Wondering what a 5 panel hat is? Well, you’re in the right place. These hats are trendy and versatile for a reason.
By the end of this article, you’ll know all you need to know about these highly demanded hat style, from their features to how you can style them. We will also compare it to similar hat style to help you figure out which one you should go for.
Ready? Let’s go!
What is a 5 Panel Hat?
A 5 panel hat is a type of cap made up of five pieces of fabric. The hat consists of five fabric panels stitched together to form the crown. This gives the hat a rectangular shape and makes it distinct from other types of caps.
They first became popular among cyclists and skaters. People love them for their unique design that gives off a sleek and distinct look. Depending on what style you go with, the brim can be either flat or curved.
5 panel caps come in different types of styles. Some come with mesh panels for better airflow and are ideal for hot days while others can have thicker materials.
Some types have adjustable straps at the back, allowing you to adjust the fit. There are also 5 panel hat types with fun patterns and colors so you can express your style freely.
The History of the 5 Panel Hat
The five panel hat has roots across various cultures. It first gained traction among courier boys in the early 20th century.
Its popularity surged dramatically in the late 1980s and 1990s, especially within the streetwear, skate, and hip-hop scenes.
Brands like Supreme and Patagonia started adding these to their cap collections, which brought them into the fashion arena.
Cyclists initially loved them because they could easily wear them under their helmets. Later on, skaters also started following this trend, and soon it became a streetwear fashion.
5 Panel Hat vs. 6 Panel Hat
Then there’s also a 6 panel hat. You might be wondering what makes them different. The main difference is that the latter uses six fabrics. This added fabric gives the hat a more rounded shape, while the five panel cap is flatter and more rectangular.
So, which should you choose? It depends on your preference. 5 panel hats are generally considered more fashion-forward due to their unique shape and design.
They often give off a more streamlined look, making them modern and sleek. On the other hand, 6 panel hats look more traditional and are known for their comfortable fit. Hat patches represent more than just a logo, business owners also take leverage of personalized hat patches when it comes to branding.
Benefits of 5 Panel Hats
| Benefit | Description |
| Comfort | Breathable fabrics make these ideal for warm weather, while adjustable straps make it fit perfectly regardless of the head size. |
| Versatility | Perfectly suitable for various occasions. From casual outings to more formal events. |
| Fashion-forward | The unique design makes it a trendy accessory. Adding a touch of style to any outfit. |
| Functionality | Provides excellent sun protection. Making it a great choice for outdoor activities. |
Cap Types: A Comparison
When it comes to cap types, the 5 panel hat stands out because of its sleek design. However, other types like the six panel hat and 112 trucker hat have their own unique features.
The 6 panel hat uses six pieces of fabric, resulting in a more rounded shape. While a fitted 5 panel hat comes with a snug fit and doesn’t have any adjustable straps.
Then there’s also a baseball cap 5 panel. This is a blend of a classic baseball cap design and a modern five-panel structure. If you are into fitness and running, running 5 panel is your choice. It offers breathability and comfort required for long runs.
Baseball Cap vs. Snapback Hat: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to headwear, the baseball cap and the snapback hat are two popular choices, each with its own unique features.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Baseball Cap | Snapback Hat |
| Brim Style | Curved | Flat |
| Fit | Fitted or adjustable strap | Adjustable snap closure |
| Material | Cotton, breathable fabric | Stiffer materials |
| Structure | Unstructured, relaxed fit | Structured, rigid fit |
| Popularity | Athletes, casual wearers | Streetwear, hip-hop fashion |
| Customizability | Limited (if fitted) | High (due to snap closure) |
How to Make and Customize a 5 Panel Hat
So you want to know how to sew a 5 panel hat? Here’s a basic guide to get you started:
Materials Needed:
- Fabric (cotton, nylon, or any material of your choice)
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Thread
- Pattern (you can find free patterns online)
Steps:
- Cut the fabric into five pieces according to your pattern. These pieces will be used to create the crown of the hat.
- Stitch together the panels using a sewing machine. Make sure to sew them in the proper order to form the crown.
- Cut and sew the brim to the crown. You can choose a flat or curved brim, depending on your style preference.
- Finally, attach the adjustable strap at the back of the hat. This allows you to adjust the fit to your liking.
Customization Tips:
- You can personalize your hat with custom embroidery patches. This is an excellent way to add personal touch to your creation.
- Try different fabrics and patterns. Mixing and matching help you create a one-of-a-kind hat that reflects you.
Want to customize your 5 Panel Hat?
We hope this guide gave you everything you wanted to know about 5 panel hats. With their prominence as a fashion statement in history and with features and the freedom to style them and even make your own. These hats are a must-have for any fashion enthusiast.
If you have a 5 panel hat and want to change it up, get a high quality custom patch to spice it up. Contact us today for your 5 panel hat custom patch today!
