Fibre-Metal SuperEight Full Brim Hard Hat (E1RW)

Fibre-Metal, now part of Honeywell, is one of the oldest names in head protection, and the SuperEight is its best-known hard hat. The name comes from its suspension, and that's the reason to buy it.

Most budget hard hats use a 4-point suspension. The SuperEight uses eight load-bearing points. Spreading the hat's weight across more of your head makes it more stable and more comfortable over a long day. Honeywell calls it the SuperEight Impact Energy Control System. In an impact, the suspension breaks the force into smaller increments and spreads it over a larger area.

The suspension adjusts with a quick-turn ratchet knob that Fibre-Metal designs to be non-slip and strip-proof, so it holds its setting and lasts. It fits hat sizes from about 6½ to 8.

The shell is thermoplastic with Fibre-Metal's smooth crown design, which is meant to help deflect falling objects. Fibre-Metal says the thermoplastic shell is heat and scratch resistant. The full brim shades your face, ears and neck and keeps rain and falling debris off your shoulders.

It's a Type 1, Class E hard hat, so it's rated for top impacts and proof-tested to 20,000 volts. With more than 2,800 Amazon ratings averaging 4.6 stars, it's a proven choice.

Keep a few things in mind. The standard E1RW is non-slotted, so it doesn't take slot-mount earmuffs or face shields. If you need accessories, choose a slotted Fibre-Metal model. Like other traditional hard hats, it has no side impact rating and no chin strap. And it's a little heavier than a cap style.

If your site allows Type 1 and you spend all day outside in a full brim, the SuperEight is the most comfortable traditional hard hat on this list.