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From running hats to classic baseball caps

From sporty baseball styles to structured snapbacks, caps are one of the most useful accessories out there. Every man needs one (or two) in his repertoire all year round.

With 80% of the sun’s rays still making it through the clouds on overcast days, caps are essential for outdoor workouts to supply that much-needed UV protection. Not only are they great for shielding from the elements outdoors, but most caps also come with moisture-wicking and ventilating features that are a godsend when you’re working up a sweat in the gym. And this accessory isn’t just for summer; it’s also important to keep your head covered in the winter months too, as you lose around 10% of body heat when it's left exposed. On rainy and windy days, wearing a cap is a sure way to keep hair feeling dry and looking fresh – whether you're working out, commuting or chilling in pub gardens with pals.

When baseball caps were first introduced in the late-19th century, despite being made from heavy wool-blends, they were worn exclusively for sport. But fast forward to 2022 and the cap has never been more versatile. At the more technical end of the scale there are running and cycling hats made from sweat-wicking nylon, and on the other there are on-trend corduroy and logo-stamped styles designed purely for flexing. Yep, this accessory is also a signifier of great taste – Google anyone from David Beckham to Justin Bieber and Marcus Rashford if you don't believe us. Still, if you only had to pick one, you can’t go wrong with a cotton baseball cap – choose a versatile shade such as navy or ecru and you’ll be able to wear yours with pretty much anything.

Overwhelmed with the amount of choice out there? We've got you covered (pun intended) at MH with our pick of the best men’s caps to know about in 2022.

If you’re after a cap that will work with everything in your wardrobe, North Face’s Horizon style is a great choice. It has breathable eyelet vents and mesh panels that make it ideal for wearing when you’re getting sweaty on the treadmill.

Known for its iconic womenswear, Isabel Marant only recently launched men’s clothing. However, in just five short years the brand's '80s-inspired leisurewear has truly taken over – even David Beckham is a fan. This Tyron baseball style is simple enough to wear every day and the embroidered logo is classic enough to transcend any trend.

We have been super impressed with M&S’ Goodmove range since it launched in 2020 – we like the lightweight gym shorts, half-zip running tops, and accessories selection in particular. This black cap has a cool contrast lining, so you’ll showcase a statement flash of yellow with every tilt of the head. Plus, it has UPF50+ sun protection so no burnt scalps here, people.

We love the classic American baseball vibe Axel Arigato’s two-toned cap is creating. Wear yours with a staple white T-shirt and relaxed jeans for a casual weekend outfit.

GymShark is an MH favourite for gym shorts and tank tops, but did you know the brand also does accessories? This snapback style cap has breathable mesh panels and an on-trend logo plaque.

You can’t go wrong with a classic baseball cap from Polo Ralph Lauren – that logo embroidery is instantly recognisable. We love how this shade looks with other neutrals, so wear yours with beige cargo trousers to create a tonal outfit.

Nike’s sunshine yellow cap will add a playful touch to any outfit. We like the classic six panel design that ensures a close fit – but don’t worry about it digging in, this style is still adjustable thanks to the strap-back closure.

From H&M’s new Move collection, this shell cap has a bungee cord fastening and cool geometric perforations – these technical additions don’t just look great, they also provide a personalised fit and handy ventilation. The highlighter hue is ideal for jogging outside once the darker nights roll in.

If you thought caps were just for protecting your face from UV rays, think again. This clever camo number from Lululemon is made from a water-repellent fabric, so it’s ideal for wearing on rainy outdoor runs.

This classic black cap from Under Armour has an in-built sweatband designed to wick away any excess moisture when you are training. What’s more, this baby is super adjustable thanks to a hook and loop closure, so is a guaranteed comfy fit – nobody wants a hat too tight when they're trying to deadlift, after all.

Heard the hype about Carhartt’s wool beanies? Trust us, its baseball caps are even better. Made from a hard-wearing cotton canvas, this structured Backley style will definitely go the distance in your wardrobe. The beige shade is our personal favourite, but it also comes in versatile black.

The front peak on this Patagonia duckbill cap is designed to provide shade from the sun, while the mesh in the back keeps it super breathable. We reckon you could squeeze this number under your helmet on sunny cycles, too. What’s more, the lightweight netting means this style can easily be folded into a pocket or gym bag – a win-win in our eyes.

This New York Yankees cap has a laid-back, distressed vibe that will never go out of style. If it’s good enough for Cristiano Ronaldo and Orlando Bloom, it’s good enough for us.

If you’re looking to upgrade your go-to black cap, check out Paul Smith’s cotton baseball design: it’s trimmed with the brand’s signature rainbow stripes for a subtle flash of colour. This style also comes in a camel shade, as well as navy.

MyProtein’s unisex baseball cap is quite the bargain. For just £7.99 a piece, why not pop a few (choose from pink, red, olive and blue shades) in your basket? That way you can keep several on rotation.

Carhartt’s khaki corduroy cap is a great transitional piece to take you into the upcoming autumn months. Plus, it only comes in one size (and is customisable through the hook and loop fastening) so you don’t have to worry about searching for the perfect fit.

Reiss has teamed up with sportswear brand Castore for a second season to create a streamlined selection of performance wear – including some great colourful, lightweight caps. This clever design features an elasticated drawstring fastening so you don’t have to worry about losing it when you’re playing football or squat jumping. We’re digging this light-blue shade, but it also comes in navy, pink and white options.

Dickies has been making its iconic workwear staples since 1922 and the brand is also a go-to for utilitarian headgear – from beanies and bucket hats, to baseball caps. Use this bright-blue style to add some colour into a simple everyday outfit.

London-based activewear brand Soar Running specialises in lightweight, fast-drying kit that makes marathon training that bit easier. This cap has laser-cut perforations for ventilation and a reflective logo to keep you safe on late-night outdoor jogs.

Museum of Peace & Quiet is a US-based brand known for its minimalist, low-key leisurewear. We can’t get enough of the emerald green embroidery and waved logo design on its signature baseball cap.

END has hundreds of our favourite cap brands on its site at the moment. If you’re after an everyday cap, why not check out Napapijri’s versatile navy number? It’s perfect for camping holidays and walking trips alike.

MH is all for men wearing pink – and what better way to add a pop of colour than with Tommy Hilfiger’s best-selling cap in this pastel shade. Wear yours with a white shirt and chino shorts to summer BBQs.

Luxury label Off-White is a fashion editor and celebrity favourite. Don’t believe us? Just ask Justin Timberlake, Michael B. Jordan and Idris Elba – who are all big fans of the designer brand. The beauty of this distressed-look cap is that it will only get better with every wear, so you don’t have to worry about wearing it all the time.