We wait for summer with longing. Beautiful weather, holiday trips, shining sun – something we crave deeply after long, cooler periods. However, sunshine isn't only about producing the vitamin D we need and lack, or lying pleasantly on the beach. It also brings the harmful effects of the sun in the form of dangerous ultraviolet radiation – UVA and UVB. UVA radiation accounts for as much as 95% of ultraviolet radiation and is with us all year round, responsible for premature skin ageing. UVB ultraviolet radiation has a significant impact on our health, even though it makes up only a few percent of the radiation that reaches the earth.

Ultraviolet radiation – why should you be careful?

UVB radiation is particularly harmful to us in summer. It can lead to sunburn. We are most exposed to its adverse effects during summer between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. It's worth avoiding strong sun exposure during this time. In summer, proper skin protection is also essential to minimise the negative effects of UV radiation. This includes using sunscreen, avoiding staying in the sun for too long and, most importantly, wearing an appropriate summer hat.

Blue baseball cap

Summer hat – why is it essential in summer?

With prolonged sun exposure, lack of head protection in the form of a summer hat can be dangerous. The head is particularly exposed to temperature changes, so it needs special care. Not wearing a hat during prolonged sun exposure can result not only in painful sunburn, but even sunstroke. Children in particular are exposed to unpleasant conditions related to being in the sun – they are more delicate and their skin is more sensitive. It's them we need to take particular care of. See how to choose a summer hat to protect your little one.

Summer hats – advantages

Summer hats are not just a nice addition to an outfit. Above all, they are an essential element of summer clothing meant to protect the child. A good summer hat will protect against overheating, shield the face from the sun's rays and protect the eyes from glare. This is not only unpleasant but also dangerous and can damage eyesight. Children hate having the sun shine in their eyes, so a summer hat should protect them from this. Summer headwear is also beneficial for the scalp, protecting it from drying out, and even for hair, which also doesn't like excessive exposure to sunlight. The sun damages it, drying it out and making it weaker.

Powder pink wide-brim hat and blue girls' wide-brim hat

Types of summer hats for children

Among summer hats, you can find many types and models. These include summer baseball caps, hats with ear flaps, and hats with a neck flap. Among summer headwear, you can also find various types of hats. Hats are designed for children of all ages – from the youngest to teenagers. Everyone should take care of proper protection. Summer baseball caps will protect the face and head from UV exposure, peaks are useful when you need better ventilation, but are recommended mainly for short periods in the sun, as they shade the eyes well but don't protect the head. Hats, thanks to having a brim, protect the face better and provide more shade, as it is arranged all around the head. Meanwhile, hats with a so-called neck flap, e.g. red boys' hat with a neck flap, and for girls too, will protect the head, neck and ears. This is an excellent model that ensures full protection from the sun.

White children's hat with a neck flap

Hat material – summer cotton hat, muslin, or maybe synthetic?

A summer hat should be light and breathable. A thinner fabric will dry faster. A good choice is a summer cotton hat – natural materials such as cotton work perfectly for summer models. Cotton is characterised by softness, absorbency and breathability. Synthetic hats, although they look very good, can cause the head to sweat, and as a result discourage wearing a summer hat. It's worth checking the composition before choosing and selecting natural, tried-and-tested materials that ensure comfort. The colour of a summer hat also matters. White reflects sunlight, so it doesn't heat up as much as, for example, black or other dark colours. Black, on the other hand, absorbs almost all radiation, which isn't the best choice, as such a model heats up quickly. A great example of functional summer headwear is the white girls' wide-brim hat. It meets all requirements.

A summer hat must be the right size

Be sure to check out: Hat sizes for children – how to choose a baseball cap that fits well on the head?

An uncomfortable summer hat is the bane of every child. They feel uncomfortable in it, so they're reluctant to put it on, while parents insist on them wearing it. It's therefore worth focusing on choosing the right size. Hats with adjustable circumference work perfectly well. Such summer hats can be better fitted to the shape and size of the head. With us, you'll find summer baseball caps with a Velcro adjustment. It's also worth paying attention to the peak – it should be well reinforced. An example is the grey baseball cap. Ties can also help with proper size adjustment. Hats with ties help keep the summer hat in place, even during intense play. The child won't be able to pull it off themselves, and it won't slip. Summer hats with ties include, for example, the boys' and girls' hat with a neck flap, or the light violet baby hat with ties.

Choosing a summer hat doesn't have to be difficult. Just remember that the hat must provide children with comfort and proper protection. It's best to choose models made from natural materials and remember about the right cut of headwear. Wearing a summer hat can be enjoyable, and with the right choice, the child won't avoid it.