Popular fashion can have a serious sense of humor — what was once considered totally uncool can quickly become the latest must-have product of the moment. Case in point: the dad cap.

In case you hadn't heard, those slightly tattered, somewhat ill-fitted baseball caps that you are most likely to see on good ol' Dad have now reached "it" headgear status. While a dad cap is really just a baseball cap — snapback hats, strapback caps, and fitted baseball hats included — its distinguishing features are that it has a slightly loose fit, curved bill, and low profile.  

So which dad cap style is best for you? Aside from personal taste, it's really a matter of material and fit. Baseball caps come in any number of fabrics, from natural fibers such as cotton, wool, leather, and suede to synthetic materials including polyester or nylon. While lightweight textures such as cotton or nylon might be great for keeping cool in the heat and during lots of activity, a thicker textile such as wool or suede will keep you warm in cold weather.

Snapback hats, strapback hats, and fitted caps are all part of the dad cap clan, but they each have a distinct style. (Hint: It's in their name.) Take a look at our handy hat glossary for even more must-know terminology.

A snapback baseball cap is one that snaps in the back to adjust the fit. This style has been made highly popular by New Era, the official hat supplier of MLB (Major League Baseball). A strapback baseball cap is one that adjusts with a strap rather than a strip of plastic snaps.

Finally, a fitted baseball cap has no snaps or straps, so it cannot be adjusted to fit. This makes it even more important to measure your hat size properly before choosing any hat. Check out our list of the do's and don'ts of wearing a baseball hat to get it right every time.

Even though the dad cap trend is more about comfortable function (and a dash of irony) than cutting-edge glamour, there's no reason you can't have fun with it. Get ready to take the dad cap craze to the next level with our guide featuring everything from stylish strapback hats in unexpected finishes to relaxed yet refined snapback caps.

These Dad Caps Are Tops

You don't need to have kids to shop these laidback lids made from materials that range from cotton and wool to leather and polyester. You can also check out more options you'll love in our list of the best baseball caps for dads.

Cotton Dad Cap

Proving that mellow doesn't mean messy, Talese by Stetson is a classic dad cap that will work for you anytime of year. The pre-curved bill and plaid print cotton blend score major dad points, while it's twill sweatband and buckle-back strap won't let you down in the comfort department. And don't forget to keep it clean with our top tips for washing a baseball cap.

Wool Dad Cap

Tired of all the Nike, Fila, and Supreme logos? No problem. This fuss-free Zermatt baseball cap by Stetson features an inconspicuous logo that exudes low-key style. Crafted from structured wool felt to keep you warm during those cool months, this fitted dad cap also has a cotton sweatband to ensure supreme comfort every time you wear it. Be sure to peruse our guide on how to clean a wool hat so your dad hat lasts season after season.

Leather Dad Cap

You could always go with a basic black dad hat in cotton, but why not step up your dad cap game with a leather winner? Made from genuine leather (buffalo front panels, pig suede back panels), with an oily timber finish, Peyton by Stetson is sleek and sophisticated. It features a Velcro® Backstrap and cotton sweatband that guarantees a comfortable fit. Pair this with a Calvin Klein button-down shirt, khakis, and Vans shoes for a weekend look that keeps it cool and casual. For more leather hat options, check out our new arrivals.

Polyester Dad Cap

Looking for something a bit more casual? Check out our Loteria collection by Larry Mahan. Each of these nine trucker style baseball caps have mesh sidewall to keep you feelin' breezy all summer long. Each hat has a unique patch that originates from the classic card game, Loteria, along with a snapback closure that fits every head size and shape. If you're searching for the perfect beach hat, are a lover of the infamous card game, or just want a fun way to cover up on your bad hair days, these hats are for you!

Keep It Cool

The quintessential dad cap is a slightly loose baseball cap more concerned with function than fashion, but there are many different takes on this good-humored trend.

Aside from snapback, strapback, and fitted ball cap options, you could try the bucket hat, which is the epitome of ironically cool dad hats. Also called a booney hat, the bucket hat has become among the most coveted must-have hipster hats beloved by celebs, fashion acolytes, and hip-hop artists alike.

Just steer clear of the tacky trucker hat and too-tiny trilby, lest you appear to be trying too hard. After all, when wearing a dad cap or any trendy topper, the bottom line is to have fun and not take yourself too seriously while still looking incredibly cool.