Field Notes

Mar 07, 2023
The 5 Best Pickleball Hat Designs for Your Next Match
Are you a fan of pickleball? Then you’re in the right place. Imperial is a huge fan of the fun-loving game, and we’ve crafted a wide selection of pickleball hats to wear the next time you hit the court.
For those who might not know, pickleball is a sport that combines many elements from tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It’s played on a court similar to tennis, using lightweight balls and smaller paddles like badminton and ping pong. It’s a sport that has grown tremendously in popularity in recent years, due in part to how fun and easy the game is to play.
People also love pickleball thanks to the relaxed, fun, and cool vibes the game gives off.
Pickleball has its own personality, and here at Imperial, we’ve crafted a line of hats and visors to emulate these laid-back vibes. But with so many options, it can be hard to decide which cap is the best for your next match.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite pickleball caps to make it easier to find the one that’s right for you.
Fun Pickleball Hats to Wear All Year Long
Whether you’re getting ready to play a game or you’re getting ready to brunch, there’s a pickleball hat for you that oozes “good vibes only.”
This pickleball performance cap is a great option for those ready to hit the ground running with a hat that’s sporty, comfortable, and durable. And who doesn’t love that funky pickle design? You know that was a winning swing.
This style and icon is definitely one of our favorites. It’s cute, clever, and classy, making an obvious statement when you make it out to play. And even if you’re not wearing it on the court, it’s fun and minimalist enough to still show off your own funky style – and your love for the game, even if that love means watching from the sidelines with a nice, cold drink.
2. The Pickle Dome is Waiting for You
Are you ready to enter the pickle dome? Then this performance visor is the best pickleball hat option for you.
This pickleball visor is comfortable, cool, and cleverly crafted with a fun and funky pickleball-inspired patch. And it lets everyone around you know that you’re ready to play.
Visors are a great option on the court. They can help you keep the sun out of your eyes without covering your entire head, which can lead to some extra sweating that gets in the way of a good game. We definitely think this is one of the best visors for pickleball players because it's stylish, eye-catching, and performance-boosting all around.
3. Let Your Ponytail (And Pickleball Paddle) Fly Free
Another great performance hat, this ladies pickleball hat with a cute paddle icon is great to get your sweat on. It even features an opening in the back that’s perfect for letting your ponytail flow freely.
This sport-focused design is optimal for high performance. The moisture-wicking material, open back and breathable fabric make it an excellent option for picklers that know they’re ready to take their next game seriously.
The icon itself is simple, elegant, and classy, and it offers a subtle nod to your passions.
4. Watch Your Pickleball Soar Over the Net
This stylish, perforated pickleball cap is a great, edgy option for picklers who want to look cool out on the court and show off how much of a force they are to be reckoned with.
Enjoy lightweight, breathable fabric, a structured profile, and a cool perforated pattern. All of these features combine to make a game-worthy cap that will wow your teammates and your opponents.
This hat, paired with a fun, colorful pickleball design with wings, highlights just how high and far you’ll let your pickleball soar as you dive into your next match.
5. Show Off Your Pickleball Prowess
Are you a paddle master? Then this sporty pickleball cap is the perfect option for you.
Offering optimal breathability thanks to its perforated knit backing, this lightweight pickleball cap is the perfect way to tell your opponents that they better get ready for a match they’ll never forget. This eye-catching orange design is definitely hard to miss.
This modern, edgy, and outspoken hat definitely means business – and that’s why it easily makes our list of top pickleball hat favorites.
Craft Your Own Funky Pickleball Hat
Did you know that with Imperial, you can also create your own, customized pickleball hats? In fact, you can craft a hat that represents a number of fun activities and interests. We have a unique collection of icons, designs, and images to help you stand out from the crowd.
With our custom hat maker, you can take any of our hat styles – from a Tour Visor® to a rope hat and even a bucket hat – and make it your own. We offer patches, embroidery, and more to make sure that the hat you want is the hat you get.
We all know that Pickleball is a fast-paced, fun-loving sport, so your style should match that energy. Choose from a variety of styles, colors, and designs to show your love for the game, or just show off your playful personality. We have a variety of collections that highlight individual interests, like our Canine Collection, our Refreshments Collection, and even our Imperial Mascots Collection.
Whatever you’re interested in, Imperial is sure to have a design that matches your style. Have some fun and play around with our online hat tool today to bring an entirely new design to life. You can even upload your own designs to one of our hats.
Find the Best Pickleball Hats and Visors With Imperial
Here at Imperial, we know how to have fun. That’s why we’ve created a number of different hat styles and collections to let your true personality shine – whether you’re on the golf course, on the pickleball court, or hanging out with friends on the beach.
Our hats are durable, comfortable, and fun, providing you with the support you need to achieve whatever your goal is that day.
Are you looking to lounge in the sun? Try a customized bucket hat. Are you getting ready to engage in a pickleball match? We have a number of performance caps that’ll keep the sun out of your eyes and the sweat off of your face.
