Men's Irish Flat Caps in the USA

The flat cap is a traditional Irish style, and it has been worn by men all over the world for centuries. Today, it is considered a unisex style, and there are many similar styles which have been developed from the original design. Our extensive range of Irish caps and hats includes flat caps, driving caps, panel caps, Newsboy caps and Pub caps, and all of these differ slightly in appearance. We have a wide variety of colors and materials available so that you can choose the perfect headwear for every occasion. Available in the USA.

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Flat caps were established as an Irish trend in 1571, when a law was introduced that made it mandatory for Irish men and boys to wear hats on Sundays and holidays. The law achieved its aim of boosting the local wool industry and was abolished only two decades later, but flat caps were firmly established in working-class Irish fashion by this point. For centuries, the flat cap continued to be seen in this light, and then it was adopted by the gentry, who saw it as an excellent option for outdoor pursuits such as walking and shooting, and it became a style statement.

Flat caps were introduced across Europe and North Africa in the 1800s by armed forces from the UK and Ireland, and the design was even worn as an alternative to the Fez style hat when it was banned in Turkey in 1925. The style also travelled across the Atlantic with Irish migrants, and its popularity in the United States can be seen in designs such as the Newsboy hat, which brought a contemporary edge to the classic flat cap, creating a panel cap that was popularized by the newspaper sellers of 1920s and 1930s New York.

Our Irish flat caps are made from the finest wool and wool tweed, and we also have some designs made from waxed cotton for the ultimate protection from the elements. Wool and wool tweed are sustainable, natural materials with warm, water-resistant properties, and they can be worn in every season, keeping you cozy and dry in unpredictable weather. The flat cap is a versatile style that works just as well with a formal suit as it does with jeans and a sweater, so you can style it up for a family wedding or wear it on a country walk.

Our Irish hats and caps are available in a selection of colors, many of which are inspired by the beautiful tones we see in the Irish countryside, and we only source products you can rely on. Our range includes designs by Hanna Hats, Jack Murphy Hats, Tom Deasy Flat Caps and Mucros Weavers, and we will be happy to help you find your new favorite flat cap.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a paddy cap and a scally cap?

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Both names describe the same style of flat cap: deep-fronted, with a crown that sits high on the head and a bill that pulls forward. "Paddy cap" is the Irish nickname, long associated with countrymen and farmers. "Scally cap" is the Boston term, carried over by Irish migrants and most common today in the US north-east. The driving cap is a shorter-brimmed cousin, pulled forward over the eyes, while the panelled newsboy sits in our Peaky Blinders Caps collection.

What's the difference between a tweed flat cap and a wool flat cap?

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Tweed is woven wool fabric; the difference is in the weaving. Tweed has a rougher, more textured feel while wool is softer and smoother. Tweed’s heavier, denser weave also gives it better wind resistance and more warmth, which matter in Irish weather; wool stays breathable and lighter year-round. For a smoother feel and a lighter cap you can wear across seasons, choose wool. For wind, warmth and heritage texture, choose tweed.

What is a driving cap?

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A driving cap is a flat cap cut with a shorter, flatter crown and a shorter bill that sits closer to the head. These design changes were made so the cap wouldn't catch on a car roof or get in the way at the steering wheel. Compared to a deep-fronted paddy cap, the driving cap sits more cleanly against the head and reads smarter and more pared-back for daily wear. The driving cap is often confused with the newsboy: the newsboy has a rounder, panelled crown, where the driving cap stays flat.

Is there a flat cap that works in summer?

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Linen flat caps are the best answer when the weather gets warmer; it's lighter, more breathable than wool, and cut to keep the traditional flat cap silhouette. Linen flat caps dress down well with chinos and a polo shirt, and still work with a linen blazer for a smarter summer look. Be aware that linen is more prone to creases; for some, that's part of the charm. If you prefer a crisp finish, iron on a low setting or steam it before you wear it.

How do I clean a flat cap?

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Care depends on the material. Tweed and wool flat caps are dry clean only; if yours gets caught in a shower, let it dry naturally away from direct heat. Linen caps can be hand washed in cool water with a gentle detergent, then rolled in a towel and dried flat. Waxed cotton caps sponge clean with cold water, no detergent; you can refresh the wax finish with a tin of wax dressing. Always check the care label on your cap, because specifics vary by maker.