Technicals Cap

Finding the Perfect Outdoor Cap for Your Adventures

As an avid hiker and trail runner, a good cap is one of my most essential pieces of gear. It keeps the sun out of my eyes, wicks away sweat on long slogs uphill, and adds a touch of style to my wilderness adventures. Lately I’ve been wearing the Technicals Cap and wanted to share my thoughts in this in-depth buying guide.

I’ve tried all kinds of hats and caps over the years from cheap cotton caps that fall apart after a few uses to overly expensive designer brands that don’t perform any better. The Technicals Cap hits that sweet spot between quality, performance and price that’s perfect for the demanding needs of hikers, climbers, runners and anyone else who spends long hours outdoors.

After putting this cap through the wringer on dozens of hikes and runs this summer, I can confidently say it’s become my new go-to headwear for all adventures. Keep reading for my full review of the features, performance, and where to get the best deals on the Technicals Cap.

Key Features of the Technicals Cap

The best caps for outdoor activities need to be lightweight, breathable, adjustable and durable. The Technicals Cap checks all those boxes and has a few bonus features that make it really stand out from the average running or hiking cap.

Some of the key features I love about this cap:

• Water-resistant fabric – The cap is made of a polyester micro ripstop fabric that beads water and dries extremely fast. It kept my head dry in everything from surprise rain showers to profuse sweating.
• UPF 50+ sun protection – The fabric provides excellent UV protection to guard your face and ears against the sun’s harmful rays. It’s a must-have for all day exposure.
• Adjustable snapback closure – The cap fits all head sizes thanks to an adjustable plastic snapback closure. Getting a perfect fit is easy.
• Lightweight – At just 60 grams the Technicals Cap is so light you’ll barely notice you’re wearing it. Much better than a heavy cotton hat drooping on your head.
• Mesh ventilation panels – Strategically placed mesh panels keep air flowing and your head cool when temperatures rise.
• Reflective logo – The reflective logo on the front ensures you’re visible in low light conditions and adds stylistic flair.
• Foldable – The cap folds down small to stash in your pack or pocket. It pops back to shape in no time.

Those key features really make the Technicals Cap stand out as the ideal outdoor activity hat. But how does it actually perform on the trails? Keep reading to find out…

Testing the Technicals Cap’s Performance

As a long distance hiker and trail runner, I need gear that can hold up to some punishment. Long miles, pouring rain, blazing sun, the Technicals Cap saw it all with me this past summer. Here’s how it performed in key areas:

Beating The Heat

Keeping your head cool when you’re sweating buckets is no easy task. The Technicals Cap passed my hot weather testing with flying colors thanks to its lightweight polyester fabric and strategically placed mesh ventilation panels.

Even on 90°F days the cap kept a nice breeze flowing to give some relief. The fabric also wicked moisture away rapidly, keeping sweat from accumulating under the cap.

Weather Protection

While not fully waterproof, the polyester fabric provided ample water resistance in rain showers. Water beaded up and rolled off the cap quickly. For short exposure to rain or accidental dunks crossing a stream you’ll stay nice and dry.

In heavy downpours my head eventually started getting wet after 30-45 minutes. But the cap dried out very fast afterwards thanks to the technical fabric.

The UPF 50+ rating also gives your face and ears great protection from the sun’s harsh UV rays. No more burned ears or forehead even after 8 hours hiking in bright sun.

Long Term Durability

After about 75 miles of trail running and hiking this summer, the Technicals Cap still looks brand new. No fraying, holes, or tears yet in the fabric despite lots of sweat, rain, branches and spills.

The polyester fabric has maintained its water resistance and fast drying capabilities wash after wash. And the snapback closure hasn’t stretched or warped yet. So far durability looks excellent.

The Technicals Cap still looks and performs like new despite some abuse! For the price, that’s impressive longevity.

Fit and Comfort

As an adjustable snapback, the Technicals Cap provides a custom and secure fit for all head sizes. I have a rather large noggin and had no problem dialing in the fit.

The lightweight fabric and mesh panels make the cap supremely comfortable, even on all day hikes. No more discomfort from a heavy, hot sweaty cap. The Technicals Cap almost feels like you’re not wearing anything at all.

Comparing the Technicals Cap to Similar Models

The Technicals Cap isn’t the only hiking and outdoor activity cap on the market. But it stands out to me as providing the best overall value. Here’s how it stacks up to some competitors:

• Patagonia Duckbill Hat – More expensive with similar water resistance. Not as breathable or packable as the Technicals Cap.
• Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap – No water resistance and lacks ventilation. Thinner fabric less durable than the Technicals Cap.
• REI Co-Op Screeline Cap – Comparable performance but double the price of the Technicals Cap.
• Columbia Sportswear Bora Booney Cap – Flimsy fabric. Less water resistant. No ventilation for breathability.
• prAna Stretch Zion Twill Cap – Heavier fabric not as performance oriented. Higher cost. Lacks reflective logo.

The Technicals Cap compares very favorably at a more affordable price point than premium brands. You get better performance without breaking the bank.

Where to Buy the Technicals Cap

After comparing prices at a bunch of popular online retailers, I found Moosejaw to offer the best deal on the Technicals Cap. They frequently run 20% off promo codes and free shipping on orders over $50.

Some other good options with solid pricing:

• REI Co-op
• Backcountry.com
• Amazon
• Zappos

Watch for sales around major holidays for deep discounts. Or pick up last year’s colorways on closeout when new models release each spring.

Retail stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy, and L.L. Bean also typically carry the Technicals Cap. Their prices tend to run a bit higher than online but you can inspect it in person.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have Outdoor Cap

For hiking, climbing, camping, trail running, or daily outdoor use, the Technicals Cap checks all the boxes. It provides stellar performance at a reasonable price.

After months of use and abuse, here’s my final verdict on this great cap:

• Lightweight and supremely comfortable for all-day wear
• Water-resistant and fast-drying fabric stands up to rain and sweat
• Excellent sun protection with UPF 50+ fabric blocks UV rays
• Highly adjustable fit for dialing in the perfect secure feel
• Great ventilation from mesh panels keeps you cool and dry
• Reflective logo for visibility and style points
• Packable design stashes in packs or pockets with ease
• Durable construction withstands long miles of trail use

For the price, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more versatile outdoor cap. The Technicals Cap will be a trusty companion on all your adventures for years to come. I never hike without it!

So grab one of these awesome caps to take your adventure game to the next level. Your face and head will thank you after long hours in the sun, rain, and sweat.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions about the perfect Technicals Cap for outdoor activities and athletics! I’m happy to help fellow hikers, runners and adventurers find the best gear to stay comfortable outside.