A Comprehensive Guide To Dad Hats

What is a Dad Hat?

A custom dad hat is a relaxed, low-profile baseball cap featuring an unstructured crown, gently curved brim, and an adjustable strap back closure. Usually crafted from comfortable cotton, these hats can also be made from polyester, nylon, or other lightweight materials.

Originally linked to middle-aged dads—hence the playful name—this versatile, unisex cap has become a fashion essential for anyone seeking casual comfort, laid-back style, and the perfect canvas for custom embroidery.

The Origin and Popularity of Dad Hats

Originally designed for baseball players to shield their eyes from the sun, dad hats earned their nickname due to their popularity among middle-aged men. They rose to prominence in casual fashion during the 1970s when manufacturers began removing the stiff front lining, creating the distinctive relaxed fit known today.

The Return of Dad Hats

Although dad hats faded slightly in popularity through the 1980s, they made a strong comeback in the 1990s, largely driven by adoption from influential hip-hop artists. Fans inspired by these artists embraced dad hats as part of their everyday style, helping the hat maintain a lasting presence in contemporary fashion. Today, dad hats remain widely loved by people of all ages and are celebrated for their comfort, versatility, and timeless appeal.

Here are some features of a dad hat:

Unstructured Fit

Dad hats typically feature an unstructured design, meaning they’re soft, flexible, and conform naturally to your head, except for the firm, gently curved bill. This relaxed build ensures maximum comfort and effortless style while requiring minimal upkeep compared to structured caps. Thanks to their flexible form, dad hats are easy to fold or pack without worrying about damage. Commonly crafted from breathable cotton blends, these caps also come in comfortable alternatives like cotton/polyester and nylon/polyester mixes, offering durability and versatility.

Relaxed, Timeless Style

The dad hat represents a timeless and enduring style in casual headwear, easily complementing both vintage aesthetics and contemporary fashion trends.

These low-profile caps typically feature a six-panel construction paired with a smoothly curved bill, similar in shape to classic trucker hats. The relaxed and unstructured fit of dad hats makes them ideal for everyday casual wear, ensuring they remain a staple in any wardrobe.

Closure Options for a Dad Hat

The closure system on a dad hat, positioned between the two back panels, allows for easy size adjustments and personalised comfort.

Snapback Closure

A popular and cost-effective choice, snapback closures feature a plastic strap with notches that snap securely into place. Widely used on trucker hats and many dad hats, snapbacks offer simple adjustments and a classic casual look.

Strapback Closure

For a premium feel, strap back closures use an adjustable fabric strap secured by a metal brass clip or plastic buckle. The metal clasp provides an upscale, durable finish, while the plastic buckle is a practical, lightweight option suitable for sports or outdoor activities.

Hook-and-Loop Closure

Often found on budget-friendly dad hats, hook-and-loop closures offer precise sizing adjustments, making them ideal when accommodating various head sizes. Their ease of use and comfort make them particularly attractive for promotional items or customer giveaways.

Popular Dad Hat Styles

AS Colour Surf Cap

This low-profile, unstructured snapback cap features a single panel at the front and an adjustable plastic fastener. Made from lightweight, quick-dry nylon, it’s ideal for outdoor activities or casual wear.

AS Colour Stock Cap

Offering a higher profile, this snapback cap has a flat peak, and mid-weight construction, and is crafted from a blend of 80% acrylic and 20% wool. It includes stitching eyelets, a self-fabric dome, and a plastic snapback closure for easy adjustments.

James Cap

A mid-profile, unstructured six-panel cap made from 100% cotton, featuring a flat peak and adjustable metal clasp closure. Lightweight and versatile, it’s perfect for everyday comfort and style.

HBC Unstructured Cap

Made from heavy brushed cotton, this classic unstructured six-panel dad hat comes with a pre-curved peak, embodying the timeless and relaxed style associated with dad hats.