Best running caps and visors in 2023

Essential for keeping you cool during those hot summer runs, a handy running cap or visor will shade your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.

When choosing your running cap, look out for lightweight and sweat-wicking materials that will help keep your temperature down and sweat out of the eyes.

We’ve included both running caps and running visors here so you can find your preferred style for race day, training sessions and any other sunny day sporting activities.

In our roundup of the best running caps, you’ll find a mix of useful features including reflective details for safe evening running, as well as adjustable straps to fit all sizes. These picks are based on a combination of our own testing, in-depth research and analysis of user reviews.

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Best running caps 

Headsweats Race Hat

Best running cap for visibility 

Major American headwear brand Headsweats have countless options and colourways to pick from (including custom club choices). The Race Hat offers hi-visibility benefits thanks to the reflective piping and bright colours, so it’s a solid choice if you’re a fan of an early or late run and want to stay noticed.

There’s an adjustable strap for a snug and secure fit, and we’d expect its lean weight to make it a nice choice for a hot and sweaty training session. The integrated sweatband should also help prevent sweat from running into your eyes.

Orca Foldable Running Cap 

Best running cap for travel

The mesh side panels of this running cap aim to improve ventilation and breathability for those stuffy hot runs. There’s also a convenient band that’s designed to ensure your sunglasses stay securely in place while you run.

With a convenient three-flap folding design, this running cap could work well if you’re tight for kit bag or storage space, or if you want to tuck it into a pocket for when it’s needed.

2XU Run Cap

Classic design 

This triathlon cap is designed to be a useful and comfortable running accessory on a hot day thanks to its side air vents for increased breathability. The straightforward design has an adjustable strap and is also available in white, blue, pink and coral.

As an added bonus it’s machine washable, so you can keep your sweaty kit fresh.

Montane Coda Cap

Most fashionable design 

For a cool design with interesting colours, give this Montane running cap a try. Offering a moisture-wicking sweat band and made with fast drying material, this design is one for particularly sweaty runs.

The stretchy material is designed to provide flexibility, and the addition of reflective detail should help ensure you’re easily spotted by cars. If you’re not a fan of the colours, it’s available in black too.

Sweaty Betty Swiftie Running Cap

Best adjustable fit 

You can rely on Sweaty Betty for stylish running accessories and this running cap is sure to match your favourite running leggings and jackets with its sleek but classic look.

The elasticated, adjustable strap at the back aims to provide a personalised fit, and it’s another design featuring reflective details. Pop it on for a sunny run or a garden yoga session and keep the sun off your face and out of your eyes.

On Running Lightweight Running Cap

Best lightweight running cap 

This lightweight running cap features a soft sweatband and, as you can see in the picture, is designed to offer good ventilation. Despite its lightweight nature, it’s said to be a fairly durable and sturdy cap thanks to the tear-proof material. The one size should work for most as there’s a rear adjustable strap.

Kalenji Running Cap 

Best for those on a budget 

If you’re fed up of misplacing and losing expensive running caps or your jaw drops at the price of many other options, you might want a budget-friendly option. This affordable Kalenji running cap from Decathlon is recommended for those with a head size of 54cm to 58cm and there are various colours to choose from, including a vibrant orange.

The anti-UV fabric and quick drying properties should make it a top pick for summer training sessions.

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Best running visors 

Zone3 Race Visor

Most cooling 

The Zone3 Race Visor features an adjustable Velcro strap at the rear to help find the best fit. There’s a polyester mesh on the inside for breathability and a lining for sweat absorption. The curved peak is also adjustable for best fit.

Lomo Triathlon Running Visor

Best spare running cap 

Alongside the waft of the burger van or timing chips arriving in the post, sporting a running visor always feels like a sign of summer and race day, making us feel like a triathlete after an off-season of single-discipline pursuits. This Lomo running visor makes for an affordable kit bag spare or summer training companion.

The towelling does a fair job of wiping sweat from our brow, while the Velcro fastening system ensures it’ll fit the vast majority of head types. Sadly, it’s not as comfortable worn backwards when the sun is behind you, as the Velcro tab has a tendency to rub, while the 64g weight doesn’t stand up well when compared to other visors.

HUUB Running Visor 

Versatile choice  

As well as keeping the sun out of your eyes, visors are useful for wet race days too as they can protect you from the rain. Offering a lightweight and quick-drying design, pop this HUUB visor in your kit bag so you’re prepared for all weather.

A good-looking pick for the golf course, and a nice choice for a sport-filled weekend away.

Salomon Visor 

Best for secure fit 

This Salomon running visor offers a stretchy fit and features an adjustable buckle closure if you’re looking for an extra secure fit. Handy for long hair too, pop your hair in a high ponytail or bun while still protecting your face and eyes from the sun. The integrated sweatband should keep sweat off your face, and at just 51g it’s nice and light.

It’s also claimed it’ll stay securely on without giving you a headache – great for lengthy training sessions or race days when you’re out for a long period.

For more sunny weather running gear, take a look at the best running accessories and the best lightweight towels.