There’s no shortage of hats and visors to choose from.
Hopefully, this list of creative pickleball hats has inspired the pickler in you to get out your paddle and start swinging. We can’t wait to see you on the court.
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Mar 02, 2023
Bucket Hats Take Style to a Whole New Level
If you’re looking to have fun in the sun, enjoy a nice warm day on the water or just look cool, a bucket hat is a great option to do so. These comfortable, easy-wearing hats keep the sun rays out of your eyes and add effortlessness to your persona that’s hard to miss.
But when were bucket hats actually invented? What makes a bucket hat a bucket hat? And why have they grown in popularity as much as they have? Even more so – how can they look so cool?
Let’s dive into the history of bucket hats and learn how to incorporate this lackadaisical accessory into your next outfit.
What is a Bucket Hat?
Bucket hats are simple, sun-protection accessories that have a wide brim going all around the hat. In many cases, this hat is created with heavy-duty material to withstand the elements. Many people use bucket hats during intense activity – when out golfing, fishing, or doing any other outdoor sport.
Bucket hats were initially intended to keep the sun and sweat out of the eyes during prolonged periods outdoors. Of course, bucket hats have certainly evolved since this first iteration, and have made their way from fishing boats to New York Fashion Week.
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Feb 23, 2023
Look Sharp With 2023 Players Championship Hats and T-shirts
Considered the unofficial fifth major, the 2023 Players Championship is quickly approaching, and fans of this favorite stop on the PGA Tour are no doubt starting to get their golf hats ready to go.
Not only is the legendary TPC Sawgrass course absolutely gorgeous and the competition unbeatable, but the energy of this tournament is always a highlight. If you’re planning on making the trip to Florida, there is so much to look forward to, including our Imperial golf hats in the merchandise tent.
If it’s your first time attending or watching, you may be wondering, “What is The Players Championship?”.
The Players Championship is an annual tournament owned by the PGA Tour. It’s one of the highest-regarded tournaments in the sport, though technically, it’s not considered to be a traditional ‘major’ on the tour.
When many people think of The Players Championship, one of the first things that comes to mind is the TPC Sawgrass 17th hole. For those who are unfamiliar, the 17th hole is known as the “Island Green,” due to its intimidating placement in a lake. The hole is a wide green that narrows on the right side and is a short-length par 3. Spectators love watching their favorite players tackle this hole, which is as challenging as it is beautiful.
Imperial Gear for The Players Championship 2023
To get ready for this spectacular affair, one must dress accordingly - preferably with The Players Championship hats and t-shirts. There’s nothing better than donning your favorite golf caps and repping with t-shirts. Luckily, Imperial knows a thing or two about golf gear, and we have plenty of options for you to choose from before tee-off.
When it comes to tour gear, like The Players Championship t-shirt or hat, you can check out your options in the merchandise tent, also known as the Fan Shop, at the tournament. These items won’t be available online, so buying this swag at the tournament is going to be your only opportunity to pick up a cool golf hat from The Players Championship line of Imperial gear in 2023.
For those of you who want to make sure you have an appropriate hat to take to Florida with you before you check out the merch tent, we’ve got you covered with ideas for customized golf hats that match the vibe of The Players Championship, the unofficial fifth major.
The Fan Shop will have great options for The Players Championship merchandise that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. Available in a number of colors and prints, you won’t want to leave Florida without one of these exclusive picks. They’re also going to make excellent gifts for anyone in your life who is a big fan of The Players Championship or has TPC Sawgrass on their golf course bucket list.
For The Players hat options in the tent, you’ll find men’s golf visors like our signature Tour Visor® offered in different colors, plus The Original Performance Cap and The Catch and Release, which has an adjustable mesh back hat. Pair any of these (and more!) with The Players Championship t-shirt and you’ll be good to go.
This is your one and only chance to buy these 2023 items since they won’t be sold online. Walk away from this year’s tournament with brand new swag and hold onto this highlight of the PGA Tour.
Design a Custom Hat for The Players Championship
If you’ve been itching to add a new hat to your wardrobe, The Players Championship is the perfect opportunity to do that – Imperial has several options for customized golf hats that are totally unique and definitely you. Using the custom hat maker, all you need to do is select the style of hat, from men’s bucket hats to a golf visor or a custom golf rope hat, there are so many options to choose from.
Next, you can add your own words or logos to your cool golf hat, or you can pop one of Imperial’s icons on it to finish your look. The best part when you design your own hat? There’s no minimum for custom logo golf hats, so you can order just one if that’s all you want.
Below, check out how easy it is to personalize your own Players golf hat and other styles.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/p4xt_BuD99s
If you’re looking to design your own hat to fit the hot and sunny weather and you’re interested in taking a peek at Imperial’s icon options, we’ve narrowed down some of the best options for a hat befitting The Players Championship. See if any of these appeal and get going on creating your customized golf hats.
