The Difference Between Dad Hats And Baseball Caps

In various styles, a vast category of caps is covered by the term "baseball caps". A dad hat is one style variant. Where did it get a name like "dad hat"? More times than not, dads would simply plop hats like this on their heads. That's how they got the name. Of course, everybody started wearing them as soon as they became a fashion accessory. But because everyone was already familiar with the term "dad hat", and it had a nice ring to it, the name stuck.

When it comes to dad hats and baseball caps, however, there are differences. Though a dad hat is a type of baseball cap, not every baseball cap is a dad hat. Before you decide on which one to buy, let's do some comparison.

Dad Hats – What Are They?

As already mentioned, one variant of a standard baseball cap is that of a dad hat. Compared to standard baseball caps, however, the bill of a dad hat is only marginally curved and it has an unstructured crown. What's more, usually canvas or cotton is used for a comfortable, softer material. This is why, for long hours, these caps are completely wearable.

Depending on the wearer, these hats are frequently just a bit oversized and do not have a snap closure. A dad hat promotes a relaxed, comfortable look. In some cases, you may notice intentional wearing or fraying on the edge of the brim and in other areas of the cap itself.

Don't let the name fool you. Dad hats are worn by anyone and everyone – not just dads.

The Differences

Now that you know what more or less makes up a dad hat, let's compare it to the look, make, fit, and feel of a traditional baseball cap.

Dad hats are extremely foldable due to their unstructured crown. Though some baseball caps are foldable, the structured crown on most doesn't lend itself to be folded.

For recreational activities and as casual wear, baseball caps are ideal. They offer maximum stability and a snug fit. Dad hats are equally ideal, but the fit is usually looser.

With baseball caps, various closure types are available, but a snap back closure is standard. No snap closure is used on a dad hat.

The bill is noticeably curved on a standard baseball cap. However, flat or straight bills have become very popular in some circles where baseball hats are concerned. You will recall, the bill on a dad hat is not particularly curved – and it’s not flat or straight – it's just right.

Originally, to avoid distractions during a game, maximum stability and a snug fit was offered by a standard baseball cap. Today, there is a looser fit to baseball caps, depending on the category or variant where the hat and wearer are concerned. Remember, lower stability and a loose fit are characteristics of the slightly oversized dad hat.

A well fitted, structured crown is not uncommon where standard baseball caps are concerned. Today, some baseball caps do have unstructured crowns. Dad hats, in general, are not only slightly oversized but have unstructured crowns.

When You Need Dad Hats or Baseball Caps, They're Both Available at Hat Heaven

At Hat Heaven, we have a vast array of baseball style hats/caps. Trucker hats, dad hats, standard baseball caps – you name it. What's more, they come in numerous colors, with or without embroidery/patches, fitted or adjustable, with catchy sayings, or plain. We even have camouflage hats.

Start shopping at Hat Heaven for the affordability of our products and the wide selection. Keep shopping at Hat Heaven because we’re one of the best places to find stylish, well-made headgear. 

Got questions? Email us at customerservice@hatheaven.com.