New Era vs. ’47: A Complete Comparison of Baseball Caps

Baseball caps are more than just a functional accessory—they’ve become a key part of sports culture and everyday fashion.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan supporting your team or simply looking to add a stylish piece to your wardrobe, the baseball cap is a timeless choice. These hats offer a unique blend of comfort, style, and versatility, making them a must-have for all ages.

When it comes to choosing the perfect baseball cap, two brands stand out from the crowd: New Era and ’47. These iconic brands have captured the hearts of sports fans and fashion lovers alike. But what sets them apart?

In this guide, we’ll dive into their histories, design philosophies, and help you find the right hat for your style and needs.

Brand Origins and Legacy

New Era’s History: A Century of Tradition

New Era has been around for more than 100 years, making it one of the most established and respected names in the world of baseball caps.

Founded in 1920, the brand quickly became synonymous with professional sports. Today, it’s the official headwear provider for major leagues like MLB, NFL, and NBA, making it the go-to brand for serious sports fans.

New Era is best known for its 59Fifty fitted caps, which are the official on-field hats worn by players in the MLB. These hats are recognized for their structured design, which gives them a sharp, professional look.

New Era’s long-standing partnerships with top sports leagues only solidify its position as the leader in sports headwear.

If you’d like to learn more about their history, check out our detailed post on the History of New Era Caps.

’47’s History: From Humble Beginnings to Fan-Focused Gear

Founded in 1947 in Boston, ’47 started out with a mission to create fan gear that was both affordable and stylish. The brand has always been about making sports merchandise accessible to the masses.

Over time, it’s become a favorite for fans looking for a blend of vintage-inspired designs and modern comfort.

While New Era has its roots deeply planted in the official sports world, ’47 has taken a more fan-centric approach. The brand is known for its relaxed designs that appeal to those who want a more casual, comfortable cap without sacrificing style.

Today, ’47 offers a wide range of affordable hats that feature popular team logos, making it easy for fans to show their support.

Hat Design & Fit

New Era: The Professional Touch

When it comes to design, New Era is known for its structured and fitted hats, particularly the iconic 59Fifty. These hats are a fan favorite because they offer a snug fit that stays in place, no matter the occasion.

The design is rigid, providing a sharp, clean look that’s perfect for those who want to mimic the professional, on-field appearance of their favorite athletes.

One thing that sets New Era apart is its brim options. You can find both flat brims and curved brims, allowing fans to choose a style that best suits their preferences. Flat brims are a popular choice for fans who like a bold, modern look, while curved brims offer a more traditional, relaxed feel.

’47: Relaxed, Comfortable, and Casual

On the other hand, ’47 is all about comfort and a relaxed fit. While New Era offers structured caps, ’47 focuses on creating hats that feel like they’ve been your favorite for years.

These caps are often unstructured, meaning they’re softer and more flexible. The curved brims give the hats a more casual vibe, making them perfect for everyday wear.

Fans who love the vintage style will find that ’47 is a great fit. Many of their designs feature distressed details or faded fabrics, which give the caps a worn-in look that’s perfect for a laid-back, stylish appearance. Whether you’re running errands or heading to a casual game, an ’47 cap fits right in.

Which Hat is Right for You?

Choosing the right hat depends on your personal style and fit preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• New Era is perfect for those who want a snug, structured fit that represents official sports gear. If you have a smaller head or prefer a more fitted, clean look, New Era’s 59Fifty or 59Fifty snapbacks are a great option.
• ’47, on the other hand, is ideal if you prefer a relaxed, comfortable fit. Their unstructured hats are great for larger heads or if you like a hat that loosens up over time. The curved brims add a nice touch for a casual, everyday look.

Durability and Material Quality: Which Hat Will Last Longer?

When it comes to buying a baseball cap, durability is a big factor. You want a hat that not only looks great but also stands the test of time.

Let’s take a closer look at the materials and construction of New Era and ’47 hats to see which brand offers more longevity.

New Era: Built for Long-Term Use in Sports

New Era is all about premium quality. The hats are made with sturdier fabrics and structured designs, meaning they’re built to last. This makes them ideal for fans who wear their hats during active events like sports games or outdoor activities.

The material used is thicker and more durable, which helps maintain the shape of the hat over time, even with frequent wear.

