Differences in Ball Caps

There are many ways people show their team spirit. Some attend sporting events, others make signs, and others wear team memorabilia. A common piece of memorabilia is a ball cap. There are several styles of ball caps, though the traditional shape--a bowl and a brim--remains the standard. Consider the different varieties when purchasing or designing ball caps for your favorite team or sports leagues.

  1. Fitted Versus Adjustable

    • One of the most noticeable differences when it comes to caps is whether the cap is fitted or adjustable. A fitted cap is sized specifically to your head. Size ranges ares based on the circumference of your head in inches. After your head is measured, it is then converted using a head size chart. An adjustable cap has a opening in the back of the cap which can be adjusted by retracting or extending a strap. The strap is usually attached by velcro, a clasp or a plastic snap.

    Mesh Versus Solid

    • Hats help keep the sun out of the face and eyes, and keep head heat from escaping the body on a cold day. Therefore, construction of ball caps can vary greatly in terms of the material used. A hat is generally divided into five panels. The front of the hat makes up one panel, while the rest of the hat is comprised of the other four. In a mesh hat, the back four panels are made of a mesh net-like material, while in a solid hat, the back four panels are made of cotton, polyester, or material blend.

    Brim length

    • The brim of a ball cap typically sticks out 2-to-3 inches beyond the front panel, but there are also short-brim caps which only stick out 1-to-1 1/2-inches. Short-brim ball caps were originally worn by baseball players in the early years of the major leagues before longer brims replaced them. Today, many companies produce short-brim baseball caps to be sold alongside their long-brimmed counterparts. Baseball umpires actually still wear short-brimmed caps as part of their uniform.