Why Dad Hats Are Still Trending in 2024

Dad hats have become an iconic fashion staple over the years, and their popularity is showing no signs of slowing down in 2024. Known for their laid-back, unstructured design and curved brims, dad hats are a versatile accessory that works well with any casual outfit. Whether you're looking for a blank canvas to add custom designs or a unique style to express yourself, dad hats remain a go-to choice for fashion enthusiasts.

In this article, we’ll explore the best places to buy dad hats, with Spocket leading the list for its high-quality, customizable options. Plus, we’ll dive into the top 10 dad hat vendors, along with tips on choosing the best hat to suit your style.

What are Dad Hats?

Dad hats are a style of baseball cap characterized by their unstructured, soft design and slightly curved brim. Unlike traditional fitted baseball caps, dad hats are often made from cotton or canvas, giving them a relaxed and worn-in look. They usually feature an adjustable strap at the back, allowing for a comfortable, customizable fit.

Key Features of Dad Hats

Here are the key features of dad hats:

1. Unstructured Design: Dad hats lack the rigid front panel seen in other cap styles, giving them a softer, more laid-back appearance.
2. Curved Brim: The brim of a dad hat is gently curved, offering a more casual look than the flat-brimmed alternatives.
3. Adjustable Strap: Most dad hats feature a buckle or velcro strap at the back, making them one-size-fits-all and easy to adjust.
4. Cotton or Canvas Material: These caps are typically made from soft, breathable materials like cotton, contributing to their comfortable and lightweight feel.

Why Are They Called Dad Hats?

The term "dad hat" originated because this style of hat was often worn by older men, especially fathers, who valued function over fashion. The casual, unpretentious look of these hats made them a practical choice for daily activities. However, the dad hat has since transcended generations and is now a popular accessory in streetwear and casual fashion.

Where, When, and How to Wear Dad Hats

Dad hats have become a versatile accessory, perfect for a wide range of occasions. Their laid-back, comfortable design makes them easy to incorporate into casual and trendy outfits. Below is a guide on when, where, and how to wear dad hats to elevate your style.

Where to Wear Dad Hats?

Are you looking to impress your friends or surprise your family? Wearing a dad hat to meet up with loved ones may be the perfect move then. Here's are some great locations or spots where you can show off your favourite dad hat styles:

Casual Outings

Occasions: Brunch, coffee runs, shopping trips, or hanging out with friends.

Why it works: Dad hats add a touch of effortless cool to your everyday outfits. They are low-key yet fashionable, making them a perfect choice for informal settings.

Outdoor Activities

Occasions: Hiking, picnics, beach days, or sports events.

Why it works: Dad hats offer protection from the sun while maintaining a comfortable fit. They’re practical for outdoor activities and blend function with style.

Athletic Events

Occasions: Running, playing sports, or attending games.

Why it works: Many dad hats are breathable and lightweight, making them ideal for athletic activities. Plus, they offer just enough shade to keep the sun out of your eyes.

Casual Work Settings

Occasions: Creative workspaces, casual Fridays, or remote workdays.

Why it works: In laid-back professional environments, dad hats can add a stylish touch without feeling too informal. They can be paired with casual office wear for a relaxed, creative vibe.

Traveling

Occasions: Airport trips, road trips, or sightseeing tours.

Why it works: Comfortable and easy to wear, dad hats are the ideal travel companion. They’re light and compact, and keep your hair in place while on the go.

When to Wear Dad Hats?

There's no specific times of the year you can wear dad hats. Wear them during halloween, birthdays, or even every day if you like. The clock never ticks but here's a few for right dad hat moments:

During Daytime Activities: Dad hats are typically associated with casual, daytime wear. Whether you’re running errands or grabbing lunch with friends, these hats add an effortless touch to your outfit. They’re perfect for sunny days when you need some protection from the sun, or even on breezy, cool afternoons.

Summer & Spring Seasons: The breathable cotton or canvas material of most dad hats makes them especially ideal for warmer weather. Wear them during spring or summer to keep cool and comfortable while adding a touch of style to your casual outfits.

Sporting Events or Music Festivals: Dad hats are a favorite accessory at sports events or music festivals, where you need something practical yet stylish. These hats can be worn for hours, offering comfort and shade without overheating.

