9 Classic Hat Styles for Bald Men

Look, just because you took the scenic route on the journey to a hair-free head doesn’t mean you lack style. If anything, it’s a golden opportunity to play around with one of the most fashionable accessories around: hats.

Here are seven classic hat styles that, when worn right, will make any bald man look damn good.

Best Summer Hats for Bald Guys

When it comes to summertime, comfort, sun projection, and style come to play in choosing the right hat for bald men. Here are some great options:

1. Cowboy Hat

bald man with cowboy hat on

Cowboy hats are a fantastic option for bald men in the summer for their extensive coverage and traditional style. They’re built with a broad brim that can shield the face, neck, and, crucially, the scalp from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

bald man with cowboy hat on denim jacket

These hats are usually manufactured from straw or another light material, ensuring breathability during the hotter weather. Brands like Stetson and Resistol offer excellent cowboy hats with a range of designs to suit different style preferences.

Fascinating Fact: The iconic cowboy hat, widely associated with Western culture, was actually invented in Philadelphia. The original “Boss of the Plains” hat, created by John B. Stetson in 1865, was designed to protect cowboys from the harsh elements of the American West. Despite its urban origins, the cowboy hat quickly became synonymous with ranch life and continues to be a symbol of Western tradition and style.

2. Panama Hat

african american man with panama hat on

Originating in Ecuador, Panama hats are known for their high-quality straw construction, which offers both breathability and significant sun protection.

man smiling on beach with hat on

Their tight weave not only ensures durability but also helps to keep the sun out, making them ideal for beach vacations or summer outings. Personally, we are a fan of the Panama hats offered by Brent Black and Jaxon Hats as they provide a wide range of styles and high-quality materials.

Fascinating Fact: The Panama hat gained popularity during the construction of the Panama Canal, when thousands of these hats were imported to protect workers from the sun.

3. Baseball Cap

man with son at baseball game

Ah, the tried and true baseball cap. It’s not just for attending sports games, but it’s also a great summer hat for bald men. Not only is it a classic style that is versatile to fit with almost any casual outfit, but it also provides a decent amount of sun protection. However, keep in mind that the protection is limited mostly to the face and frontal scalp area because of the brim’s orientation.

Most baseball caps are made from cotton twill or polyester, which are breathable materials suitable for hot weather. If you want to rep your favorite team or just want a stylish logo, brands such as New Era, ’47, or Flexfit offer an array of designs.

Of course, if you love an old-school vibe, you may want to go for a classic wool or felt baseball cap – Ebbets Field is a store worth checking.

Wool is naturally breathable and excellent at pulling moisture away from the skin, so despite the heavier fabric, it can still provide comfort during the summer months. Just remember that wool requires slightly more care, as it can shrink or deform if not washed properly.

4. Bucket Hats

man with sweater and bucket hat on

Bucket hats are not only in trend but also offer more shadow than a baseball cap, protecting the ears and back of the neck from the sun. Not only will your dermatologist give you high marks on your sun protection efforts and proper maintenance, but you’ll also enjoy an up-to-the-minute fashion statement.

Bucket hats are characterized by their wide, downwards sloping brim and are often made from cotton or canvas materials, which are known for their comfort and breathability. Brands such as Kangol, Stüssy, and Columbia offer a variety of styles and colors to match your summer wardrobe.

Moreover, some bucket hats come with enhancements such as ventilation eyelets, sweatbands, and even UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings. For example, a bucket hat from Tilley’s line boasts a UPF 50+ rating meaning it blocks 98% of harmful UVA/UVB radiation and delivers an excellent level of sun protection.

5. Newsboy Cap

man with a newsboy cap on

Extra! Extra! The newsboy cap is here for the style-conscious bald man. It may not offer the sun protection levels of other hats on this list, but it surely wins points for a trendy appeal. This traditional cap has a full, round body and often features a button at the top and a small brim at the front.

As for face shape considerations, because of the fuller shape, a newsboy cap tends to suit oval and diamond face shapes best, but don’t let this discourage you. The primary focus should be comfort and your personal style preference.

Newsboy caps typically come in cotton, linen, or wool-blend materials. In summer, a lightweight cotton or linen cap can provide breathability and comfort even on hot days. Brands like Brixton, Goorin Bros, and Kangol provide stylish and high-quality newsboy caps that will get you noticed for all the right reasons.

One advantage of newsboy caps is their soft construction, which means they can be folded and tucked away in a bag when not in use without losing their shape. This is particularly handy if you’re on the go and want to stow away the cap when you move indoors.

6. Pork Pie

man wearing a pork pie hat

Heisenberg or Walter White from the hit series “Breaking Bad” popularized the pork pie hat, and since then, it has become a favored choice among the fashion forward. The pork pie hat is characterized by a flat top and small, brim, and it often sports a grosgrain ribbon around the circumference.

