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RS Recommends: Why Trucker Hats Are Back In Style

Here’s how the Oughts staple have gone from trashy to trendy — plus, the best trucker hats to buy right now

By Oscar Hartzog

Oscar Hartzog

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January 4, 2022

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Oughts fashion is (still) roaring back into style, reviving pieces we thought we’d never see again. One such piece? The trucker hat. Recently, the bulky, mesh back hats have been spotted on celebrities from A$AP Rocky to Rihanna to Hugh Jackman, and they’re even popping up on runways like Celine and Gucci. In other words, the best trucker hats have gone from trashy to trendy.

Over the past couple of years, we’ve not only seen the comeback of the trucker hat style but throwback trucker hat brands as well — most notably, Von Dutch, which has been overhauling its image recently. Last year, rapper Young Thug partnered with Von Dutch for a collaborative line, and there was even a documentary about the brand called The Curse of Von Dutch (watch the documentary now on Hulu).

How Do Can You Wear a Trucker Hat?

If, like many of us, you’re struggling to keep up with the return of Y2K fashion, trucker hats offer a helping hand. There’s no need to overhaul your wardrobe — just throw on one of the best trucker hats with jeans and a t-shirt, and you’ve successfully accomplished the modern Noughties look.

Style aside, trucker hats have functional benefits too. Thanks to their mesh back, trucker hats keep our heads cooler than most lids while exercising (say, running or hiking), traveling and running errands in the heat.

What Are the Best Trucker Hats?

Below are some of the best trucker hats to grab right now, including low-key picks from brands like Patagonia to statement trucker hats that nail the current Oughts trend.

1. Patagonia Fitz Roy Horizons Trucker Hat

patagonia hat mesh

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Designed for hiking, trail runs and other outdoor adventures, this Patagonia trucker hat provides shade without sacrificing airflow. The front is made of sturdy organic cotton and features the original Patagonia logo embroidered in the center. The back — a recycled polyester mesh — ensures breathability on hot days. Plus, we think the trucker looks great with urban outfits as well (think, jeans, throwback sneakers and a puffer jacket).

Buy Patagonia Fitz Roy Horizons Trucker Hat $35

2. Goorin Bros. Trucker Hat

animal hat goorin bros

Goorin Bros. has been making hats for more than a century, but, recently, the brand has become a go-to in men’s streetstyle. Their signature lids are these Animal Farm Collection hats — a line of trucker hats with embroidered animal patches on the front. Although the hats bring plenty of color and a vintage look, they’re actually easy to wear with casual basics and bold outfits alike.

3. Arc’teryx Arch’teryx Trucker Curved

mesh hat hiking running

Arc’teryx is another outdoor brand that trendsetters have adopted for streetstyle looks. If you’re looking to top off everyday outfits, this Arc’teryx Arch’teryx trucker is a great way to do just that (especially in this bold yellow color). But, thanks to the hat’s breathable, moisture-wicking material and mesh back, it’s also great for outdoor activities like hiking, running or working in the yard.

Buy Arc'teryx Arch'teryx Trucker Curved $39

4. Bass Pro Shops Trucker Hat

bass pro shop hat

This Bass Pro Shops trucker hat used to be a staple among hunters and fishermen, but now it’s all over the streets of major cities and on the heads of TikTok creators. They’ve been so hot that Bass Pro Shops even had a shortage last year (they’ve since ramped up stock). Wear it while fishing, as intended, or dress it up for urban wear with a logo hoodie, cargo pants and grail-worthy sneakers.

Buy Bass Pro Shops Trucker Hat $5.99

5. Icecream Brown IC Cubs Trucker Cap

designer trucker hat icecream

Designed by long-time trucker hat fan Pharrell Williams, this Icecream hat comes from the rapper and producer’s own clothing line. It’s an easy way to elevate casual looks with a brown brim, brown mesh back and logo-printed jersey front. Pair the designer trucker hat with chinos and a tee for skater-inspired style, or go big with baggy slacks and a button-up shirt for nights out.

Buy Icecream Brown IC Cubs Trucker Cap $60

6. Carhartt Buffalo Sandstone Meshback Cap

carhartt trucker hat black

If you need a hat that can take a beating — maybe while doing yard work or backpacking — pick up this Carhartt trucker hat. The front is a durable cotton, and the mesh back releases heat as you warm up. It’s minimally styled, save for the Carhartt logo, and a moisture-wicking sweatband provides added comfort in the heat.

7. Howler Brothers Lazy Gators Trucker

vintage trucker hat mesh

For one of the best trucker hats with vintage-inspired charm, check out this Lazy Gators cap from Austin-based Howler Brothers. The lid boasts a tall crown with internal structuring to stay that way, lending a Seventies look that we’re very into right now. The bill is also pliable, meaning you can bend it to your liking. Rock the vintage trucker hat with jeans a laid-back button-up for best effect.

Buy Howler Brothers Lazy Gators Trucker $35

8. True Religion Buddha Trucker Hat

2000s trucker hat

It’s hard to get more Oughts than this True Religion trucker hat. Complete with contrast stitching, True Religion’s Buddha logo on the front and a mesh back, the hat is bold enough to be a statement piece yet versatile enough to wear with a range of outfits. Rock it with chinos, a colorful sweater and boots or sneakers for a unique weekend look.

Buy True Religion Buddha Trucker Hat $35.40

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