Vintage Golf Hats: Top 10 Timeless Style on the Green

Golf has always been as much about style as it is about skill. Among the many elements that contribute to a golfer’s look, few are as iconic as the hat.

Vintage golf hats carry with them a sense of nostalgia and class that modern headwear often struggles to match.

The Evolution of Golf Headwear

The story of golf hats is as old as the sport itself. In the windswept links of Scotland, where golf was born, early players donned sturdy caps to shield themselves from the elements.

These early hats were practical as opposed to fashionable, but they set the stage for what would become an essential part of golfing attire.

As golf spread beyond it’s Scottish roots in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, so too did the variety of headwear associated with the sport. The iconic newsboy cap, with it’s fuller crown and small brim, became a staple on courses around the world.

This period marked the beginning of golf hats as we know them today – a blend of function and fashion.

The Golden Age of Golf Hats

The 1920s and 1930s saw an explosion in golf hat styles. The newsboy cap remained popular, but it was joined by other classic styles like the fedora and the bucket hat.

These weren’t just functional pieces of equipment – they became status symbols, often crafted from high-quality materials like tweed, wool, and leather.

During this period, professional golfers began to have a significant influence on fashion trends. Players like Walter Hagen and Bobby Jones were known not just for their skill on the course, but for their impeccable style, including their choice of headwear.

Their popularity helped cement certain hat styles as quintessentially “golf.”

The Rise of the Baseball-Style Cap

The post-war years saw a significant shift in golf hat fashion with the introduction of the baseball-style cap. This style, which offered excellent sun protection and a more casual look, quickly gained popularity among both professional and amateur golfers.

The rise of the baseball-style cap coincided with golf’s increasing accessibility to the middle class. As the sport became less exclusive, the formal hats of the past began to give way to more practical and affordable options.

However, many golfers continued to appreciate the timeless elegance of vintage hats.

Top 10 Vintage Golf Hats

Now, let’s dive into our list of the top 10 vintage golf hats that have left an unforgettable mark on the sport’s fashion history:

1. The Classic Newsboy Cap

The newsboy cap, also known as the flat cap or ivy cap, is perhaps the most iconic vintage golf hat. It’s origins can be traced back to 14th century England and Ireland, but it found it’s place in golf fashion in the early 20th century.

Characterized by it’s rounded shape and small, stiff brim, the newsboy cap was favored by many legendary golfers, including Ben Hogan. It’s popularity stemmed from it’s practicality – it stayed on in windy conditions and didn’t interfere with the swing.

Today, vintage newsboy caps from renowned makers like Kangol or Stetson are highly sought after by collectors. When choosing a newsboy cap, look for quality materials like wool or tweed, and pay attention to the fit – it should sit comfortably just above your ears.

The newsboy cap’s versatility extends beyond the golf course. It pairs well with both casual and semi-formal attire, making it a timeless accessory for any wardrobe.

The cap’s ability to protect from sun and wind while maintaining a stylish appearance has contributed to it’s enduring popularity.

2. The Timeless Fedora

While not exclusively a golf hat, the fedora found it’s way onto the greens in the 1930s and 1940s. With it’s wide brim and indented crown, the fedora offered excellent sun protection while exuding an air of sophistication.

Golf legend Sam Snead was famous for his fedora, which became his trademark. Vintage fedoras from this era, especially those made by high-end hatmakers like Borsalino or Stetson, are prized possessions for collectors.

When considering a vintage golf fedora, pay attention to the brim width – wider brims offer more sun protection but can be trickier to manage in windy conditions. The material is also crucial – look for felt fedoras for cooler weather and straw versions for summer play.

The fedora’s association with golf goes beyond mere functionality. It represents a time when the sport was synonymous with elegance and refinement.

Wearing a fedora on the course today is a nod to this rich heritage and a statement of personal style.

3. The Practical Bucket Hat

The bucket hat, with it’s wide, downward-sloping brim, has been a favorite among golfers since the 1940s. It’s design offers excellent sun protection for the face, neck, and ears, making it ideal for long days on the course.

Vintage bucket hats from brands like Kangol or Tilley are particularly sought after. These hats were often made from durable materials like cotton twill or canvas, designed to withstand the rigors of regular use on the golf course.

When selecting a vintage bucket hat, consider the brim width and the fabric. A wider brim offers more sun protection, while breathable fabrics like cotton are ideal for hot weather.