How to Wear Dad Hats?

Dad hats can be worn on any season and paired with a myriad of styles. There are no limitations or ranges. Here are different ways and occasions you can wear them:

With Casual Outfits:

‍Pair your dad hat with a simple t-shirt, jeans, or shorts, and sneakers for a classic, relaxed look. This effortless combo works well for most casual outings and day-to-day wear.

Example: A white dad hat with a graphic t-shirt and distressed jeans for a stylish, street-ready look.

For a Sporty Style:

Opt for a dad hat with a team logo or sports-related design to create a sporty vibe. Pair it with athleisure wear like joggers, leggings, or a track jacket for a comfortable yet fashionable ensemble.

Example: A black dad hat paired with a tracksuit or leggings and a hoodie, ideal for a workout or gym day.

With Streetwear:

‍Dad hats are popular in the streetwear scene, where they’re often worn with oversized tees, bomber jackets, and sneakers. Experiment with bold, graphic designs or minimalist styles depending on your aesthetic.

Example: Pair a bold-colored dad hat with a graphic tee, oversized jacket, and high-top sneakers for an edgy, street-inspired outfit.

Dressed Down for Work:

If your work environment allows casual attire, dad hats can be paired with more relaxed office outfits like chinos, button-up shirts, or even blazers. Choose neutral colors like black, grey, or beige for a more refined, professional look.

Example: A navy dad hat paired with a casual button-up shirt, chinos, and loafers for a laid-back but polished appearance.

Layering with Outerwear
Dad hats pair well with outerwear like denim jackets, bomber jackets, or parkas. This layered look is perfect for the fall or winter seasons when you want to add extra warmth and style to your outfit.

Example: A khaki dad hat with a flannel shirt and denim jacket for a cozy fall outfit.

Tips for Wearing Dad Hats

Get ready to impress your friends and family by wearing stunning dad hats. They come in a variety of designs, shapes, and sizes. These hats can add a touch of flair and spark innovation. You can make an amazing style statement and they are crafted from high-quality materials. Dad hats are incredibly comfortable and pair beautifully with any event. Here is a list of tips for wearing them right:

• Choose the Right Fit: Since dad hats come with adjustable straps, make sure it fits comfortably on your head without feeling too tight or too loose.
• Color Matching: Neutral-colored dad hats like black, white, grey, and beige can easily match any outfit. If you’re feeling bold, opt for bright colors or patterns to make your dad hat the statement piece.
• Add Personalization: Custom dad hats, with embroidered logos or personal designs, are great for showcasing your personality or branding your business.
• Avoid Over-styling: Keep your outfit balanced by sticking to casual, effortless looks when pairing with a dad hat. Too many accessories can make the outfit feel cluttered.
• Mix and Match: You can mix and match different dad hats for different occasions. You can try out unique collections like Spocket’s girl gang bachelorette party dad hats and even men’s oversized XXL baseball caps. Get creative and surprise your friends!

Popularity in Fashion

"Dad hats are no longer just for dads. They're a statement piece that adds a touch of laid-back chic to any outfit." 

-Fashion influencer, @FashionistaChic

Dad hats have become a timeless fashion staple due to their versatile and comfortable design. They can be worn by anyone, making them a popular choice across various age groups and styles. Whether plain, embroidered with logos, or customized with personal designs, dad hats are perfect for both casual outfits and brand merchandise. 

A popular style blogger commented: :The latest dad hat trends feature bold optical illusions that add a playful touch to your look. Try pairing them with patterned tops for a fun, mismatched vibe."

In 2024, dad hats continue to be a go-to accessory for those seeking comfort and understated style. Their simple yet classic design makes them easy to pair with anything from jeans and a t-shirt to a more polished, streetwear-inspired look. Practicality can also meet style. Dad hats with built-in UPF protection or hidden pouches for storing small items are becoming a hit these days.

15 Suppliers for Dad Hats

If you're looking to source or create custom dad hats, there are a variety of top suppliers that cater to different needs, from print-on-demand services to bulk ordering. Spocket stands out as a leading choice, offering high-quality, customizable dad hats with fast shipping from US and EU suppliers, making it ideal for entrepreneurs who want to sell unique designs without holding inventory. 

