You might be one of those many men out there who are confused when it comes to the names of men’s hats. Like, seriously. Aren’t they all called a hat or a cap? They almost look the same, but they have different names. Take, for instance, the snapback hat.
The snapback hat is one of many different baseball caps. Still, it gets its name from the adjustable strap that snaps together in the back. Snapback hats have become increasingly popular in recent years. They’re a stylish, functional, and versatile addition to any outfit.
If you don’t understand it still, then you probably need to read this whole article. Yes, go! Read on.
Snapback Hats: What is It and Where Did It Come From?
The snapback hat has a baseball history, but it is not mistaken with a baseball cap. Although they are similar, they are not the same. The snapback gets its name from the adjustable strap or “snap” on the back of the hat, making it a one-size-fits-all design.
Snapbacks have a wide, flat brim and six rigid sections that make up the cap, resulting in a higher dome in the front. This shape gives the snapback its distinctive look and allows for more text or prints on the front.
As previously stated, baseball players in the United States are the originators of this hat’s fame. It began as a simple sports accessory for them. Unlike today’s snapback hats, the first one, worn by the sports club The New York Knickerbockers in 1849, was made of straw. However, the shape of this hat has changed several times over the years, but one feature has remained constant. Snapback hats have always been and will continue to be used to display a team or brand logo.
The Brooklyn Excelsiors baseball team wore short-brimmed snapback hats in 1858. These new arrivals were eventually adopted by baseball teams and their fans across the country. When baseball became popular in the 1930s, entrepreneurs jumped at the chance to start a baseball hat business. New Era was the name of the first company.
For the Cleveland Indians, they designed The Gatsby hat, which has a smaller brim. After 1954, the snapback hat had a 6-panel design with a short brim and flat bill, similar to how it appears today.
What are the Key Design Features of Snapback Hats?
Today, you’ll find tons of different styles like fitted caps, dad hats, and trucker hats, and sometimes, it’s hard to recognize which is which. So, if you’re still unsure what a snapback hat is, we’ve put together a list of the most important unique features of this iconic hat style.
Adjustable Strap
When determining what a snapback hat is, the type of back closure is the distinguishing feature. Snapback hats are made of plastic and can be adjusted by snapping the back buttons.
Snapback hats are adjustable and one-size-fits-all because of their adjustable snapping back buttons. Fitted hats usually have no closure, while dad hats typically have a metallic or velcro closure.
Brim or Bill
The brim of a traditional snapback hat is wide and flat. On the other hand, the dad hat style has a round, pre-shaped bill (for your reference).
Front Panels
New Era’s first hats had an 8-panel design, but today’s snapbacks have a 6-panel design. Snapbacks also have a stiffer or more structured front panel, allowing for a more impressive design.
Fit
Although most snapbacks claim to be one size fits all, they are usually made to fit a head of average size. It will be uncomfortable to wear a hat that is too loose, tight, or covers your eyes or ears.
The way you wear it is determined by the look you want to achieve. Snapback hats are typically worn with the brim facing forward, backward, or slightly to the side.
The Best Snapback Hats for Men
While finding the perfect cap may seem like a simple task, it has become more challenging because not all snapback caps are made equally. So, to make things easier, we have listed the snapback hats you can buy on your next or, for some, your first purchase.
Brixton Men’s Snapback Hat
Brixton began in California with the explicit intention of bringing people together. It all started with a hat inspired by the cultures and people who surrounded the founders daily. It is now a lifestyle brand that creates one-of-a-kind products that bring musicians, artists, and travelers together.
Brixton’s headwear and apparel are for every man, influenced by the past but crafted for the future. The Rival Medium Profile, Adjustable Snapback Hat by Brixton for Men, is no exception. This modern take on the classic baseball cap is indeed the height of fashion.
Adidas Men’s Originals Snapback Hat
The Adidas Men’s Originals Snapback Hat is one, if not the most stylish and vintage snapbacks available in the market. In the 1980s, Adidas was at the forefront of hip-hop fashion.
The original black Adidas logo on the front of their white snapback is perhaps the most obvious nod to the 1980s. On the back, it has the same vintage black logo, but it’s much smaller. There’s also an adjustable snapback strap on the back. Acrylic, cotton, and wool are among the materials used to create them.
Because it’s white, you’ll have to be extra careful to keep it clean. You’ll surely give off a sporty and classic vibe while also helping to pump up men’s hat fashion on the street with this Adidas Originals Snapback Hat.
Volcom Men’s Quarter Twill Snapback Hat
If you prefer a cap with a flat brim, this is the one for you. This one-of-a-kind snapback hat from Volcom features a fashion-forward flat bill that keeps the sun out of your eyes and off your skin.
Volcom recognizes that each man is distinct, so why shouldn’t his hat be as well? This hat is available in three color combinations: solid black, white, and navy, and red and black. If you like to wear the same hat in different colors, this collection is ideal for any outfit.
Nike Snapback Hat
If you’re searching for a snapback hat for your daily jog or gym session, the Nike Snapback is a good option.
To help absorb sweat, this lightweight snapback hat is made of sweat-wicking, breathable fabric. This is accomplished by the DRI-FIT body, which is made entirely of polyester. The tiny ventilation holes on the side of the snapback add to the breathability and comfort of the snapback during your chosen physical activity.
Columbia Snap Back
This cap will put a smile on your face if you prefer a trucker-style hat with a mesh back. Colombia uses mesh for four of its six cap panels to give its headwear a more modern look and feel.
While the mesh is a great design feature, it also serves a practical purpose. It enables air to flow between your head and the cap, allowing you to maintain a comfortable temperature and avoid overheating.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to wearing fashionable men’s hats, the snapback hat is undoubtedly the most popular. Snapback hats are a smart way of expressing your fashion sense and are worn with many swaggers nowadays. Snapback hats are an excellent addition to any casual or streetwear ensemble. They’re also a great way to show your support for your favorite (sports) team.
READ ALSO: What is the Purpose of the Holes on the Sides of Men’s Hats?
