The 5-panel hat has remained a quintessential accessory for decades, and with good reason. It’s appropriate for a variety of settings, both formal and casual, and despite how quickly fashion trends change, this particular cap has remained a firm favorite throughout the years.
In this short guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about 5-panel hats, including their origins and why they’ve remained so enduringly popular. Let’s dive in!
Where Did the 5-Panel Hat Come From?
It’s hard to pinpoint precisely when 5-panel hats first hit the scene, but hat enthusiasts generally accept that they gained prominence in the 80s and 90s. They joined the snapback as one of the most popular accessories of the time and have remained that way ever since, but there are some distinct differences between the styles worth noting.
First, 5-panel hats tend to be less showy than snapbacks. Snapbacks generally feature a large, singular front panel exhibiting a bold design or some embroidered statement or brand name. Snapbacks are far from subtle. The 5-panel hat, on the other hand, offers a softer design while adding another layer of style to your overall outfit.
They’re also made from a softer material, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods, and can be folded easily for travel. They provide adequate protection from the sun and are highly durable, all with a reasonable price tag attached. As we said in the intro, it’s not hard to see why the 5-panel hat became such a staple.
What is the Difference Between a 5-Panel vs. a 6-Panel Hat?
Although the answer to this question may seem painfully obvious, the difference is fairly significant. Of course, as the names suggest, the key difference between a 5-panel hat and a 6-panel hat is the addition of a further panel. However, this seemingly small distinction changes the entire structure of the hat, potentially affecting their comfort level.
Generally speaking, a 5-panel hat will feature 1 panel on either side, 2 panels toward the back, and one larger front panel. On a 6-panel hat, you’ll find a panel on each side, 2 back panels, and a further 2 panels along the front. Since 5-panel hats feature no seam down the middle of their front panel, they are often the preferred choice for bold, uninterrupted designs.
Get started with your design today!
What Makes a 5-Panel Hat a Preferred Choice for Many?
As we’ve mentioned above, there are multiple reasons why 5-panel hats remain so popular. They’re comfortable, practical, and appropriate in numerous settings. Unlike bolder hats (such as snapbacks), 5-panel hats don’t take over your outfit. They’re complementary, meaning they can be worked into casual and formal outfits alike, especially when customized accordingly. The possibilities are near endless.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do Panels Mean on Hats?
Panels refer to triangular pieces of fabric sewn together to form the hat itself. They are separated by seams of varying thickness and often meet at a central point atop the hat or towards the back. The more panels a hat possesses, the more seams will appear in its design.
Final Thoughts
The 5-panel hat may have been around since the 80s, but it shows no sign of losing popularity any time soon, and we completely understand why. They’re versatile, comfortable, and useful. Also, with the right innovation and design inspiration, they can be worked into almost any outfit. Accessories can make a big difference to your overall look, so don’t miss out on an opportunity for eye-catching creativity.
Create your own custom 5-panel hat with The/Studio today!
