Snapback vs. Trucker vs. Fitted vs. 5-Panel: How to Choose a Hat
Hat names overlap, and one hat can be several things at once. This guide explains the main styles and who each one suits.
Snapback
A snapback has a plastic strap with snaps at the back, so one size fits most heads. It's the easiest choice for gifts and for anyone between sizes. Browse our snapback hats.
Trucker
A trucker hat has a mesh back for airflow. That makes it a good pick for warm weather, the beach and long days outside. Many of our hats are snapback truckers, so you get the mesh back and the adjustable snap together. Shop all our trucker hats.
Fitted and flexfit
A fitted hat has no strap and sits close to the head, for a clean, stretchy fit. Choose your size carefully. See our fitted hats, including the Classic Meshback Flexfit.
5-panel and 7-panel
These names describe how many fabric pieces make up the crown. A 5-panel has a clean front with no center seam, which shows off embroidery. A 7-panel has extra seams and a slightly different shape. Browse 7-panel hats, or look at the Top Water corduroy 5-panel.
Flat bill or curved bill
A flat bill gives a street look. A curved bill is the traditional baseball-cap shape. Try the Buck-Eye Evening Glow flatbill for a flat brim.
Quick pick
- Gift or unsure of size: snapback.
- Hot weather: trucker with a mesh back.
- Close, clean fit: fitted.
- Showing off embroidery: 5-panel.
Once you've picked one, read our guide on how to clean and care for your hat to keep it looking new.