New Era Talk: 9TWENTY Versus 9FORTY

Finally, an answer to that burning question – What is the difference between New Era caps 9TWENTY and 9FORTY? If, indeed, this has been a question that keeps you up at night, we are going to ease your mind with a close look at each of them highlighting their likenesses and their differences.

But first, a little lesson in hat history.

The History of New Era

Consider what Adidas is to sneakers. That's what the company New Era is to hats. In the world today, it is one of the most popular hat brands. You've undoubtedly seen their hats, even if you didn't recognize them as being from New Era. Chances are, if you're a cap person, you actually own one.

Back in 1920, the New Era Cap Company was founded and soon became the Major League Baseball Player supplier of headwear. It didn't take long, however, for them to become the official caps for nearly every sport under the sun. This includes, but is not limited to, Minor League Baseball, National Basketball Association, National Hockey League, NFL, and more around the world.

Made popular in the early 2000's by hip-hop artists, their 59FIFTY fitted caps are possibly their best-known hat. But for style and design, New Era continues to be recognized as innovators for all types of headwear.

Let's begin our comparison with the cap style of the 9TWENTY from New Era (then move to the 9FORTY).

The New Era 9TWENTY

This hat has an adjustable, relaxed fit style. It is a low profile, unstructured modifiable hat. Unlike the 9FORTY cap, it is soft (as opposed to firm). When you're wearing it, it will contour your head with the unstructured top being lower. A variety of closure types can be used including Velcro, strap, and snap back, so one-size-fits-all (or most). An homage to old-school baseball caps, this cap is sometimes referred to as the "dad hat". For a vintage-looking style, it is often used for throwback designs.

The New Era 9FORTY

Mix together the 9FIFTY and the 39THIRTY styles and you'll get the 9FORTY. With its pre-curved visor and low-profile structured crown, it's fit is similar to the 39THIRTY. But instead of a stretch fit band and closed back, this hat uses a variety of closure types and is adjustable. Again, there is only one size. Velcro backs are used on most of the classic team hats. While this hat will fit almost any head, it may not be the best fit if you're head size is bigger than 7 3/4 or smaller than size 7. Otherwise, you're good to go.

Which Hat Fits Best?

This is a question that only the individual can truly answer. It's all a matter of personal preference. If what you're looking for is a little height to the shape of the cap, the 9FORTY is the way to go. But if you’re looking for that older style baseball cap feel and a more relaxed fit, the 9TWENTY is for you. To see which one you like best, head over to your nearest store and try a few on. One is bound to feel more at home on your head than the other.

Hat Heaven has New Era hats, including the 9TWENTY and the 9FORTY. Check out our NFL, MLB, hockey, minor-league baseball, college football, and other caps today, online. You're sure to find your next absolutely favorite cap with which you simply cannot live without!