A bucket hat is a soft, round hat with a brim that slopes down. It started as practical headwear for farmers and fishermen to protect them from the sun and rain. Early versions were also called a fisherman’s hat, an Irish country hat, or a session hat in different regions.
Over time, it became popular in everyday fashion. People wear it because it is simple, lightweight, and easy to style with almost any casual outfit.
Let’s see how this hat went from practical to popular.
History and Origin of Bucket Hats
The origin of bucket hats goes back to the early 1900s in Ireland, where farmers and fishermen needed something light, foldable, and practical to protect them from rain and sun.
They used wool or tweed because these fabrics were durable and water-resistant. The wide brim kept the rain off the face and neck, and the soft shape made it easy to fold and tuck into a coat pocket. Back then, it was all about function, not fashion.
Modern representation of a fisherman wearing a bucket-style hat (not an actual 1900s photo)
By the 1930s and 1940s, soldiers adopted a similar hat for military use. These hats, later called boonie hats, were made from cotton or nylon and had small holes on the sides for airflow. The foldable shape and wide brim made them practical for long hours outdoors. This military use became a turning point in bucket hat history, proving that the simple design worked just as well in the field as it did for everyday wear.
In the 1960s, bucket hats moved from farms and battlefields into casual life. People wore them for fishing, beach trips, or summer outings. Lighter fabrics and a range of colors made the hats comfortable and easy to wear for everyday use. It gradually appeared in magazines, music videos, and on TV. By the 1970s, bucket hats were popular across Europe and the United States, becoming a casual accessory.
The 1980s and 1990s made bucket hats a style piece. Hip-hop artists like LL Cool J and Run-DMC often wore them. Brands like Kangol made the hats fashionable. People started experimenting with bright colors and patterns. At this point, the hat was both practical and fashionable.
In the early 2000s, bucket hats became less popular in mainstream fashion. Many thought they looked outdated, though they were still useful for outdoor activities, sports, and travel.
The 2010s and 2020s brought a comeback. Designers and brands updated the fabrics, patterns, and colors. Celebrities and influencers wore them at festivals and in casual streetwear. Social media helped make them visible again. This explains why bucket hats are so popular now.
Today, bucket hats are worn by people of all ages. They work for sun protection, casual outfits, and even high-fashion looks. Bucket hats have lasted over a century because they combine comfort, practicality, and style. Whether used for outdoor protection or as a fashion choice, they remain a versatile and reliable hat.
Bucket hats show how simple designs became popular over time. To learn more about how hats evolved, read our guide on the evolution of hats.
What Are Bucket Hats Used For
Bucket hats are mainly used for sun protection, casual wear, and outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, gardening, or going to the beach. Their wide brims keep your face and neck covered from the sun, rain, and wind, making them practical for spending time outside.
Because they are soft and foldable, you can easily carry them while traveling or for everyday use. People also wear them as a simple fashion piece, pairing well with jeans, t-shirts, streetwear, or summer outfits. Overall, a bucket hat is an easy, practical, and relaxed hat for many situations.
Parts of a Bucket Hat
A complete diagram showing the inside and outside parts of a bucket hat, including the crown, brim, binding, sweatband, and chin strap.
A bucket hat seems simple, but it has a few parts that make a big difference in how it fits and feels. Let’s go over them one by one.
Crown
This is the top part of the hat that covers your head. It’s usually soft and not too stiff, so it sits comfortably without feeling tight. The height of the crown can change the look a bit. A taller crown feels more casual, while a lower one gives a neater shape.
Brim
The brim is the wide part that goes all around the hat. It protects your face and neck from the sun or light rain. Some brims are short and straight, others are wider or slightly floppy. A good brim keeps its shape but still bends easily when you fold the hat.
Ventilation Holes / Eyelets
You’ll often see small holes or metal rings on the sides of the crown. These are called eyelets, and they help air move through so your head doesn’t get too warm. Some bucket hats skip them, but they’re nice to have for breathability, especially on hot days.
Sweatband
Inside the hat, there’s a soft band that rests against your forehead. It helps the hat sit comfortably and keeps sweat away from your eyes. A well-made inner band makes a big difference, especially if you wear the hat for long hours.
Chin Strap or Adjustable Strap
Some bucket hats come with a chin strap or an adjustable cord. It helps keep the hat in place when it’s windy or when you’re outdoors. It’s a handy feature for hiking, fishing, or any outdoor activity where you don’t want your hat flying off.
