As golfers, we all know how important a golf cap can be. Indeed getting one of the best golf hats for you, your game, and the time of year can be vital, and one of the most popular and versatile hat designs is the cap. Indeed there is a reason all the professionals wear them rather than bucket hats, trilby's or anything else. Besides offering protection from the sun, a cap offers you the chance to make a fashion statement and complement your look on the course. Most also offer technologies like moisture wicking fabric to keep you sweat free and comfortable.
Additionally, although many golfers prefer a classic golf cap, modern tour pros are mixing it up and making us question whether we should be more bold. Rickie Fowler and Brooks Koepka are two individuals who regularly choose the 'stand out from the crowd' design so why can't you? Bearing all of this mind, here are some of the best golf caps out there. Additionally be sure to check out some of our other golf guides as well - such as the best golf beanies, best golf tops or best golf waterproofs.
Best Golf Caps
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 7 (White, Grey, Navy, Black, Red, Green, Light Blue)
+ High quality stitching
+ Looks great
- Others may have better UV protection
Do your best Tour professional impression with this Tour Radar cap from TaylorMade. Available in six different colors it has an adjustable strap to cater for any shape of head whilst the moisture wicking fabric deals with any sweat nicely too. Not only that but you can get the design with the Qi10 logo on the side and we also like the darker under bill which helped reduce glare.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: Several collections
+ Tour proven
+ Lots of colors and designs to choose from
- Can be dislodged when windy
A cap worn by professionals around the world, this is made from Titleist's proprietary material and it also has a headband that regulates temperature, wicks moisture and is also antimicrobial to limit odor too. There is also a mesh version of the Tour Performance cap too which is another top performer.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 1 (Black)
+ Easily adjustable
+ UV weather protection
- The black logo could be seen as plain
This Callaway cap boasts 30+ UV protection, an adjustable fit, a moisture-wicking sweatband that will keep your brow dry and your head cool in even the hottest conditions.
That headband is easy to adjust thanks to a clip on the back of the hat, which will accommodate every head size, but the all-black colorway might be a bit hot in the summer. That being said, the Camo design does look very cool and, with it featuring in black, it will go with about any item of apparel.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 10+
+ Used by top players
+ Well trusted brand
- Some designs are very outlandish
A classic design worn out on Tour by players like Rory McIlroy, this high-performance golf cap is highlighted with Nike's signature Swoosh logo. The cap has a soft sweatband to give you maximum comfort during your golf game which will also remove moisture and sweat from your brow as you work your way through 18 holes. The hat is also fully adjustable, making it great for players with a variety of head shapes and sizes. Additionally if you are a fan of Nike gear then take a look at our guides on the best Nike golf shirts, and best Nike golf shoes.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 4 (Black, Green, White, Blue)
+ Good value
+ Versatile
- Perhaps best suited to younger players
A model you will undoubtedly have seen on the heads of Sergio Garcia and Joaquin Niemann, this 3-Stripe Tour cap has been designed to keep golfer's cool on hot spring or summer days. Available in four colors, it is made from 100% polyester which stretches nicely to fit on any shape or size of head. Check out our guide to the best adidas polo shirts which could be paired nicely with this fantastic golf hat to complete a very sporty and athletic look for the golf course.
Sizes: S/M, M/L, L/XL, XL/XXL
Colors: 2 (Blue, Black)
+ Keeps you cool in the heat
+ Comfortable fit
- Badge will divide opinion
A golf cap needs to offer protection and not distract you and this model does this and then some. Despite the badge perhaps dividing opinion we actually liked the design and the mesh sections mean there is plenty of ventilation on hot days. We certainly appreciated the Siro sweatband during our testing, which helps disperse body heat making it feel cool to the touch. The shape is quite tall at the top although the slight stretch in the rim created a snug but comfortable fit.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 3
+ Versatile for anywhere
+ High-quality construction
- Flat bill design not for all
Another of our favorite caps right now is the Retro Crown Cap from Manors Golf. It is a baseball-inspired design which is why it seems to have a flatter bill and it also sits low on the head too. Admittedly some won't like this design but we did, and we think this is an extremely well-made cap too, thanks to its premium materials.
Made with a cotton and spandex blend, it felt comfortable and was pleasingly adjustable, whilst it is also one of the most versatile golf caps we have on this list. More colors are needed though, as it features in black, navy and ivory, which will go with about anything.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: Several collections
+ Very popular model
+ Lots of designs and colors to choose from
- Perhaps best suited for younger players
One of the most popular golf caps in the amateur game, Rickie Fowler could play a role there, this 'P' Snapback cap has a moisture wicking sweatband and is made from dryCell Technology fabric to help you stay cool under pressure.
The important thing here though is to find a color you like because there are so many collections and unique designs to choose from, which is fitting of Puma's excellent style and branding. If you want the classic look though, you can still get a simpler model as well.
Sizes: One size fits all
Colors: 3
+ Comfortable
+ Moisture wicking headband
- All over print
We enjoyed the Ping Tour Classic cap but Ping has dialed the design up a notch here with the Mr Ping II Printed finish throughout. It really stands out and we like the fact Ping are trying to offer something a bit different, but obviously it will divide opinion.
It features a moisture-wicking sweatband, is lightweight, and the adjustable closure at the back means it will fit all head shapes and sizes. Ping’s Sensorcool technology is present to help provide head ventilation and we also like the fact you can get it in a variety of colors.
