Quick answer
The Alpenglow Trucker Hat offers UPF-like shade from its structured brim, and with proper care—gentle hand washing, air drying, and smart storage—it will protect you on the trail for seasons.
Why a trucker hat works for sun protection
A trucker hat’s curved brim and high-crown mesh design keep the sun off your face and neck while letting heat escape. The Alpenglow Trucker Hat uses a solid front panel that blocks direct rays, and the mesh back provides ventilation—ideal for active hiking where you need both coverage and cooling.
Trade-off: mesh vs. solid panels
Mesh panels improve airflow but offer less UV blockage than a solid fabric hat. Pair the Alpenglow Trucker Hat with sunscreen on exposed ears and the back of your neck for full protection. The brim’s stiffness also means it won’t flop in wind, but it is less packable than a soft crushable hat.
How to care for your trucker hat
- Hand wash with mild soap: Fill a basin with cool water and add a drop of gentle laundry soap. Submerge the hat and gently scrub the front panel and brim with your fingers. Do not use bleach or fabric softener—they break down mesh fibers and fade prints. Check the hat’s sweatband for stubborn salt stains; pre-treat with a dab of soap before washing.
- Rinse thoroughly and reshape: Rinse under cool running water until no suds remain. Gently squeeze (do not wring) excess water from the mesh and front panel. Reshape the brim to its natural curve and set the crown so it doesn’t collapse while drying. Avoid twisting the mesh—it can stretch permanently. Support the hat from the inside with a small towel or hat form.
- Air dry away from direct heat: Place the hat on a clean towel or a hat-shaped form in a well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. Never use a dryer, radiator, or hair dryer—heat will warp the brim and shrink the mesh. Drying can take 12–24 hours. Rotate the hat halfway through so moisture doesn’t pool in the crown.
- Store loosely to maintain shape: Keep the hat on a hook or shelf where the brim isn’t crushed. For packing, nest it crown-up inside a larger item (like a cooking pot) or stuff it loosely with a soft shirt to preserve the curve. Never fold the brim flat for storage—repeated creases weaken the structure and reduce sun coverage.
Product spotlight
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Alpenglow Trucker Hat: Tried and true trucker style design with limited edition Alpenglow print celebrating Big Agnes’ 25th Anniversary. The structured front panel and mesh back give you sun coverage without overheating, making it a practical choice for warm-weather hikes.
Alpenglow Trucker Hat