Arc'teryx Sinsolo Hat
Arc'teryx introduced the Sinsolo Hat (Model #23192) as a lightweight bucket hat for sun protection during hiking and outdoor activities. Weighing 40 grams, this hat is made from 100% polyester plain weave with UPF 50+ protection and a laminated brim that compresses flat for packing. Made in China at Zhongshan Weili Textile Co. The current Sinsolo Bucket Hat version (Model #X000009486) adds FC0 DWR treatment and a chin strap. Retail $50.
UPF 50+ Blocks Over 98% of UV Radiation
The UPF 50+ rating blocks over 98% of UV radiation, which is the highest sun protection rating available. I've worn this through full-day desert hikes in Texas when temperatures hit triple digits, and the brim shields my face and neck from direct sunlight without creating a sweat trap. The Circuit polyester breathes better than cotton bucket hats, which matters when you're generating heat on long climbs. The laminated brim holds its shape around the full circumference rather than flopping down. For comprehensive sun coverage, including neck protection, the Aerios Hat or the Sinsola (women's version) offers a wider brim.
How Does the Arc'teryx Sinsolo Hat Fit?
The hat comes in two sizes: S/M and L/XL. At just over 6 feet and 165 pounds, I wear S/M and find the stretch polyester conforms well without feeling tight. The fabric has enough give to accommodate a range of head shapes. Early versions lacked a chin strap, but the current Sinsolo Bucket Hat includes one for windy conditions. I rarely use the chin strap because the hat stays put on hikes, but it's useful on beach trips when gusts pick up. Some users find the sizing runs slightly small, so consider sizing up if you're between sizes or want a looser fit.
40 Grams and Fully Compressible
The 40-gram weight and fully compressible design make this ideal for travel and backpacking. I roll mine flat and stuff it in jacket pockets, backpack lids, or even jeans pockets without worrying about damaging the brim. The laminated construction pops back into shape after being compressed for hours. The Calvus Cap weighs slightly more at 49 grams but offers a different style for those who prefer brimmed caps over bucket hats. Both pack down small enough that carrying sun protection adds negligible weight to your kit.
FC0 DWR and Quick-Drying Circuit Polyester
The Circuit polyester wicks moisture away from my forehead and dries quickly after sweating through climbs. The current version includes FC0 DWR treatment, a PFAS-free water repellent that beads light rain without compromising breathability. The fabric is air-permeable, so heat doesn't build up underneath as it does with waterproof hats. I've machine-washed mine in a mesh bag on a gentle cycle, and it came out fine with no shape distortion. For dedicated rain protection, you'd want a hardshell cap, but this handles unexpected drizzles and sweat accumulation well.
Arc'teryx Sinsolo vs. Patagonia and Outdoor Research
The Patagonia Baggies Brimmer at $55 offers similar UPF 50+ protection with a slightly different aesthetic. The Outdoor Research Sun Bucket at $39 offers comparable performance at a lower price. Within Arc'teryx's lineup, the Sinsola (women's) offers a wider brim for more coverage, while the Aerios Hat provides a different silhouette. The Sinsolo's advantage is its combination of light weight, packability, and breathability in a simple bucket design.
Lightweight Sun Protection for Every Desert Hike
For a lightweight, packable bucket hat with solid sun protection, the Sinsolo delivers. The 40-gram weight means you'll never notice it in your pack, and the UPF 50+ rating provides real protection during long exposure. I take this on every desert hike and beach trip because it folds flat into any pocket. The $50 price is reasonable for Arc'teryx, though competitors offer similar performance for less. The current Bucket Hat version with a chin strap and FC0 DWR addresses earlier complaints about wind security and water resistance. Check Arc'teryx for current availability, or browse the complete headwear list for other options.