Back in the 1970s, trucker hats were merely promotional merchandise farmers and truck drivers received from agricultural and trucking companies. Today, however, they have experienced a rather impressive resurgence, becoming an integral part of our outdoor and casual wear, thanks to their stylish design and substantial functionality.
Trucker hats, characterized by their mesh backing and adjustable snap-back closure, serve multiple purposes. They shield our eyes from the sun, keep our heads cool thanks to their breathable design, and remind us of our connection to the simple yet ceaselessly rewarding lifestyle of the great outdoors.
If you’re a fan of this style, you’re in the right place, and I’m going to break down some of the best trucker hats, great brands, and features that set each one apart. So, grab your cup of Joe, sit back, and let’s dive into the fascinating world of trucker hats.
The Differences Between Trucker Hats and Other Similar Hats
To get started understanding trucker hats, it’s important to get a feel for how they stand out from the other types of hats out there.
When it comes to trucker hats vs baseball caps, for instance, these two types of hats might seem similar at first glance. Both of them have a visor, a front panel, and a rounded shape. However, it’s the details that make the difference.
Trucker hats typically feature a foam front panel and, most notably, a breathable mesh back. This design combination makes trucker hats an excellent companion for outdoor activities as it helps to reduce sweating and keeps your head cool.
On the other hand, a traditional baseball cap is commonly made of all fabric, like cotton, and lacks the ventilation that the mesh back of a trucker hat provides. Baseball caps are also typically designed with a more form-fitting structure, whereas trucker hats are taller and boxier, providing a different style and fit.
Another type of hat you might confuse trucker hats with is snapbacks. Here, the main difference lies in the hat’s crown. While both types feature the convenient adjustable snap on the back (hence the name snapback), trucker hats again bring in the higher, boxier crown and breathable mesh back.
Snapbacks can be made entirely of materials like wool, cotton, or polyester, and while stylish, and with the lower crown, they may not provide the same level of ventilation and comfort in warmer climates or during physically demanding activities.
Advantages of the Best Trucker Hats
Now that you know what trucker hats are and what makes them unique, let’s delve into the reasons why I wholeheartedly recommend trucker hats as the best hats, especially if you’re a keen outdoors enthusiast like myself. These hats aren’t just trendy fashion items; they also bring numerous practical benefits that enhance our outdoor experiences.
Breathable Design
Thanks to the mesh used on the back panels of these hats, air circulates freely. This is truly a godsend when you’re fly-fishing under the scorching sun, keeping your head cool despite the heat.
Durability
These hats are constructed to take a beating. As an example, the Patagonia P-6 Logo LoPro Trucker Hat is made with sturdy organic cotton for the front panel and visor and durable polyester mesh for the back. This hat has accompanied me on countless fishing trips and still looks and feels as good as new.
Adjustability
For instance, most trucker hats feature a snap-back closure, letting you adjust the fit according to your preference. No more worries about it fitting too snugly or being too loose.
Excellent Sun Protection
The curved brims effectively shield your eyes from the glare of the sun, allowing better visibility. G. Loomis Tonal Cap, in particular, provides an adequate shade that complements its stylish look.
Palette for Self-Expression
You can choose from a broad variety of designs and also customize your own. Some brands even offer customizable trucker hats where you can feature your own logo or artwork, a surefire way to express your unique style.
Best Material for a Trucker Hat
One key aspect of a great trucker hat is the material. The overall comfort, breathability, and longevity of your chosen trucker hat are significantly affected by the fabric it’s fashioned from.
Let’s go over a few different materials that you may find trucker hats made from and what the advantages of each are.
Cotton Twill
I personally love this option for cooler climates or less intensive activities. Besides lending a great level of comfort, cotton twill gives the hat a sturdy feel and a refined look, making it a dual-purpose item for both outdoor hobbies and casual social outings.
Mesh Material
Nothing beats the breathability of a mesh back trucker hat on a hot summer day, especially when you’re out on the river waiting for your big catch. The mesh material allows for excellent ventilation, helping to avoid the overheating that can occur with other fabric types.
Polyester
Known for its durability and versatility, it’s often used in both the front panel and the bill of the hat. Polyester also stands up to the elements pretty well, maintaining its shape and color even after prolonged exposure to the sun.
Recycled Materials
On the subject of sustainability, I’ve recently been drawn to trucker hats made from recycled materials. Leading brands such as Patagonia are employing post-consumer waste to produce eco-friendly hats. Not only do these hats serve practical purposes, but they also contribute to environmental conservation efforts.
Wool/ Wool Blend
Now, if you’re into a more vintage look and feel, consider wool or a wool blend trucker hat. Though it’s best for cooler weather, the thick material offers better insulation and gives an old-school aesthetic touch.
Features of the Best Trucker Hats
If I’ve got you hooked on the idea of owning your own trucker hat, you should know that there are a couple of features that make good caps stand out from great ones. Let’s take a look at a few of these aspects so you can find one that you love.
Material
Different materials can offer varied levels of comfort, breathability, and durability. The best trucker hats often feature a cotton or polyester front panel for durability and a mesh back for breathability.
