Any lightweight, washable sun hats that work for gardening?

Try looking at fishing hats. They’re made for extended time outdoors, and some have a fabric flap at the back instead of a brim all the way around, so the neck gets coverage without adding a huge, floppy edge. There are inexpensive versions, too. Check that the fabric is breathable and that the care label allows washing.

I’d prioritize a washable fabric hat with a brim of around three or four inches, plus a chin strap if you work in wind. A hat that covers your ears and the back of your neck is more useful for gardening than a baseball cap, which leaves a lot of skin exposed. Look for a stated UPF rating rather than relying on how tightly woven the fabric looks.

If you’re willing to spend more for something intended to last, Tilley Airflow and Sunday Afternoons hats came up as options. They’re described as lightweight and washable, though you’ll want to check the care instructions for the particular model. Sunday Afternoons hats may also show up on sale, so it could be worth comparing prices before deciding.

For a lower-cost option, a soft fishing or hiking hat with a removable neck flap seems like a good fit. You can take the flap off when you don’t need it, and fabric is generally easier to clean than straw. Straw can be awkward to wash once it’s sweaty, so I’d skip it if easy cleanup is high on your list.