hats off!
Hat Trick: The secret to finding the right lid
Depending on your personal style and head shape, the perfect hat can be hard to find. “Hats continue to grow as a fashion statement off the course,” says Niall Kelly, golf professional and shop manager at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, N.Y., which carries roughly two dozen styles of various colors and logo applications and sells about 15,000 annually. Here, Kelly explains what makes 10 of their more popular models distinct. While materials have become more modern, certain old-school styles are hot—including several, like truckers, that didn’t originate on the golf course. All pictured sell at the historic U.S. Open venue for $35 to $45.
The greens look like giant mushrooms, curled and slumped around the edges, proving that as a course architect, Tillinghast was not a fun guy. Winged Foot West was tamed, somewhat, by Bryson DeChambeau in winning the 2020 U.S. Open that was played in September, but he was the only competitor to finish under-par in his six-shot victory.
1. PINCH FRONT CORDUROY SNAPBACK (Manufacturer: CAPATUER) A popular choice in spring or fall for the warmer material. Features a mid-height structured five-panel pinch-crown and a bill rope for added personality.
2. PERFORMANCE BUCKET (IMPERIAL) The bucket hat made famous by Jack Nicklaus was cotton. Today, juniors and 80-year-olds alike rock buckets made of polyester performance fabrics that are lightweight and sun-protective.
3. PERFORMANCE FLAT BILL (RICHARDSON SPORTS) The bill features a mesh flip-up stay and UPF 50+ rating. You get modern design benefits with Lee Trevino vibes.
4. TRUE FIT (IMPERIAL) The traditional “dad hat” combo of lightweight breathable fabric and soft structured profile make this a top seller.
5. TACTICAL TRUCKER (RICHARDSON SPORTS A nod to hunters, the no-button crown offers comfort while wearing ear protection. It’s a feature originally designed for function that’s become fashionable.
6. CURVED FIVE-PANEL ROPE (BRANDED BILLS) A throwback classic made of very light fabric with a moisture-wicking sweatband. The high crown and a snapback give this hat distinction.
7. 112 TRUCKER (RICHARDSON SPORTS) A look that’s casual yet versatile makes this popular among all ages. Six-panel construction, premium materials and a cotton sweatband provide all-day comfort.
8. CANVAS FIVE-PANEL ROPE (BRANDED BILLS) This water-repellent cotton has a unique fading effect that develops character over time. The rope and high crown give a vintage touch evoking Gary Player.
9. STRETCH SNAPBACK TRUCKER (BRANDED BILLS) This six-panel lid has a low crown for a more conservative aesthetic. A spandex mesh back provides stretch for added comfort. The soft structured profile make this classic and simple.
10. TKO (AMERICAN NEEDLE) A great summer hat. Boasts an unstructured crown, pre-curved visor with contrasting under visor, and adjustable velcro tech backstrap.
