What To Look For
When it comes to a hat of any kind, size matters. The best ball caps will do one thing well: Fit your head properly. Luckily, most ball caps are adjustable -- and there are a few styles to choose from. Adjustable caps may offer the classic styling of a leather strap with a metal buckle, a plastic strap with snaps, or a simple cloth strap with fabric fasteners. If you prefer, you can also find a variety of baseball caps that are fitted to your measurements and provide just enough stretch for comfort.
Another thing a good ball cap should do is offer sufficient ventilation. Many caps do this by incorporating side eyelets, but athletic styles that are made with jersey mesh, and hip trucker styles will also breathe well when you get overheated. Consider too, how the fabric the cap is made from will breathe--you'll find ball caps made from polyester, cotton, wool and jersey mesh.
Common Pitfalls
Choosing an ill-fitting cap, or one designed with fabric or features that don't breathe well is a common mistake. However, a cap should do more than just fit your head securely. It should also be proportionate to the size and shape of your head. Ball caps are designed with varying bill lengths and widths, and you'll also notice some variety in the profile of different caps--in both structured and unstructured styles. Structured styles incorporate a buckram, or liner inside the front of the cap that generally provides a higher profile, and may not be a good choice for someone with a smaller head. A cap that seems disproportionate in profile, or in the bill, simply may not be an attractive choice.
Where To Buy
Ball caps can be found in sporting goods stores, specialty hat stores, clothing and accessories retailers, and a variety of online shops. If you are unsure of the bill size and profile that will look best on you, browse in brick-and-mortar shops where you'll be able to try some on.
Cost
Ball cap prices can range anywhere from $9 to $35 and up. Officially licensed caps that bear team logos are usually more expensive. Caps made from wool, or with embroidery or applique will also cost more, as will brand-name styles associated with fashion designers.
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