Colorado has a way of pulling you in with its magic. From winding scenic byways through the San Juans to natural hot springs tucked into quiet corners of the Rockies, the state is a year-round invitation to explore. But whether you’re cruising open roads or soaking in geothermal bliss, there’s one item you shouldn’t forget: a premium, well-crafted mountain hat.
Why Hats Are Essential for Sun Protection During Exploration
Mountain sun is no joke. With higher elevations comes stronger UV exposure, and if you’re spending hours on the road, hopping between hot springs, or pulling over for photo ops, your skin is at serious risk without proper sun protection.
A high-quality leather patch hat not only blocks the sun from your face but also offers breathable comfort and elevated style. Unlike sunscreen, you won’t have to reapply it every couple of hours, and it keeps your look clean and put together even after a long soak.
Features of Ideal Hats for Colorado’s Scenic Adventures
Whether you’re heading out for a summer loop around the Peak to Peak Byway or dipping into Glenwood Springs for the weekend, the right hat should do more than just look good. It should work for you.
Look for these key features:
- Sun protection: Wide or pre-curved bills to shield your face
- Breathability: Mesh backs or moisture-wicking materials for hot days
- Packability: For stuffing into bags between stops
- Durability: High-quality stitching and real leather that ages well
- Comfortable fit: Adjustable snaps or flexible webbing for all-day wear
Bonus points if your hat is made locally and reflects the terrain you’re traveling through—that’s the kind of authenticity that matters.
Outer Wings Picks: Best Hats for Exploring Colorado
At Outer Wings, every hat is handcrafted with adventure in mind. We blend subtle mountain style, clean leather patch designs, and functionality that performs on the road, in the hot springs, and beyond.
Here are our top picks for exploring Colorado’s scenic byways and hot springs:
1. The Fast Bike Hat (Richardson 935)
Perfect for road trips, this performance-driven trucker hat is lightweight, water-resistant, and packable—ideal for stuffing into your bag between hot springs.
- Low profile for comfort
- Quick-adjust webbing backstrap
- Available in colors like Teal/Orange and Charcoal/Cyan
- Designed for summer travel and active days
Check Out: Water-Resistant Hats
2. Moonlite Mountain Hat (Richardson 253)
A stylish men’s corduroy hat with a rugged mountain design that fits right in along Colorado’s classic byways. Looks just as good at Cottonwood Hot Springs as it does at a brewery in Buena Vista.
- Corduroy for cool evenings
- Clean mountain style
- Leather patch sewn on, not glued
Check Out: Men's Corduroy Hats
3. Mountain West Hat (Richardson 256)
This flat bill rope hat is made with UPF 50+ fabric for true sun protection. It’s breathable, lightweight, and ideal for both mountain hikes and post-soak lounging.
- Eco-friendly outdoor hat with low profile design
- Durable 70/30 cotton/nylon blend
- Available in versatile colorways
4. Summit Seeker (Imperial Rope Hat)
Nothing says Colorado like this imperial rope hat, perfect for adventurers hitting spots like Strawberry Park Hot Springs or the Million Dollar Highway.
- Premium structured fit
- Mountain scene leather patch
- Quick-drying, ideal for post-spring dips
5. Lost Pine Hat (Richardson 115)
A low profile hat with compass-and-trees patch design that fits the mood of backroad wandering. This is a timeless favorite for adventurers who want understated style with functional comfort.
- Real leather patch
- Available in SM and M/L
- Breathable mesh back
Check Out: Low Profile Trucker Hats
Q&A: Exploring Hats for Colorado Road Trips and Soaks
Q: What’s the best hat material for hot springs and summer drives?
A: Look for water-resistant performance fabric (like in the Richardson 935), mesh backs, and breathable cotton/nylon blends.
Q: Can I pack these hats without ruining them?
A: Yes! Hats like the Richardson 935 are foldable and bounce back easily. Corduroy and leather should be packed with care but can handle road trips.
Q: Do all Outer Wings hats have real leather patches?
A: Absolutely. We only use hand-picked, vegetable-tanned leather, laser-engraved and sewn on for long-lasting durability.
Q: Why leather patch hats for adventure?
A: Because they blend rugged durability with style that feels grounded and timeless—ideal for the Colorado way of life.
Ready for Your Own Colorado Escape?
Whether you're hitting the best hot springs in Colorado or driving scenic routes through alpine passes, Outer Wings has a leather patch trucker hat to match your journey.
We believe your gear should work as hard as you do—and look good doing it. So when you're planning your next Colorado escape, make sure your hat is up for the ride.
Shop the full Outer Wings collection here.