Top 20 Best Brands for Hiking Sunscreen: Protect Your Skin on the Trails

When it comes to hiking, protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is essential. Whether you're trekking through the mountains or exploring a scenic trail, a good sunscreen is your best friend. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we'll take a look at the top 20 best brands for hiking sunscreen, ensuring that your skin stays safe and healthy during your outdoor adventures.

1. Banana Boat

Banana Boat is a well-known brand that offers a range of sunscreens suitable for hiking. Their products are water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. With options like their Sport Performance Sunscreen Lotion, you can enjoy your hike without worrying about sunburn.

2. Neutrogena

Neutrogena is another popular brand that offers a variety of sunscreens for outdoor enthusiasts. Their Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is lightweight, oil-free, and provides a non-greasy finish. It's perfect for hiking as it won't weigh you down or make your skin feel sticky.

3. Coppertone

Coppertone is a trusted brand that has been around for decades. Their sunscreens are known for their high-quality and effective protection. Their Sport Continuous Spray Sunscreen is a great option for hikers, as it offers easy application and long-lasting protection even during intense physical activity.

4. Hawaiian Tropic

If you're looking for a sunscreen that not only protects but also leaves your skin feeling moisturized, Hawaiian Tropic is the brand for you. Their Sheer Touch Ultra Radiance Sunscreen Lotion is enriched with hydrating ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E, keeping your skin nourished while you conquer the trails.

5. Sun Bum

Sun Bum is a brand that focuses on creating sunscreens that are reef-friendly and safe for the environment. Their Original Sunscreen Lotion is water-resistant, vegan, and free of harmful chemicals. It's a great choice for hikers who want to protect their skin while also being conscious of their impact on nature.

6. Australian Gold

Australian Gold offers a range of sunscreens that are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking. Their Botanical Sunscreen Mineral Lotion is made with natural ingredients like eucalyptus and red algae, providing both sun protection and skin nourishment. Plus, it's reef-friendly and free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.

7. EltaMD

EltaMD is a brand that is highly recommended by dermatologists. Their sunscreens are formulated with zinc oxide, providing excellent broad-spectrum protection. The UV Clear Facial Sunscreen is a favorite among hikers, as it's lightweight, oil-free, and suitable for sensitive skin.

8. Aveeno

Aveeno is a brand known for its gentle and nourishing skincare products. Their Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Lotion is a great option for hikers, as it not only protects your skin from the sun but also moisturizes it. It's formulated with oat extract, leaving your skin feeling soft and hydrated.

9. La Roche-Posay

La Roche-Posay is a French brand that is loved by many for its effective sunscreens. Their Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen is a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula that provides high sun protection. It's perfect for hikers who want a sunscreen that won't feel heavy on their skin.

10. CeraVe

CeraVe is a brand that is often recommended by dermatologists for its gentle and hydrating products. Their Hydrating Sunscreen Face Lotion is a great option for hikers, as it not only protects your skin from the sun but also keeps it moisturized. It's non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores, making it suitable for all skin types.

11. Coola

Coola is a brand that focuses on creating organic and eco-friendly sunscreens. Their Classic Body Organic Sunscreen Spray is a convenient option for hikers, as it provides easy application and broad-spectrum protection. It's made with organic ingredients like cucumber and algae extract, leaving your skin feeling refreshed.

12. Badger

Badger is a brand that is committed to using natural and organic ingredients in their sunscreens. Their Sport Sunscreen Cream is water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and made with ingredients like sunflower oil and beeswax. It's a great choice for hikers who prefer a cream formula over a lotion or spray.

13. Blue Lizard

Blue Lizard is a brand that offers sunscreens specifically designed for outdoor activities. Their Australian Sunscreen is water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and provides broad-spectrum protection. What sets them apart is their Smart Bottle technology, which changes color when exposed to harmful UV rays, reminding you to reapply.

14. Alba Botanica

Alba Botanica is a brand that focuses on creating natural and cruelty-free sunscreens. Their Hawaiian Sunscreen is made with botanical ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil, providing both sun protection and skin hydration. It's reef-friendly and biodegradable, making it a great choice for eco-conscious hikers.

15. Thinkbaby

Thinkbaby is a brand that specializes in creating safe and effective sunscreens for babies and adults. Their Safe Sunscreen is mineral-based, free of harmful chemicals, and provides broad-spectrum protection. It's a great option for hikers who have sensitive skin or are looking for a sunscreen that is safe for the whole family.

16. Supergoop!

Supergoop! is a brand that is dedicated to creating innovative and high-quality sunscreens. Their Unseen Sunscreen is a fan-favorite among hikers, as it's lightweight, oil-free, and leaves no white cast. It's also infused with antioxidant-rich ingredients like red algae and frankincense extract, providing additional skincare benefits.

17. Vanicream

Vanicream is a brand that is known for its gentle and fragrance-free skincare products. Their Sunscreen Sport Lotion is water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and suitable for sensitive skin. It's a great option for hikers who have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients.

18. Altruist

Altruist is a brand that is committed to providing high-quality sunscreens at an affordable price. Their Dermatologist Sunscreen is fragrance-free, water-resistant, and provides broad-spectrum protection. It's a great option for hikers who want a reliable sunscreen without breaking the bank.

19. Solimo

Solimo is a brand that offers a range of affordable and effective sunscreens. Their Sport Sunscreen Lotion is water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and provides broad-spectrum protection. It's a budget-friendly option for hikers who want a sunscreen that gets the job done.

20. Suntegrity

Suntegrity is a brand that combines sun protection with skincare benefits. Their 5-in-1 Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen is a tinted formula that provides sun protection, hydration, and coverage. It's perfect for hikers who want to simplify their skincare routine while still looking their best on the trails.

Now that you know the top 20 best brands for hiking sunscreen, you can choose the one that suits your needs and preferences. Remember to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every few hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming. With the right sunscreen, you can enjoy your hiking adventures while keeping your skin safe and healthy!