Men's Trail Running Caps & Headbands

Why choose a trail running cap?

Whether you're into trail running in the mountains or road running, the cap is an essential accessory. Too often neglected, it plays an essential role in maintaining comfort, managing perspiration and protecting against the sun or bad weather.

Whether it's a well-ventilated trucker model, a covering safari jacket designed for ultra tours, or a minimalist, performance-oriented cap, each type of cap meets specific needs depending on the terrain, the weather and the style of race.

Brands such as Salomon, Ciele, Hoka and Buff offer technical, comfortable, well-fitting caps, with models to suit every body shape, whether you're looking for a men's or women's cap , in your favourite colours. Some offer an unobstructed view for better concentration during exercise, while others focus on breathability and lightness.

 But why opt specifically for a trail running cap? That's what we explain here.

The benefits of running caps

Wearing a cap suitable for running isn't just a question of style. It's all about performance, practicality and protection. Whether you're running or trail running, a cap wicks away perspiration, regulates body temperature and keeps your head dry thanks to technical, breathable materials. It also protects against the sun and sunstroke: the trail cap, also known as a cap in the running world, covers the head and face, limiting exposure to UV rays. Caps also prevent long hair from falling into your eyes during the race, which can be annoying over long distances. Some are fitted with reflective strips, like those on shoes or clothing, for added safety when running at night, for example. Finally, some caps even have mesh zones for maximum ventilation during exercise.

The fabrics used in these caps are also quick-drying, so you can maintain optimum comfort even when you're sweating heavily or in wet conditions. 

Sun protection and optimum comfort

One of the primary roles of a trail running cap is to protect you from the sun. A well-designed visor reduces glare, protects the eyes and face from UV rays and improves concentration. It can also be used as a barrier against light rain or low branches on a technical course in the forest.

When it comes to comfort, the latest trail caps feature ultra-light fabrics, ergonomic fit and absorbent inner bands. The result is a second-skin feel, even over long distances. A cap is one of the most practical accessories when it comes to long-term sun protection.

The different types of cap available

There is a wide range of caps to suit all running and trail activities. Some of the most popular are trucker hats, which provide ventilation for hot runs, and visor hats, ideal for protection from the sun while ensuring good vision. If you're looking for the perfect fit, most caps have adjustable systems (drawstrings, buckles, Velcro, clips) to ensure optimum support, whatever your head size.

The caps available also vary in colour, allowing you to choose a model that matches your running clothes while offering good protection. On sale at the best prices, for everything from training sessions to ultra-racing, you'll find a model to suit your needs.

Sub-Saharan caps, with their wide brims and sometimes neck protectors, are designed for extreme heat conditions. They offer extensive coverage against the sun, which is particularly useful for long runs in high temperatures.

There are also race cap models that stand out for their light weight and performance-oriented construction. Ultra-ventilated and made from technical fabrics, perfect for runners looking for a minimalist, effective accessory for fast runs. The race cap, available from brands such as Hoka and NNormal, offers excellent support while optimising ventilation.

Headbands, meanwhile, are a perfect alternative for managing sweat while remaining light and discreet. They are particularly popular for trail running, where they keep your head cool while preventing perspiration and obstructing your view, in the colour of your choice.

Curved visor caps

The curved visor cap is without doubt the most popular among runners, both men and women. It provides good protection against the sun, improves vision by limiting glare and stays in place, even during an intense run. You'll find it on brands like Salomon, Ciele, Buff, NNormal and Hoka, with adjustable models that adapt to your head size. Made from lightweight, breathable fabric that wicks away perspiration. Available in the model and colour of your choice. It's a good compromise between comfort and efficiency, whether you're trail running or running, and it's available at the right price.

Often paired with a choker in cold weather or with other technical clothing, the cap completes the runner's equipment by providing a real plus in terms of comfort and efficiency.

