8 summer hats for sun safety — because it's sexy

In Greek mythology, Icarus flies too close to the sun and his wings melt. Don't let your own hubris leave you with irreparable sun damage too this year. The harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation can be serious. If you're outside when the UV Index is 3 or higher, Health Canada recommends covering up with clothing and accessories, including wide-brimmed hats made from breathable fabric, as well as limiting time in the sun, checking the UV Index forecast and wearing sunscreen. 

These summer hats can add a layer of protection when you're fluttering about in sunny weather. You might not be a "hat person," but we think you might make an exception for our extra-stylish selections, knowing skin health and sun safety are essential — and can also be sexy!

The Nehiyaw-Anishinaabe family behind Decolonial Clothing Co. invites you to "flex your decolonial threads" with this 100 per cent bio-washed chino twill hat with embroidered eagle.

Decolonial Eagle Hat, $29.99, Decolonial Clothing Co. 

Rep your team, but make it summer. These takes on the Blue Jays and Raptors merch come in lighter colours and make cool choices for hot temperatures.

Toronto Raptors 9twenty in bubble and Toronto Blue Jays 9Twenty in chrome and lavender, $25.99, Peace Collective

Spotted: Jordan Alexander in a Yankees cap as Julien Calloway in the opening scene of the Gossip Girl reboot. If you must have one too, here you go. 

'47 New York Yankees Classic Baseball Hat, $39, Urban Outfitters

A visor can help with glare and add protection for your face while playing sports or on sweaty summer outings. This one's made to be lightweight, moisture-wicking and quick-drying. If you need full head coverage, opt for the lightweight running hat with similar features. 

Fast Paced Run Visor, $28, and Fast and Free Men's Run Hat, $38, Lululemon

A slightly larger, statement bucket hat is the move this summer. While smaller bucket hats don't really protect the face, a wider brim provides more coverage. This reversible style gives you two great looks for one price.

In Living Colour Reversible Bucket Hat, $50, NorBlack NorWhite

Another take on the bucket hat is the tall, longer-brimmed Mylo Hat from Vancouver's A Bronze Age. The wear-with-everything colour and 100 per cent cotton canvas fabric pair well with all your summer outfits and activities.

Mylo Hat, $150, A Bronze Age

If you prefer a little floral and flare, this statement piece may be it for you. Plus, it has a practical side — an adjustable chin strap, which makes it easy to wear when wading into the waves or bicycling like the wind. 

Floral Print Hat, $35.90, Zara

This woven hat, originally modified from a Mexican design alongside the makers near Mexico city, became popular with lifeguards in Southern California. The broad protection and breathability of the lifeguard hat (this one's called the "Hasselhoff") might be a good choice for your beach days too. 

Hasselhoff Lifeguard Hat, $25, Peter Grimm