Style and fashion are constantly changing. With hats playing a bigger part in many peoples' wardrobes, knowing what hats are in and what hats are out is important.
The following list is what our stylists feel are the absolute best hats for men. Use it as your starting place for determining what hats you want to wear over the course of the year!
1. American Hat Makers: Cattleman - Men's Felt Cowboy Hat
Cowboy hats are rising in popularity. Vogue even suggested that the cowboy hat trend is "taking over" the fashion scene. So, a cowboy hat is a great place to start if you want to be in style.
This is the perfect cowboy hat to go with. The Cattleman from American Hat Makers has an iconic design and construction that immediately brings forth images of rodeos and cowboys. With a hat like this, you are sure to make an impact.
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2. Ice Cream: Lavish Bucket Hat
The most striking aspect of this hat is the design. It features ice cream cones with crossbones running through them. The effect is delightfully contradictory, as the morbid crossbones contrast well against the playful ice cream.
Bucket hats are also a nice mix of style and practicality. They look nice while providing limited sun protection.
3. American Hat Makers: Boondocks - Felt Fedora Hat
The Boondocks hat from American Hat Makers feels like it was pulled from a wild dream or an adventure novel. It has a straightforward and uncomplicated look that one would imagine a nothing-but-business movie star would adhere to. The dark design fits this aesthetic well and makes the hat even more impressive.
Want something new and fresh? Check out our newest arrivals in men’s hats right here!
This hat isn't just for show; it is also incredibly practical. The felt design is soft to the touch and has a level of insulation that will keep you warm in winter. Meanwhile, the hat's wide brim will protect you from the sun's heat in summer. Together, these factors turn this into a hat you can wear all year.
4. Uniqlo: UV Protection Melton Metro Hat
This hat fits a unique space when it comes to practicality. The hat's brim protects you from the sun. Meanwhile, the thicker material is designed to wrap your head in warm fabric. These factors make this hat the perfect choice for cold but sunny winter days. You can protect yourself from the harm caused by UV rays while still staying warm.
5. American Hat Makers: Cabana - Men's Breathable Wide Brim Sun Hat
The Cabana from American Hat Makers is the ultimate way to look good while beating the heat. The high crown of this hat draws heat and moisture from your head. This is then expelled through the hat's breathable design. While this is happening, the hat's wide brim shades you from the sun's rays. The overall effect cools you down and prevents you from getting too sweaty.
The hat also looks amazing. It has a look that feels western but is more adaptable than a classic cowboy hat. Because of this, you can take this hat anywhere and wear it wherever you choose.
6. Needles: Baseball Cap in Black
In some cases, a baseball cap can be a bit plain. However, the Baseball Cap in Black from Needles is anything but plain.
This hat has an immediately striking design. It features an array of bright diamonds spread out against a black background. Then, in the center of the hat's front, you can find a beautiful blue butterfly. The entire hat is a mix of darks and brights that, together, make a statement.
Related: Best Caps for Men: Baseball Cap Styles for Everyday
7. Huckberry: Waxed Canvas 6-Panel Hat
While the previous entry on this list was a striking baseball cap, this one goes with a minimalist approach. This is a simple and straightforward 6-panel hat. It is almost completely unadorned and draws the eye toward the lush 100% cotton material instead of drawing the eye to a specific design. It is the perfect choice for someone who doesn't want to wear a logo or design but still wants a solid hat.
The nice thing about this hat is that it is available in a few different colors. You can choose from olive, Havana, field tan, or coal. We personally like olive the best, as it pairs well with colors like purple, plum, and tan, but you can go with whichever color suits your personal wardrobe best.
8. Emily Dawn Long x Maria Dora: "A Hat Named Wanda"
Do you need something cool and trendy? "A Hat Named Wanda" has quickly become a style icon.
This hat is a unique mix between a beanie and a bucket hat. Because of this, it has a unique mix of utility. You can wear it on a cold day when you would normally want the warmth of a beanie. You can also wear it on a warmer day when you just need a little sun protection. The hat is versatile and adaptable in a way, unlike most hats.
Plus, this hat is hand crocheted. So, by wearing it, you are wearing a product of craft that is unique in another way.
9. The Hat Depot: Tie-Dye Bucket
The Tie-Dye Bucket hat from The Hat Depot will add a splash of color to your wardrobe. This is a 100% cotton bucket hat with a neat mix of colors.
The rainbow colors in this hat are great because they effectively match everything. Already wearing a colorful outfit? Add to it by topping yourself with tie dye. Wearing something more subtle? The tie-dye hat will instantly make your outfit more interesting. This allows you to wear this hat more than you would wear other hats.
Related: What is a Stetson Hat? Stetson Cowboy Hat Story
10. Kavu: Synthetic Strapvisor
Sometimes, you don't want to cover your head with a hat fully. However, you want the sun protection that a hat provides. In these cases, the Kavu Strapvisor is a great choice.
