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: 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: Regular
Colors: 4
+ Great looking hat
+ Feels extremely well made
- 2nd SDR logo perhaps not needed
Sun Day Red is a brand I have been looking forward to testing when it comes to apparel and accessories because aesthetically the gear looks great, and I wanted to see if the performance matches the looks. Well in the case of this Classic Rope cap, it certainly does as this might be my new favorite cap. To start it comes in several stylish colors that look great, and the general design of the hat I like as well with the SDR logo at the front, the different colored brim and also the x-patterned rope.
The hat then feels extremely well made from a material and construction point of view. It has a polyester/elastane construction which feels lightweight and yet breathable as well. Finally the adjustability is simple to use thanks to the snapback closure for all head sizes.
Sizes: S/M - L/XL
Colors: 17
+ Ideal for those who prefer a curved bill
+ Huge selection of colors on offer
- Less breathable than a synthetic alternative
The classic Nike Club Cap does exactly what it says on the tin, it’s stylish, timeless and won’t let you down. Ideal for on and off course wear this cap comes with a pre-curved bill, and is easily adjusted thanks to the clasp at the back. This is the kind of cap that can be paired with almost any outfit, and thanks to the staggering 17 colour options available you will never run out of ideas. While this cap does offer classic cool styling, it’s less feature packed than more performance driven alternatives.
The breathability is ok, but if you want something to wear during really hot days, then a synthetic construction may be a better bet. With that being said, if it's good enough for Rory McIlroy then it's good enough for me. 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: S/M, L/XL
Colors: 8
+ On and off course use
+ Loads of colors
- Some may want a bit more aesthetically
If you want a simple, comfortable golf cap that does its job well and can be used on and off the golf course, then the Classic Ball Cap from Lululemon is well worth considering. Some golfers may want a bit more aesthetically, a central logo or print design, but for me the simplicity of the aesthetic lends itself to versatility. The array of colors means there is a model for everyone as well.
Performance wise the cotton fabric was comfortable, I found the cap to be breathable and it was easy to adjust with the back closure. Speaking of which the fit of the cap for me was excellent, and it seems other people who have reviewed the hat acknowledged the fit was one of its best features.
Sizes: OS
Colors: 4
+ Stylish aesthetic
+ Will fit any head size
- Many will only see it as a golf cap
The TravisMathew Final Boarding Snapback cap offers a blend of effortless style and adventure-ready comfort.
Constructed with a lightweight and breathable material, it features a classic six-panel design with a pre-curved brim.
The adjustable snapback closure ensures a secure and personalized fit for all-day wear. Its sleek, minimalist aesthetic, often featuring a subtle logo patch, makes it a versatile accessory suitable for travel, casual outings, and everyday activities.
The Final Boarding cap provides both sun protection and a touch of understated style.
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 most
Colors: 4
+ Plenty of colors available
+ Elasticated fit provides long lasting comfort
- Some may want a slightly more exciting design
The Heath Cap is a versatile choice that can be worn both on and off course thanks to its relatively simple design, featuring the classic J.Lindeberg bridge logo front and centre. Some may desire something a bit more jazzy, but if safe and simple is what you are after then this cap will deliver exactly what you need. Having worn this cap a number of times, one thing that did stick out was the comfort and adjustability it offers.
Thanks to the simple to use closure at the back, the hat can be adjusted easily to a wide range of sizes, and the elasticated fit provides exceptional comfort. While this cap may not deliver the eye catching visuals that JL is known for, it offers fantastic comfort and versatility.
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
Colors: 7
+ Good quality
+ Made from a quick-dry fabric
- Empty front section feels like it’s lacking a logo
The Sanford cap from Galvin Green is simple in design but feels high quality, having been made from a breathable and quick-dry fabric. The thick peak feels like it is made to last and the classy detailing of the logo on the side certainly shows some love and thought has gone into the design. It’s a one-size-fits-all with an adjustable strap at the back to tailor to your head size. There’s some Galvin Green branding at the back but nothing on the front, which feels a little odd and like it’s missing something. A Galvin Green logo at the front would add to this cap, I think. There’s a fairly wide range of colors but no black or navy, surprisingly.
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: One size fits most
Colors: 3
+ Breathable fabric
+ Impressive aesthetic
- Limited choice of colorways
The Sunday Swagger Snapback was instantly impressive to me out of the box and one of my favorite items to test. I am not ashamed to say I’ve worn The Keys colorway version multiple times away from the golf course as well as a few times on it, simply because I love the look so much. Practically, the Active Performance Fabric feels comfortable on my head and the breathable micro-fiber back ensures I haven’t become too hot with it on. The Sunday Swagger Snapback is a great option for the summer, with the only potential drawback being a lack of choice when it comes to the colorway.
Sizes: S/M, L/XL
Colors: 2
+ Lightweight
+ Very comfortable
- Limited color options
The Tour Delta cap is lightweight and comfortable, with a seamless, stitch-free finish, thanks to its fused panels. The cap features three logos: a 3D silicone welded front logo, one on the side (which also has ‘GOLF 'embossed alongside the iconic logo), and one on the rear. It also features a lightweight visor fabrication, a new 3-layer multi-function headband, and stain block technology to prevent sweat marks on the crown, which should help it retain its color.
However, if you’re worried about keeping the white cap looking like new - and this is always the worry, especially if you’re someone who stores a cap in your golf bag - Royal might be the color for you.
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.
