A Comprehensive Guide To Dad Hats

Dad hats, a popular accessory, are a kind of casual hat. It is also known as a baseball cap and is covered with a soft, unstructured crown, and curved brim. They usually have a simple design like a logo or solid color and are made of cotton or canvas.

Dad hats are preferred because they are comfortable and have a relaxed fit so they’re perfect for daily wear.

The history of dad hats goes back to the early 20th century. Typically, when baseball players started wearing caps with creative designs. The main goal behind wearing these caps was to keep the players safe and shield their eyes from the sun. But, soon they became a fashion statement.

Here’s a guide to find the right dad hat. Let’s start with the types of dad hats available today.

Types of Dad Hats

Check out different types of dats hats.

Classic Dad Hat

This is the most common type of dad hat you will find. It has a soft, unstructured crown, pre-curved brim and adjustable strap at the back. These hats are made of cotton or canvas and come in solid colors and simple designs. 

Popular brands for classic dad hats are Carhartt, Patagonia and The North Face.

Trucker Dad Hat

You can also name them mesh hats because their shape is similar to classic dad hats but different in their making. The front panels of trucker hats are made of foam and covered with fabric while the back panels are made of breathable mesh material. 

This design allows for better ventilation and makes trucker hats a popular choice for warm weather. Popular brands for trucker dad hats are Goorin Bros., Von Dutch and Richardson.

Five-panel Dad Hat

These dad hats have a different design and that is what makes them different from classic and trucker dad hats. As the name suggests, these hats are made of five panels of fabric, giving them a more structured and angular shape compared to the rounded crown of traditional dad hats. 

Five-panel hats have a shorter brim and are popular among skaters and streetwear enthusiasts. Some popular brands for five-panel dad hats are Supreme, Stussy and HUF.

Other Styles

There are many other designs of dad hats that you can find easily and they are:

• Embroidered Dad Hats: TYou might find embroidered designs such as logos, slogans or a personalized touch.
• Printed Dad Hats: Similar to embroidered hats, printed dad hats have designs printed directly onto the fabric. This allows for more intricate and colorful patterns.
• Distressed Dad Hats: Distressed dad hats have a worn-in look achieved through stonewashing, fading or fraying the fabric. This gives them a vintage and edgy feel.

Which One to Buy

To choose the right dad hat you need to consider several factors that suits your needs and preferences:

Fit

Head size and shape: Measure your head circumference to know your hat size. Also consider your head shape. If you have a round face, a hat with a more elevated crown can elongate your face, while a wider brim can balance a long face.

Adjustable straps: You will find such straps on many dad hats but the type of closure can be different for each one of them. Common options:

• Buckle: Secure and adjustable fit.
• Velcro: Easy to adjust and for those with varying head sizes.
• Snapback: Classic closure with adjustable snaps for a custom fit.

Style and Looks

Matching with your style: Dad hats come in various styles, colors and designs. Choose a hat that matches your overall style and wardrobe. Do you prefer a minimalist solid color, a bold graphic print or a vintage inspired design?

Occasion and setting: Where do you plan to wear the dad hat? A classic and understated design is for everyday casual wear, a bolder design is for fashion forward setting. For sporty activities, choose a breathable material like mesh.

Quality and Durability

Stitching: Check the stitching for evenness and tightness. Good stitching will make the hat last longer and prevent fraying or tearing.

Material: Look for durable materials like cotton, canvas or polyester. A good dad hat should be able to withstand daily wear and wash without losing its shape or color.

Brand: Research brands known for their craftsmanship and quality materials. These hats may be more expensive but they are worth the investment for their durability and longevity.

How to Wear Dad Hats

Dad Hats

Dad hats are a different kind of accessory that you can wear in different forms and looks, from everyday casual to more dressed up. Here’s how to style dad hats for different occasions and seasons:

Casual

If you want a relaxed look, you can wear your dad hat with jeans, tees and casual sneakers. This is the classic dad hat look, perfect for running errands, weekend adventures or casual get togethers. Go for a neutral hat or one with a simple logo or graphic to match your chill vibe.

Dressed Up

The best thing is you can wear a dad hat on more formal events as well. Wear a classic dad hat in a neutral color like black, white or navy with tailored trousers, a button down shirt and a blazer. 

This unexpected combo adds a bit of personality and cool to your outfit while still looking polished. For women, a dad hat can be worn with a midi skirt, a blouse and heels for a chic look.

Wrap Up

The dad hat has come a long way from the baseball field. Today it’s a fashion staple that’s ageless, genderless and styleless. With their comfortable fit, many styling options and timeless appeal, dad hats are here to stay.

Whether you’re a dad hat veteran or a newbie to this trend, there’s a dad hat for you. By considering the different types, styles and materials out there, you can find a dad hat that matches your personal style and upgrades your everyday looks at jointophat.