Born in 1860, the baseball cap was first worn by the Brooklyn Excelsiors and whilst it was originally designed to shield the sun from players faces, other teams and soon fashion brands adopted the trend. Despite the turndown baseball caps seem to get (remember Trump‘s campaign?) it still remains as an essential as an easy ticket to achieve a casual-cool vibe.

“The key to a baseball cap is keeping it clean and simple, with little to no branding and nothing too loud,” says Alexander McCalla, stylist at Thread. “Neutral tones always work best; navies, greys, black or khaki are particularly good, as they work with most complexions and they’re easy to integrate into an outfit. Factor in shape and material, too – the go-to is standard cotton. Consider your head shape, too. A flat peak, New Era cap might not suit your skull, while curves or five-panels can be a little more forgiving.”

And with that, we have curated the best caps on the market you can shop right away.


Polo Ralph Lauren

For streetwear with a side of preppy style, Ralph Lauren’s Polo line is swapping out your sports cap for something more cool. In a beige colour-way, you can team this piece with almost any look.

Polo Ralph Lauren Logo-Embroidered Cotton-Twill Baseball Cap / $52 AUD SHOP NOW


Ami Alexandre Mattiussi

Another set of baseball caps recognisable to its maker, the AMI cap is a classic, with its embroidery taking style cues from sports branding. The brand also has a number of styles and patterns if you want something a little bolder.

Ami Alexandre Mattiussi Appliquéd Cotton-Twill Baseball Cap / $135 AUD SHOP NOW


Balenciaga

An unlikely contender in the cap game, Balenciaga have brought out a large range of minimal caps for the lovers of luxury. Our favourite is the basic white with black embroidery, just in case people need reminding of who you’re wearing.

Balenciaga White Cap / $500 AUD SHOP NOW


Nike

An obvious one to add into the list, Nike’s selection of caps go on forever and along with its classic ‘swoosh’ designs, sporting fans can also grab their favourite team’s merch. Our favourite however is the vintage look, skateboarding cap.

Nike SB H86 Adjustable Hat / $30 AUD SHOP NOW


Stüssy

Best known for their surf and streetwear, Stüssy are well equipped with a good range of baseball caps. The different styles are endless with the Stüssy brand and with 30 years of knowledge, they are sure to last the distance.

Stüssy Baseball Cap / $81 AUD SHOP NOW


New Era

Found on just about every person down at the beach, the New Era New York Yankee cap is an icon for the style. While the baseball cap is available in a range of colour-ways, the navy/white is the classic choice.

New Era New York Yankee Baseball Cap / $27.50 AUD SHOP NOW


Stone Island

Off-duty label Stone Island is making street accessorising easy with its range of baseball caps. If you’re looking for something more high-key try this bold red. 

Stone Island Embroidered Logo Baseball Cap / $131 AUD SHOP NOW


Maison Kitsuné

Parisian label Maison Kitsuné are incorporating its strong heritage into its collection, if you want a baseball cap a little left of field. Available in an array of interesting prints and designs, look for the brands signature fox throughout.

Maison Kitsuné Logo Baseball Cap / $141 AUD SHOP NOW


River Island

River Island is your one stop shop for an endless collection of simple caps, all at affordable prices. Perfect as a means to see what works in your kit and for minimal style, most designs are also available in several colours.

River Island Hype Grey Baseball Cap / $50 AUD SHOP NOW


Carhartt WIP

As Carhartt moves away from the workwear that made them famous, quality basics still remain. Its caps in particular are the no-frills alternative to adding style to your daily get up.

Carhartt WIP Backley Cap / $60 AUD SHOP NOW

Cover Image: Instagram @its_hideaki