Field Notes
Jul 07, 2026
Imperial Announces 2027 Collection
BOURBON, MO – Imperial, voted the #1 headwear brand for private and resort golf facilities for nine consecutive years by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) and reported as the “#1 headwear brand in the combined on and off course retail golf channels” by Golf Datatech, introduced its 2027 Collection at the company’s annual sales meeting, unveiling a new generation of premium headwear defined by material innovation, contemporary styling, and purpose-driven silhouettes.
As the leader in fit, the 2027 Collection advances the brand’s commitment to exceptional comfort, modern performance, and timeless style. Leading the collection is Lodestar, Imperial’s most advanced fabric to date, engineered to redefine how performance headwear looks, feels, and wears.
“The development of Lodestar represents one of the most significant product innovations in Imperial’s recent history,” said Dan Parenti, SVP of Product. “For years, the industry has forced consumers to choose between the authentic look of natural fabrics and the benefits of technical materials. Lodestar sets a new standard, bringing both in a proprietary fabric developed exclusively by Imperial.”
Made from 100% recycled materials, Lodestar combines the visual depth and soft hand of premium natural fabrics with the technical attributes the industry and consumers expect, including moisture wicking capability, antimicrobial properties, and UPF 50+ protection. The result is a category-defining fabric that establishes a new benchmark for headwear and serves as the foundation for new styles like The Lodestar and The Criterion.
Complementing the fabric launch is an expanded assortment spanning performance, lifestyle, and seasonal categories, providing retailers with a broader range of solutions for today’s evolving consumer.
Style Highlights
Q210U – The Lodestar The flagship style of the collection, The Lodestar showcases Imperial’s proprietary fabric in a low sweep profile that pairs elevated aesthetics with technical functionality. Memory structure promotes long-lasting shape retention and adaptive comfort, while refined details such as a matte black buckle and grommet reinforce its position as a future cornerstone of the Imperial brand.
Q210MC – The Criterion A sophisticated take on the fast-growing 5-panel category, The Criterion combines a dart-front, mid-crown silhouette in Lodestar fabric for a versatile blend of contemporary and retro influences. A new silicone snapback closure enhances comfort and flexibility, while memory structure construction, delivers a consistent fit for an elevated wear experience. The Criterion appeals to both trend-conscious consumers and traditionalists.
8000 – The Fumanchu Inspired by Imperial’s heritage styles, The Fumanchu refreshes a familiar favorite with ultra-soft brushed performance poly fabric for an exceptionally soft feel and moisture-wicking comfort. The structured mid-
crown profile and flat brim create an easygoing lifestyle aesthetic suited for the golf course, the ballpark, and around town.
1289 – The Attaboy Developed with customization in mind, this retro-inspired 5-panel trucker combines performance materials with construction optimized for decoration. A structured front panel with a thin internal foam lining creates the ideal canvas for embroidered patches, 3D embroidery, chainstitch, and other premium embellishment techniques.
3805 – The Better With Age Crafted from genuine, plaited straw, The Better With Age brings fresh energy to a classic silhouette. Equal parts nostalgic and contemporary; this statement piece commands attention with a strong visual impact and novelty appeal for resorts, destination properties, and special events.
6025 – The Thayne A traditional winter essential featuring knit-in striping, textured ribbing, and a pom accent. Soft acrylic yarns and fleece lining provide warmth and comfort while maintaining a relaxed fit.
6026 – The Cache Understated and versatile, The Cache offers a modern take on the everyday cuffed beanie. Its streamlined aesthetic and broad appeal make it an easy addition to any cold-weather assortment.
6100 – The Swede A watchcap featuring a closer-to-head fit and subtle texture. Soft acrylic yarns and fleece lining provide warmth without bulk, resulting in a clean, tailored silhouette with broad crossover appeal.
6102 – The Mercer Introducing a jacquard-knit patterning for added texture and visual depth, The Mercer brings a fashion-forward winter style option that adds personality and depth to seasonal assortments.
In addition to the new headwear introductions, Imperial is expanding its women’s apparel category with two versatile lifestyle pieces. The Sunset is a short-sleeve, crewneck tri-blend tee crafted for exceptional softness and everyday comfort, while The Lafayette is a lightweight French Terry sweatshirt ideal for effortless layering and year-round versatility.
The 2027 Collection reflects Imperial’s continued investment in innovation, craftsmanship, and category leadership; delivering solutions that meet the needs of today’s retailers while reinforcing the brand’s commitment to fit, comfort, and timeless style.
About Imperial
Imperial is a consumer apparel brand founded in 1916 with design, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution capabilities. Imperial sells its products into several markets, including the direct-to-consumer (DTC), golf, corporate, and supply chain channels. Customers include the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, Open Championship, Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, and Solheim Cup. Imperial also has manufacturing and licensing relationships with Nike, Peter Millar, Tommy Hilfiger, Vans, adidas and many other global brands.
