Goruck TOUGHMESH™ Running Hat: The Barely-There Barrier Between You and the Elements

Here at The Coolector, we’ve got a healthy respect for brands that sweat the small stuff, those who refuse to cut corners in the pursuit of creating truly exceptional gear. Goruck, as you likely know, falls squarely into that category. Their latest offering, the TOUGHMESH™ Running Hat ($25, which works out to around £20 for us in the UK), is a prime example of their unwavering commitment to doing things the right way, not just the easy way. In a world awash with slapped-on logos and off-the-shelf mediocrity, Goruck stands apart, and this hat is a testament to their philosophy.

Goruck’s approach is simple: they build their fabrics from the ground up and tailor the fits to perfection. They aren’t interested in adding their branding to some generic hat destined for landfill. Instead, they invest the time, effort, and energy to craft gear that lasts, obsessing over every single stitch and detail until it meets their exacting standards. This dedication is palpable in the TOUGHMESH™ Running Hat, a piece of kit designed for those who live life at the edges, far away from the sterile comfort of air conditioning.

The secret weapon of this hat is, unsurprisingly, the TOUGHMESH™ fabric. This premium Italian material is so incredibly lightweight (rated at a mere 100 GSM, which is a staggering 30-40% lighter than typical performance fabrics) that you’ll genuinely forget you’re wearing it. It’s the kind of hat that feels like it barely exists, leaving you free to focus on the task at hand, whether that’s crushing a personal best on your morning run or pushing your limits on a challenging ruck.

But don’t let the featherlight feel fool you; this fabric is also remarkably breathable and moisture-wicking, ensuring your head stays cool and dry even during the most intense workouts under the blazing sun. And speaking of the sun, the TOUGHMESH™ fabric boasts a 35 UPF rating, offering crucial protection against those harmful rays.

Practicality is woven into every aspect of this hat. When your workout is done and it’s time to pack up, the TOUGHMESH™ Running Hat folds down to almost nothing, easily tucking away into a rucksack or any other bag without taking up precious space. The adjustable VELCRO® Garage strap is another stroke of design genius. Featuring a single, thinner 3” Velcro strap, it provides a streamlined and secure fit without the bulk or annoying flapping of excess Velcro. The garage is cleverly attached to an elastic tab, allowing for even better adjustability, enhanced comfort, and an overall more secure fit.

Ever been annoyed by that little button on the top of a hat when wearing hearing protection? Goruck has you covered – or rather, hasn’t covered. They’ve thoughtfully removed the top button entirely, recognizing that it serves no real purpose and can be a pain point when using Peltors or other hearing protection. It’s these small, considered details that truly set Goruck apart. And, as with all Goruck gear, the TOUGHMESH™ Running Hat is backed by their legendary Scars Lifetime Guarantee, offering unparalleled peace of mind.

The Goruck TOUGHMESH™ Running Hat isn’t just a hat; it’s a testament to thoughtful design, premium materials, and a commitment to building gear that performs, endures, and ultimately helps you push your limits. It’s the lightweight, breathable, and no-nonsense companion you need for your next adventure.