The Best Dad Hats For Men
What is a dad hat? If you ask ten different people, you'll be sure to get ten different answers. If you're confused, don't worry, because we're here to give a solid, unquestionable definition of the dad hat that should end the confusion once and for all. Simply put, a dad hat is a low-key, relaxed-fit baseball cap with a minimalist design, often with an emphasis on distressed fabrics. There is some irony to the name "dad hat," because they aren't really marketed for dads. Rather, they're marketed as vintage, throwback hats for young people looking for understated casual wear. In this piece, we've chosen our top picks from the wide market of dad hats to help you choose the best one for you.
Kbethos Vintage Distressed Dad Hat
Distressed dad vibes
These days, “less is more” is more true than ever. Minimalism has made its way into fashion in a big way, and it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere any time soon. Kbethos’s collection of vintage distressed dad hats embodies the essence of minimalism better than most comparable collections. These hand-distressed dad hats are as plain as can be, sporting only the occasional rip on the brim or base of the hat. The color palette on offer here is wide and wonderful, with out-of-the-box options like green, aqua blue, and olive making appearances. Kbethos even offers a few colors in the trucker style for those looking for something a little tougher.
Pros:
- Wide color selection
- Tasteful distressing done by hand
- Certain colors offered as trucker hats
Cons:
- The denim hats are much stiffer and will not stretch as much as the cotton hats
Riot Society Mens’ Embroidered Adjustable Dad Hat
Minimalism to the max
The defining feature that differentiates an actual dad hat (as in a hat a father would wear) from a “dad hat” is the embroidered design. Riot Society understands this well, which is why its dad hat collection features so many ultra-cool designs. From the grungy Grim Reaper or the vibrant flamingo to the super-chill teddy bear, these dad hat designs are dripping in style. Riot Society also offers some pretty off-the-wall color options that turn out to be major hits. Those include light mint, pink, and mustard yellow. These are one-size-fits-most hats, so be wary if you have a bigger head.
Pros:
- Excellent design options
- Out-of-the-box hat colors
Cons:
- It might not fit if you have a much bigger or smaller head than average
Kbethos Trust No. 1 Dad Hat
Sweet and simple
Kbethos offers up some messages of self-empowerment and confidence with this collection of distressed dad hats. “Trust No. 1” is embroidered across the front of a few of these hats. At first, it may seem like a standoffish sentiment, but in truth, it’s about having faith in yourself. The G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) embroidery on some of the other hats represents a bit of playful braggadocio. As with most Kbethos hats, these dad hats are distressed by hand. The tasteful rips and tears along the six-panel base and brim make these hats feel personalized and unique. What’s more, the adjustable buckle closure on these one-size-fits-most dad hats is durable and easy to adjust.
Pros:
- Features messages of self-empowerment and confidence
- Tasteful distressing
- Unique color options
Cons:
- The messages may be off-putting to some people
Aung Crown Rose Embroidered Dad Hat
Flower power
Aung Crown has truly distilled the purest essence of the dad hat aesthetic in this small but wonderful variety of floral hats. In this collection, a simple yet gorgeous rose or lavender flower sits atop the understated six-panel cap. Aung Crown even uses light and dark denim materials for a couple of these dad hats. The inside of the hats is very breathable, offering sweat-wicking and plenty of space for airflow to cool you down on hot days. The buckle closure on these hats is easy to use and visually appealing, too. We can’t recommend Aung Crown’s dad hats enough to those looking for a subtle yet visually arresting baseball cap.
Pros:
- Elegant floral designs
- Classic color options
- Functional and aesthetically pleasing buckle
Cons:
- The hat doesn’t fit like a traditional baseball cap; it might take some getting used to
Champion Men’s Adjustable Dad Hat
Heart of a champion
It could be argued that Champion is the originator of the dad hat. In this collection, Champion proves its worth as one of the pioneers of this laid-back style. The small, uncomplicated Champion logo suits the dad hat aesthetic well, as it takes up very little real estate upon the front of each six-panel hat. Champion offers eight color options, including “coral” and “shield blue.” The fabrics aren’t distressed, but the collection somehow manages to embody the vintage throwback aesthetic regardless. The back of the hat features “Champion” written in tasteful cursive lettering directly above the adjustable buckle strap.
Pros:
- Classic brand and timeless designs
- Champion pioneered the dad hat aesthetic
- Eight color options
Cons:
- The fabrics aren’t as distressed as other options, which may disappoint some
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a hat a “dad hat”?
A dad hat is very similar to a regular baseball cap. However, there are subtle differences that separate the two breeds. Dad hats usually have distressed fabrics, denim materials, rips, and small design logos on the front of the six-panel cap. Think of dad hats like the younger, cooler, laid-back little brother of the baseball cap.
What does “one size fits most” mean?
“One size fits most” is a difficult term to wrap your head around (pun intended). First off, every company means something different when they say it. There’s no real way to be sure that you will fall into the “most” camp until you try on the hat in question. A helpful tip would be to think about the way other hats have fit you in the past. Do you often have difficulty finding the right sizing? Is your head bigger or smaller than average? These are both helpful things to consider before purchasing a one-size-fits-most dad hat.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.