Ultimate Guide to Golf Hat Styles

From Jack Nicklaus tilting his visor to modern golfers rocking bucket hats, headwear has always been a part of golf attire. A good golf hat is more than just sun protection; it’s a statement of style and personality.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or starting out, choosing the right hat is a big deal. Here’s everything you need to know about golf hat styles, from the classics to the latest trends.

Golf hats have been around since the early days of the game in Scotland. Golfers would wear traditional flat caps or bonnets to keep the sun and rain off. As the game evolved, so did golf hats. 

In the early 20th century, baseball caps started to become popular. And by the mid-20th century, they were the standard headwear for golfers. Visors also emerged as an option during this time, such as sun protection without the bulk of a hat.

Now, there are many golf hat styles to choose from, each with pros and cons. What’s right for you depends on you, the climate you play in, and how much sun protection you need.

Classic Golf Hats

Let’s start with the ones that have been around forever on the golf course.

Visor

Visors are perfect for golfers who want sun protection without the hat feeling on their heads. They’re also great for hot-weather golfers as they allow maximum airflow. Visors come in different lengths and styles, from the traditional short visor to the longer modern ones. 

Some visors also have built-in sweatbands to absorb moisture.

Baseball Cap

The baseball cap is a popular golf hat for a reason. It’s versatile, comfortable, and has good sun protection. Baseball caps come in various fits (fitted, adjustable, snapback), materials (cotton, polyester, performance fabric), and styles. 

When choosing a baseball cap for golf, look for one with a moisture-wicking sweatband. It helps to keep you cool and dry and a bill long enough to shade your face and neck.

Modern Golf Hats

Beyond the classics, the golf course has become a catwalk for modern hat styles. Let’s see some of the trendy ones.

Bucket Hat

Bucket hats have become a golf trend in recent years. They offer great face and neck sun protection, and the wide brims can keep you cool on hot days. Bucket hats come in different materials and designs, so you can find one that fits your style. 

But make sure to choose a bucket hat made from a breathable material, as some can trap heat.

Performance Hats

Performance hats are designed for golfers and have features to help you improve your game. These hats often have moisture-wicking fabrics, cooling technologies, and UPF protection to block the sun’s harmful rays. Performance hats come in different styles, from baseball caps to visors to headbands.

Wide-Brimmed Hats

Big hats with wide brims offer the most sun protection of any hat style. Good for golfers who are super sensitive to the sun or play in super sunny places. Big hats come in many styles: fedoras, panamas, and straw hats. 

But they can be big, awkward, and only for some golfers.

Choosing the Right Golf Hat

Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right hat for you:

• Head Shape: What shape is your head? Baseball caps work for most head shapes, and bucket hats for round faces.
• Face Shape: What shape is your face? If you have a long face, you may prefer a wider brim. Likewise, if you have a round face, you may look better in a shorter brim.
• Climate: What climate do you play in? If you live in a hot, sunny climate, you’ll want a hat with good ventilation and UPF protection. If you live in a cold climate, you may want a hat with a warmer lining.
• Style: At the end of the day, it’s all about your personal style. Choose a hat you feel good in on the course.

How to Measure Your Head for the Perfect Fit?

To fit right, measure around your head just above your eyebrows. Use a soft tape and wrap it around your head, not too tight. Most hat sizes are in inches, so look for the size chart of the hat you are looking at.

How to Care for Your Golf Hat?

• Spot clean: Most golf hats can be cleaned with a mild soap and damp cloth spot by spot.
• Air dry: Don’t put your hat in the dryer; it will ruin its shape and fabric.
• Store: When not in use, store your hat in a cool, dry place.

Golf Hat Etiquette and Fashion

Beyond just protecting your head from the sun. Your golf hat can be a fashion statement and a tool for following golf course etiquette. Let’s get into both.

Golf Hat Etiquette on the Course

Golf etiquette is generally relaxed. But there are a few things to keep in mind when wearing a hat on the course. It’s considered good etiquette to remove your hat when you’re in the clubhouse or putting green. 

And if you’re playing with someone who is much taller than you. It’s polite to remove your hat when you’re talking to them.

Matching Your Hat to Your Golf Outfit

Your golf hat can be a great accessory to your overall look. When choosing a hat, think about the colors and patterns of your golf clothes. You can match your outfit and hat or make a statement by choosing a hat that contrasts with your clothes.

Celebrity and Pro Golfer Hat Styles

Many pro golfers have their own signature hats. Tiger Woods is often in a red or black Nike cap, and Rory McIlroy is in a flat cap. Look at your favorite golfers for inspiration.

Hats with Different Golf Looks

Golf fashion has come a long way in recent years. There are many ways to wear hats with different golf looks. 

For a classic look, pair a baseball cap with a polo and khakis. For a modern look, try a bucket hat with a graphic print polo and shorts. Whatever your style, there’s a golf hat for you.

Summary

Choosing the right golf hat is important for both style and functionality. Consider the head and face shape, climate, or your personal style, to find the perfect hat that completes your golf look.

Visit the JoinTop Hats website and select a classic baseball cap or a trendy bucket hat. The key is to try different styles and find what works for you. There’s no excuse not to look good on the course.