Safe & Sustainable In The Shade

There’s something calming in knowing that no matter what’s currently happening in the world, sunshine will inevitably return and welcome us all with open arms. And while many of us will be having a more low-key spring and summer near our homes (laying out on a backyard patio, anyone?), we can still get our fair share of Vitamin D and a sunkissed glow. (Which reminds us—while you’re out there, please wear some sunscreen!)

Of course, it’s vital to keep our skin protected as best as possible, and sun hats are a stylish—and effective—way to do so. We’ve found seven brands that are crafting sustainable sun hats in every style, from fedora to trucker to the iconic oversized look. Made with responsibly sourced materials and in ethical working conditions, you can find a sun hat for every occasion.

1. Cuyana

Standout Ethics | Responsible consumption with their Lean Closet initiative
Made In | Ecuador
Our Pick | Wide Brim Summer Hat ($95)
Price Range | $75–$95

Cuyana’s philosophy of “fewer, better” extends not just to the end-products themselves, but also to the quality and sustainability throughout the entire process. Cuyana’s hats, apparel, handbags, and accessories are made responsibly with safe working conditions and mindful sourcing; for example, the Wide Brim Summer Hat is made in Ecuador using heritage practices that have been passed down for generations. All Cuyana products can be delivered worldwide so you can invest in fewer, better pieces that are sure to last—and when you’re ready to move on, you can try out their Lean Closet initiative to give items new life.

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2. Patagonia

Standout Ethics | Organic cotton woven by fair trade artisans
Made In | China
Our Pick | Layback Trucker Hat ($35)
Price Range | $15–$55

For almost 50 years, Patagonia has been a leader in sustainability, particularly with outdoor apparel and accessories. Like its Fair Trade Certified line of adult and children’s wear, Patagonia’s hats are made for the great outdoors, crafted with recycled fishing nets and organic cotton. And while you can have Patagonia goods delivered to you internationally, the team encourages you to shop local whenever possible—now that’s responsible consumerism.

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3. Tio Y Tia

Standout Ethics | Ethically handmade by the oldest hat maker in America
Made In | USA
Our Pick | Mari in Shadow ($175)
Price Range | $125–$265

Inspired by the American Southwest, Tio y Tia crafts stunning, sustainable hats with the oldest hatmaker in America. Yes, you read that correctly: The very same hatmaker who produced Georgia O’Keeffe’s iconic headwear. Available worldwide, you can find gorgeous sun hats made of straw woven in Ecuador and Oaxaca or with wool sourced ethically in Texas. The Mari hat is our pick for a getaway weekend essential, which can be easily packed away without affecting its flattering shape.

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4. Bagtazo

Standout Ethics | Gives back 10 percent of sales
Made In | New York, USA
Our Pick | Visaya Boater ($216)
Price Range | $100–$400

Inspired by her family’s Filipino heritage, Courtney Bagtazo launched Bagtazo with her grandmother in mind. Today, the brand offers hats, accessories, and made-to-order items worldwide, all of which are USA-made and sustainably sourced wherever possible. In addition to a responsible supply chain, Bagtazo also gives back 10% of sales to causes like Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, and the Elton John Foundation. We love the Visaya Boater, made of NYC seagrass and a stunning cotton strap, for warm sun-on-your-face days.

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5. Equal Uprise

Standout Ethics | Supports artisans with Business Development Program
Made In | Ecuador
Our Pick | Avocado Straw Hat ($90)
Price Range | $80–$138

For those casual spring weddings or while perusing a local farmer’s market, we love Equal Uprise’s responsibly made hats. Crafted in fair trade working conditions in Ecuador, these lightweight straw sun hats are made with toquilla straw found along the coast. As with all homeware and accessory purchases from Equal Uprise (which are available internationally!), you’ll help provide and sustain jobs in Ecuadorian and Tunisian communities, alongside a business development program for artisans. 

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6. Tilley

Standout Ethics | Responsibly sourced and upcycled materials
Made In | Canada
Our Pick | Melanie Hemp Hat ($105)
Price Range | $35–$135

Responsible and ethical sourcing isn’t just a one-person production; for Tilley, it takes 23 pairs of hands to make these sun hats. Proudly Canadian—and available wherever you are—the Tilley team is committed to sustainability and quality, so much so, that they provide lifelong satisfaction guarantees for most purchases. Our top choice is made with eco-friendly hemp and a water-resistant finish, while providing maximum sun protection (certified UPF 50+, the highest you can find!). Stay protected—and sustainable.

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7. Janessa Leoné

Standout Ethics | Handwoven using natural materials (toquilla straw)
Made In | USA
Our Pick | Valentine ($230)
Price Range | $55–$375

Fedora fans, you’re in luck: Janessa Leoné’s line of hats (and handbags!) come with your pick of durable and ultra-stylish fedoras. Using Panamanian and toquilla straw, these woven fibers are then made in the USA and shipped worldwide. With timeless designs and a simple aesthetic, Janessa Leoné’s hats and handbags are high-quality classics you can wear again and again. (And an expert tip: most can be easily packed away for a beach day, weekend destination, or luxurious trip.)

Shop Janessa Leoné

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