One of the reasons New Era hats are so popular in sports contexts is their ability to withstand rough handling and weather conditions. If you’re a dedicated sports fan or someone who wears their hat to games regularly, New Era caps are a great choice because they’re designed for long-term wear.

’47: Softer Materials for Casual Comfort

On the flip side, ’47 hats are made with softer materials that prioritize comfort over structure. These hats tend to be more unstructured, which gives them a relaxed, laid-back feel. The trade-off is that, while they’re great for everyday, casual wear, they might not hold up as well in more demanding environments like a stadium or outdoor event.

While the softer fabric of ’47 hats might not be as durable in the long run, they still offer a decent lifespan for those who wear them casually. If you’re someone who wants a comfortable hat for everyday use, and you’re not planning on subjecting it to extreme conditions, a ‘47 cap is a solid choice.

For a more detailed comparison of fabric types, take a look at this expert review on the Best Materials for Hats,

Durability Comparison Chart:

Price & Value: Is It Worth the Investment?

When shopping for a baseball cap, price and value often go hand in hand. Let’s compare New Era and ’47 to see which brand offers the best value for your money, depending on what you’re looking for.

New Era: A Higher Price for Premium Quality

New Era hats come with a higher price tag, but that’s because they offer premium construction and official licensing with major sports leagues like the MLB, NFL, and NBA.

These hats are built to last and are designed for serious fans who want an authentic, on-field look. The 59Fifty and other fitted caps are meticulously crafted to provide a snug, professional fit, which adds to their overall cost.

For collectors or dedicated sports fans, investing in a New Era hat is definitely worth it. You’re not just paying for a hat, but for the official merchandise of your favorite team or league, along with a product that’s made to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.

’47: Great Value on a Budget

In contrast, ’47 hats offer great value without breaking the bank. They are more affordable compared to New Era, while still offering stylish designs and a comfortable fit. If you’re someone who wants a casual, vintage-inspired hat without spending a lot of money, ‘47 is the way to go.

While ‘47 caps might not have the same official league licensing as New Era, they still provide fans with plenty of options for showing off their team spirit. Plus, the softer materials and relaxed design make them ideal for those who are looking for an everyday hat, rather than a professional sports cap.

Price vs. Longevity: Which One is Worth the Extra Cost?

If you’re trying to decide between the two brands, it often comes down to use and longevity. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• New Era: If you wear your cap regularly for sports events, outdoor activities, or want a hat that lasts for years, New Era’s higher price point is worth the investment.
• ’47: If you’re looking for a hat that’s affordable and great for everyday use, ’47 is the better choice. It’s perfect for those on a budget who want a relaxed, stylish hat without the hefty price tag.

Versatility and Style: Finding the Right Look for You

The beauty of baseball caps is their versatility. Both New Era and ’47 offer hats that cater to different styles and occasions. Let’s explore how each brand excels in terms of style and versatility.

New Era: Sports-Centric Design for Serious Fans

New Era is all about its sports-centric designs. If you’re attending a sports game or a fan event, New Era hats are perfect. Their designs are crafted to represent official teams, with customization options like team logos and patches to give you a true fan experience.

The brand’s structured hats are perfect for those who want to represent their favorite teams in a formal sports environment. Whether it’s for a game or just showing off your team spirit, New Era hats allow you to feel like a part of the action.

’47: Everyday Casual Wear and Vintage Styles

While New Era is built for sports, ’47 is designed for everyday casual wear. The relaxed fit and soft fabrics make ‘47 caps perfect for daily outings—whether you’re running errands, meeting friends, or just chilling at home.

The vintage look appeals to those who enjoy a retro vibe, with distressed details and faded fabrics that give the caps a unique, worn-in feel.

What’s even better?

’47’s designs go beyond just sports. You’ll find a variety of lifestyle-oriented styles, including vintage and distressed designs, that cater to fans who want more than just a typical sports cap.

Crossover Appeal: From Sports to Fashion

One interesting trend is how both brands have expanded beyond just the sports world. New Era and ’47 are now making their way into fashion. Many people wear these caps not only to support their favorite teams but also as stylish accessories.

Whether you’re into streetwear, casual fashion, or vintage trends, both brands offer hats that can be styled in multiple ways to suit your everyday look.

Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Cap in Top Shape

When you invest in a high-quality hat, it’s essential to know how to take care of it properly. Whether you’re sporting a New Era or a ’47 cap, each brand requires a slightly different approach when it comes to maintenance.

