Tips for Buying a Sun-Safe Hat

The Headwear Association recommends the following tips when buying a sun-protective hat:

- Size: A hat with a minimum of 2 1/2" brim can provide adequate sun protection for the neck, face and ears

- Shape: Hat shapes that protect better against ultraviolet radiation (UVR) are ones that curve down to follow the contours of the head and neck

- Material: The material of a hat should be lightweight and breathable. Fabrics should be closed weave straw, raffia, cloth or felt

Hat Day in the Sun Was a Success

The Headwear Association distributed thousands of free sun protective hats nationwide on Friday June 18th. These hats were given away to generate public awareness of how wide-brimmed hats can protect against sun damage, skin cancer and premature aging.

Here is a group of people protecting themselves from the sun in their new wide-brimmed hats at Chicago's Oak Street Beach.