Dad Hats vs. Baseball Caps: What’s the Difference?
Everything you need to know to choose between these two similar styles.
When it comes to custom headwear, choosing the right hat style can make all the difference in how your brand, event, or team is represented. Two of the most popular styles on the market—dad hats and baseball caps—might seem interchangeable at first glance, but there are some key differences worth knowing before you place your order.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect hat to embroider or just trying to figure out what exactly makes a dad hat a dad hat, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down.
What is a Dad Hat?
A dad hat is a casual, unstructured cap with a slightly curved brim and a relaxed, low-profile fit. It usually features an adjustable strap in the back—often a fabric strap with a metal buckle or a hook-and-loop closure (a.k.a. Velcro).
Key Features of a Dad Hat:
Soft, unstructured crown
Slightly curved brim
Adjustable strapback (fabric or leather with buckle)
Low-profile fit (sits lower on the head)
Typically made of cotton or cotton-blend fabric
This laid-back look has made dad hats a go-to for everything from brewery merch to startup swag to college gear. They’re comfortable, easy to wear, and—let’s be real—pretty timeless.
What is a Baseball Cap?
A baseball cap is a broader category that includes any structured cap with a rounded crown and a curved brim. That means dad hats are technically a type of baseball cap, but not all baseball caps are dad hats.
When people refer to a “baseball cap” more generally, they often mean the more structured version worn by athletes and sports fans—think of the fitted caps you’d see on a Major League Baseball player.
Key Features of a Traditional Baseball Cap:
Structured crown (often reinforced with buckram)
Curved brim (can be more exaggerated)
May be fitted, snapback, or strapback
Mid-to high-profile fit (sits higher on the head)
Often made of heavier twill or performance materials
Baseball caps tend to hold their shape and give off a sportier, more polished look—making them great for team uniforms, corporate events, and fans of that classic athletic style.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a Dad Hat if you want:
• A relaxed, vintage vibe
• A hat that feels broken-in from day one
• Custom merch that's a classic favorite with broad appeal
Choose a Traditional Baseball Cap if you want:
• A more structured, uniform look
• A style that’s great for athletic teams or events
• Custom hats that sit higher and hold their shape
Still not sure? Here’s a pro tip: If you’re going for wide appeal, dad hats tend to be a crowd favorite. They fit a wider range of head sizes, look good on just about everyone, and pair perfectly with casual, trendy branding.
Dad Hats vs. Baseball Caps FAQs
Ready to Customize Your Own?
Whether you’re team Dad Hat or team Baseball Cap, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your project. From high-quality embroidery to unique and trendy patches, we’ll make sure your hat order looks and feels great—start to finish.