This combination ensures that the hat is sturdy enough to withstand any outdoor conditions yet breathable enough to keep your head cool during intense outdoor activities.
Adjustability
A high-quality trucker hat will always offer an adjustable snap closure at the back. This feature is crucial as it allows the hat to accommodate a wide range of head sizes.
Brim Shape and Size
A good trucker hat should have a brim that offers adequate shade from the sun. The shape and size of the brim can often be a personal preference; some prefer a bigger, flat brim, while others might opt for a smaller, curved one.
Design and Print
The outward appearance of the hat is also significant. The variety of prints and colors available is immense, allowing you to choose a hat that matches your personality and style. From the sleek appearance of the Jesse Brown’s Sunrise Hat to the cool and modern feel of the Free Fly Wave Trucker Hat, there’s surely a design to cater to every taste.
Considerations and Tips for Choosing the Best Trucker Hat
Purchasing the best trucker hat deserves careful thought and consideration. Unlike buying a commodity, the selection of a hat represents one’s style and love for outdoor activities like fly fishing.
In this section, I’ll share with you some key factors to mull over, along with specific tips to guide you in your purchase.
Fit of the Hat
Everyone’s head size and shape differ, and while the one-size-fits-all adjustable strap on trucker hats offers some flexibility, it’s crucial that you find a hat that sits comfortably and snugly on your head.
If it’s too tight, it could cause discomfort or headaches; too loose, and you may find yourself chasing after a flyaway hat on a windy day.
Material
As we previously discussed, materials can range from cotton blends to polyester to foam fronts with mesh backs. If most of your outdoor activities are in hot weather, a mesh-backed polyester hat will provide better ventilation and keep you cool. But, for chilly early morning fly fishing trips, a cotton or wool blended hat might bring more warmth.
Visor
Wide visors are excellent for shielding you from the sun, and curved visors aid in focusing your vision — helpful when you’re trying to spot fish. Meanwhile, the color of your visor’s underbill can also affect glare. Gray underbills can help minimize glare, which is handy when you’re on or near the water.
Overall Design and Color
Your hat’s overall design and color factor into the decision, too. I suggest selecting a design that suits your character and style. If you’re a nature lover, for instance, a hat in earth tones with a minimalistic design might suit you best.
Washing and Cleaning Instructions
While most trucker hats are machine washable, wool hats and hats with special embroidery might require hand-washing or spot cleaning. Keep this in mind, as it’s going to affect how you care for your hat and keep it in good condition.
What Are Some of the Best Trucker Hats?
As an enthusiastic outdoor aficionado, I’ve spent countless hours under the sun, and you bet I’ve worn my fair share of trucker hats over the years.
So, if you’re not sure where to start in your search for trucker hats, I have a few suggestions that can help you. Let’s dive into some of the top trucker hats that have made my outdoor experiences and those of many others all the more enjoyable.
Jesse Brown’s Fly Shop Patch Trucker Hat
The Jesse Brown’s Fly Shop Patch Trucker Hat is perfect for the avid outdoorsman thanks to its wide brim and mesh for breathability. It also comes in a number of different colors, so you can find something that suits your style, whether you go for a single color or a two-toned look. Plus, it has the snazzy JB logo for you to rock while you’re out and about.
Patagonia P-6 LoPro Trucker Hat
This cap blends style, comfort, and functionality seamlessly. It has an organic cotton canvas front, polyester mesh back, adjustable snap end, and the iconic Patagonia P-6 logo front and center. This hat’s quality and eco-friendly considerations make it a fond favorite amongst many outdoor enthusiasts.
Southern Tide South Carolina Patch Performance Trucker Hat
Known for its durability and solid construction, the Southern Tide South Carolina Patch Performance Trucker Hat is a great option for those who enjoy rigorous outdoor activities. It comes in a variety of colors and features a sweat-wicking band that keeps you dry even on a sunny day.
Filson Logger Mesh Cap
Well-ventilated and secure, this Filson Logger Mesh Cap trucker hat blocks the sun and keeps the sweat at bay. Sporting a vintage-washed look and a big Filson Logger logo on the front, it comes across as both rugged and stylish.
Duck Head Sanforized Patch Trucker Hat
Another fun and refreshing trucker hat to look into is the Duck Head Sanforized Patch Trucker Hat. This cap is available in mustard and navy and pays homage to the original Duck Head line of work wear.
Find the Perfect Trucker Hat to Suit Your Style
From their practical function to their fashion-forward appeal, trucker hats have found their niche not just among the farming and truck-driving community but also among the fashionable and adventure-seeking crowds.
The best trucker hats offer advantages such as durability, comfort, and breathability, with brands such as Patagonia and Jesse Brown’s Outdoors leading the pack in popularity. Whether you go with one of these brands or a different one, when choosing your trucker hat, just remember to consider factors such as fit, material, climate, and your personal style.
With that said, if you’re ready to pick up a trucker hat of your own, head over to Jesse Brown’s Outdoors and browse our collection. Or, sign up for our newsletter to receive the inside scoop on hats and other outdoor gear as well as sales to help you when you are ready to buy.