My Switch from $20 Baseball Caps to the Premium '1987 Style': The Transformation

I wear a cap nearly every day, especially when working outdoors, so reliable sun protection is essential. For years, I assumed all baseball caps were created equal and simply grabbed the least expensive option available.

That turned out to be a costly error. Inexpensive caps deteriorate quickly, lose their appeal after just one wash, and provide inadequate sun protection. Eventually, I made the decision to upgrade my headwear. Here’s my journey from a $20 low-quality cap to a $49 premium one.

Stage 1: The Budget Phase ($15–25)

My initial cap cost around $20 and seemed like a bargain at first. Unfortunately, it only took three weeks for it to look worn out and shabby.

Here’s what I found problematic with the cheaper caps:

• The Fabric: It was thin, faded after a single day in the sun, and absorbed sweat too easily.
• The Fit: The crown was too shallow, making it feel like it was just perching on my head. Even a light breeze could blow it off.
• The Adjuster: It had a plastic snap-back closure with fragile teeth that broke easily, so it never stayed securely fastened.

Online reviews echoed my experience—many customers complained about the lack of guidance on sizing and the overall poor quality. It was a disappointing purchase from start to finish.

Verdict: Avoid caps priced under $25. They’re designed to wear out quickly and don’t provide effective sun protection.

Stage 2: The Mid-Range Phase ($30–40)

I decided to invest a bit more and upgraded to a $40 cap. These were... acceptable. They didn’t fall apart right away, representing a noticeable step up in quality.

What improved?

• Material Upgrade: It used a thicker cotton twill, which helped it hold its shape better.
• Metal Buckle: The adjuster strap was made of metal, a significant improvement over the flimsy plastic snaps.
• Minor Issues: The stitching was still somewhat uneven, and while the colors were accurate, the fit wasn’t ideal. It sat more securely but still felt generic.

The mid-range cap held up for about six months with regular use. Still, I felt like I was compromising. I wanted something that felt custom-made and stylish, not just adequate.

Verdict: Mid-range caps are suitable for occasional wear. If you’re a daily cap wearer, it’s worth seeking out better construction.