The famous suppliers of dad hats are:

1. Spocket: Best for Customizable Dad Hats

When it comes to custom dad hats, Spocket is the top choice for eCommerce entrepreneurs and fashion lovers alike. Spocket’s print-on-demand service allows you to add your designs to a variety of dad hats, and their fast shipping from US and EU suppliers ensures customers get their products quickly.

Fashion brands and artists are teaming up to create one-of-a-kind dad hats that are both stylish and exclusive. You can get your hands on limited-edition designs and source from the best suppliers at Spocket.

• Key Feature:
  • Wide range of blank dad hats ready for customization.
  • Easy-to-use print-on-demand feature.
  • Fast shipping from US and EU-based suppliers.
• Pros:
  • High-quality embroidery and printing options.
  • Perfect for starting your brand.
  • Integrates with Shopify, WooCommerce, and other major platforms.
• Best For Entrepreneurs looking to create custom dad hats and anyone looking for high-quality, ready-to-sell hats with fast shipping.

2. Printful

Printful is a popular print-on-demand platform known for its extensive catalog of apparel and accessories, including customizable dad hats. Their high-quality embroidery options allow for intricate designs, making Printful a great choice for personalized hats.

In 2024, embroidery is expected to continue its resurgence as a key trend in fashion, with consumers seeking unique and personalized items that reflect their individuality. Printful is poised to capitalize on this trend, offering a range of customization options that cater to the demand for exclusivity. With global fulfillment centers and integration with major eCommerce platforms, Printful makes it easy to scale your business and reach a wider audience.

• Key Features:
  • Custom embroidery for dad hats.
  • Integration with major eCommerce platforms like Shopify and Etsy.
  • Global fulfillment centers.
• Pros:
  • Excellent embroidery quality.
  • No upfront costs, only pay when you sell.
• Best For Sellers looking for easy integration and high-quality embroidery on dad hats.

3. Printify

Printify may be the newest kid on the block, but it's quickly established itself as a serious player in the print-on-demand space. With multiple print providers and competitive pricing, Printify offers a unique value proposition that's hard to resist. Whether you're a startup or an established brand, Printify's flexible pricing model means you can create high-quality hats without breaking the bank.

Printify's budget-friendly options and volume discounts make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to dip their toes into the world of customized dad hats. With an easy-to-use mockup generator and integration with major platforms, Printify makes it easy to create professional-looking designs that will appeal to a wide range of customers.

• Key Features:
  • Multiple print providers for dad hats.
  • Competitive pricing with volume discounts.
  • Easy-to-use mockup generator.
• Pros:
  • Offers both embroidery and printing options.
  • Competitive pricing for bulk orders.
• Best For Entrepreneurs looking for budget-friendly print-on-demand services.

4. Teespring (Spring)

Spring (formerly Teespring) is perfect for creators who want to sell their custom-designed dad hats to fans or followers. It offers a simple platform for designing and selling products without upfront costs.

As the market for custom dad hats continues to grow, Spring is a great choice for creators who want to capitalize on the trend. With its user-friendly design tool, you can create unique and stylish designs that appeal to your fans and followers. Spring's low-risk model means you don't have to worry about managing inventory upfront, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs who want to test the waters before investing in a large stock of products.

• Key Features:
  • Simple design tool for creating custom dad hats.
  • No upfront costs, you earn profits from each sale.
  • Ideal for creators and influencers.
• Pros:
  • Low-risk platform with no need to manage inventory.
  • Easy integration with social platforms like YouTube.
• Best For Content creators and influencers who want to sell branded dad hats.

5. Gooten

Gooten is another excellent option for entrepreneurs who want to offer high-quality, custom-made dad hats. With their global network of print providers, you can trust that your products will be printed to the highest standards. Their customizable dad hats offer a range of embroidery options, making it easy to create unique and personalized designs.

One of the key trends in dad hat styling is the use of bold colors and graphics. Gooten's high-quality materials and printing processes ensure that your bold designs will stand out, making it an excellent choice for entrepreneurs who want to make a statement. With Gooten's reliable fulfillment and high-quality product printing, you can be confident that your customers will be satisfied with their purchases.

