Ciele ALZCap: What makes it a Must-have for Runners?

A cap is a universally loved accessory, but finding the right one for hiking and running is difficult. Traditionally, Cotton caps don’t breathe well, and not all running hats are suitable for mountain hikes. On many runs, I kept seeing people wearing Ciele Athletics caps, so I did some research and came across the Ciele ALZCap. This quickly replaced my much-loved Arc’teryx trekking cap as my go-to for outdoor and urban adventures. Find out why it’s one of the best running and hiking hats in this post.

Ciele ALZCap: Introduction

Overview

Ciele Athletics has been making lightweight running caps since 2014. The Canadian brand excels at high-performance and protective running hats, with lots of other lightweight apparel too. The popularity has exploded thanks to the vast colourways and styles to suit everyone’s taste. Most runners seem to own a Ciele running cap for good reason. Despite the elevated price tag, they offer premium performance in all conditions, from an easy run to a day hike to a sunny race. So when I was looking for a dedicated running brand, I couldn’t ignore Ciele. The question was which Cap to choose?

Ciele ALZCap: Technical Specs

• Size: 56.5cm
• Weight: 49g
• Fabric: 100% Recycled with COOLmatic
• Brim size:
• Sun Protection: UPF +40
• Price: £40 / $45

Their most popular cap is the GOCap, a 5-panel lightweight and breathable running hat with many styles. However, I have a smaller head and prefer a more subtle clean style, so I decided on the Ciele ALZCap- Athletics SL – Vinya, to be exact. The ALZCap has increased COOLmatic™ mesh coverage for more breathability vs the Original GOCap. And has a reduced size for a lower profile, fitted and modern design. There is still the trademark SOFTflat brim on this version for protection.

Ciele ALZCap Variants

Now, to try to explain all the different Ciele ALZCap variants. The Red (Vinya) Cap and Black (Wish) ALZCaps I own are Athletics SL with a flatter brim. Whereas the ALZCap SC has a SOFTCurve Brim, which is pre-structured and gives better cap style protection (see the Pink one Roisin is sporting). The SC version weighs an extra 9g (58g) over the SL. The Horizon version uses COOLmatic | PLUS™ mesh coverage for better breathability and odour control than the others, using a SOFTflat small brim still. Then the ALZCap Trail takes the Horizon and adds an emergency whistle for trail running! Also, there is a Carbon version as the elite level hat with a COOLmatic | EXP mesh embedded with carbon fibres for temperature regulation and odour control. The Athletics SL and C Plus denote the Ciele logo styling on the front panel.

Pick the standard Ciele ALZCap if you want something ultra-light, stylish, and sporty. Choose the Carbon or Horizon versions if you need extra odour control or wicking performance in hot, sweaty runs. Consider the GOCap SC if you prefer a deeper fit and more coverage.

Running and hiking with the Ciele ALZCap

Part of the reason I chose this Running cap was the sleek and modern style with minimal logo size and versatile colours. I fell in love with the ALZCap for its comfort, breathability and packability. The soft and flexible brim allows it to be shoved into a pocket easily or a backpack when on the trail. This running cap has been on hiking adventures in Canada and the Swiss Alps, plus trekking in the Dolomites and Patagonia. It’s been thoroughly tested in summer heat and heavy rain. The UPF sun protection is a big factor in using it for summer, as the shorter brim is more exposed than other caps. But I love the shorter brim to wear it backwards, as it doesn’t hit my backpack.

I regularly wear the hat on runs in the summer on roads and trails. Up to 20 degrees, the ALZCap wicks moisture away effectively, and I’m a warm runner. And the reflective detailing is a nice touch for someone like me who enjoys running at 5am in the dark morning months. Whilst the GOCap is more popular, the compact and more fitted style is perfect for m,e and I would recommend it for people with a smaller head size. There is a large variety of styles and colours to suit everyone’s taste. My girlfriend and I own 3 ALZCaps between us, and the unisex style means we can easily swap them. These caps have both been included in my Ultimate Trekking Kit List and Hiking Kit List.