New Era: Structured Hats Need Extra Care

Since New Era hats feature a structured design, they require a bit more attention to maintain their shape.

These hats are designed to hold their form, which is great for providing that professional, authentic sports look. However, this also means they can lose their structure if not properly cared for.

To keep your New Era cap looking fresh, it’s recommended to hand wash your hat instead of throwing it in the washing machine. This helps preserve the shape and fabric. Use a gentle detergent, and avoid soaking it for too long.

To dry, simply let it air dry, reshaping it if necessary. Never put it in the dryer, as the heat can damage the structure and cause the hat to lose its crisp appearance.

Pro Tip: You can use a hat cleaning device or hat shapers to maintain the shape of your New Era hat. These devices help keep the brim and body of the cap in top form, ensuring it stays sturdy for years.

’47: Low-Maintenance and Flexible

On the other hand, ’47 hats are much easier to maintain due to their softer, unstructured design.

These hats are typically machine washable, making them an excellent choice for those who don’t want to spend too much time on upkeep.

If your ’47 cap gets dirty, simply toss it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, using cold water to preserve the fabric. After washing, let it air dry—no need to worry about reshaping or stretching, as the unstructured design naturally accommodates more wear and tear.

Care Tips for Longevity

To extend the lifespan of both New Era and ’47 hats, here are a few simple pro tips:

• Use a cap cleaning device: This helps remove dirt and keeps the fabric looking fresh.
• Avoid harsh detergents: Opt for mild detergent to avoid fading the colors.
• Store properly: Keep your hats in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or mildew.
• Spot clean regularly: For small stains, use a damp cloth to wipe the hat clean.

Customization and Exclusivity: Show Off Your Personal Style

Baseball caps aren’t just for keeping the sun out of your eyes—they’re also a fashion statement. Both New Era and ’47 offer customization options, but they approach it in slightly different ways.

New Era: Custom Designs for True Fans

One of the standout features of New Era is its customization options. For the ultimate sports fan, New Era offers exclusive designs tailored to specific teams, players, and even limited-edition releases.

If you want to rep your favorite player or commemorative event, New Era has got you covered.

You can also choose from a variety of stitching, fabric options, and team logos to create a truly unique cap. This makes New Era the go-to choice for fans who want their hats to be an extension of their team loyalty and sports passion.

’47: A Focus on Style and Simplicity

While ’47 may not offer as many custom designs as New Era, it does provide plenty of options for fans who love vintage and casual styles.

You can find limited-edition items and unique designs that offer a more relaxed vibe, but without the intense level of customization that New Era provides.

For those who prefer a laid-back look, ‘47 offers greater flexibility with designs that emphasize comfort and casual flair, without sacrificing the fan spirit. Their style tends to be more understated but still offers enough variety to help you stand out in the crowd.

Custom Hat Trends

Over the years, custom hats have become a fashion trend all their own. Many fans are now choosing hats that reflect their personal style in addition to their love for sports.

Both brands are tapping into this trend, allowing customers to express themselves not just as fans, but also as fashion-forward individuals. Whether it’s a unique colorway, a custom stitch, or a special logo, there’s always a way to make your cap truly your own.

Conclusion: Which Hat Brand is Right for You?

Choosing between New Era and ’47 depends on your style, your needs, and how you plan to use the hat. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the decision:

New Era: For the Serious Fan

If you’re a professional sports fan who values authenticity and long-term durability, New Era is the brand for you. Their structured design and premium quality make them perfect for sports events and other occasions where you want your team spirit to shine.

While they may come at a higher price, the investment is worth it for those who want a cap that’s as serious about their sports as they are.

’47: For Casual Wear and Comfort

For those who prefer a more relaxed style, ’47 hats are ideal. They offer comfort, a casual fit, and a wide range of vintage-inspired designs. These hats are perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re running errands, meeting friends, or just lounging at home. Plus, with their affordable price point, they’re a great option for anyone on a budget.

Budget-Conscious: Choose ’47 for its affordable price without compromising on style or comfort.

Durable/Long-Term Use: Go for New Era if you’re looking for a cap that will last through years of wear and give you an authentic sports experience.

Ready to take your hat game to the next level? Explore JoinTop’s selection of premium hats and gear that combine style, quality, and comfort. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a comfortable, stylish hat for everyday wear, JoinTop has something for you.