Walking into the world of caps can feel overwhelming. Snapbacks, fitted caps, dad hats, trucker caps—what do all these terms mean, and how do you know which type is right for you? This comprehensive guide breaks down everything a beginner needs to know about cap types, terminology, and how to start building your cap collection.
Whether you're buying your first cap beyond a free promotional giveaway or simply want to understand what makes different styles unique, this guide will give you the knowledge to shop with confidence.
Understanding Cap Anatomy
Before diving into specific styles, let's understand the parts that make up a cap. Knowing this terminology helps when reading product descriptions or discussing caps with others.
The Crown
The crown is the main body of the cap that covers the top and sides of your head. It's typically made of multiple fabric panels (usually five or six) sewn together. Crown characteristics include:
- Crown height: How tall the cap sits on your head (low, mid, or high profile)
- Structure: Whether the crown is stiff and holds its shape (structured) or soft and floppy (unstructured)
- Panel count: Usually five or six panels, affecting the shape and look
The Brim (or Bill/Visor)
The brim is the part that extends forward to shade your face. Key brim characteristics include:
- Shape: Curved (pre-curved or moldable) or flat
- Length: Standard (about 7cm) or extended
- Stiffness: Rigid plastic or more flexible materials
The Closure
Located at the back of adjustable caps, closures determine how you adjust the fit. We'll cover these in detail below.
The Sweatband
The interior band that sits against your forehead. Materials range from basic cotton to moisture-wicking performance fabrics. A good sweatband significantly affects comfort during extended wear.
That small fabric-covered button at the top of most caps is called the "top button" or "squatcho." It covers the point where all the crown panels meet and is primarily decorative, though it protects the stitching junction.
Major Cap Styles Explained
Baseball Caps
The term "baseball cap" broadly refers to any cap with a rounded crown and forward-facing brim. However, in more specific usage, it often refers to the classic structured cap with a curved brim, similar to what professional baseball players wear.
Key characteristics:
- Structured crown (holds its shape)
- Pre-curved brim
- Usually adjustable (strapback or Velcro)
- Classic, versatile look suitable for most occasions
Fitted Caps
Fitted caps have no adjustable closure—they're sized to fit specific head circumferences. They provide a clean, seamless look without straps or snaps at the back.
Key characteristics:
- No closure (sized fit)
- Clean back profile
- Often associated with sports teams and streetwear
- Typically structured with either flat or curved brims
đź“Ź Fitted Cap Sizing
- Sizes typically range from 6 7/8 to 8
- Each size corresponds to a specific head circumference
- Getting the right size is crucial—too tight causes headaches, too loose looks sloppy
- Check out our sizing guide for measurement tips
Snapback Caps
Snapbacks feature an adjustable plastic snap closure at the back. They were popular in the 1980s-90s, fell out of favour, and surged back in the 2010s as retro streetwear.
Key characteristics:
- Plastic snap closure (usually 2-5 adjustment positions)
- Typically flat brims (though sometimes pre-curved)
- Structured crowns
- Strong associations with hip-hop and streetwear culture
- One-size-fits-most convenience
Dad Caps (Dad Hats)
Dad caps earned their name from the relaxed, unfashionable look stereotypically associated with suburban fathers. Ironically, this "uncool" aesthetic became highly fashionable in the mid-2010s.
Key characteristics:
- Unstructured, soft crown (no internal stiffening)
- Pre-curved, slightly floppy brim
- Usually strapback closure (fabric or leather with buckle)
- Low-profile, relaxed fit
- Comfortable, casual aesthetic
Trucker Caps
Originally promotional items for agricultural and trucking companies, trucker caps feature mesh back panels for ventilation. They've crossed over into fashion and outdoor wear.
Key characteristics:
- Foam or fabric front panel (for logos)
- Plastic mesh back panels for airflow
- Snapback closure (sometimes Velcro)
- Structured front, looser back
- Excellent ventilation for hot weather
Five-Panel Caps
Rather than six panels meeting at a button, five-panel caps have a flat front panel running across the forehead. This creates a different silhouette and a large, flat surface for graphics.
Key characteristics:
- Single flat front panel (no front seam)
- Often lower profile
- Popular in skateboarding and cycling communities
- Usually adjustable with strapback closure
Closure Types Explained
Snapback
Plastic snaps offering 3-7 adjustment positions. Durable and secure but less precise than other closures. The snap mechanism sits at the back and can sometimes be felt against the head.
Strapback
Fabric, leather, or nylon straps with buckles or slides. Offers more precise adjustment than snapbacks. Tuck-in straps provide a cleaner look than hanging ends.
Velcro (Hook-and-Loop)
The most adjustable option, allowing infinite positioning within the strap range. Can wear out over time and may catch on hair. Common on performance and athletic caps.
Stretch Fit (Flexfit)
Elastic bands in the sweatband stretch to fit a range of head sizes. No visible closure for a clean look, but limited size range per cap.
Understanding Crown Heights
Crown height significantly affects how a cap looks and feels:
- Low profile: Sits close to the head, more casual and understated
- Mid profile: The most common and versatile height
- High profile: Taller crown, more traditional baseball look, greater presence
If you have a taller head shape, low-profile caps may feel tight at the top even if the circumference fits correctly. Similarly, if your head is flatter, high-profile caps might look oversized. Try different heights to find what works for you.
Brim Styles: Flat vs. Curved
Flat Brim
Flat brims are associated with streetwear, hip-hop, and athletic style. They're often worn with stickers left on (a style that originated as proof of authenticity). Many flat brims can be curved by the wearer if desired.
Curved Brim
The classic baseball cap look. More traditional and widely acceptable in various settings. Pre-curved brims hold their shape; adjustable brims can be shaped to preference.
Choosing Your First Caps
For beginners building a cap collection, consider starting with these versatile options:
- A classic dad cap in a neutral colour—comfortable, goes with everything
- A quality fitted or snapback in your team's colours (if you follow sports) or a clean colourway
- A trucker cap for outdoor activities and hot weather
From there, let your personal style guide you. Pay attention to what you're drawn to, experiment with different styles, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The world of caps offers endless variety—there's something for everyone.