Ciele ALZCap: Selling Points

• Breathability: The best-selling point of the Ciele ALZCap is the high ventilation and effective moisture wicking. This is due to the COOLmatic™ fabric, which uses mesh panels to increase airflow. The COOLmatic has the added benefit of fast drying, too, when very sweaty or in the rain. There’s an absorbent band to prevent sweat dripping onto the face.
• Comfort and fit: The fitted and lower profile ALZCap is ideal for runners with smaller heads or those who dislike oversized caps. The 5-panel design is universal and with its snug fit offers minimal movement when running. On the rear, there is a strap and buckle to adjust the cap for the desired tightness.
• Ultra‑packable: The ALZCap is lightweight and folds effectively thanks to the flexible, pliable brim. It takes up little space in a backpack or running vest. The brim stays usable and maintains structure over time.
• Stylish: The clean, modern and minimalist design makes it versatile for casual use too. There are plenty of colourways option,s and fits to suit everyone’s fashion style.
• Excellent sun protection: The UPF +40 rating helps protect the head from UV rays on the front panel and brim. This was an important factor for hiking and trekking when exposed to the sun for long periods.
• Sustainability: The ALZCap uses recycled Repreve polyester material,s and Ciele provide a ‘millions miles’ long-term warranty.
• Reflectivity: There are subtle reflective logos and prints that aid low‑light visibility and nighttime running.

Ciele ALZCap: Considerations

• Limited coverage: The Short brim may not protect as much from rain or intense midday sun.
• Single size only: One of my selling points is a disadvantage for those wanting a Larger fit. It’s not available in M/L or deep-fit sizes, so it’s recommended to try before purchasing.
• Price point: At over £40 or $50 USD, this running hat has a premium price compared to basic running caps, though typical for Ciele quality.
• Reflective Details: Unfortunately, the Ciele reflective lettering on the front panel has fallen off on my Black Cap. The rest of the hat is functionally great, but now loses its Ciele identity. I am currently investigating the warranty and will update if an exchange happens.

Competitors

• Fractel M-Sierra – The closest competitor to the ALZCap with excellent breathability, all-day comfort and fast-drying materials. A larger brim but less sun protection (UPF +30), it’s a versatile contender.
• Salomon Shakeout Cap – A versatile baseball cap style running hat with quick drying properties but less breathability. A good choice of colours from a reputaable trail running company.
• Arcteryx Aerois 5 Panel Cap – The premium option with a higher price tag and similar technical specifications. This cap is ultralightweight with 2 sizes available and nice colourways, but less protection.
• Buff 5 Panel Air Cap – Super lightweight and packable, but fewer colour choices than Ciele. The style is not as versatile or refined as the ALZCap either, but it offers UPF +50 protection and a drawstring adjustment.
• Patagonia Duckbill Cap– High breathability and great sustainability from Patagonia in a short brim cap. One of the most packable but lacks the sun protection, and the very short brim gives minimal coverage.

Ciele ALZCap- Kit Rating

This is the first hat review, so the categories were decided and weighted as follows. The fit and comfort are the most important categories for long hikes and treks, having a reliable cap with all-day comfort is key. Especially for a running cap, ventilation is highly weighted as it’s easy to overheat otherwise and impact performance. Next up, protection from the elements should be considered with UPF protection and an added bonus. More focused on trekking, Packability and the ability to store easily are required for when the conditions don’t require a cap. And finally, value and versatility, as with every review, are you getting your money’s worth and can it be used for multiple activities.

Final Thoughts

The Ciele ALZCap is tailored to all types of runners who want effective breathability, comfort and style in a lightweight low-profile 5-panel cap. Also, I consider this an excellent hiking and trekking cap for the same performance requirements of sun protection and breathability. The ALZCap delivers great technical performance from its CCOLmatic fabric and minimalist design. Its snug fit and soft short brim make it ideal for training and travel, while the lifetime guarantee adds long-term value.

Pick it if you want something ultra-light, stylish, and sporty. Choose the Carbon or Horizon versions if you need extra odour control or wicking performance in hot, sweaty runs. Consider the GOCap SC if you prefer a deeper fit and more coverage.