The bucket hat has been around for a long time. Initially part of military uniforms, most notably during the Vietnam war, since then it’s become a certified favourite of not only outdoor explorers but fashionistas too. The hip hop world was an early adopter in the late 80s, before later becoming a defining look of the Madchester scene thanks to musicians like Reni and Liam Gallagher.
Back in style and undoubtedly here to stay with a new wave of young fans loving the carefree and casual vibes, this practical hat doesn't just evoke memories of fishing trips and the rave scene in ’94 for older generations. In this article, we're here to help you choose the perfect one by ranking the best bucket hats in the UK from Amazon, eBay and John Lewis. Including classics and cult favourites from Kangol, adidas and Carhartt WIP for both women and men, it’s easy to see why this hat transcends trends.
Quick List - Top Bucket Hats
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When it comes to picking up a bucket hat, there are a few factors you consider before you hit that ‘add to bag’ button. Here, we’ll take a look at each one to help you decide on the right bucket hat for you.
Generally, bucket hats are made using either cotton or polyester. The material you choose won't only affect how it looks, but how comfortable and waterproof it is. And how warm it will be under there!
Cotton hats are lighter and more breathable, making this material ideal for the summer months. Cotton is soft to the touch, but still relatively durable, so it will stand up to being thrown in your bag or the back of the wardrobe without too much care.
However, due to being made from a natural fibre, cotton products generally cost more. And while it is fairly hardwearing, it’s not as strong as polyester, so exposure to excessive sunlight and moisture can cause damage to your hat over time.
On the other hand, polyester is a man-made fibre that is extremely resilient and can withstand a good deal of wear and tear. This material holds dye well, so shouldn’t fade, and has water-resistant properties. This means they're less likely to soak up the rain and will dry quickly after being washed.
Unfortunately, polyester hats aren’t as breathable as cotton, so you could see yourself becoming rather sweaty if you're wearing one in the heat. Further, while the colour won’t fade, it's harder to achieve a vibrant hue on polyester fabric.
If you’re feeling a bit bolder, then you could opt for a bucket hat with a pattern. This could incorporate bright tones, multicoloured acid hues or more muted prints. The trick with louder designs is to make your hat the ‘stand-out’ piece of your outfit by partnering it with less vibrant attire.
It’s worth mentioning that these are only some guidelines and ideas. We don’t want to curb your individual style, so if you like how a particular hat looks with an outfit and it doesn’t meet our advice, you don’t have to worry about it. You do you!
Ventilation will either come in the form of small holes or a mesh panel, and tend to be found on the side of the hat. These will improve the overall breathability, which is particularly useful if you opt for a synthetic hat. Who knows, they could even save you from a headache or two.
Bucket hats can be somewhat difficult to secure. Once popped on top of the head, all that’s keeping them in place is how tightly they’re squeezed on. If you’re eager to avoid one big gust of wind sending your hat tumbling down the street, then you could always look for one with a pull-string chin strap.
A chin strap will allow you to confidently secure the hat to your head, which is ideal for wearing on windy days or in open top vehicles. These are most commonly found on practical hats (who would have thought?) than on fashion-focused options. However, they do sometimes overlap.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Adidas Bucket Hat | ![]() | The Quintessential Casual Bucket Hat | |
2 | Kombat British Special Forces Short Brim Bush Hat | ![]() | A Classic Military Design for Outdoor Exploration | |
3 | Under Armour ArmourVent Warrior Bucket Hat | ![]() | Ideal for Protecting Against the Elements | |
4 | Carhartt WIP Corduroy Bucket Hat | ![]() | Timeless, Durable and Incredibly Cool | |
5 | Ellesse Lorenzo Hat | ![]() | 90s Vibes For Those Who Want to Stay Safe and Look Good | |
6 | Hikeman Fishing Hats for Men and Women | ![]() | Perfect for Spending Long Days Outdoors | |
7 | Kangol Bermuda Bucket Hat | ![]() | An Iconic Design From a UK Brand | |
8 | Einskey Wide Brim Sun Hat | ![]() | A Practical Bucket Hat for the Safari Look | |
9 | Outfly Quick-Dry Bucket Hat | ![]() | A Stylish Yet Practical Bucket Hat | |
10 | KGM Psychedelic Paisley Bucket Hat | ![]() | A Psychedelic Pattern for the Ravers |
adidas' trefoil design is perhaps one of the most iconic brand logos on the planet today. Alongside their other logos (did you know adidas has four?) this is the one used for their 'Originals' line, which focuses more on lifestyle and casual wear than their sports performance products.
