Why Baseball Caps Have a Button on Top

Ever wondered what the button on top of your baseball cap is for? That small detail is more than just a design feature. Known as the Squatchee (or Squatcho), it has both a functional and decorative role. Let’s dive into the purpose of this tiny button.

What Is the Button on Top of a Baseball Cap?

The button on top of your cap is officially called a Squatchee or Squatcho. It sits at the apex, where the six panels of fabric meet. Originally, the button was used to hold the panels together, but now it’s mainly decorative, covering the seam for a neat look.

Is the Squatchee Functional or Decorative?

Originally, the button had a functional purpose—it kept the cap’s panels together. Today, it’s more decorative, covering the stitch and giving the cap a finished look. While it’s no longer essential for structure, it still plays an important role in cap design.

What Is the Button Made Of?

The button can be made from a variety of materials:

• Metal: Durable and often covered in fabric.
• Plastic: Lightweight and cost-effective.
• Fabric-covered: Most common, it blends seamlessly with the cap.

Fabric-covered buttons are the most popular because they match the cap’s design, giving it a polished appearance.

Types of Baseball Cap Buttons

There are different types of buttons you might find:

• Screen-Printed Buttons: Customizable with logos or text.
• Embossed Metal Buttons: Usually used for branding or logos.
• Woven Label Buttons: Features the brand name woven into the fabric.
• Standard Metal Buttons: Classic metal rivets covered in fabric for durability.

Interesting History and Origins of the Terms “Squatchee” and “Squatcho”

The names Squatchee and Squatcho might sound a bit funny, but they actually have a pretty interesting origin. The term was popularized by MLB players Bob Brenly and Mike Krukow, who were both broadcasters after their baseball careers. The name stuck after they started using it during their broadcasts.

The story goes that Bob Brenly picked up the term from a teammate named Mike Krukow in the 1980s. It was actually Krukow who first encountered the term in a bookstore, seeing it in Rich Hall’s book Sniglets—a collection of made-up words.

Once it was introduced, it spread quickly through sports commentary, and now the term Squatchee is widely recognized by baseball fans around the world!

Safety and Comfort: Should You Remove the Squatchee?

For some people, that little button can be more than just an aesthetic feature—it can actually be uncomfortable! If you often wear headsets or helmets, you may find the button digging into your head, causing irritation or pain.

Pros of Removing the Squatchee:

• More comfort: If you wear headsets, helmets, or other gear that presses against your cap, removing the button can make things more comfortable.
• Less risk of painful impacts: If you accidentally bump the button while wearing your cap, it can cause a sudden sharp pain. Removing it can prevent that.

Cons of Removing the Squatchee:

• Potential damage: Removing the button improperly could cause a hole in your cap, especially if you’re not careful.
• Loss of structure: While the button is mostly decorative now, removing it might affect the cap’s overall aesthetic or structure, depending on the design.

So, before you start snipping away, weigh the comfort benefits against the potential downsides!

Modern Trends: Baseball Caps Without a Squatchee

In recent years, baseball cap designs have evolved to appeal to more minimalist and streamlined aesthetics. Caps without the Squatchee are becoming more popular for people who prefer a smoother, cleaner look.

Advantages of Squatchee-Free Caps:

• Minimalist style: Caps without the button offer a sleek, modern look, especially for those who prefer a more understated design.
• Improved comfort: Without the button, you don’t have to worry about it pressing against your head, especially when wearing hats for long periods of time.

If you’re someone who likes clean, simple designs, these Squatchee-free caps might be your new favorite.

How to Safely Remove a Squatchee (If Desired)

If you decide to remove the Squatchee for better comfort or style, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to do it safely:

1. Gather your tools: You’ll need small scissors or a seam ripper to cut the threads holding the button in place.
2. Cut carefully: Gently snip the thread around the button. Be sure not to pull on the fabric too hard to avoid damaging your cap.
3. Check for holes: After removing the button, inspect your cap for any tears or holes that might have been caused during the process.
4. Consider professional help: If you’re worried about damaging your cap, you might want to take it to a tailor or a professional to remove the button without causing any harm.

Conclusion

The Squatchee (or Squatcho) is not just a quirky design feature—it plays a key role in your baseball cap’s functionality and style. While it started as a functional feature, today it’s more about adding a clean, polished look to your cap.

Ready to Explore More Caps?

Whether you’re looking for a cap with or without a Squatchee, JoinTop offers a wide variety of customizable hats that fit your style and needs. With over 40 years of experience in cap manufacturing, we specialize in creating high-quality caps for businesses, events, and personal wear.