Much like the "mom jeans" craze of recent years, it seems that "dad hats" are stirring up quite a sensation in certain fashion circles. Yes, folks. What was once considered completely uncool is now utterly covetable.

While mom jeans celebrate unflattering high-waisted pants on women, the so-called dad hat gives props to those worn-in baseball caps that are unabashedly focused on comfort rather than fashion. As the name suggests, it's something you would imagine any dad wearing when heading to the hardware store, mowing the lawn, or taking the family on a road trip.

So what exactly is a dad hat? Simply stated, it's a baseball cap. More specifically, it's a cotton baseball cap or canvas baseball hat that has a low profile, slightly curved bill, and a fit that seems just a tad oversized. Snapbacks, strapback caps, and fitted hats are all part of the dad cap trend, and since these lids keep things casual, they pair perfectly with T-shirts, graphic tees, and polo-style shirts.

Whether you're a dad or just want to look like one, our guide to the best dad hats is just what you need. And for those who require a little coaxing before jumping on the dad hat bandwagon, there are plenty of spiffed-up versions along with some stylish dad hat alternatives that can't be missed.

Must-Have Dad Hats

Old-school and classic, these dad hats are perfect for achieving an effortlessly cool aesthetic that still looks totally put together.

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Peyton by Stetson

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Step up the basic dad hat game with this high-quality black cap from Stetson. Made from 100 percent genuine leather with an oily timber finish, this strapback hat is money all the way. A convenient Velcro backstrap, cotton sweatband, and ventilating grommets on the crown enhance the hat's form and function. Ideal for a day spent outdoors or a night on the town, Peyton is the cool dad hat that is decidedly for grown-ups.

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Flag Waving by Dorfman Pacific

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When it comes to baseball caps, there's nothing more all-American than one emblazoned with the nation's flag. The Flag Waving cap by Dorfman Pacific is perfect for a 4th of July BBQ, beach day, or outdoor excursion, dad can take this hat wherever he may go.

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Dad Hat Alternatives

OK, so you're not quite ready to go "all in" with the dad hat craze. We get it. Ease into the look with these toppers that appeal to the shrewd, fashion-forward gent.

Cardiff by Stetson

Hat Style: Ivy cap

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Whether you're young, old, or somewhere in between, you can't go wrong with Cardiff by Stetson. Although it looks quite similar to Perth by Stetson (the quintessential dad hat on our list), this ivy cap has even more versatility. Made of polished weathered cotton, the fuss-free silhouette lets you make the most of any look, whether rocking a vintage Star Wars tee or Ralph Lauren Polo shirt.  

Taos by Scala

Hat Style: Outback

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Nothing says classic "dad" style like this America-made Scala Classico Panama straw hat. The Taos by Scala is a wide brim, outback-style hat with braided jute band and 2 7/8" brim that will keep dad cool and his wardrobe fresh.

Dartmouth by Biltmore

Hat Style: Fedora

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For the man with a flair for fashion and a penchant for quality, look no further than Dartmouth by Biltmore. This is not your grandad’s fedora. Biltmore’s hand-woven straw men’s fedora is an ode to older era, certainly, but it’s a modern version of a classic style with its vented crown and layered bow. This hat is perfect for a day at the Kentucky Derby

Albuquerque by Scala

Hat Style: Outback

Lean back in your beach chair and let the afternoon crawl past you. This Albuquerque Panama outback hat is the perfect companion for a day relaxing in the sun, enjoying the fresh air and summer breeze. When life feels like it's blurring by, it's important to slow down and enjoy life's simple pleasures. This hat will allow dad to do just that.

Props to Pops

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Dads often get a bad rap when it comes to style, but the dad hat craze proves that it's possible to make comfortable look cool. Whether it's a denim baseball hat, twill fabric cap, or basic cotton dad hat that catches your eye, the bottom line is that you can put your own spin on any trend to make it work.

For more hat-wearing inspiration, check out our full selection of mens dad hats that suit tastes ranging from casual to formal.