Outdoor Adventures: Adjustable sun hat with breathable mesh panels for ventilation.

💡 Pro Tip: Light-colored hats reflect heat and keep kids cooler in hot weather!

How to Choose the Best Sunglasses for Kids

Not all sunglasses are created equal! Many inexpensive options may look cute but offer little UV protection. Here’s what to prioritize when choosing kids’ sunglasses:

✅ 100% UV Protection

Look for sunglasses labeled 100% UVA and UVB protection or UV400.
Avoid novelty sunglasses that lack proper UV filtering.

✅ Polarized Lenses

Reduces glare from water, sand, and pavement.
Helps kids see clearly in bright conditions.

✅ Wraparound or Wide Frames

Prevents UV rays from entering from the sides.
A snug fit ensures the glasses stay put during play.

✅ Durability & Comfort

Shatter-resistant, impact-proof lenses are a must for active kids.
Flexible, rubberized frames prevent breakage.
Adjustable or elastic straps help keep sunglasses on little faces.

Check out the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s guide to sunglasses for more details on kids' eye protection.

Top Picks: Best Sunglasses for Kids

🕶 Best for Toddlers: Flexible rubber sunglasses with an elastic strap to stay secure.
🌞 Best for Older Kids: Polarized wraparound sunglasses with impact-resistant lenses.
🏄 Best for Water Activities: Floating sunglasses with UV protection and polarized lenses.

💡 Pro Tip: Let your child pick their sunglasses! They’ll be more likely to wear them if they love the style.

Encouraging Kids to Wear Their Sun Hat & Sunglasses

Getting kids to wear sun protection consistently can be a challenge. Here are some tricks to make it easier:

🎭 Make It a Game: Pretend their sunglasses are superhero shades or their hat is an explorer’s helmet. 👨‍👩‍👧 Lead by Example: If you wear a hat and sunglasses, they’ll want to as well. 🎁 Let Them Choose: Giving kids the option to pick their favorite color or style increases the chance they’ll wear them. ⏳ Be Consistent: Make putting on a hat and sunglasses part of their daily routine—just like sunscreen!

Final Thoughts: Sun Protection Made Simple

A high-quality sun hat and sunglasses are essential for keeping kids safe in the sun. Look for UPF-rated, durable, and comfortable options to ensure they actually wear them. With the right gear, your little adventurers can explore the outdoors safely and stylishly!

For more outdoor gear tips and recommendations, visit our Play Outside blog.