Just like in the case of newsboy caps, a pork pie hat may not offer significant sun protection but it is indeed a fashion-forward choice. The minimal brim provides some shielding, and if worn tilted back, it can offer a degree of protection to the back of the neck.

Pork pie hats are typically made from felt, straw, or wool, making them breathable and comfortable for all-day wear during warmer months. Whether you’re channeling a Jazz Age vibe or emulating a modern-day television anti-hero, the pork pie hat offers a touch of class and a unique edge.

Winter Hats for Bald Men

Winter brings its fair share of elements that bald men need to consider. Not only do you need to consider protecting the scalp from harsh weather and cool temperatures, but it’s also a perfect chance to build your style and make a fashion statement. Here are some favorites:

7. Beanie

man standing in snow with beanie

A trusty beanie is a quintessential winter hat that screams comfort for bald men. This classic winter hat style comes in an array of materials, with wool being a top choice for its natural warmth and breathability – an excellent combination for winter wear.

man with beanie on checking phone

Beanies offer snug coverage, making sure the whole head is kept warm throughout the day. Plus, they offer simplicity in both style and care – beanies can often be thrown in the wash and are easy to pack or carry when not in use.

Different cuts and styles of beanies can match various outfits and personal styles. Traditional fold-over beanies or slouchy-style beanies are both popular choices.

8. Trapper Hat

black and white photo of a man wearing a trapper hat

For ultimate warmth and comfort, look no further than the trapper hat. Originating from the frigid regions of Russia and Scandinavia, trapper hats are designed for extreme cold weather. They feature a traditional cap-style top with ear flaps that can be tied up at the top of the hat or worn down for added warmth.

Trapper hats are commonly filled with down and lined with faux fur, making them super warm and cozy. Additionally, the ear flaps provide excellent protection against the elements, making this hat a true companion for the harsh winter weather.

Personally, we are fond of the trapper hats offered by Mad Bomber and Crown Cap due to their excellent craftsmanship and range of designs.

9. Fedora

man wearing a white fedora

The fedora is a year-round classic, but with a warmer material like wool or felt, it becomes an excellent winter option for bald men. This iconic style features a taller crown and a broad brim, providing a moderate amount of coverage from rain, wind, or snow. Fedora hats can also add an air of sophistication to your winter wardrobe.

Fedora hats were popularized in the early 20th century and have remained a symbol of class and elegance ever since. However, if you’re new to the hat game, it’s worth noting that fedoras can be a bolder style pick and require some confidence to pull off.

stylish man posing for picture

When it comes to brands, Brixton, Bailey of Hollywood, and Goorin Bros are known for their high-quality and stylish fedora hats.

Fascinating Fact: The term “fedora” was first used in 1891, based on the title of a play in which the main character, Princess Fédora Romanoff, wore a hat with a soft brim and center crease. The style quickly became popular and has since become a timeless fashion statement.

Don’t Overlook the Material

For bald men, finding a hat that won’t irritate the skin is crucial. Soft materials like cotton or bamboo can be a good choice. Beanie hats made of merino wool are also a popular option since the material is naturally soft and breathable, making it both comfortable and warm.

hats stacked on a table

This becomes especially important during winter when harsh conditions like wind and low temperatures can cause the scalp to become dry and uncomfortable. The right hat material can provide the necessary warmth while also allowing the skin to breathe, preventing excessive sweat and possible irritation or itchy scalp.

On the other hand, during summer, having a hat made from breathable materials like straw or cotton canvas is essential to prevent overheating and allow air to circulate freely. These materials are also lightweight, reducing the likelihood of causing discomfort or leaving you feeling sweaty.

Sizing Prevents Dents

fabric measuring tape

Unlike our follicle-gifted friends, bald men don’t have hair to help fill out an ill-fitting hat or prevent it from tightening around the forehead. A hat that’s too tight can leave a visible red band on the skin after it’s removed, which isn’t a flattering look. This makes having the right hat size crucial for those sporting the bald look.

To measure your hat size, get a flexible tape measure, and wrap it around the widest part of your head, typically just above your ears and across your mid-forehead. This will give you the circumference of your head in either inches or centimeters, which can then be used to find your exact hat size according to the hat brand’s size guide.

Many hats come with adjustable options, such as back-straps or interior bands, making it easier to achieve a tailored fit. Suppose you’re between sizes or can’t find a hat that fits quite right. In that case, it may be worth looking into hat sizing and adjusting inserts, which can help fill out the hat and provide a more comfortable and secure fit.

classic hat styles pin image

Adam Williams

As the lead editor of Tools of Men, Adam loves men's grooming products. Particularly of interest is managing facial hair and perfecting the art of the modern man's skincare routine. His work has been featured or quoted in several publications, including New York Magazine, Vice, Sharpologist, MIC, Elite Daily, and more. When Adam isn't working, he enjoys spending time with his two little kids who keep him both on his toes and young at heart.

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