Water reflects up to 50% more UV radiation onto your face and neck—making standard sun protection inadequate for surfers. Our collection features light, water-resistant materials with adjustable chin cords that keep hats in place during duck dives and wipeouts. Available in floating and soakable designs built for saltwater durability.
A Bond University study found that 13.6% of surveyed Australian surfers reported having had a skin cancer diagnosis, with extended water exposure significantly increasing UV damage risk. These surf hats combine cotton and other materials for comfort in marine environments.
Surfers and water sports enthusiasts face compounded UV exposure that makes dedicated protection essential:
Conner surf hats offer sun protection; hats with open mesh, vents or brims under 2.5 inches carry no UPF rating.
| Feature | Tarpon Springs Recycled Floating Hat | Dusty Road Aussie Water Resistant Cotton Hat | Aussie Surf Organic Cotton Hat | Seven Mile Surf Hat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UPF Rating | 50+ | 50+ | 50+ | 50+ |
| Water Resistance | Soakable | Water-resistant | Water-resistant | Water-resistant |
| Floats | Yes | No | No | No |
| Material | Recycled polyester (Repreve) | Weathered cotton | Organic Cotton | Recycled polyester (Repreve) |
| Chin Cord | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | Long sessions, warm water | All conditions, maximum water protection | Surfers | [Use case] |
Some surf hats are designed for water sports, and certain styles have floating designs. Like regular sun hats, their brims provide shade for your face and neck.
Yes. Sun protection is important while surfing. Sun-protective clothing can help provide consistent protection without needing reapplication. Many of our hats are UPF rated; check each product page for the rating.
Properly designed surf hats with adjustable chin straps stay secure during normal surfing conditions. Look for hats with toggle or buckle closures rather than simple cord ties—these provide a snug fit that withstands paddling, duck diving, and small to medium wave impacts. Many Conner surf hats feature cotton chin cords with adjustable closures. For heavy surf or aggressive maneuvers, expect occasional hat loss (which is why floating designs are valuable). Fit matters: hats should sit snug but comfortable, with the chin strap adjusted close to your chin.
Water-resistant surf hats, like the Dusty Road Aussie Water Resistant Cotton Hat, are intended to resist water. Soakable styles, like the Tarpon Springs Recycled Floating Sailing Hat, are designed to be wetted. The Tarpon Springs is a floating style made with recycled material. For care, avoid fully soaking a hat and let it dry naturally. Choose a water-resistant style for water resistance or a soakable style if you want one designed to be wetted.
Measure your head circumference just above your eyebrows and ears using a flexible tape measure. Match your measurement to the size chart on each product page: Small (21 1/4-21 5/8 inches / 54-55 cm), Medium (22-22 3/8 inches / 56-57 cm), Large (22 3/4-23 1/4 inches / 58-59 cm), X-Large (23 1/2-24 inches / 60-61 cm), XX-Large (24 3/8-24 3/4 inches / 62-63 cm), XXX-Large (25 1/8 inches / 64 cm). Surf hats should fit snug without pinching. A secure fit helps prevent loss during activity. Many Conner surf hats include adjustable features like drawstrings or Velcro straps for fine-tuning fit. Two free size inserts ship with every order.
This collection includes organic cotton, weathered cotton, and recycled polyester made from recycled plastic bottles (Repreve). The family-run company, created by Will Conner, runs its original St. Augustine warehouse on 100% solar power (orders now ship from American Fork, Utah). We still maintain our company food forest at the site and have created a hub there for other small businesses to use the location. All materials are third-party tested for formaldehyde and toxic chemicals in dyes.
Yes. Surf hats can also be worn for activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, fishing, and kitesurfing. For swimming or other activities in the water, check the individual product page for details about the hat’s features. Many of our hats are UPF rated; check each product page.
The Limited Lifetime Guarantee applies to surf hats purchased from connerhats.com. For a workmanship failure within the first 12 months, Conner will provide a free replacement of the same style, size, and color, with shipping included. After 12 months, a workmanship failure qualifies for 40% off a replacement, with shipping not included. Material degradation from use qualifies for a 30% off code. If your hat is lost or stolen, you can get 50% off the same hat, with shipping not included.
