While hat trends may come and go, one style has remained a constant for decades: the boonie hat. This timeless design has stood the test of time, but today it's often confused with its more modern counterpart—the bucket hat. At our store, we carry both styles and want to help clarify the pros and cons of each. So, what exactly sets a boonie hat apart from a bucket hat?
What is a Boonie Hat?
A boonie hat—also known as a bush hat or giggle hat in Australia—is a wide-brimmed sun hat originally designed for military use in hot, tropical climates. It features a stiffer brim than a bucket hat and often includes a fabric tape band with “branch loops” around the crown, intended for adding foliage as camouflage. Lightweight and breathable, the boonie hat offers excellent sun protection, helping keep your head cool and comfortable in harsh environments.
The name “boonie” is derived from “boondocks,” a term popularized by American service members during the Philippine-American War in 1899. Initially referring to remote or wild terrain, "boondocks" eventually became shorthand for any rugged, outdoor environment—hence the name "boonie hat."
What is a Bucket Hat?
A bucket hat is a soft-brimmed sun hat originally designed for fishing and other outdoor activities. Over time, it has evolved into a popular fashion accessory worn in both casual and urban settings.
Typically made from durable fabrics like cotton canvas, denim, or wool, the bucket hat features a downward-sloping brim and often includes metal eyelets for added ventilation. Its flexible design makes it easy to pack, while its simple shape and wide range of styles contribute to its lasting appeal. Some bucket hats are designed with a string at the back of the rim, allowing you to tie it under your chin.
String bucket hats were traditionally worn by Irish farmers and fishermen, to keep the rain off their heads. Because of its popularity in the 1960s, it also became associated with youth culture movements such as ska and punk rock.
What’s the Difference Between a Boonie Hat and a Bucket Hat?
While boonie hats and bucket hats may look similar at first glance, they are two distinct styles with key differences in design, structure, and functionality.
1. Shape
Bucket hats typically feature a soft, rounded crown and a short, downward-sloping brim. They're often made from a single piece of fabric and may include a drawstring or toggle at the back for a snug fit. Their minimal design gives them a casual, streetwear-friendly appearance.
Boonie hats, on the other hand, have a more rugged, utilitarian look. They feature a flat or slightly domed crown and a wider, full-brim that extends evenly around the hat. Boonie hats often include functional details like loops or snaps for attaching camouflage foliage or accessories, as well as a chin strap for a secure fit in windy conditions.
2. Brim
The brim is one of the most noticeable differences. Boonie hats have a stiffer, wider brim that can be shaped to suit different needs—offering better sun, rain, and brush protection. In contrast, bucket hats have a floppy, shorter brim that provides shade but less coverage overall. The flexibility of the bucket hat’s brim makes it more compact and fashion-forward, while the boonie hat’s rigidity enhances its outdoor performance.
Note: In military settings, modifying the brim of a boonie hat is typically prohibited, so check your branch's regulations before making any adjustments.
3. Outdoor Protection
Boonie hats are specifically designed for rugged environments. Their stiff brims and added features offer superior protection from sun, rain, and environmental elements like branches or debris. Bucket hats, while offering some sun protection, are not built for the same level of outdoor use. They’re better suited for light activities or everyday wear, rather than dense trails or extreme conditions.
