Why Low Profile Hats Are Perfect for Hiking and Everyday Wear
What Is a Low Profile Hat?
[Updated: 11/6/25]: A low profile hat has a shorter crown height and sits closer to your head than medium or high profile styles. High profile trucker hats have the tallest crown and a more structured front. If you want a hat that feels secure on windy ridges and won’t bump your sunglasses, low profile is a smart pick.
Low Profile vs. Medium vs. High Profile
| Profile | Crown Height & Feel | Best For | Outer Wings Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Profile | Shorter crown, closer fit, sleek front | Hiking, windy days, smaller heads, modern look | Low Profile Hats | Mountain West (256) | Tidal Wave (115) |
| Medium Profile | Balanced height, classic trucker feel | Everyday wear, most head shapes | Richardson 112 Trucker Hats |
| High Profile | Taller crown, more room up front | Bold look, flat bill styles, street and lifestyle |
What Makes a Good Hiking Hat?
A great trail hat should check these boxes:
- Comfort and Fit: Snug, secure feel so it stays put on climbs.
- Breathability: Mesh panels or moisture-managing fabrics for airflow.
- Sun Protection: Solid front coverage and a bill that shades your face.
- Water Resistance: Quick-dry materials for passing showers and sweat.
- Lightweight Build: Packs down in a bag without losing shape.
- Durability: Rugged, trail-ready materials that last.
See our trail picks here: Lightweight Water-Resistant Hats for Hiking.
Low Profile Hiking Picks
- Richardson 935 Performance: Lightweight, water-resistant, packable, quick adjust webbing. Try Paddle & Chill (935).
- Richardson 256 Rope Hat: Low profile with UPF 50+, clean rope detail, great trail-to-town. See Mountain West (256) or Ridgeline (256).
- Richardson 115 Low Profile Trucker: Sleek fit with mesh back for airflow. A popular option is Tidal Wave (115)
- Richardson 217 Camper Hat: Low Profile 5 panel hat with flat bill and adjustable strap. See our Camper Hat Collection
- Richardson 225 Performance Hat: Low profile hat with water-resistant fabric and adjustable Velcro strap. A popular option is Mountain Tee - Golf Hat
Trail-Ready Materials and Fits
If you hike in heat or humidity, lean toward performance fabrics and breathable backs. The 935 and 256 cover most needs. If you like the classic trucker feel but want a lower crown, the 115 is a simple upgrade.
Q&A
Q: What is the best Outer Wings hat for hiking?
A: For pure performance, the Richardson 935. For a low profile rope style with UPF 50+, try Mountain West (256) or Ridgeline (256).
Q: What is the difference between low profile and a standard trucker?
A: Low profile has a shorter, closer crown. Standard truckers in our lineup are mid profile. If you like a modern, closer fit, start with Low Profile Hats.
Explore More
Compare breathable trail options on our dedicated page: Lightweight Water-Resistant Hats for Hiking. If you already know you want a closer crown, browse Low Profile Hats or build your own with the Custom Hat Builder.
[Link to related blog: Low vs High Profile Hats: What’s the Difference?]
