Dad Hats vs. Vintage Caps

Dad Hats vs. Vintage Caps

What’s the Difference (And Which One’s For You)?

If you’ve been scrolling through our collection and wondering whether to grab a dad hat or a vintage cap, this post is for you. While both styles bring serious attitude to your outfit, they’ve got different personalities—and you’ll want to pick the one that matches yours.

But first—let’s clear up one common confusion.

Not Your Average Baseball Cap

It’s easy to lump all casual caps into the “baseball cap” category, but there are some key differences.

A typical baseball cap has a structured crown with stiff front panels that help it keep its shape. It’s designed for uniformity and performance—great for teams, corporate branding, or making sure your dad looks like he’s coaching Little League.

By contrast, dad hats and vintage caps are all about soft structure, chill energy, and style that doesn’t scream for attention (unless the embroidery does that for you). Both styles feature low profiles, curved brims, and adjustable straps—but they’re built for attitude, not athletics.

Now, let’s get into the two specific styles we carry—and how to choose yours.

 

Origins: From Function to Fashion

Dad Hat
The dad hat isn’t named for actual dads (though they do rock them). It’s a 1990s comeback kid with roots in ’80s baseball merch—relaxed, unstructured, and made to fit just about anyone. Minimalist, modest, and unintentionally cool. Think normcore before normcore was a thing.

Product mockup

Vintage Cap
This one’s a throwback to retro Americana. Low-profile and soft, yes—but with a pre-curved brim and a subtle structure that gives it a little backbone. Worn-in vibes meet streetwear edge. It’s a staple from your coolest uncle’s road trip photo or a thrift-store goldmine made new.

Product mockup

Style Breakdown: Chill vs. Grit

Dad Hat

  • Fit: Low-profile, unstructured, soft crown
  • Look: Effortlessly casual, slightly floppy
  • Closure: Adjustable buckle strap (clean and classic)
  • Best For: Sunday brunches, dog walks, coffee runs, or low-key protests

Vintage Cap

  • Fit: Slightly more structured with a washed twill finish
  • Look: Lived-in, rugged, a bit more deliberate in its attitude
  • Closure: Brass slider with hidden tuck-in
  • Best For: Late-night gigs, road trips, spontaneous bad ideas, and looking like you don’t try but totally do


 

When and Where to Wear Them

Dad Hat
Wear it when you’re going for understated cool. Pairs best with oversized tees, sneakers, and a devil-may-care attitude. Great for casual hangouts, lazy beach days, or acting unfazed in a grocery store run-in with your ex.

Vintage Cap
This one leans more into main character energy. It elevates a plain hoodie or makes a graphic tee pop. Ideal for music festivals, indie markets, or whenever you want to look interesting without trying too hard.

 

Care Instructions: Keep It Dirty (But Not Too Dirty)

Both hats are 100% cotton, so treat them like your favorite denim:

  • Spot clean with a damp cloth when needed.
  • Avoid the washing machine—the shape will never forgive you.
  • Let it air dry. No tumble dryers. No radiators. Just vibes.
  • If it’s gotten sweaty, hand wash in cold water with mild soap, reshape while wet, and air dry with the brim propped up.

 

Final Thoughts: Which One’s for You?

If you’re into soft silhouettes and that effortlessly-threw-this-on energy, the Dad Hat is your go-to.

If you’re more into rugged minimalism with a bit of grit, reach for the Vintage Cap.

Either way, you’re not just wearing a cap. You’re wearing an attitude.

Choose wisely. Or don’t. We won’t judge.

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