• Key Features:
  • Customizable dad hats with embroidery options.
  • A global network of print providers.
  • High-quality materials.
• Pros:
  • Reliable order fulfillment.
  • High-quality product printing and embroidery.
• Best For Entrepreneurs prioritizing quality and customer satisfaction in their print-on-demand business.

6. CustomCat

CustomCat is known for its fast fulfillment and a large catalog of customizable products, including dad hats. They offer both embroidery and printing options, making it easy to create a range of designs.

One of the key trends in dad hat selling is the use of custom packaging and branding. With CustomCat's extensive catalog of customizable products, you can easily create custom packaging and branding that matches your brand's aesthetic. This can help increase your brand's visibility and make your products stand out. With CustomCat's reliable print-on-demand services and competitive pricing, you can trust that your customers will be satisfied with their purchases.

• Key Features:
  • Large selection of dad hats with customizable options.
  • Quick fulfillment times (2-3 days).
  • Affordable pricing, especially for bulk orders.
• Pros:
  • Competitive pricing and fast shipping.
  • Great for small businesses and startups.
• Best For Entrepreneurs looking for fast and reliable print-on-demand services with bulk pricing options.

7. Redbubble

Redbubble offers a marketplace where artists and designers can sell their custom creations, including dad hats. While Redbubble is more marketplace-oriented, it’s a great platform for creatives looking to reach a larger audience.

• Key Features:
  • Marketplace platform with built-in traffic.
  • Artists upload designs, and Redbubble handles fulfillment.
  • Range of customizable products.
• Pros:
  • No upfront costs, easy to get started.
  • Built-in audience for organic traffic.
• Best For Artists and designers looking to sell custom dad hats without managing an eCommerce store.

8. Zazzle

Since the crumpled dad hat became a catwalk phenomenon, Zazzle has been at the forefront of providing designers and entrepreneurs with a platform to create unique, customizable dad hats that cater to this trend. With Zazzle, you can tap into a vast customer base of over 10 million users. 

Their easy-to-use design tools allow you to create a wide range of designs, from simple text-based quotes to intricate graphics and logos. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or a small business owner, Zazzle’s an ideal platform for those who want to offer personalized products with no upfront inventory costs.

• Key Features:
  • Easy-to-use design tools for creating custom dad hats.
  • No upfront costs; you only pay when you sell.
  • Large customer base and marketplace.
• Pros:
  • Variety of design options.
  • Perfect for selling custom and personalized dad hats.
• Best For Sellers looking to tap into a ready-made marketplace with a global audience.

9. Apliiq

Apliiq specializes in custom apparel, offering dad hats with unique customization options like patches, embroidery, and labels. It’s great for sellers looking to create a more distinct and branded product. Create truly unique and high-quality dad hats. 

With Apliiq, you can create a brand that stands out from the crowd, with products that are both stylish and durable. 

• Key Features:
  • Custom labels, patches, and embroidery options for dad hats.
  • No inventory risk; products are made on demand.
  • Great for fashion-forward businesses.
• Pros:
  • High-quality customization options.
  • Ideal for those wanting a distinct and premium product.
• Best For Entrepreneurs looking to create a fashion-focused brand with unique dad hats.

10. Society6

Society6 offers a creative platform where artists can sell their designs on a wide range of products, including dad hats. The marketplace attracts a global audience of design enthusiasts.

With Society6, you can tap into a built-in customer base of design enthusiasts, who are eager to buy and wear unique and creative products. Their easy-to-use design tools and global fulfillment capabilities make it easy to get your products to customers worldwide.

• Key Features:
  • Creative marketplace for artists to sell their designs.
  • Artists set their prices.
  • Global fulfillment is handled by Society6.
• Pros:
  • Built-in customer base for organic traffic.
  • No need to manage inventory or fulfillment.
• Best For Artists and designers looking to sell custom dad hats to a design-focused audience.

11. Vistaprint

Vistaprint is a well-known platform for custom products, including dad hats. It allows businesses and individuals to create custom hats with logos, slogans, or unique designs, making it perfect for personal or promotional use.

Vistaprint's ability to offer fast production and delivery times, as well as affordable pricing, has made it a go-to choice for businesses and individuals looking to create custom dad hats for promotional purposes.

