Ethical Promotional Clothing - Pier32

Baseball Caps: An Overview

A baseball cap is defined as a soft cap with a rounded crown and a stiff peak that provides shade to the eyes. The front of the cap typically displays a logo or other branding - usually that of a baseball team or a commercial company. Baseball caps are either fitted by head size or have an adjustable plastic, Velcro or elastic strap. Once used to protect baseball player's eyes from the sun the cap is now seen as common casual wear.

A version of the baseball cap originated in 1849 before the New York Knickerbockers adopted their first official uniform and was, at that time, known as the Brooklyn Cap. By the 1940s the invention of latex rubber allowed for the stiffening of the cap and the model that we now know was created. During this time the brim was much shorter than the model that we are now accustomed to, which is much more structured - whereas the 19th Century hat was much more floppy. The Knickerbockers' first uniform included a baseball cap that was created from straw; these were often blown away by gusts of wind!

Since 1980 the cap has been available in a one-size-fits-all with an adjustable strap. More recently textile advancements have allowed for stretch fittings. This has made the baseball cap a part of many sports uniforms, going on to become a sought-after piece of merchandising. Nike, Reebok and the like also adopted the cap as a fashion item - often made with brushed cotton.

In 1988 the sporting goods company, Spalding, launched their 'Baseball Guide Book' which included ten different styles of cap - including the Jockey style cap. This has gone on to become the most popular for modern use. At the beginning of the 20th Century, Spalding introduced the stitched visor; this gave the cap additional support by adding multiple stitched rows. This allowed players to mould the visor into a preferred shape.

Baseball caps are also used within the armed forces, especially for those from the USA. These caps usually display a command logo. Police forces in the States also wear caps as an alternative to the peaked cap, which is prominent in the Far East. The cap is also utilised by the SWAT unit in the USA and the UK's Specialist Firearms Command.

A widely popular alternative to a printed t-shirt for promotional activities; baseball caps are the most widely worn headwear, over beanie hats, bucket hats and legionnaires. You can also find baseball caps with built-in bottle openers and golf ball markers. It is even possible to find some designed with LEDs in the peak!

No other style of hat is so instantly recognisable and although initially just used as a part of a sports uniform, nowadays it can be found almost everywhere and is not limited to one demographic; young or old, on the stands, on the stage or on the pitch - the baseball cap can be worn everywhere.

Provided by Art Division, February 2012

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