The bucket hat’s practicality has ensured it’s longevity in golf fashion. It’s ability to be easily folded and stored in a golf bag makes it a convenient choice for players who prefer to alternate between wearing a hat and going bareheaded during their round.

4. The Stylish Pork Pie Hat

Named for it’s resemblance to the English meat pie, the pork pie hat gained popularity in golf circles during the 1940s and 1950s. Characterized by it’s flat top, short and upturned brim, and indented crown, the pork pie hat added a touch of panache to any golfer’s outfit.

Vintage pork pie hats from makers like Stetson or Knox are highly collectible. These hats were often made from high-quality felt or straw, depending on the season.

When choosing a pork pie hat, pay attention to the crown height and brim width. A lower crown and narrower brim tend to look more proportional on most face shapes.

The pork pie hat’s unique silhouette makes it a standout choice for golfers looking to make a fashion statement on the course. It’s compact size also makes it practical for players who prefer a hat that won’t interfere with their swing or vision.

5. The Elegant Panama Hat

Although not exclusively a golf hat, the Panama hat found favor among golfers in tropical and subtropical climates. Despite it’s name, authentic Panama hats are made in Ecuador from the plaited leaves of the toquilla palm.

Vintage Panama hats, especially those from renowned makers like Montecristi, are highly valued for their fine weave and durability. These hats offer excellent sun protection while remaining lightweight and breathable.

When selecting a vintage Panama hat, look for a tight, even weave and a supple feel. The finest Panama hats can be rolled up without damage, a testament to their quality and craftsmanship.

The Panama hat’s association with golf dates back to the early 20th century when wealthy Americans and Europeans began playing the sport in tropical locales. It’s lightweight construction and breathable material made it ideal for golfing in hot climates, while it’s elegant appearance aligned perfectly with the sport’s refined image.

6. The Casual Visor

While not as old as some other styles on this list, the visor has been a staple of golf fashion since the 1950s. Offering sun protection for the eyes without trapping heat on the head, visors quickly became popular among both amateur and professional golfers.

Vintage visors from brands like Hogan or Izod Lacoste are particularly collectible. These were often made from cotton or terry cloth, with adjustable straps for a custom fit.

When choosing a vintage visor, look for one with a sturdy brim that hasn’t warped over time. The elastic or adjustable strap should still have good tension to confirm a secure fit.

The visor’s popularity in golf stems from it’s ability to provide targeted sun protection without the full coverage of a hat. This makes it an excellent choice for players who want to keep their heads cool while shielding their eyes from glare.

The visor’s simplicity and functionality have ensured it’s place in golf fashion for decades.

7. The Distinctive Tam O’Shanter

The Tam O’Shanter, a traditional Scottish bonnet, has a special place in golf history. Named after a Robert Burns poem, this hat features a flat crown wider than it’s base and a pompom in the center.

While not as common in modern golf, vintage Tam O’Shanters from the early 20th century are prized collectibles. These were often made from wool and came in a variety of tartan patterns.

When selecting a vintage Tam O’Shanter, pay attention to the wool quality and the intricacy of the tartan pattern. The pompom should be securely attached and full.

The Tam O’Shanter’s connection to golf is deeply rooted in the sport’s Scottish origins. Wearing one on the course is a nod to golf’s heritage and can be a conversation starter among history-minded players.

While it may not offer the same practical benefits as some other golf hats, it’s cultural significance makes it a unique and cherished piece of golf fashion.

8. The Functional Driving Cap

Similar to the newsboy cap but with a stiffer construction, the driving cap (also known as a golf cap or ivy cap) became popular in the 1920s and 1930s. It’s low profile and stiff brim made it ideal for golfers, as it wouldn’t interfere with the swing.

Vintage driving caps from makers like Christy’s London or Kangol are highly sought after. These were typically made from tweed or other sturdy fabrics to withstand regular wear.

When choosing a vintage driving cap, look for one with a well-maintained shape and a brim that’s still stiff. The lining should be intact, and any leather sweatbands should be supple.

The driving cap’s popularity in golf stems from it’s practicality and style. It’s low profile makes it less likely to be affected by wind, while it’s stiff brim provides some sun protection without obstructing vision.

The cap’s association with British and Irish golf traditions adds an element of classic style to any golfer’s outfit.