Binding
The fabric sewn along the edge of the brim is called binding. It keeps the edge from wearing out and helps the brim hold its shape. It also gives the hat a clean finish and adds strength where it’s needed most.
Loops
Some hats have small loops stitched around the crown or brim. They’re there for a reason. You can clip on small gear like sunglasses, hang your hat, or use them for decoration. This idea originally came from old military and field hats.
Seam Tape
Some hats have tape on the inside where the fabric panels join together. It helps block water from getting in and makes the seams stronger. You’ll find this more often on outdoor or rain bucket hats.
Seam and Stitching
The seams and stitching hold the whole hat together. Neat and even stitching shows good craftsmanship. A hat with solid stitching will last longer, keep its shape, and handle folding or packing without losing form.
If you want to understand the structure of hats in general, you can read our detailed guide on Parts of a Hat.
Common Materials Used in Bucket Hats
Bucket hats are made from many types of fabric, and each one has its own purpose. The material decides how the hat handles heat, rain, and wear over time. Here are a few materials you’ll come across most often.
Cotton
Cotton is the most common fabric for bucket hats. It’s soft, lightweight, and lets air move through easily, which makes it great for warm weather. Cotton hats are also easy to fold and carry, so they’re perfect for travel or everyday use.
Canvas
Canvas is thicker and stronger than regular cotton. It holds its shape well and can handle rough use. That’s why canvas bucket hats are often worn for outdoor work, hiking, or camping. They’re tough, reliable, and made to last.
Nylon or Polyester
These materials are often used for bucket hats made for rain or outdoor activities. They’re lightweight, dry fast, and don’t absorb much water. Hats made from nylon or polyester are good for wet or humid weather, and they usually give better sun protection, too.
Denim
Denim bucket hats are more about style. The fabric is heavier and gives the hat a relaxed, cool look. They fit well with casual or streetwear outfits, and they last a long time if cared for properly.
Terry Cloth
Terry cloth feels soft and towel-like. It’s often used for summer or beach hats because it absorbs moisture well. These hats have a casual, laid-back vibe, perfect for pool days or vacations.
Each fabric gives a slightly different look and comfort level. Some are better for the heat, some handle rough weather, and some are just for looks. What matters most is where you’ll wear it and what you need it for.
Different Types of Bucket Hats
Bucket hats come in a few main styles, and each one has its own use and look. These are some of the most popular bucket hats you’ll find today.
Bucket hat with Band
This style has a fabric band stitched around the crown. It gives the hat a simple, clean look and helps it keep its shape. Most have small holes on the side for ventilation. They’re comfortable, easy to wear, and simple to fold or pack.
Flat-Top Bucket Hat
The flat-top version has a straight crown instead of a rounded one. It looks a bit firmer and modern. People usually wear it with casual or sporty clothes. It’s a good choice if you like a neat, structured shape. Among the different styles of bucket hats, this one stands out with its sharp, clean look that works well with urban and streetwear outfits.
Round-Top Bucket Hat
This is the classic bucket hat design. It has a soft, rounded crown and a wide brim that tilts slightly down. It’s easy to wear anywhere, and you can fold it up to keep in your bag.
Bucket Hat with String
This one comes with a chin strap or adjustable cord that helps the hat stay in place when it’s windy. It’s great for outdoor trips, hiking, or fishing. The string makes it practical without changing its simple look. Many people use this style as a rain hat or picnic hat because it stays secure and gives good shade.
Reversible Bucket Hat
A reversible bucket hat has two usable sides. You can flip it over for a different color or pattern, which makes it feel like two hats in one. It’s light, easy to pack, and handy for travel or daily wear.
These are some common bucket hat styles. If you want to see more hats and how they look, take a look at our guide on different kinds of hats.
When to Wear Bucket Hats
Bucket hats can be worn almost anywhere. They’re great for sunny days, walks, or casual outings. Many people use them for hiking, fishing, or outdoor trips since the brim gives shade and light rain protection.
They’re also perfect for travel because they fold easily and don’t take up much space. Cotton or terry cloth hats work well at the beach or pool, keeping you cool and comfortable. Some wear them just for style, as they add a relaxed, casual look to any outfit.
How to Wear a Bucket Hat
Wearing a bucket hat is simple once you know a few things from experience.
Pick the Right Material for the Weather
Choose a hat that fits the weather. Lightweight cotton or nylon works best on hot days because it keeps your head cool. For cold or rainy days, go for wool, fleece, or a water-resistant hat to stay comfortable.
