A cap is one of the most underrated running accessories. It simply solves so many problems.
You could invest in a headband to keep your hair at bay as well as sunglasses to shade your eyes from the sun and a jacket to shelter from the rain. Or, you could simply buy a running cap, since it does all three. Granted, you might still need the waterproof for particularly rainy days, but otherwise, you’re sorted.
The problem is, though, you can’t just grab any old hat. If you choose to wear your favourite baseball cap or an old trucker, neither will offer the high-performance credentials that should be on your wishlist as you take your pavement pounding to the next level. In real terms, it means you could be left with a soggy, sweaty situation that’s distracting you from the mileage at hand – and no one wants that.
Instead, if you opt for a cap from one of the sportswear experts – namely New Balance, Asics, Adidas et al – it will actually enhance your workout. Look for ventilation zones, breathable fabrics, lightweight construction and waterproof finish, as well as limited contact zones to reduce any chances of chafing – we’re taking labels or uncomfortable back-fastenings.
Design-wise, stick to those that are baseball-coded. Whether you’re into the #OldMoneyAesthetic or you’ve seen the ‘Men Wearing Baseball Caps’ trend on TikTok (which has over 34 million posts), it’s a movement that’s definitely on the up. After all, who says you can’t look good while running? Better yet, the curved peak will effectively help come rain or shine.
Without further ado, it’s time to find your next favourite running accessory in the list below.
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New Balance 6 Panel Laser Performance Hat
Though it’s New Balance’s dadcore sneakers you see everywhere on the streets of London, it's actually one of the best brands for running gear. This cap is a case in point. Not only is it made from the label’s moisture-wicking fabric but it also boasts ventilation holes and reflective accents for running after dark.
Buy now £24.00, New Balance
Adidas Running Essentials Aeroready Six-Panel Baseball Cap
It’s no surprise that Adidas has a solid range of running caps as one of the leading specialists in the sport – and you can’t go wrong with a classic black. It’s built with the brand’s patented Aeroready tech which will keep your head dry as well as an adjustable back closure for the perfect fit.
Buy now £15.00, Adidas
Tracksmith Hat
If you’re in the market for style and substance, Tracksmith is the brand you need on your radar. All of its collections are inspired by running gear from Seventies America – as you can see from the two-tone sash logo front and centre. A pure cotton design, it’s a hat that will work both on and off the track.
Buy now £45.00, Tracksmith
On Running Lightweight Cap
One of the most lightweight hats on this list, On Running’s cap boasts a barely-there feel, allowing you to concentrate on the training at hand with no fiddly distractions. The style comes complete with laser-cut ventilation, ultra-soft sweatbands and a tear-proof fabric. Even better, it’s one of the hottest running labels right now, so it’s sure to score you some track cred too.
Buy now £40.00, On Running
Asics ESNT Cap
The official sponsor of more than 50 marathons worldwide, including Paris, Rotterdam and Los Angeles, Japanese label Asics is one of the experts that you can trust in the technical activewear space. As you’d expect, its range of caps is no exception. A polyester elastane blend, it’s a stretchy construction which is lightweight and ventilated. All for just £14.
Buy now £14.00, Asics
Nike Dri-FIT ADV Fly Cap
Whenever you spot Nike’s Swoosh, you know it’s a design you can trust, especially in the performance arena. This cap is breathable, sweat-wicking, easily adjustable and unstructured with four-way stretch for an unrivalled comfy finish. Bonus points go to the reflective logo.
Buy now £27.99, Nike
Castore Blue Running Cap
For premium sports gear, Castore is certainly a brand to know and not just because the label kits out Andy Murray and the England cricket team. The brand’s running range is one of our favourites on the market. With an adjustable clip fastening, flexible peak and ventilation eyelets, this is a cap that won’t let you down.
Buy now £32.00, Castore
Under Armour Men's UA Iso-Chill Launch Run Hat
Another sportswear giant, Under Armour has one of the best collections of affordable activewear on the market, from running kit to gym essentials. This cap is a high-spec option, with the brand’s trademark Iso-Chill sweatband and ultra-light fabric making it feel cool to the touch, whether you’re in a heatwave or racking up the miles.
Buy now £25.00, Under Armour
Lululemon Fast and Free Running Hat WovenAir Wordmark
Though it’s best known for its yummy mummy yogawear, Lululemon has a sportswear range that covers running, tennis, golf, cycling and dance too. Whatever distance you’re planning on running, this cap will keep you cool, calm and collected thanks to its lightweight and airy credentials.
Buy now £35.00, Lululemon
