Summer is fast becoming a washout. It almost feels like we’ve had no summer at all as weeks stretch by with grey clouds and showers and barely a ray of sunshine in sight. As we pack away our picnic blankets and swimsuits earlier than planned (sob), we’re reaching instead for rainwear. And for many of us, a waterproof hat is top of the list.
 
A waterproof jacket will keep your body dry and waterproof shoes will mean no soggy socks but what about your head? Umbrellas are useful, sure, but they have a frustrating tendency to disappear or turn themselves inside out the minute the wind picks up. Slip a waterproof hat into your bag or a pocket, however, and you’re always prepared for an unexpected downpour or sudden thunderstorm. That’s right, this summer we’re taking fashion inspiration from none other than Paddington Bear and opting for a rain hat (with or without the matching wellies).
 
Canvas fisherman hats are usually the headwear of choice for summer, shielding necks and foreheads from the sun, but this year we’re pivoting towards nylon, vinyl and other water-resistant fabrics. With an eye on the unpredictable British weather, we’re shopping both sunny shades and basic blacks, browns and beiges that work with any outfit. Even on a not-so-rainy day, they look chic AF. Scroll on to see some of our favourite options.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by us. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, we may earn a commission.

Stutterheim Beckholmen Bucket Hat, £65

You’ll definitely stand out from the crowd in this bucket hat, which is available in a host of paintbox-bright colours besides this vivid blue, meaning there’s something for everyone.

Stutterheim Beckholmen Bucket Hat, $, available at StutterheimPhoto Courtesy of Stutterheim

Ganni Logo-Patch Recycled-Canvas Bucket Hat, £85

Ganni is a go-to for all cool girl cops and this bucket hat is no exception. The recycled canvas makes this a more planet-friendly pick than some of the other options on this list and in classic black it should work with any outfit.

Ganni Logo-Patch Recycled-Canvas Bucket Hat, $, available at Matches FashionPhoto Courtesy of Ganni

Rains Boonie Hat, £29

Rains is still one of the coolest wet weather brands around, offering trenches, trousers, bags, hats and more. The Boonie is undeniably chic but be warned: With a W2 water protection level, it will work wonders in light rain but probably won’t withstand a massive downpour.

Rains Boonie Hat, $, available at RainsPhoto Courtesy of Rains

The North Face TNF Run Bucket Hat, £40

Calling all adventurers! This rain hat is designed to stay on no matter how much you move. A Velcro back strap keeps it securely fastened while the cheery colour combo will make sure you’re always seen.

TNF TNF Run Bucket Hat, $, available at The North FacePhoto Courtesy of The North Face

Barbour Wax Bucket Hat, £34.95

Barbour is famous for its waterproof jackets so of course the hats are brilliant, too. This one is sold as a men’s hat so it may be on the larger side but there are different sizes available to help you find the perfect fit.

Barbour Wax Bucket Hat, $, available at BarbourPhoto Courtesy of Barbour

Dryrobe Quick Dry Brimmed Hat, £35

This zingy orange hat proves that Dryrobe does so much more than, well, dryrobes. The adjustable chin strap will keep it snug on even the windiest of days and if the sun does decide to show its face, the fabric’s UPF50+ rating will shield you from harmful rays.

Dryrobe Quick Dry Brimmed Hat, $, available at DryrobePhoto Courtesy of Dryrobe

Sealskinz Lynford, £40

This colour-blocked hat is one of our favourite finds. Crafted from canvas — no shine or squeaky fabric here — three layers of the brand’s proprietary Aquasealz construction work to keep your head nice and dry. The nifty front pocket adds an element of interest, although you wouldn’t catch us putting anything valuable in there.

Sealskinz Lynford, $, available at SealskinzPhoto Courtesy of Sealskinz

Forclaz Waterproof Trekking Hat, £17.99

This white waterproof dad hat is actually quite chic. A chin strap keeps it secure while the fabric will protect you for up to two hours of constant downpour. It’s light, bright and will work with almost any outfit.

Forclaz Waterproof Trekking Hat, $, available at DecathlonPhoto Courtesy of Forclaz

Comhats Waterproof Bucket Hat, £21.99

Yellow is a classic choice for rainwear and who are we to argue? This Amazon find is machine-washable and protects against sun and rain alike, making it an all-rounder for every season.

Comhats Waterproof Bucket Hat, $, available at AmazonPhoto Courtesy of Comhats

Humbrella Bucket Hat, $, available at Ba&sh

Lululemon LAB Bucket Hat w/ Strap, $, available at Lululemon

Whistles Boonie Hat, $, available at Whistles

Zara Rubberised Bucket Hat, $, available at Zara

Mango Water-repellent bucket hat, $, available at Mango

Rains 2003 boonie wide brim waterproof bucket hat, $, available at ASOS

Ganni Smiley face bucket hat, $, available at Farfetch

Ganni Recycled Hat, $, available at Ganni

Toast Beton Cire Chalutier Rain Hat, $, available at Toast

North Face Sun Stash Bucket Hat, $, available at JD Sports

Toast Veronika Waxed Cotton Hat, $, available at Toast

Products:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/18q_ttKFnm8fGgRjT-ZquCsakO813NnHCUocEiJ1V-EQ/edit?usp=sharing

COS Waxed Cotton Rain Hat, $, available at COS

Weekday Delight Bucket Hat, $, available at Weekday

Acne Studios Logo Plaque Bucket Hat, $, available at Acne Studios

Rains Boonie Hat, $, available at Rains

& Other Stories Faux Leather Tie-Detail Rain Hat, $, available at ASOS

Chloé Technical Bucket Hat, $, available at Matches Fashion

Ganni Tech Fabric Hat, $, available at Ganni

Norse Projects Gore-Tex Bucket Hat Black, $, available at Couverture & The Garbstore

Mango Bucket Hat, $, available at Mango

Loewe Anagram-Patch Zipped-Brim Leather Bucket Hat, $, available at Matches Fashion

Prada Reversible Nylon Hat, $, available at Farfetch

Zara Faux Leather Bucket Hat, $, available at Zara

Topshop TPU Green Gingham Bucket Hat, $, available at Topshop

HERON PRESTON Logo Embroidered Bucket Hat, $, available at Farfetch

PeakandBrimHatsShop Women’s Navy Blue Souwester Style Rain Hat, $, available at Etsy

Lazy Oaf Heart Bucket Hat, $, available at ASOS

Marine Serre Logo Pattern Bucket Hat, $, available at Farfetch

iets frans Nylon Rubberised Bucket Hat, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Valentino Garavani Logo Vinyl Bucket Hat, $, available at Selfridges & Co.

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