This visor has a cool and stylish look to it. You can wear it to the beach, on a hike, or while going about your everyday routine. No matter where you wear it, you will look cool while doing so.
Selecting the Right Type of Men's Hat
Choosing the right hat can enhance your overall look and style, and it's essential to consider factors, such as face shape, occasion, and weather. Here are a few tips to find the perfect hat for you.
Think About the Occasion
When it comes to choosing the right type of hat, consider the occasion. The kind of hat you wear can say a lot about you and your personal style, but you want one that is appropriate for the event.
For a casual outing, a baseball cap is a popular choice. It's comfortable, easy to wear, and protects from the sun. It is also a great way to show support for your favorite sports team or represent your personal style.
On the other hand, a fedora or a bowler hat may be more appropriate for a more formal occasion. These classic hats exude sophistication and elegance and can elevate any outfit to the next level. A fedora is incredibly versatile since it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
In addition to considering the occasion, think about the event's overall vibe and dress code. For example, if you're attending a beach wedding, a straw hat may be more suitable than a fedora or bowler hat.
Size Is Important
Yes, size does matter for a hat. You want to select a hat that fits properly. Not only does it look better, but it also feels more comfortable to wear. Before you make a purchase, you need to measure your head before buying a hat to ensure a proper fit.
If you want to correctly measure your head, take a tape measure and wrap it around your head at the widest point, usually just above your eyebrows and ears. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not too tight, as this can affect the accuracy of the measurement.
Once you have your head measurement, use the sizing chart provided by the hat manufacturer to determine the appropriate hat size. Remember that different hat styles may have slightly different sizing. Check the sizing chart for each hat you're considering.
A hat that is too big or small can look awkward and unflattering. A hat that is too small may pinch your head or sit too high, while a too-big cap may slip down over your eyes or look disproportionate to your head size. You want to choose the right size to ensure the hat sits comfortably and looks great on you.
Along with that, you should also consider the shape of the hat and how it sits on your head. Some hats, such as flat or newsboy caps, sit lower on the head. On the other hand, a fedora or a Panama hat sits higher on the head. Be aware of these different hat styles and see how they fit and feel on your head.
Don't Forget About Your Head Shape
Selecting the right hat can enhance your overall look and style, like how different clothing styles complement certain body types. Your face shape is an important consideration when choosing a hat style.
For those with a round face, a hat with a sharp, angular brim can help balance out the softness of the face shape. A fedora or trilby can create the illusion of a longer face, giving you a more structured look.
If you have a square face, a hat with a rounded brim can soften the angles of your features. Choose a newsboy cap or beanie that helps give your face a more rounded and balanced appearance.
Men with an oval face have the most versatility, and most hat styles will work well. However, a medium-sized brim is more flattering for this face shape. Also, baseball caps or flat caps can highlight the symmetry of the face and provide a clean, modern look.
For those with a long or narrow face, a hat with a wide brim can help balance the face's proportions. A Panama or cowboy hat adds width, providing a more harmonious appearance to the face.
Always consider the height and fit of the hat on your head. A hat that sits too high or low can throw off the balance of your face. Find a hat that sits comfortably on your head to complete your look.
Consider the Material
When you're looking to make a statement, choosing the perfect hat is key, and that starts with the material. With a wide range of materials to choose from, including straw, wool, felt, cotton, and leather, the possibilities are endless.
Looking to stay cool and stylish during the summer months? Look no further than the lightweight and breathable straw hat, ideal for everything from picnics to beach trips. Or perhaps you're in need of a cozy and warm hat for the colder seasons? A wool or felt hat offers unbeatable insulation, durability, and style for everyday wear.
But let's not forget about those formal events where you need to dress to impress. Step up your game with a sleek and stylish leather hat, perfect for weddings, graduations, or business meetings. And for those who want to make a bold statement, a luxurious velvet hat is sure to turn heads.
When selecting a hat, think beyond its appearance and consider the practical benefits. Caps can provide protection from the sun, keep you warm in the colder months, and keep your hair in place on a windy day. Also, it can be a statement piece that highlights your unique style and sets you apart from the crowd.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a hat, including the occasion, material, and shape that best compliments your face shape. While you want to prioritize comfort and fit, ensure that the hat material is durable and made with high-quality materials to ensure it lasts for a very long time.
Choosing the right hat can enhance your style, add practical benefits, and boost your confidence. Take your time to explore various styles and try on different materials and colors. With that, you can find the perfect hat that suits your personality and makes you feel your best.
The Best Men's Hats - Final Thoughts
We've just explored the best hats you can choose this year. Whether you're looking for a cowboy hat, baseball hat, bucket hat, or even a visor, we've got you covered. All that's left is to decide which one you like best!
Looking for a hat for a lady in your life? Take a look at our selection of women’s hats!