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The iconic baseball cap got designed to keep the sun out of a player’s eyes during gameplay. Now it has become a useful tool and a fashion statement as well. Today, you can find a wide variety of designs, logos, and phrases on the caps, or it can have nothing at all.
People around the world throw on these sporty hats for work, play, or leisure, wearing them in a variety of ways. Forward, backward, or tipped to the side, you’ll see the baseball cap on heads wherever you go.
Here is a handy guide on the best baseball caps for men.
What is a Baseball Cap?
If you have been living in a bomb shelter for the past 150 years, let me explain to you what a baseball cap is. It is a specific style of hat that has a rounded crown (but not puffy like a Newsboy Cap) and features a stiff bill in the front. It is a soft headpiece with a logo or a design above the bill.
Initially, the logos were that of baseball teams. Now you can walk into a sporting goods store and find hats for not only baseball but a variety of teams like football, college, high school, and more.
History of the Baseball Cap
Before the early 1950s, baseball players chose the type of hat they wanted to wear during the game to keep the sun out of their eyes. That inspired companies to start making hats solely designed for this purpose. The New York Knickerbockers wore the very first baseball hats. At the time, they got made of straw.
The baseball cap has gone through many growth spurts since the 1950s. From the “pillbox cap” to the most popular version, “59Fifty,” the baseball cap has improved with each change culminating in the popular hats of today.
How to Shop for a Baseball Cap
A typical baseball cap gets constructed with a front-facing brim. There are different ways they fit your head, which results in multiple types of hats and construction. The varieties are strapback, fitted, trucker, snapback, flexfit, and 5-panel.
It is crucial to understand the different styles so you can get an idea of the kind of baseball cap you would like to purchase. There are also many features and material types available, including wool, cotton, nylon, leather, and so forth. Think about your hat needs before making your purchase.
Strapbacks
You can get a strapback in a 5-panel or 6-panel style. Those resemble a snapback but use an adjustable band to fit the diameter of the head.
Fitted Caps
To get the best fit, it’s a good idea to measure your head. A fitted hat will have a size corresponding to the circumference of your head in inches (for example, 7”). Fitted caps are typically a 6-panel baseball cap made from cloth triangles with a fabric covered button on top. That button is ridiculously called a squatchee (yes, it sounds like something a toddler says while sneezing).
Trucker Hats
This style became popular through giveaways put on by agricultural companies. It gets made of foam, mesh and is typically a snapback. That makes them a breathable option while working outdoors.
Snapback Caps
This style hit the scene in the 1950s but slowly lost its popularity. They got revitalized in the 80s and 90s due in large part to the hip hop scene. These caps allow you to adjust the diameter using plastic snaps.
Flexfit Hats
The flex fit hats were the bomb.com back in the 90s. Those get constructed of a spandex poly-weave and stretch to fit. They come as a one-size-fits-most. If you’re really hip, you can wear them as a shower cap “with style” (that’s a joke, please don’t do that).
5-Panel Hats
5-panel hats or “dad caps” have a unique construction. They have a strapback style and get constructed a little differently than the usual baseball cap. This stylish cap is reminiscent of a cycling cap. It has a front panel, two side panels, and top panels.
How to Wear a Baseball Cap
Baseball caps have come a long way since the 50s. Here are some different ways you can style your baseball cap for different looks.
- Wear a wool or corduroy baseball cap, lightweight jacket, and slim chinos for an upscale style.
- Pair a baseball cap with bog shorts and a t-shirt for a casual summer look.
- Combine an unstructured blazer with a t-shirt, clean sneakers, and a baseball cap.
- For a casual day, wear a 5-panel cap, hoodie, and cropped trousers.
- An alternate casual style is a dad cap, printed t-shirt, and jeans.
- Falling leaves bring out the twill or wool caps, transitional jackets, and layering.
Tips for Baseball Caps
- You can wear it backward, but only occasionally. Do not, and I repeat, do not wear it sideways unless you’re going for the angst-ridden teen vibe.
- When planning your outfit for the day, consider whether or not hat hair would be an issue at some point in the day.
- Remove the sticker from the bill 50 Cent.
- Opt for a classier cap that is plain to be able to pair it with more things in your wardrobe.
- Don’t look like a slob. Make sure the hat fits on your head snuggly.
- That said, make sure it is not too tight either. The line across the forehead look is not dateable.