Imperial products can be found at all Top 100 and over 75% of the Top 400 golf courses in the United States and has been voted the #1 headwear brand for private and resort golf facilities for eight
consecutive years by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) and reported as the “#1 headwear brand in the combined on and off course retail golf channels” by Golf Datatech.
Imperial is also proud to fund the Imperial Foundation, a separate philanthropic organization committed to the growth and vitality of sports, especially the game of golf and those who support it, as well as the overall health and well-being of the people in the communities Imperial serves.
For further information please visit Imperial1916.com. Follow Imperial on Instagram at @ImperialHats.
Media Contact
Martha Hudson
mhudson@imperial1916.com
B2B Marketing Specialist - Golf
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Jun 10, 2026
Imperial Named Official Headwear Partner of The 2026 People's League Tour
BOURBON, MISSOURI — Imperial, a leading manufacturer of premium golf headwear and apparel since 1916, is proud to announce a new partnership with The Peoples League as the Official Headwear of the 2026 Peoples League Tour.
The partnership brings together two organizations committed to growing the game through community, competition, and culture. As the Official Headwear of the 2026 Peoples League Tour, Imperial will provide premium headwear for players featuring exclusive co-branded collections and special event activations.
Peoples League has quickly become one of golf's most culturally relevant organizations, blending sport, entertainment, and fan engagement into a fresh take on competitive golf.
“Peoples League is creating a platform that reflects how the game continues to grow," said Jerry Biag, Director of Marketing at Imperial. "Their ability to bring together competition, community, and culture has resonated with a new generation of golfers. We're excited to become the Official Headwear of the 2026 Peoples League Tour."
The team ownership group features influential figures from sports, entertainment, and golf media, including Ja Rule, Victor Cruz, Luke Kwon, Country Club Adjacent, and The Pointer Brothers. Their collective vision has helped establish Peoples League as a platform that extends beyond tournament golf and creates meaningful connections throughout the broader golf community.
The 2026 Peoples League Tour will also showcase a talented and diverse roster of competitors, including Ryan Ruffels, Tisha Alyn, Malosi and Claire Hogle, whose participation reflects the league's commitment to highlighting both elite play and engaging personalities within the game.
"For more than a century, Imperial has set the standard in golf headwear," said Jared Augustine, CEO and Founder of Peoples League. "When we looked for a headwear partner for the 2026 Peoples League Tour, Imperial was a natural fit. Their commitment to quality, innovation, and authenticity mirrors our own values, and we're excited to bring their products to our players and community throughout the season."
"This partnership is about more than putting a logo on a hat," said Clay Sutton, Head of Brand & Marketing at Peoples League. "It's about aligning with a brand that understands golf's rich history while embracing the modern culture that's driving the game forward. We're excited to work alongside Imperial to create meaningful experiences for our players and partners."
With a leadership team that includes Augustine, Sutton, and a growing network of league operators and community ambassadors nationwide, Peoples League continues to build one of the most innovative ecosystems in golf, combining competitive events, original content, and authentic community engagement.
The partnership officially begins with the Tahoe Mountain Club event of the 2026 Peoples League Tour, where Imperial headwear will be prominently featured at the events. Subscribe to Peoples League Golf on YouTube to follow all of the 2026 Tour action.
About Imperial
Imperial is a consumer apparel brand founded in 1916 with design, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution capabilities. Imperial sells its products into several markets, including the direct-to-consumer (DTC), golf, corporate, and supply chain channels. Customers include the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, Open Championship, Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, and Solheim Cup. Imperial also has manufacturing and licensing relationships with Nike, Peter Millar, Tommy Hilfiger, Vans, adidas and many other global brands.
Imperial products can be found at all Top 100 and over 75% of the Top 400 golf courses in the United States and has been voted the #1 headwear brand for private and resort golf facilities for nine consecutive years by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) and reported as the “#1 headwear brand in the combined on and off course retail golf channels” by Golf Datatech.
Imperial is also proud to fund the Imperial Foundation, a separate philanthropic organization committed to the growth and vitality of sports—especially the game of golf and those who support it—as well as the overall health and well-being of the people in the communities Imperial serves.
For further information please visit Imperial1916.com. Follow Imperial on Instagram at @ImperialHats.
About The Peoples League
Peoples League is where tournament-level golf meets the creators who make it worth watching: a team-based, season-long property built on a franchise model, where the same teams and rivalries carry from stop to stop, and every event has its own stakes. In its inaugural 2025 season, the league delivered 50 million impressions, 11 million YouTube views, more than one million engagements, and more than 240,000 watch hours, drawing on a roster of creators reaching more than 35 million combined followers. In 2026, the league launched the Peoples League Tour, extending the competition across a multistop schedule, each event with its own format. Subscribe to Peoples League on YouTube and follow @peoplesleaguegolf.