9. The Classic Baseball Cap

While not strictly “vintage” in the same sense as some older styles, the baseball cap has been a staple of golf fashion since the 1960s. Early golf-specific baseball caps often featured longer bills for better sun protection.

Vintage golf baseball caps from brands like Titleist or Ping, especially those from notable tournaments or featuring classic logos, are collectible items.

When selecting a vintage golf baseball cap, look for caps with intact stitching and bills that haven’t warped over time. Adjustable straps should still function properly.

The baseball cap’s rise in golf fashion coincided with the sport’s increasing popularity and accessibility in the mid-20th century. It’s simple design and effective sun protection made it a practical choice for players of all skill levels.

Today, the baseball cap stays one of the most common sights on golf courses worldwide, with many players collecting caps from different courses or tournaments as souvenirs.

10. The Unique Plus Fours Cap

The Plus Fours cap, named after the knee-length trousers popular in early 20th century golf fashion, is a unique style that’s essentially a larger, looser version of the newsboy cap. It was designed to complement the voluminous Plus Fours trousers.

Vintage Plus Fours caps are rare finds, making them valuable to collectors. They were typically made from the same tweeds and wools as the trousers they were designed to match.

When choosing a vintage Plus Fours cap, look for one that has maintained it’s shape well. The fabric should be in good condition, with any patterns or checks still clearly visible.

The Plus Fours cap represents a specific era in golf fashion when the sport was closely associated with a particular style of dress. While it may not be practical for modern play, owning and wearing a Plus Fours cap is a way to connect with golf’s sartorial history.

It’s a conversation piece that can add a touch of vintage flair to a golfer’s wardrobe.

Caring for Vintage Golf Hats

Owning a piece of golf history comes with the responsibility of proper care. Here are some tips for maintaining your vintage golf hats:

Store your hats in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and material degradation. Sunlight can cause colors to fade and materials to become brittle over time.

Consider using acid-free tissue paper to stuff the hat and help maintain it’s shape during storage.

Use a soft brush to gently remove dust and dirt. A soft-bristled brush, like a hat brush or even a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush, can be effective for this purpose.

Brush in the direction of the fabric’s nap to avoid damaging the material.

For more stubborn stains, consult a professional cleaner who specializes in vintage clothing. They will have the expertise and suitable cleaning solutions to tackle stains without damaging the delicate materials of your vintage hat.

If your hat needs reshaping, use steam carefully, or better yet, seek professional help. Improper reshaping can damage the hat irreparably.

A professional hatter will have the tools and knowledge to reshape your hat without risking damage.

When displaying your hat, use a proper hat stand to maintain it’s shape. This is particularly important for hats with structured crowns, like fedoras or pork pie hats.

A good hat stand will support the crown without stretching it out of shape.

Handle your vintage hats with clean, dry hands to avoid transferring oils or dirt. If you need to handle your hat often, consider wearing clean, white cotton gloves to protect the hat from the oils on your skin.

For leather sweatbands or trim, use a leather conditioner sparingly to prevent cracking and maintain suppleness. Be sure to test the conditioner on a small, inconspicuous area first to confirm it doesn’t cause discoloration.

If your vintage hat gets wet, allow it to dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid using direct heat sources like hair dryers or radiators, as these can cause shrinkage or damage to the material.

For long-term storage, consider using a hat box. This will protect your hat from dust and potential crushing.

If you’re storing many hats, use acid-free tissue paper between them to prevent color transfer.

Regularly inspect your vintage hats for signs of moth damage, especially if they’re made of wool. If you spot any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

The Enduring Appeal of Vintage Golf Hats

The appeal of vintage golf hats extends far beyond the fairways and greens. These classic styles have found their way into mainstream fashion, appreciated for their timeless elegance and the sense of history they carry.

For collectors, vintage golf hats offer a tangible connection to the sport’s rich past. Each hat tells a story – of the era it comes from, the players who might have worn similar styles, and the changing face of golf fashion over the decades.

Many contemporary golf brands now offer “heritage” or “retro” lines that pay homage to these classic styles. This resurgence of vintage-inspired golf wear is a testament to the enduring appeal of these timeless designs.

Vintage golf hats also serve as conversation starters, both on and off the course. They can spark discussions about golf history, fashion trends, and the evolution of the sport.

For many golfers, wearing a vintage hat is a way to express their appreciation for the game’s traditions and heritage.

