Helikon-Tex Boonie Hat MK2 Rip-Stop

The Boonie Hat MK2 is a wide-brim field hat made from a cotton-polyester-elastane ripstop fabric weighing 220 g/m², designed for operators, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need sun protection without bulk. It weighs 124 grams and folds down to a pocket-sized format without losing its shape when worn again.

The fabric blends 50% polyester, 48% cotton and 2% elastane: the cotton delivers better next-to-skin comfort than a fully synthetic material, the polyester speeds up drying, and the elastane thread allows the hat to conform to the head without pressure points. The trade-off worth knowing is this: the cotton content makes the hat more comfortable to wear for extended periods and quieter when brushing against vegetation, but it dries more slowly than a 100% synthetic. Anyone operating in very wet environments or moving through dense undergrowth should factor that in.

Lateral ventilation eyelets improve airflow under the crown during hot weather. The contrast-colour inner panel can serve as an emergency visual signal by turning the hat inside out. The drawcord with plastic stopper adjusts the circumference to fit even when the hat is wet or when hearing protection is worn. Two velcro panels on the front and side brim allow the attachment of identification or signalling patches. A dedicated loop lets you clip the hat to the Helikon-Tex RAID jacket so it stays with you during fast movement.

Key features

• Ripstop fabric at 220 g/m²: tear-resistant without adding weight to the head
• Weight of 124 grams: pockets easily and causes no neck fatigue on long outings
• Cotton construction keeps noise low when in contact with branches and foliage, useful for hunting and patrolling
• Contrast inner panel usable as an emergency visual signal
• Two velcro panels for identification or signalling patches
• Attachment loop compatible with the Helikon-Tex RAID jacket

In the box

• Boonie Hat MK2 Rip-Stop