• Key Features:
  • Customizable dad hats with embroidery and printing options.
  • Great for promotional products and bulk orders.
  • Easy-to-use design tool for adding logos or text.
• Pros:
  • Fast production and delivery times.
  • Affordable for small businesses and events.
• Best For Businesses looking to create promotional dad hats for branding or events.

12. CapBeast

CapBeast specializes in custom hats, offering high-quality embroidery services for dad hats. Whether you’re an individual looking for a one-of-a-kind hat or a business in need of bulk orders, CapBeast delivers durable, stylish options.

CapBeast has established itself as a top-tier supplier of customizable hats. With a focus on exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, CapBeast's dad hats have become a favorite among fashion enthusiasts and hat aficionados alike. The brand's expertise in embroidery ensures that each hat is adorned with intricate designs and logos, making it a perfect choice for individuals and businesses seeking premium products.

• Key Features:
  • Premium embroidery for custom dad hats.
  • Supports both small and bulk orders.
  • Excellent customer service for design assistance.
• Pros:
  • High-quality materials and craftsmanship.
  • Flexible order quantities (small or large).
• Best For Individuals or brands looking for premium, custom-embroidered dad hats.

13. RushOrderTees

RushOrderTees offers custom dad hats with fast turnaround times, making it a popular choice for last-minute orders or events. The platform allows users to upload their designs or use their design tool to create custom hats.

• Key Features:
  • Fast delivery options for urgent orders.
  • Customizable dad hats with logos or text.
  • High-quality embroidery and screen printing services.
• Pros:
  • Quick production times with no minimum order requirement.
  • Great for events, teams, or promotional use.
• Best For Customers who need custom dad hats with quick turnaround times.

14. 4imprint

4imprint is a leader in promotional products, offering customizable dad hats in bulk for companies, teams, or events. They specialize in corporate branding, making their hats ideal for giveaways, uniforms, or marketing campaigns.

As the leading provider of promotional products, 4imprint has implemented a comprehensive approach to customization for businesses, teams, and events. With a vast inventory of products and extensive range of customization options, 4imprint offers a superior level of flexibility for clients seeking high-quality dad hats that reflect their brand 

• Key Features:
  • Bulk ordering options for custom dad hats.
  • Extensive product catalog with various colors and styles.
  • Embroidery and screen printing services are available.
• Pros:
  • Discounts on large orders.
  • Great for corporate branding and promotional use.
• Best For Companies looking for affordable dad hats in bulk for promotional events or team uniforms.

15. Queensboro

Queensboro offers high-quality custom apparel, including dad hats, with a focus on providing affordable embroidery services. Their hats are perfect for small businesses, teams, or organizations looking to add branding to their merchandise.

Queensboro has made a name for itself in the streetwear scene by offering high-quality and affordable dad hats that prioritize sustainability. The brand's commitment to eco-friendliness aligns perfectly with the growing demand for environmentally responsible products.

• Key Features:
  • Custom embroidery on a variety of dad hat styles.
  • Low minimum order quantities.
  • Competitive pricing, especially for small businesses.
• Pros:
  • Affordable for small orders.
  • High-quality stitching and durable fabrics.
• Best For Small businesses and organizations looking to brand their dad hats without large upfront costs.

Conclusion: Dad Hats in 2024

Dad hats remain a timeless fashion staple in 2024, and with print-on-demand platforms like Spocket, creating and selling custom dad hats has never been easier. Whether you're a fashion entrepreneur, an eCommerce store owner, or a creative artist, dad hats offer endless possibilities for customization, making them an essential addition to your product lineup.

The popularity of dad hats continues to grow due to their versatility, comfort, and ability to seamlessly fit into casual or streetwear fashion trends. With their soft, unstructured design and curved brim, dad hats appeal to a wide audience, from millennials to Gen Z, making them a must-have accessory for any brand looking to tap into the fashion-forward market.

Platforms like Spocket allow you to easily design and sell custom dad hats using high-quality materials sourced from US and EU-based suppliers. This means that whether you want to create a unique, personalized dad hat for your brand or sell custom-embroidered dad hats for your audience, Spocket provides the tools and logistics to get your products to customers with fast shipping and excellent quality control. Are you looking for a cool dad hat for father’s day or any other special occasion? Try Spocket today!