The craftsmanship of vintage golf hats is often superior to that of modern mass-produced headwear. The attention to detail, quality of materials, and durability of these older hats contribute to their lasting appeal.

Many vintage hats, if properly cared for, can last for decades, becoming cherished heirlooms passed down through generations of golf enthusiasts.

Wearing a vintage golf hat can also be a form of self-expression. In a sport where dress codes can sometimes feel restrictive, a carefully chosen vintage hat allows players to inject some personality into their on-course attire while still respecting the game’s traditions.

The versatility of many vintage golf hat styles adds to their appeal. A classic newsboy cap or fedora can look just as at home in a casual urban setting as it does on the golf course.

This crossover appeal has helped to keep these styles relevant and desirable long after their initial heyday.

For some, collecting vintage golf hats is a way to own a piece of the sport’s history. Whether it’s a hat similar to one worn by a legendary player or a cap from a historic tournament, these items allow collectors to feel a connection to golf’s past.

The environmental aspect of vintage fashion has also contributed to the renewed interest in old golf hats. As more people become conscious of the environmental impact of fast fashion, choosing vintage items becomes an eco-friendly choice to buying new.

Lastly, the nostalgia factor cannot be overlooked. For many golfers, particularly those who grew up watching the sport in earlier decades, vintage golf hats evoke fond memories of past eras, favorite players, and classic tournaments. Wearing or collecting these hats is a way to keep those memories alive and celebrate the rich history of the game.

People Also Asked

What is the most popular golf hat?

The baseball-style cap is now the most popular golf hat. It’s widespread use is because of it’s practicality, offering good sun protection and a comfortable fit.

Many professional golfers wear these caps, often featuring sponsor logos.

Are bucket hats good for golf?

Bucket hats are excellent for golf. They provide 360-degree sun protection for your face, neck, and ears.

Their wide brim helps shield your eyes from glare, improving visibility on sunny days.

Many golfers prefer bucket hats for their combination of functionality and style.

What kind of hat did Ben Hogan wear?

Ben Hogan was famous for wearing a newsboy cap, also known as a flat cap or ivy cap. This style became closely associated with Hogan and influenced golf fashion during his era.

Many golfers still wear similar caps as a nod to Hogan’s iconic style.

Why do pro golfers wear hats?

Professional golfers wear hats primarily for sun protection and to shield their eyes from glare, which can affect their performance. Hats also serve as prime real estate for sponsor logos, making them an important part of a pro golfer’s marketing strategy.

What is the difference between a golf hat and a regular hat?

Golf hats are designed with features specific to the sport. They often have moisture-wicking sweatbands, UV protection, and longer brims for better sun shielding.

Golf hats are also typically made from lightweight, breathable materials to keep players comfortable during long rounds.

Can you wear a fedora for golf?

While less common today, fedoras were once popular in golf, especially in the 1930s and 1940s. You can still wear a fedora for golf, particularly if you’re going for a vintage look.

However, modern golf attire tends to favor more practical headwear like baseball caps or visors.

What hat did Arnold Palmer wear?

Arnold Palmer was known for wearing various hats throughout his career, but he was often seen in a visor or a classic golf cap (similar to a baseball cap). In his later years, he often wore a visor with his signature logo.

Are straw hats good for golf?

Straw hats, particularly wide-brimmed styles like Panama hats, can be excellent for golf, especially in hot weather. They provide good sun protection and are lightweight and breathable.

However, they may not be ideal in windy conditions because of their lighter weight.

What is the purpose of a golf visor?

Golf visors serve to shield a player’s eyes from the sun without trapping heat on top of the head. They’re particularly popular in warm climates as they allow for better air circulation while still providing protection from glare and UV rays.

How do I choose a golf hat?

When choosing a golf hat, consider factors like sun protection, comfort, breathability, and style. Look for hats with UV protection and moisture-wicking properties.

The hat should fit securely but not too tightly.

Your personal style and the dress code of the courses you play should also influence your choice.

Key Takeaways

1. Vintage golf hats are more than just accessories – they’re a window into the sport’s rich history and evolving fashion.
2. The evolution of golf hat styles reflects changes in the sport’s culture and accessibility over time.
3. Collecting vintage golf hats is a way to preserve and celebrate golf’s heritage.
4. Proper care is essential for maintaining the condition and value of vintage golf hats.
5. Vintage golf hat styles continue to influence modern golf fashion and mainstream culture.