Comparison Table
Product
Material
Price
Material: 60% Polyester, 40% Elastane
60% Polyester, 40% Elastane
Material: 75% Wool, 20% Polyamide, 5% Cashmere
75% Wool, 20% Polyamide, 5% Cashmere
Material: Water repellant, floatable, and breathable material
Water repellant, floatable, and breathable material
Material: 100% Loro Piana wool
100% Loro Piana wool
Material: 100% Wool
100% Wool
The 11 Best Baseball Caps for Men of 2023
1. Under Armour Men's Blitzing 3.0 Cap
FEATURES
- 60% Polyester, 40% Elastane
- Multiple color options
- Pre-curved visor
- Comfort padding
- HeatGear sweatband
- Breathable
- Embroidered logo
- Interior nametag
Here’s another generation of Under Armour’s best-selling design. It comes in an assortment of colors, making it easy to find the perfect cap for your wardrobe needs.
The classic 6-panel construction on this low profile baseball cap showcases an embroidered UA logo, foam padding, and a pre-curved visor (no more struggles to bend it into the perfect curve).
PROS
- Numerous color choices for easy wardrobe coordination
- Pre-curved bill for convenience
- Inner front foam padding and HeatGear sweatband for comfort and wearability
- Interior nametag for quick identification
- Machine washable makes care and cleaning a breeze
- Budget-friendly pricing
CONS
- No notable cons.
2. Stetson Wool/Cashmere Baseball Cap
FEATURES
- Made of 75% Wool, 20% Polyamide, 5% Cashmere
- Earlaps fold down
- Available in black, grey, and navy
Here is a wool baseball cap made by Stetson, so you know it’s a top-quality hat. It is a warm and comfortable headpiece that comes with a fold-down neck and ear cover that helps protect the wearer from wind, snow, and rain. It is warm but not heavy, and the wool is not scratchy. The construction of this cap is impeccable.
PROS
- Stetson reputation for high quality
- Winter baseball cap, perfect for colder temperatures
- Fold-down earlaps for protection from the weather
- High quality materials and good construction
CONS
- Higher priced than other cap options
- It's quite rounded, reminding some of a riding cap instead of a baseball cap
3. Melin Hydro A-Game
FEATURES
- Multiple color options
- Water-friendly
- Floatable
- Perforated side and rear panels for breathability
- Hidden besom pocket
- Moisture-wicking interior lining
- Anti-microbial
- Custom soft touch snapback closure
This Melin Hydro baseball cap got designed for the man who loves the outdoors and aquatics. This high-quality baseball cap can be worn in the water and has breathable mesh sides, a hidden pocket, and a snapback for adjustability. It is also antimicrobial, has a moisture-wicking lining, and floats.
PROS
- Numerous color options for the stylish man
- Can be worn in water, perfect for days at the lake or on the beach
- Lightweight and comfortable
- High-quality cap from a premium brand
CONS
- Sizes run a bit large
4. Stetson Liberty Leather Cap
FEATURES
- Textured pig-skin leather
- Stetson embroidered
- Brass eyelets
- Strapback – size is adjustable using a metal clasp and strap
Stetson has produced a stylish baseball cap with 100% leather in an iconic style. You can dress this one up or wear it casually. The expert craftsmanship gives us a unique, distressed finish and strong, 6-piece construction with side ventilation.
PROS
- Stylish design
- Can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions
- A reputable brand with years of hat-making experience
- Brass eyelets for side ventilation breathabilit
CONS
- A bit pricey but worth it for a top brand and an all-leather cap
5. Wigens Edgar - Loro Piana Storm System Vicuna
FEATURES
- 100% Loro Piana wool
- Features six panels
- Fold-down earlaps
Your ears will be toasty and dry under this baseball cap from Wigens Edgar. It is 100% Loro Piana wool in the traditional 6-panel construction. It features fold-down earlaps, the Wigens logo, and Loro Piana Storm System fabric for additional weather protection.
PROS
- Sleek design
- 100% wool for warmth during cold weather
- Earlaps for additional protection
- Weather durable material
CONS
- The price is a bit lofty for a baseball cap
6. SNUGRUGS Tweed Baseball Cap
FEATURES
- 100% luxury wool tweed
- Fabric lining
- Fold-down earlaps
- Available in 3 different patterns
If you want a beautifully constructed baseball cap, you have found your match! The company took great care to match the plaid around the hat for a seamless look that is sure to garner compliments every time you wear it.
It has a mid-range price but worth every penny of the cost. Here’s a cap that is sure to last for many years.
PROS
- 100% wool tweed for warmth and style
- Constructed with great attention to detail
- Fold-down earlaps for weather protection and warmth
- Made exclusively in Ireland
CONS
- Mid-range price point but worth it
- Best worn in fall or winter
7. Sterkowski Granite State Harris Tweed Cap
FEATURES
- 100% Harris Tweed handwoven wool
- Cotton sweatband
- Viscose lining
- Multiple sizes options
This headpiece gets handcrafted in Poland with Scottish Harris Tweed wool. The cap gets produced by Sterkowski, a prominent hat-making company for nearly 100 years. The pattern on this cap is timeless. It gets constructed with a cotton lining and sweatband.
