HATS

A rope hat has a braided cord running across the front of the brim, a detail borrowed from classic golf and outdoor caps. It softens the look of an otherwise structured snapback and it's the reason these read a little cleaner than a plain five panel. Purely cosmetic, no effect on fit.

Trucker if you'll be outside in the heat. The mesh back is a genuine ventilation difference over a long day, not a styling detail. Snapback if you want a fuller, more structured look and don't need the airflow. Both use the same snap closure.

If it has a loop panel, yes. That covers our velcro-front hats and the MOLLE webbing on the SACK® bags, and most tactical gear from other brands uses the same standard. If your hat has a printed or embroidered front with no fuzzy panel, there's nothing for the patch to grab.

If it has a hook backing, it'll grab the panel. That covers standard morale patches and PVC patches, including everything in our own patch range. Patches with an iron-on or sew-on backing won't attach without modification.

A five panel is built from five pieces rather than six, which removes the centre seam and gives a flatter, taller front. It holds a patch better because the display area is uninterrupted, and it keeps its shape longer than a soft-crown cap.

Spot clean with cold water and a soft brush, then air dry on something that supports the crown. A balled-up towel works. Keep structured caps out of the washer and dryer entirely, since the heat flattens the front panel and warps the brim, and neither comes back.