On the outside, this bucket hat is made of super soft dyed cotton emblazoned with their famous logo. Inside, it has tapered seams that absorb moisture with a little homage to the classic three stripes on the back. If you're after a casual bucket hat that will stand the test of time, this is it!
This patterned bucket hat is a great choice if you're after something a bit more subtle. The camouflaged bush hat is made from a super tough ripstop polyester and cotton blend, so it will stay in one piece no matter the trails your hiking.
The design has a smaller than average rim, which makes it perfect for packing up and carrying in your day bag, or inside your luggage, ready for your travels. It also comes with an elasticated chin strap to ensure a snug and secure fit, just in case the wind picks up.
We're not sure where Under Armour got the name 'warrior' from, as this hat looks much more suited to relaxing than for setting off into battle. Still, whatever you plan on doing in it, you can be sure that this bucket hat upholds the trusted UA quality.
The sweat-wicking and water-resistant hat features a strap to offer you some flexibility over how tight you like to wear it, all of which is ideal for those who are keen on walking trails as it will keep you protected from the sun, wind and rain.
This US-based company has made big strides in the fashion industry since the 1990s. Originally conceived as a clothing company for manual labourers, it is still one of the biggest workwear producers in this market. They have since expanded tenfold, and now produce goods for the fashion industry too.
The WIP (Work In Progress) arm of the company provides stylish streetwear looks, with the durability of their original designs. As with all their ranges, this bucket hat is timeless, robust and, most importantly, cool.
Designed with comfort in mind, this bucket hat from Ellesse gave us 90s feels the moment we set eyes upon it. Did anyone else just hear Out Of Space by The Prodigy come on somewhere in the background?
Alongside the contrasting two stripe pattern and large embroidered logo, you'll find eyelets on the side to provide ventilation. Although it's a one size fits all design, reviewers spanning from middle-aged women to young teens are all happy with the way it fits.
This wide-brimmed bucket hat from Hikeman has the classic explorer look down to a tee. For adventurers, buying a hat is less about appearance and more about functionality. Luckily, this bucket hat has an abundance of practical features too.
The ideal choice for those who love spending long days in the sun at the park, fishing, hiking, camping, gardening or trekking. The hat has a wide brim and is made from a cotton and polyester blend, so you get the best of both materials. Plus, it comes with both ventilation holes and a chin strap!
The Bermuda Bucket Hat from Kangol is a truly iconic design. It first shot to prominence in the 80s after LL Cool J first donned one. Since then, the UK brand has made this one of their signature styles.
It comes in an array of different colourways, from baby pink to classic black, but our favourite has to be the fresh white version. It's unquestionably an acquired look, but if the hip-hop street style is what you're going for, there's unlikely to be a better bucket hat than this!
If you're looking for a bucket hat that's all about protection and practicality, then look no further than this unisex number from Einskey. The sun hat has a snug fit, with a rear elastic drawstring that can be used to adjust the hat if it is a little too big.
Additionally, it has an extra-wide brim, that's ideal for keeping the sun off your face and neck, as well as being water-resistant. If you're looking for a hat to safeguard you, or you want that safari look, this is surely the one for you!
This simple and straightforward design combines both fashion and practicality. Made from 100% polyester, it's quick-drying and water-resistant, plus it has a removable strap should you require it.
The brim is slightly larger than you would find on a traditional bucket hat, so you'll be a little better protected from the sun. However, the synthetic fabric and lack of ventilation means it may get a bit warm under there on particularly hot days.
Getting us underway is this energetic number from KGM. If you're a bit of a party-goer, then this will likely be right up your street. With a psychedelic paisley pattern, it certainly wouldn't look out of place if you're into the rave scene.
Be aware that this hat has somewhat generous sizing, which is worth keeping in mind when purchasing, as you wouldn't want it falling over your face when the beat is about to drop. And, while we appreciate the out-there style, this might be a little too much for some tastes.
The right hat will, quite literally, top off any outfit. Combining practicality and style, a hat really is an accessory no wardrobe should be without. Whatever the time of year, there are plenty of fantastic hats for you to choose from. Check out the links below for some of our personal favourites!
Whether you're looking for a trendy bucket hat, or one that's a bit more practical, we hope you've found our recommendations useful. Here's to protecting yourself from the sun, and looking good while you're doing it!
Author: Lewis Clark
No. 1: Adidas|Bucket Hat
No. 2: Kombat|British Special Forces Short Brim Bush Hat
No. 3: Under Armour|ArmourVent Warrior Bucket Hat
No. 4: Carhartt WIP|Corduroy Bucket Hat
No. 5: Ellesse|Lorenzo Hat
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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