Keeping Your Brand on Top with Baseball Caps

Caps are a trendy accessory that are appreciated by a wide range of people, from outdoor workers to fashionistas alike. Besides being practical and fashionable, they’ve also become popular choice for companies to promote their brand. With so many styles, colors and patterns from which to choose, it’s easy to find the perfect cap for your needs.

Caps come in two basic styles: a five-panel or six-panel. This refers to the number of fabric pieces needed to complete the crown, or top of the cap. A five-panel cap will not have a seam in the center front of the cap, which makes a nice, smooth surface for easy screen printing, heat pressed designs and embroidery. The six-panel can be decorated with the same techniques but with the seam, it is more popular to embroider or use patches on this style. Both styles can be structured, with a firm front, or unstructured, with a soft front.

There are several choices for back closures. Two options, which allow for easy adjustment from youth to adult sizing, are the Velcro back straps or sliding buckles. Both are durable and look nice. The metal buckle is offered in nickel and brass tones. Another style, the plastic snap back, has become very popular. The cap sizing is adjusted by pushing snaps into pre-made holes in the straps. Finally, the stretch fit caps have spandex sewn into the fabric and are sold in three sizes.

When selecting caps, there is more to consider besides whether it’s a five- or six- panel, structured or unstructured, or what type of closure is right. For instance, would you like a curved or flat bill? What type of fabric is best? Caps come in a range of fabrics, from cotton twill, wool, mesh backs and blends. How would like your caps decorated? When purchasing many caps, work with a professional to help you navigate these choices and you’ll find the perfect cap for your needs. QCBN

By Eva Janckila

Arizona Cap & Apparel, formerly Arizona Cap Company, was opened in 1999 selling custom, decorated caps. Within a few years, the company began offering a full line of apparel and promotional items, including mugs, pens, banners and business cards. Today, it is owned and operated by a mother and son team, Eva and Vance Janckila. Located in Prescott Valley, the business continues to grow, serving more than 10,000 clients locally and nationwide.