Flat caps have journeyed from the fields of 14th-century Britain to the polished greens of modern golf courses. Originally worn by workers for their durability, these caps became a staple of British fashion by the 19th century, admired for their simplicity and practicality. As golf rose in popularity across the UK, especially in Scotland, the flat cap naturally transitioned onto the golf course.
Today, flat caps are not just about sun protection—they symbolize a golfer's elegance and adherence to tradition. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a newcomer to the sport, integrating a flat cap into your golfing attire can add a touch of classic style while paying homage to the sport's rich heritage. Here's how you can select and style the perfect flat cap for your next round.
Different Types of Flat Caps
Classic Flat Cap: It is usually spacious for the head in the middle and back with a short border at the front.
Newsboy Cap: Also known as a baker boy, apple cap, or eight-panel cap, this cap features a rounder, fuller body constructed from eight stitched panels, typically with a button at the top. It presents a more casual, voluminous look.
Duckbill Cap: Structurally similar to the Newsboy cap but with a smoother, more streamlined silhouette, it's named for its bill resembling a duck's beak. This style offers a snugger fit and sleeker design.
Ivy Cap: Also known as a flat cap or cabbie cap, it boasts a more tailored fit with a structured design, offering a sleek, simple appearance without additional panels for a more understated and polished look.
Driving Cap: Very similar to the Ivy cap, the driving cap is another streamlined option designed for comfort and minimalism, often associated with vintage car drivers and reflecting classic driving attire.
Ascot Cap: Similar to the Ivy cap but with a harder, rounded body and no paneling. Typically made from wool or felt, it provides a more formal appearance compared to other types.
Fabrics Commonly Used in Crafting Flat Caps
Tweed
Tweed is a robust, woolen fabric known for its moisture resistance and durability. It excels in rough and extreme weather conditions, making it a popular choice for crafting flat caps. For example, our Harris Tweed Flat Cap showcases the classic appeal and rugged functionality of tweed.
Wool
Wool is one of the most traditional materials used in fabric-making, prized for its durability and moisture-proof qualities. Wool flat caps not only offer great protection but also bring a touch of timeless style. Consider our Oakmoore Flat Cap - 100% virgin wool for both fashion and function.
Cotton
Cotton's softness, durability, and absorbency make it another favored material for flat caps, providing comfort and breathability.
Other Materials
While less common, materials like leather and linen are also used for making flat caps, offering unique styles and textures for those seeking alternatives to the traditional fabrics.
What Style of Flat Cap Best Suits Golfers?
Selecting a Minimalist Color and Design for Your Golf Cap
When selecting a flat cap that best suits golfers, simplicity in color and design often prevails. Classic shades like charcoal, midnight blue, moss green, and steel grey tend to be favored for their ease of matching with various golf attire and for maintaining a professional and sleek appearance on the course. These understated colors complement the traditional and disciplined nature of the sport.
The classic flat cap, with its spacious design and short front brim, is ideal for golfers. It provides a comfortable fit for long rounds, ensures clear vision for precise shots, and respects the sport’s heritage with its everlasting style. What's more, it's wind-resistant, adding practicality to its elegant form.
Opt for Flat Caps with Gentle and Comfortable Fabrics
Choosing the right fabric for a golfer's flat cap is crucial for comfort and functionality on the course. Wool and tweed are particularly suitable materials, as they offer warmth and breathability, essential for those long hours outdoors. Wool's natural fibers provide excellent insulation, yet they're soft to the touch, making it gentle on the skin and comfortable to wear for an extended period. You could check out our Oakmoore Flat Cap - 100% virgin wool. Tweed, a type of woolen fabric, is renowned for its moisture-resistant properties and durability, ensuring that a golfer's head remains dry and the cap maintains its shape and style despite the weather conditions or rough handling.You could check out our Harris Tweed Flat Cap. Furthermore, both wool and tweed embody a classic aesthetic that aligns with the traditional golf attire, offering a look that is both practical and stylish on the green. These fabrics are not just about looks; they are about maintaining the legacy of the game while ensuring modern-day comfort and performance.