The right kind of sports gear can make a significant difference. That’s why we don’t see anyone wearing beanies while golfing on a sunny day.
The market for sporting goods in the USA amounted to roughly $64.5 billion in 2022, according to Statista.
This also includes sports hats, and this lucrative market is growing fast.
A report by Grand View Research in 2022 found that the global sports cap market size was valued at USD 21.4 billion. It is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% from 2023 to 2030.
A primary reason for this growth is the increasing participation in sports and outdoor activities, as well as the growing popularity of and demand for athleisure wear. It’s safe to assume that there are opportunities to score big in this market. But you have to know if you’re outfitting sports enthusiasts or pro-athletes to choose the right kind of hats that could hit a home run on their specific sport.
In this blog, let’s break down the MVP headwear for America’s favorite sports. From the diamond to the gridiron, the court to the course, let’s explore the perfect hats that’ll keep your inventory fresh and your customers coming back for more. Along the way, discover a few tips on making your sports merchandise the talk of the locker room!
Baseball
No surprise here – baseball caps still reign supreme in this sport. But not any blank baseball cap will do. You will need to source baseball caps designed totally for comfort and functionality. These caps must be made of sweat-wicking fabrics, and they should preferably feature:
- High-quality sweatbands
- Adjustable closures (snapback or flex fit)
- Structured designs (aids branding better)
- UV protection
Pro tip: Team-branded caps might force you to deal with copyright suits. Source blank hats for customization first, and invest in copyright-free branding like a team’s key player’s number and initials.
Football
One of the most exhilarating sports in the world has fans watching the games in various weather conditions. The players won’t need caps, but the fans will. Baseball caps and dad hats are among the most popular headwear items among American football fans. These headgear can also be part of your merchandise. Sideline-style hats that mimic what coaches and players wear are also trending.
- Lightweight visors
- Beanies for cold-weather games
- Snapback caps
Basketball
While not worn during play, basketball-themed hats are hugely popular with fans. Styles like the following are appropriate. The key is to focus on team colors to appeal to specific fan groups.
- Flat-brim snapbacks
- Curved-bill dad hats
- Knit beanies (for colder months)
Golf
The nature of golf dictates golfers wear the right kind of apparel and accessories to keep them focused regardless of the weather. They need sun protection from their headwear without compromising their swing. Hats with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings enhance the perceived value of your merchandise. In addition, you can minimize your investment in sports merchandise by sourcing it from wholesale suppliers. Investing in wholesale performance hats from reputed suppliers is how you can get the lowest per-piece price for the merchandise. You can source the following type of headgear for golfers.
- Wide-brim bucket hats
- Lightweight, breathable visors
- Performance fabric baseball caps
Tennis
Tennis players prioritize lightweight, sweat-wicking options. It’s also a good bet to go for colors that reflect sunlight. This appeals to both fans and players. Invest in headgear like:
- Visors (for maximum airflow)
- Lightweight caps with mesh panels
Running
Runners need hats that stay put and manage sweat:
- Breathable caps like trucker hats
- Visors for those who prefer an open-top
- Beanies for cold-weather runs
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
It’s not exactly a sport, but hiking is a physical activity that can definitely be supported with the right headwear.
Outdoor enthusiasts need protection from the sun and the elements. The following hats are popular among hikers and adventurers.
- Wide-brim adventure hats
- Trucker hats
- Neck flap hats for maximum coverage
Winter Sports
Skiers and snowboarders need warmth that fits under helmets. Materials like wool can regulate natural temperature. There are hats made of polyester blends that can retain heat for long periods.
- Thin, insulated beanies
- Balaclavas for full-face protection
- Headbands for those who run hot
Sourcing Tips
When sourcing wholesale performance hats, fabrics should be taken into account. Each fabric type offers specific benefits. Polyester and nylon blends are known for their moisture-wicking traits. Cotton fabrics are known for their natural breathability and softness. Cotton-poly blends offer the best of both cotton and polyester, and are excellent for customization. Many modern hats are also made of recycled materials like recycled polyester, standing for eco-friendly headwear.
Hats can be bought wholesale blank or customized. Common hat customization techniques include:
- Embroidery
- Screen printing
- Heat transfers
Additionally, it’s also a great idea to showcase inclusivity in your merchandise by offering hard-to-get sizes for your hats. Features and fabrics justify bigger price tags, giving you an opportunity to sell your merchandise at higher, more profitable markups. Pay attention to the sports seasons to maximize sales. This also helps you plan your inventory way ahead.