Make Sure the Hat Fits Your Head Properly
It should sit comfortably above your eyebrows and not squeeze or slip. A proper fit makes a big difference, especially if you wear it for long hours outdoors. If you’re not sure about your head size, you can quickly measure it at home using this simple guide on how to find your hat size.
Put the Hat on Correctly
When putting it on, hold the brim, place it gently on your head, and adjust it until it feels right. You can wear it straight for a clean look or tilt it a little forward, backward, or to the side for a casual style. It should feel secure without pressing too hard.
Choose a Hat That Complements Your Outfit
Think about your outfit too. Bucket hats go well with casual clothes like t-shirts, hoodies, shorts, or summer dresses.
If your hat is patterned or bright, keep the rest of your outfit simple. Plain hats work well if your outfit has bold pieces. You can also play with colors.
Dress Your Hat for the Season
In summer, pair it with light clothes and bright colors. In winter, wear it with jackets or layers. On rainy days, a waterproof hat with a raincoat works best.
Keep Accessories Minimal
Bucket hats already draw attention, so avoid heavy scarves or flashy jewelry. A simple outfit helps the hat look natural.
Wear It with Confidence
The key to wearing a bucket hat is comfort and confidence. If it feels good on your head and suits your outfit, it will look right.
With these tips, you can wear a bucket hat with confidence. But if you’d like more general advice, here’s a guide on how to wear a hat properly.
Are Bucket Hats Still in Style in 2025
Yes! Bucket hats are still in style in 2025. They’re no longer just for sun protection or outdoor activities; they’ve become a popular fashion item for all ages.
They work well with casual outfits, streetwear, and outdoor looks. Their simple, relaxed design makes them easy to wear with t-shirts, hoodies, shorts, or layered jackets.
Trends come and go, but bucket hats remain popular because they are comfortable, versatile, and easy to style.
Bucket Hat vs Boonie Hat: What’s the Difference?
A bucket hat has a soft, downward-sloping brim and is made for casual wear or light outdoor use. It’s comfortable, easy to fold, and looks good with everyday outfits.
A boonie hat is more rugged. It usually has a wider brim, a chin strap, and better ventilation. It’s built for hiking, camping, or rough outdoor conditions.
Simply put, bucket hats are for style and comfort, and boonie hats are for durability and protection.
Bucket Hat vs Fisherman Hat
Bucket hats and fisherman hats look alike, but there are small differences.
A fisherman’s hat usually has a slightly longer brim and is made from water-resistant materials. It’s meant for fishing, water activities, or wet weather.
A bucket hat is softer and more flexible. It’s made for casual wear, travel, and everyday outdoor use.
In short, fisherman hats are practical for water and protection, while bucket hats are versatile for style and comfort.
The Bottom Line
Bucket hats started as practical gear for farmers and fishermen, but over time, they became a popular fashion accessory. Today, people of all ages wear them for sun protection, casual outfits, and outdoor activities.
Experts also recommend sun hats to protect your skin from UV rays, and bucket hats are often highlighted for being comfortable, functional, and stylish at the same time.
If you want a hat that’s easy to wear, versatile, and practical, a bucket hat is a reliable choice for both style and sun protection.
FAQs About Bucket Hats
Why is it called a bucket hat?
It’s called a bucket hat because of its shape. The soft, downward-sloping brim reminds people of an old metal bucket. Back when these hats were first used, the name just stuck.
Why are bucket hats so popular?
Bucket hats are popular because they’re simple, comfortable, and versatile. Over the years, they’ve been worn by farmers, soldiers, and now by people in streetwear and casual fashion. They work for sun protection, outdoor activities, or just as a style choice.
What fabric is best for a bucket hat?
It depends on how you plan to use it. For hot days, cotton or nylon feels light and breathable. If you’re heading to the beach, a terry cloth hat is comfortable. For rain or outdoor use, water-resistant fabrics like polyester or canvas do the job.
Are bucket hats waterproof?
Most bucket hats aren’t fully waterproof. But some outdoor or travel versions use water-resistant materials that keep you dry in light rain. If you need full rain protection, look for hats labeled “waterproof.”
Are bucket hats unisex?
Absolutely. The shape works for everyone—men, women, teens. There’s no restriction, which is why you’ll see all kinds of people wearing them.
What is the purpose of a bucket hat?
Bucket hats were first made to protect the head and face from sun and rain. Over time, people also started wearing them for style. Today, they give sun protection and add a casual, relaxed look to any outfit.