Trucker and Saharan caps

The trucker models come from the caps worn by American truckers in the 1970s, hence the name "trucker". This type of cap, recognisable by its curved peak and back mesh, quickly won over runners looking for comfort and freshness. Widely used in running, the trucker cap is ideal for hot weather thanks to its effective ventilation, and is available in both men's and women's models. Saharan caps, meanwhile, are inspired by the protective clothing worn in desert regions. Their wide visor and lightweight fabric provide protection from the sun and bad weather, while ensuring good air circulation during a trail run. These accessories offer optimum protection for long outings in the heat.

How to choose the right cap for trail running

Choosing a trail cap isn't just a question of style. You need to take into account criteria such as size, fit and weather conditions to find the model best suited to your outings.

Size and fit

Most brands offer sizes S/M or M/L, corresponding to a specific head size, often indicated on the product sheets. So it's important to measure your head size to choose the most comfortable size, to avoid compressing your head. A number of brands such as Salomon, NNormal, The North Face, Buff, Ciele and Hoka have size guides available on our website.

Some models have adjustable fastenings: Velcro, clip or buckle. The choice depends on each rider's preferences, but all these options provide a good fit without impeding movement.

Depending on weather conditions

The weather has a direct influence on your choice of cap. In hot weather, lightweight, breathable and quick-drying materials are preferable to limit the build-up of perspiration. A light weight is also a real plus for long distances, especially ultra-trails. A Saharan cap can also be a good choice.

For more inclement weather, some caps are designed with water-repellent or windproof fabrics. The aim is to keep your head dry without weighing down your equipment. The right choice of fabric means you stay protected without compromising comfort.

Cap or headband: which should you choose?

The choice between caps and headbands depends on your priorities during the run. A cap, such as those offered by The North Face, Compressport, Salomon or Hoka, helps to keep your vision clear by limiting glare, while protecting your head, face and sometimes even your neck if you wear it backwards. It helps to manage perspiration and provides good support thanks to an adjustment system tailored to your head size. Headbands are preferred for their lightness, quick-drying properties and ability to absorb sweat without covering the whole head. They are particularly effective for trail running, especially in moderate heat.

Both options vary in price, and each model is available in a sober or brighter colour to match your running gear, depending on the choice you're looking for.

How do you care for your trail cap?

A trail running cap, especially one made from lightweight technical fabrics, needs to be properly cared for to maintain its breathability, quick-drying properties and comfort. Whether it's an ultra-light Compressport cap, a Saharan model or a minimalist race cap, there are a few simple things you can do to extend its life.

1. Always read the care label
   Each brand, whether Salomon, Buff, Ciele, NNormal, Compressport or Hoka, uses specific materials. First and foremost, check the recommendations on the label: some caps cannot be machine-washed, while others require special care. This is the best way to avoid unpleasant surprises.
2. Hand wash or machine wash on gentle cycle
   Avoid high temperatures. Wash cold or at 30°C maximum on a gentle cycle. Use a washing net if you are going to machine wash it, to preserve the shape of the visor.
3. Air drying only
   Never put your cap in the tumble dryer. Technical materials can deform or lose their elasticity. Lay it flat in the shade to preserve its colours and fibres.
4. No fabric softener or bleach
   These products can alter the breathability of the fabric by clogging the microfibres. All you need is a mild soap for effective cleaning without damaging the material.
5. Avoid folding it too frequently
   Some running caps can be folded, but for those with a rigid or pre-shaped peak, it's best to avoid twisting them in a bag. Careful storage keeps them looking and feeling their best.

Good care ensures that your cap remains light, effective and pleasant to wear, even after several seasons of effort. And that's also a question of performance.

Finally, choosing the right cap, whether for running or trail running, is important to optimise your comfort and performance. With a wide range of models, colours and brands including Salomon, NNormal, Hoka, Buff, Ciele, Compressport and The North Face, you'll find the right accessory for your needs. Don't forget to add chokers or headbands for optimum comfort. Find the cap that's right for you at the best price and improve your performance now at Snowleader.