Hats are essential in any birdwatcher’s kit, and even if you’re not the sort of person who usually wears a hat, it’s worth investing in one for when you’re out birdwatching. There’s no point spending a lot of money on your optics if once you’re out in the field you can’t see properly due to the sun’s glare or rain dripping down your face.
The type of hat you choose will depend on where and when you go birdwatching, and different styles of hats will offer different forms of protection. If you’re planning on going birdwatching all year round, then you’ll probably need a couple of hats to add to your kit.
A birdwatching hat doesn’t need to be expensive, but before you buy one, make sure that you find one that’s most suitable for your needs.
One of the most important reasons for wearing a hat is sun protection. Even on overcast days, prolonged exposure to the sun can result in harmful UV rays affecting your skin, hair, and eyes. Wearing a hat is an effective way to protect yourself from these rays and to keep cool while out in the field.
Look for a hat with a wide brim to shield your face, ears, and neck. This provides maximum coverage, especially when you’re out for long periods of time. Ideally, choose a hat made from soft, floppy material that can be folded flat for easy storage in your bag or pocket when you’re not wearing it. For added protection, opt for a hat with a slightly broader brim at the back, which provides more coverage for your neck.
For those with sensitive skin, consider a hat with built-in UV protection. Additionally, hats with adjustable brims, such as ones with press studs or buttons, offer flexibility, allowing you to pin up the sides when the sun isn’t as strong.
On bright, sunny days, glare can significantly reduce visibility and make it harder to identify birds. The sun’s rays can also cause eye strain, making it uncomfortable to keep your eyes open for extended periods. A wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap can help shield your eyes from direct sunlight, making it easier to spot birds without squinting or straining.
For the best results, look for a hat with a dark underside to the brim. Colours like green, grey, black, or navy are particularly effective at reducing glare, while also offering a more soothing and comfortable visual experience.
While birds may not necessarily be startled by bright colours, they are more likely to notice you if you’re dressed in eye-catching hues. A neutral-coloured hat can help break up the outline of your head, allowing you to blend more seamlessly into your surroundings. A patterned hat can provide additional camouflage, making you less noticeable to the birds you’re observing.
Opt for earthy tones such as grey, brown, khaki, or green. Avoid wearing white, as it can reflect sunlight, making you stand out more. Additionally, white tends to attract dirt and mud, which isn’t ideal for birdwatching.
Although it’s a myth that most of your body heat escapes through your head, wearing a hat on cold days can still help keep you warm. Insulated wool beanies are ideal for autumn and winter birdwatching, keeping your head cosy while you wait for the perfect birding opportunity.
Some hats come with ear flaps to shield your ears and cheeks from the cold. However, be cautious when choosing ear-flap hats for birdwatching, as they can sometimes muffle bird calls and songs that may help you locate and identify birds. If you do opt for a hat with ear flaps, ensure they can be easily clipped or pinned back when you need to hear more clearly.
A hat with mesh panels at the sides and crown will keep air circulating around your head and will be more comfortable in hot climates. Cotton hats or hats made from straw are lightweight and breathable and are ideal for warm weather, keeping you cool while protecting you from the sun.
Grommets and waterproof mesh ventilators sewn into a hat are other features to look out for to help prevent your head from getting too hot and sticky when you’re out in the field.
Good weather is never guaranteed during a birdwatching trip, especially in the UK. A waterproof hat will keep you dry when the weather takes a turn, while a hat with a stiff brim or peaked cap can prevent rain from dripping down into your eyes. Materials such as polyester, nylon, or water-resistant wool are excellent choices as they wick moisture away from your skin and dry quickly.
Having a waterproof hat in your kit means you won’t have to worry about getting soaked during an unexpected rain shower, allowing you to stay focused on your birdwatching.
Consider the durability of your hat, especially if you’re birdwatching in rugged environments. A hat made from durable materials like reinforced fabrics will stand up to outdoor conditions, particularly if you’re hiking through thick brush or rough terrain. Hats made with strong materials will last longer and handle wear and tear better, making them more cost-effective over time.
Comfort is key, and a hat with adjustable features can make a big difference. Hats with adjustable straps or Velcro closures allow for a custom fit, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout your birdwatching trip. This is especially important if you wear hats in different seasons or climates, as your head size may change slightly depending on the temperature or activity level.
If you’re planning on long hikes or trips, a lightweight and packable hat is much more practical. These hats are easy to stuff into a bag or even a jacket pocket when not in use. Opt for a hat that is easy to carry around without weighing you down, but make sure it’s made from quality materials to avoid sacrificing comfort and performance.
If you’re looking for versatility, consider a multi-functional hat. Convertible hats offer various options, such as removable ear flaps or extra protective features, allowing you to adjust based on changing weather conditions. This way, you won’t need to carry multiple hats for different scenarios.
A well-fitting hat can help reduce noise from wind or rain hitting your head, allowing you to hear bird calls and songs more clearly. This is especially important for identifying birds by sound, as many species communicate with soft calls that could be easily drowned out by wind or rain. Make sure your hat fits snugly but doesn’t cover your ears too much, allowing you to listen for bird sounds.
Above all, ensure your hat fits comfortably. You don’t want to be constantly adjusting it or worrying about it slipping off. A chin strap can secure your hat in place, preventing it from blowing away on windy days. It’s also important that the hat doesn’t obstruct your view when using binoculars or impede your ability to turn your head easily when spotting birds.
Finally, ensure the hat is easy to clean and dries quickly, and make sure it won’t shrink in the dryer. A hat that requires minimal maintenance will make your birdwatching experience much more enjoyable.
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