Sizes: Small, Classic, XL
Colors: 10
+ Color choice
+ Feature-packed
- Does feel a touch tall
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a hat is the aesthetic aspect, and Melin’s Odyssey Stacked Hydro effort is a great-looking accessory. And because the main section has a square front but is round at the back, it is eye-catching all while being practical.
The comfort was much appreciated, too, not always a given for people with larger heads. Additionally it is water-repellant, floatable, breathable, and comes in loads of good colors. Plus, the little pocket under the brim was so cool and a really nice feature that sets it apart from its competitors.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 8
+ Color choice
+ Good value
- Not the most breathable
Next up we have the Maine cap from Oscar Jacobson, which is available in eight colors and should go with a variety apparel options. What's more, the OJ logo sits pride of place on the top with it also sporting a magnetic ball marker for convenience.
Despite the six holes and inner sweatband, there are more breathable models out there, but it still feels comfortable and comes in at a value price too for those wanting a cheaper model, something which will appeal to many.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 8
+ Excellent protection
+ Lots of colors
- Design a touch bland
Peter Millar is known for producing high-quality golf gear with stylish, simplistic aesthetics and this cap is no different. Available in eight cool colorways, we liked the choice here but, with the simple logo, some may say it is a touch bland.
Regardless, it is well made, feels comfortable thanks to the soft fabric, and the polyester used is breathable and moisture-wicking. Because of this, it means the Crown Seal Performance Cap performs well in a range of conditions and can be used in both summer and winter.
Sizes: One size fits all
Colors: 1 (Black)
+ Unisex design
+ Waterproof protection
- Premium price for a cap
Do you like wearing a cap but the weather makes yours soaking wet so you go without? Well, the Rain Baseball Cap from Zero Restriction can perform for you. Featuring a one size fits all stretchy fabric, the cap is actually unisex in its design so everyone can wear it comfortably. All the seams are sealed and the fabric itself repels water nicely, whilst it still felt breathable too, so we didn’t get too hot on the golf course. It may come at a premium price for a cap but it really does perform well, and we found it easy to wash too.
Sizes: One size fits most
Colors: 2 (Navy, White)
+ Smart trim adds to design
+ Great performance in a mix of conditions
- Lack of color options
To begin with, the Johnnie-O Retro Logo Rope Performance Hat has a very smart look, including a subtle and minimalist logo that really pops out. Along with the logo, which features prominently at the front of the hat, there's also an eye-catching trim that adds a pop to the overall aesthetic. Performing well in both humid and cold conditions, the only slight downside is the lack of color options, but it's not the end of the world as the white and navy options should still suit a variety of tastes.
Sizes: S/M, L/XL
Colors: 2 (Black, Navy)
+ Stretchy design
+ Will go with any outfit
- Not the most breathable
It's safe to say that the DRYLBL Storm Golf Cap won't set alight the world in terms of looks, with the colorways very basic but going with any outfit. It could be available in more colors but, on the whole, we like the versatile nature of the cap. What we also liked was the stretch around hat, which we feel can fit on the majority of heads, with the moisture-wicking material working well in the severest conditions.
How we test golf equipment
We test golf caps in the same manner as every other piece of golf equipment, thoroughly. This involves using caps out on the golf course, over a number of rounds and in different conditions, whether that be in terms of weather, temperature and so on.
We think it is by using golf gear regularly that we can gain an understanding of the product and see how it performs in every day life. Every member of the Golf Monthly team plays golf regularly and can put caps to the test on a regular basis as well, and one final point to mention is no manufacturer can buy a good review because our team of testers tells it how it is.
How to choose a golf cap
There are several factors to consider when choosing a golf cap, let's take a look at those here.
Type
Golf caps often come in a variety of different designs especially when it comes to the bill design. A lot of brands these days go with the classic curved bill but they also make flat-bill designs as well so it is worth having a think about which you would prefer.
Comfort
At the end of the day a golf cap has to be comfortable because if it isn't, then you will probably get distracted or take it off during the round. Therefore we would recommend trying on models or picking models that have been specifically designed to be comfortable with technologies to help in this regard.
Protection
A good golf cap should also protect you from the sun thanks to the fabric, brim design, and also many have UV protection built into them. As a result, have a read of the specifications of caps before buying so you can see what level of protection is on offer.
Colors
What color do you want your cap to be? Do you want to make a fashion statement or go for a special edition model? Golf caps these days come in a huge range of colors, designs and collections so it is worth having a browse and working out what you want from your cap in terms of looks.
Budget
Our final factor is budget. Before buying a golf cap it is worth thinking about how much you are willing to spend on a model. Thankfully, as our list above shows, here are models at every price point from premium brands and ones that offer more value.
FAQ's
Do you have to wear a cap when you play golf?
No, not necessarily. Golfers are not required to wear hats when they play but hats have become a style norm and a useful item to wear to keep the sun out of your eyes and your head warm or cool.
Is it better to wear a bucket hat or cap when playing golf?
Bucket hats can help players protect themselves from the rain and the elements, providing a shield to your neck shoulders and back from the rain. They can also protect you from the sun and it's harmful rays, akin to a cap. Many golfers prefer to wear a cap though, as these are slightly smaller and more ergonomic and do not get in the way of your swing as much
Why do golfers wear caps?
Golfers wear caps for several reasons. Chief among which is caps protect golfers eyes from the sun and also allow them to follow the golf ball as it moves through the air better. Caps also protect the head from the sun and they often act as a kind of fashion statement too. Finally professional golfers wear caps for all of those reasons, as well as giving brands they are signed with an opportunity to publicize their logo and brand.
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