How to Wear a Baseball Cap: Do’s and Don’ts
Baseball caps are as American as apple pie and as timeless as jeans and T-shirts, and Highr offers the perfect selection for this classic wardrobe staple. They transcend age, gender, profession, and even sports. Whether you're a young child, a grown adult, or someone working in professions like basketball player, truck driver, or postal worker, there’s a baseball cap style that fits you.
Originally, baseball caps weren’t always the sleek designs we know today. In 1849, the New York Knickerbockers wore straw hats as part of their uniform. But by 1860, the modern baseball cap came into being when the Brooklyn Excelsiors introduced wool caps with a round crown and flat peak. Today, these hats are available in materials from wool and denim to linen, cashmere, and synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester.
While baseball caps are most closely associated with Major League Baseball, you don’t need to support a specific team to wear one. This versatile accessory can adapt to any personal style and is also an easy way to protect your eyes from the sun or cover up a bad hair day.
Whether you're going for a casual look or aiming to elevate your style, Highr Company has you covered with their collection of premium baseball caps. Here’s how to wear one with confidence, no matter your style.
Different Types of Baseball Hats
Snapback Cap
Take me out to the ball game. Take me out with the crowd."
If you've ever been to a baseball game, you’re probably familiar with this classic tune, and just like the song, the snapback cap is a timeless staple.
Featuring a flat peak and a structured design, the snapback gets its name from the adjustable snap closure at the back, often made of plastic, regardless of whether the cap is crafted from wool, cotton, or other materials.
Made famous by New Era, the official hat supplier of the MLB, the snapback cap has become a must-have for Major League Baseball players. For a cool, casual look, pair a classic snapback with a denim jacket and skinny jeans for effortless style.
Strapback Hat
Much like the snapback, a strapback baseball cap features an adjustable strap at the back instead of the plastic snaps commonly found on snapbacks.
Strapback caps are available in a variety of materials, including cotton, nylon, and leather. For a casual, stylish look, women can pair a strapback hat with a T-shirt dress or maxi dress, while men can rock options like a sleek white strapback from Supreme or a cotton-polyester blend from Nike for a fresh, laid-back vibe.
Fitted Cap
Whether you're calling the shots on style or on the field, a fitted baseball cap is always a reliable option. Unlike snapbacks or strapbacks, a fitted cap can't be adjusted, so it's important to ensure it fits just right.
Be sure to consult our guide on how to measure your hat size, so you always make a smart choice when it comes to fit.
Dad Hat
Less about style and more about comfort, dad hats are the laid-back baseball caps that any dad might wear—though they're also popular with women.
Typically made from cotton or canvas, dad hats have a low profile, a slightly curved bill, and a relaxed, oversized fit. Even Malia Obama has been seen rocking this casual look.
Premium Cap
Premium baseball caps focus on high-quality materials and attention to detail, offering a more fashion-forward approach from luxury brands like Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, and Vetements.
Think leather caps, like Stetson’s sleek pebbled leather black baseball hat. Women can style a premium cap with a silk blouse, chic skirt, and ballet flats, while men should keep their outfits simple to let this stylish accessory steal the show.
Trucker Cap
Originally popularized by truck drivers and rural workers in the 1970s, trucker hats (also known as hunter hats) gained mainstream attention in the early 2000s, thanks to actor Ashton Kutcher and brands like Von Dutch.
These mesh snapback caps have become a bold, sometimes controversial fashion statement, but hey, everyone has their own style.
Tips for Wearing a Baseball Cap
The key to wearing a baseball cap is finding one that fits well. It should be snug enough to stay on your head without falling off, but not so tight that it causes discomfort or leaves marks on your forehead.
Unless it's obstructing your view or making it unsafe to perform a task, don’t wear your baseball cap backwards. It’s just not a good look. The same goes for wearing it sideways—leave that style for toddlers. And if you're reading this, you're definitely not a toddler.
Less is often more. A simple black or white baseball cap offers much more versatility than one covered in trendy graphics that may lose its appeal after a season.
Material matters, too. If you're out in the sun or sweat easily, go for breathable fabrics like cotton. On the other hand, when it’s cold, opt for warmer options like wool or suede. And remember, if you're rocking a leather jacket, avoid pairing it with a leather cap. It’s a bit too much.
Keep your cap clean. This is a no-brainer, but worth repeating: a dirty hat never looks good. If you're unsure how to clean your baseball cap, make sure to check out proper cleaning methods.
Cap it Off
Whether you're a die-hard Yankees or Dodgers fan or simply need a quick way to shield your face from the sun, there’s no wrong reason to wear a baseball cap. This iconic piece of Americana has been a wardrobe essential for over 150 years, and it shows no signs of fading anytime soon.
While we've covered the basics of how to wear this timeless accessory, ultimately, you can wear a baseball cap however you like. These tips are simply to help you look and feel your best, whether you're heading to a baseball game, enjoying a weekend outing, or hitting the town.