Celebrate the Sunny TPC Sawgrass 17th Hole
Anyone going to The Players Championship is anxiously waiting to watch competitors at the 17th hole, also known as the “Island Green” hole. Embrace the sunny-weather theme with some Imperial icons and island-vibe patches that fit that tropical, sun-soaked experience. The Performance Rope Cap is an excellent option, providing a blank slate to have some creative fun in the sun.
If customizing your own golf hat isn’t your speed, we’ve got a variety of hats already designed for you that are perfect for a tropical vacation look in our Vacation Time collection. There’s bound to be an option that speaks to you and will be perfect whether you’re sitting at the 17th hole or heading to the beach.
Show Your Florida Pride
If you’re a local or just love visiting the Sunshine State, design a hat with a little bit of Florida on it with icons that are available in the Tailgate Collection. Show everyone in Ponte Vedra that you love the state you’re in with an outline of Florida embroidered on the face.
Another option for showing off some state pride? Put Florida’s state flower – orange blossoms, from the State Flowers Collection – on a customized golf hat. If you’re really looking for something that will keep your head cool, consider putting it on a mesh back hat or a Tour Visor®.
Customize Cool Hats With Flamingos
Maybe this will be the year you see a flamingo in Florida! Especially if you spend some time in the Everglades during your trip, make sure you’re dressed appropriately for seeing these pink birds in a customized golf hat with the popular golfing flamingo from the Imperial Mascots Collection. These embroidered designs really stand out from the crowd.
One idea if you want to go for a tropical island look in recognition of the TPC Sawgrass 17th hole is to put a flamingo on one of our floral printed hats for the ultimate vacay golf hat look. The Performance Ponytail Hat comes in a variety of colorful floral prints that would look great with the addition of a flamingo icon.
Our Structured Performance Hat is a great option for those who want flexibility and style when it comes to their ball caps. And what better way to represent your love for the game than by adding a unique golf-inspired patch to the front?
Let your imagination guide you when designing your personalized golf hat – Imperial has a number of creative patch designs that playfully give a nod to the game in a way that’s cheeky, silly and fun.
Look great and have fun doing it with a crafty design made specifically for you.
Find the Right Players Championship Hats and Gear from Imperial
Imperial has an extensive collection of golf hats and other merchandise to round out your look for the upcoming Players Championship.
Whether you’ve decided to design your own hat for The Players Championship (with or without some island vibes) or are looking forward to browsing the available Imperial merch at the Fan Shop, there’s no doubt this year’s tournament will be an exciting one.
We’ll see you down in Florida, hopefully sporting an awesome new golf hat.
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Feb 22, 2023
Imperial named title sponsor of the AJGA Junior Classic event in Big Sky, Montana
The Imperial Junior Classic at Big Sky will be hosted at Big Sky Golf Course for the 5th time in 2023.
Imperial is one of the oldest brands in golf, and is the official headwear of the AJGA. Founded in 1916, Imperial has been designing and manufacturing premium headwear for more than 100 years. Some of Imperial’s partnerships and affiliations include: USGA, PGA TOUR, PGA of America, LPGA, Korn Ferry Tour, U.S. Open Championships, PGA Championships, Open Championships, Ryder Cups, Solheim Cups, and dozens of State and Regional Golf Associations.
“Imperial is so excited to be bringing the Imperial Junior Classic to Big Sky this year,” said David Shaffer, Senior Vice President of Sales. “Our relationship with the AJGA and Boyne Resorts make this event an incredible opportunity for us to support the best junior golfers in the world competing at a world class venue.”
The AJGA’s annual event at Big Sky has featured some notable past champions and record setters in its five-year history. Current girls No. 1 in the Rolex AJGA Rankings, Gianna Clemente of Estero, Florida, won the 2021 edition setting the tournament 54-hole scoring record at 16-under-par 200. 2022 champion, Angela Zhang of Bellevue, Washington, earned her third win of the year at Big Sky. Zhang, currently ranked No. 23 in the Rolex AJGA Rankings, went on to win again in the fall earning the most AJGA wins by any girl in 2022.
On the boys side, 2022 Junior Presidents Cup US Team member, Johnnie Clark of Mesa, Arizona, set the low-round (-8) and low 36-hole (-14) records in 2021. 2019 champion Ben Lorenz of Peoria, Arizona, is current junior on the University of Oklahoma golf team. 2018 champion Dillon Stewart of Fort Collins, Colorado, is a senior on Oklahoma State’s golf team.
Big Sky Golf Course was designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer in the late 1970’s and has been renovated over the years to provide championship level play. The award-winning scenic golf course is 6,500 feet above sea level making for longer drives and mountain views across the 18-holes.
Imperial has been the ‘Official Headwear of the AJGA’ since 2019 and will continue through 2026. AJGA staff and interns wear Imperial headwear at all AJGA events. Members of the 2023 Wyndham Cup, PING Junior Solheim Cup and 2024 Junior Presidents Cup teams will also sport Imperial hats as part of their team uniform.
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