Colorado is a state full of diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the vibrant atmosphere of Red Rocks Amphitheatre, every corner of Colorado offers a unique experience. But no matter where you’re headed, there’s one thing every Coloradan needs: the perfect hat.
In this blog, we’ll take you through some of Colorado’s most iconic destinations and share why having a great selection of Colorado hats can elevate your experience (and your style). We’ll also toss in a few recommendations from Outer Wings’ collection to help you gear up in true Colorado fashion.
Rocky Mountain National Park: Conquer the Peaks in Style
Why a Hat is Essential: With over 300 miles of hiking trails and altitudes that reach up to 14,259 feet at Longs Peak, the sun is no joke here. The higher you go, the stronger those UV rays get, and nobody wants to head back to the campsite with a sunburned scalp. That’s why you need a mountain hat that offers both sun protection and comfort.
Suggested Hat: Try the Mountain West Hat. This rugged leather patch hat is built for high-altitude adventures, offering a structured fit and UPF 50+ sun protection. It’s perfect for long hikes and summit selfies.
Travel Tip: Always start your hikes early in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and bring plenty of water. Oh, and don’t forget to pose with your hat against a backdrop of alpine lakes or towering peaks for an epic Instagram post!
Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Rock Your Hat in the Rocks
Why a Hat is Essential: Red Rocks Amphitheatre isn’t just a music venue; it’s an experience. With its natural acoustics and dramatic red sandstone formations, it’s the perfect place to show off your best Colorado hat. The sun can be intense during daytime shows or events, and the temperatures can drop quickly at night, making a versatile hat a must-have.
Suggested Hat: The Lost Pine Hat is an excellent choice here. Its mesh back keeps you cool during sunny afternoon concerts, while the structured build and leather patch give it that classic Colorado look.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure good parking and seating, and pack a hat that not only looks stylish but also keeps the sun out of your eyes. For bonus points, grab a pic of your hat framed against those iconic red rocks!
Aspen Slopes: Stay Warm and Look Cool on the Slopes
Why a Hat is Essential: Whether you’re skiing down Aspen’s famous slopes or sipping hot cocoa at a chalet, you’ll want a Colorado hat that provides warmth and style. A hat that transitions seamlessly from the slopes to the lodge is a game-changer.
Suggested Hat: The Gondola Hat, with its winter-themed leather patch and water-resistant Imperial Rope Hat build, is perfect for Aspen. It’s both functional and stylish, making it ideal for high-altitude snow adventures.
Travel Tip: Layer up, bring your hat, and don’t forget your sunglasses! Aspen’s sunny slopes are bright, and a hat with a good visor can help reduce glare while keeping your head warm. Pair it with a down jacket and you’ve got that effortless Colorado mountain chic look.
Great Sand Dunes National Park: A Hat to Handle the Heat
Why a Hat is Essential: The Great Sand Dunes are breathtaking and surreal, but they’re also incredibly hot. The sandy terrain reflects sunlight like crazy, making a good hat essential for comfort and protection.
Suggested Hat: The Active Mountain Hat is your go-to here. It’s lightweight, breathable, and has a collapsible visor for easy packing—perfect for wandering the dunes or sledding down those giant sand hills.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the extreme midday heat. Snap a photo of your hat against the sweeping dunes for an unforgettable travel memory!
Garden of the Gods: Shade for Sun and Style for Photos
Why a Hat is Essential: The striking rock formations of Garden of the Gods make it a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and photographers alike. The intense sun can be harsh, so a hat that provides shade and style is a must.
Suggested Hat: The Alpine Wings Hat features a high-profile fit that pairs well with the tall red rock spires. It’s a classic Colorado mesh hat that offers breathability and comfort for long days exploring the park.
Travel Tip: Bring your camera! Garden of the Gods offers some of the best photo opportunities in Colorado. Capture the beauty of the rocks and showcase your hat in front of this natural wonder.
Telluride: A Hat for High Altitude Festivals and Fun
Why a Hat is Essential: Telluride’s elevation and weather variability make it necessary to pack a hat that’s adaptable to different conditions. Whether you’re at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival or hiking Bridal Veil Falls, you’ll want a hat that combines style with function.
Suggested Hat: The Desert Mountain Hat is a solid pick. Its breathable cotton build and leather patch design make it a great companion for high-altitude activities and festival fun.
Travel Tip: Don’t let the altitude catch you off guard—stay hydrated, wear your hat, and be ready for changing conditions. You might get sun, wind, and rain all in one day!
Breckenridge: Hats for Hikes, Biking, and Brews
Why a Hat is Essential: Breckenridge is a year-round playground, from skiing in the winter to mountain biking in the summer. A Colorado hat that can keep up with all your adventures is a must.
Suggested Hat: The Sky Diamond Hat is perfect for this vibrant mountain town. Its low profile and moisture-wicking sweatband make it great for active pursuits, while the leather patch adds a touch of Colorado flair for brewery visits post-adventure.
Travel Tip: Visit the Breckenridge Distillery or Broken Compass Brewery for a post-ride drink. Your stylish hat is sure to get some compliments from fellow adventurers.
Final Thoughts: Your Colorado Hat is More Than Just an Accessory
Your Colorado hats aren’t just there to protect you from the elements—they’re part of your Colorado identity. Whether you’re trekking through the Rockies, chilling at Red Rocks, or exploring Aspen’s snowy peaks, a great hat adds to your experience and showcases your love for this beautiful state.
Ready to upgrade your hat collection? Check out Outer Wings’ selection of performance-ready and stylish Colorado hats that are built for every adventure, from the Rockies to Red Rocks!