If you need a larger size, this model goes up to XXL. Measure your head with a soft measuring tape to ensure a good fit.
PROS
- 100% Harris Tweed handwoven Scottish wool provides comfort, style and keeps the wearer warm
- Great looks
- Sterkowski high-quality reputation
- Larger sizes available for my ample-domed friends
CONS
- Mid-range price but reasonable for this brand, material, and quality
8. Borges & Scott Munro - Harris Tweed and Nubuck Leather Baseball Cap
FEATURES
- 100% Scottish Harris Tweed wool
- Leather-trimmed
- Cotton lining
- Water-resistant
- Stain-resistant
- Pre-curved bill
- Buckle closure
- Available in 5 different patterns
Borges & Scott’s baseball cap has a lower cut, which gives a better fit and helps keep the hat on your head even in windy conditions. It is a classy complement to your everyday casual attire. You can wear it hunting, golfing, or running your daily errands.
The high-quality materials, water-resistance, and detailing in this hat make it one of the best baseball caps for outdoor lovers.
PROS
- The Nubuck leather and Harris Tweed elevate this cap to the classy level
- Water and stain-resistant features make this hat a durable option, especially if you are an outdoor enthusiast
- The wool is warm and breathable without being scratchy
- Can get the surface cleaned with ease
- Can get the surface cleaned with ease
CONS
- Moderate price but commensurate with the fine quality and materials
9. Polo Ralph Lauren Denim Baseball Cap
FEATURES
- Denim
- 6-panel construction
- Embroidered eyelets
- Signature Polo logo embroidered
- Seamed bill
- Sweatband
- Leather buckle closure
If you are a denim man, this casual baseball cap is right up your jean jacket wearing alley. It’s also great for a throwback 90s party if you pair it with your stonewashed jeans and a matching jacket.
All joking aside, denim makes some cool baseball caps you can slap on for a handsome look. Even Justin Timberlake has gotten spotted rocking various denim attire.
PROS
- Casual cap for easy wear
- Seamed bill gives extra detailing
- Sweatband keeps droplets from running down your face
CONS
- Denim material is not everybody's cup of tea
10. Gucci Wool Signature Web Stripe Baseball Cap
FEATURES
- Made in Italy
- Made of wool
- Embroidered Gucci logo
- Dry clean only
- Dust bag included
- Gucci signature web detail stripe green/red/green elastic band on the back
Here is another high-end cap, this one made by the fashion icon Gucci. If trendy caps are your passion, you’ll want to snatch up this sexy baseball cap ASAP.
Its attractive style and gorgeous detailing make it a hat you do not want to be without. The soft gray color enables it to pair effortlessly with numerous outfits.
PROS
- A high-end brand that is known for manufacturing on-trend, classy, and top-quality pieces.
- One of the best baseball caps on the list in terms of aesthetics.
- Comes with a dust bag to store this quality headgear in style.
CONS
- Pricey
Frequently Asked Questions
Snapback vs. Baseball Cap: What's the Difference?
Snapback refers to the way the hat closes or adjusts. Many baseball caps have the snapback closure. This particular closure system was quite popular with the Starter caps.
What Is a Fitted Baseball Cap?
A fitted hat is just that, a hat that gets fitted to your head. It’s quite a popular choice because the fit is snug while remaining comfortable. You can wear them forward or backward, depending on your preference.
How Do You Clean a Baseball Cap?
That honestly depends on the baseball cap that you have. If you read through the list above, you’ll see that some caps are machine washable, some can get the surface cleaned, and others are dry clean only.
When you purchase a baseball cap, be sure to read the tags for proper cleaning and care instructions.
How Do I Measure My Cap Size?
You determine your cap size by measuring the circumference of your head. Use a soft measuring tape and wrap it around your head about an inch above your eyebrows and circle it around your head just above your ears. That is the area where the sweatband rests.
If you do not have access to a soft measuring tape, you can always use a piece of string or thread. Then lay that next to a hard measuring tape or use a ruler to measure its length.
Final Thoughts!
Baseball caps are popular in sports and beyond. You can find them in a variety of materials and styles. Be warned, the selection available can be overwhelming.
Whether you’re needing a cap for fashion or function, your choices are limitless. From a cotton baseball cap to all leather to wool with earlaps – there is a baseball cap for everyone.