Media contacts:Jerry BiagMarketing Director
jbiag@imperial1916.com
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May 11, 2026
Imperial Named Official Headwear of UNDERRATED Golf Tour
BOURBON, MO — Imperial, voted the #1 headwear brand for private and resort golf facilities for nine consecutive years by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) and reported as the “#1 headwear brand in the combined on- and off-course retail golf channels” by Golf Datatech, proudly announces a new partnership with the UNDERRATED Golf Tour as the Official Headwear Partner.
Founded by NBA 4x Champion and 2x MVP Stephen Curry, the UNDERRATED Golf Tour is designed to provide greater equity, access and opportunities for the next generation of golfers, with a focus on inclusion, and competitive excellence.
Through this partnership, Imperial will outfit participants and staff with premium headwear while collaborating on exclusive product collections and on-site activations throughout the Tour schedule. The partnership reflects Imperial’s continued investment in the future of the game—supporting emerging athletes and expanding the reach of golf to new audiences.
“Partnering with the UNDERRATED Golf Tour represents an exciting step forward for Imperial as we continue to evolve alongside the game,” said Jane Smith, VP of Marketing at Imperial. “The UNDERRATED platform is shaping the next generation of golfers, and we’re proud to be part of that journey by delivering headwear that performs at the highest level while giving players a way to express their identity both on and off the course.”
“This partnership is about more than product, it’s about connecting with a new generation of golfers in a way that feels authentic to how they experience the game,” said Jerry Biag, Director of Marketing at Imperial. “UNDERRATED is building a powerful platform at the intersection of sport and culture, and we’re excited to bring headwear to life through storytelling, style and moments that resonate both on and off the course.”
Imperial will introduce a series of UNDERRATED x Imperial headwear collections, featuring a mix of performance-driven styles and modern silhouettes inspired by the athletes and culture surrounding the Tour. Limited-edition releases will coincide with key events, creating unique product moments tied directly to the energy and storytelling of the competition.
“We’re excited to welcome Imperial as our Official Headwear Partner,” said Jason Richards, Athletic Operations Director for the UNDERRATED Golf Tour. “Their commitment to quality and innovation, combined with a shared belief in growing the game, makes this a natural fit as we continue to build opportunities for young golfers.”
In addition to on-course integration, Imperial will support the partnership through digital storytelling, athlete-driven content, and direct-to-consumer activations on imperial1916.com, bringing fans closer to the Tour through exclusive product drops and behind-the-scenes access.
This partnership further reinforces Imperial’s position not only as a leader in traditional golf channels, but as a brand actively shaping the future of the game through meaningful collaborations and cultural relevance.
About Imperial
Imperial is a consumer apparel brand founded in 1916 with design, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution capabilities. Imperial sells its products into several markets, including the direct-to-consumer (DTC), golf, corporate, and supply chain channels. Customers include the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, Open Championship, Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, and Solheim Cup. Imperial also has manufacturing and licensing relationships with Nike, Peter Millar, Tommy Hilfiger, Vans, adidas and many other global brands.
Imperial products can be found at all Top 100 and over 75% of the Top 400 golf courses in the United States and has been voted the #1 headwear brand for private and resort golf facilities for nine consecutive years by the Association of Golf Merchandisers (AGM) and reported as the “#1 headwear brand in the combined on and off course retail golf channels” by Golf Datatech.
Imperial is also proud to fund the Imperial Foundation, a separate philanthropic organization committed to the growth and vitality of sports—especially the game of golf and those who support it—as well as the overall health and well-being of the people in the communities Imperial serves.
For further information please visit Imperial1916.com. Follow Imperial on Instagram at @ImperialHats.
About Underrated Golf
UNDERRATED Golf, established by Stephen Curry in 2022, is a purpose-driven platform committed to expanding equity, access and opportunity in the game of golf for student-athletes from underrepresented communities and female players. Inspired by Curry’s own journey as an overlooked athlete, the initiative celebrates the underdog while working to level the playing field in a sport where opportunity has historically been limited. Through a competitive junior golf tour, mentorship programming and career development initiatives, UNDERRATED Golf provides talented young golfers with a national stage to gain exposure, build meaningful connections and unlock pathways to success on and off the course. For more information, please visit www.underrated.golf, and connect on social media via Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Media contacts:Jerry BiagMarketing Director
jbiag@imperial1916.com
UNDERRATED GolfTom Dietz and Stephen BaruchThirtyInk@Midnight-Dawn.com
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