Field Notes
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Jun 26, 2023
Imperial Announces Partnership with National Links Trust
Imperial has announced a new partnership with the National Links trust organization as well as the release of a limited edition e-commerce collection here on Imperial's website. Featured products include an Imperial Tour Visor®, rope caps, performance styles, mesh back caps and more. A portion of the proceeds from the collection will benefit Nationals links Trust.“Imperial has a long tradition of partnering with incredible individuals and organizations helping to preserve the integrity of the game of golf” said David Shaffer, SVP, Imperial. “National Links Trust’s commitment brings the game to all audiences, cultures and communities so that everyone has access to the sport. Imperial is very excited to support that mission.”
National Links Trust impacts local communities across the United States through protecting and promoting accessible, affordable and architecturally-engaging municipal golf courses. A portion of all proceeds from the Imperial ecommerce products, are being donated back to NLT in support of their mission.
About National Links Trust
The National Links Trust (NLT) is a non-profit organization committed to positively impacting local communities across the US through protecting and promoting accessible, affordable and engaging municipal golf courses. This mission starts in Washington, DC, but stretches across the country.
In our nation’s capital, their recent projects involve working with the National Park Service to rehabilitate three historic, municipal golf courses – Rock Creek Park Golf, Langston Golf Course, and East Potomac Golf Links – alongside three of golf’s most prominent architects – Gil Hanse, Beau Welling, and Tom Doak. This transformative project will revitalize golf in the city, providing upgraded facilities at an affordable cost to both residents and tourists.
While fundraising for and development of these projects moves along, NLT is actively working to create programs that positively impact the local communities of these courses with their existing facilities. The Jack Vardaman Workforce Development Program is one of these initiatives. This program provides local youth and adolescents with internships at the courses that teach valuable job and life skills while providing an entry-point to the golf industry.
In the future, NLT hopes to partner with Howard University to provide their golf teams with practice facilities at Langston Golf Course. NLT is also heavily invested in driving sustainable practices in the municipal golf industry, analyzing their own operational impact to ensure they’re aligned with meeting their sustainability goals.
Nationally, NLT works to amplify success stories and connect municipal golf stakeholders across the country through a free webinar series and their annual Symposium on Municipal Golf.
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Jun 08, 2023
Exploring the World of High Crown Hats by Imperial
When it comes to headwear, one cool hat style that has remained a timeless classic is the high crown hat. Known for its distinctively tall and structured design, high crown hats have captivated fashion enthusiasts, golfers and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere.
Let’s delve into the fascinating world of high crown hats, their rich history, evolving trends, craftsmanship and the exceptional collections we have to offer hat lovers.
What Are High Crown Hats?
High crown hats, also referred to as high profile hats or caps, are characterized by their taller, more structured crown compared to traditional women’s and men’s golf hat styles. The crown refers to the portion of the hat that covers the top of the head, making it the start of the show and the perfect backdrop for a clever and unique design.
With a taller crown, these hats offer a more elevated and striking appearance, making them a popular choice for those seeking a bold and confident look.
The History of High Crown Hat Styles
The history of high crown hats can be traced back to the early 20th century when they first gained popularity in the sporting world, particularly in golf. Golfers sought hats with taller crowns to provide a touch of elegance and sophistication while protecting them from the sun's rays during long hours on the course.
Over time, high crown hats transcended their athletic origins and became a stylish accessory embraced by fashion-conscious individuals and those just seeing performance alike. That’s why you can see high crown baseball caps and other sports styles popping up.
What Trends Have Changed High Crown Hats?
High crown hats have experienced various trends and transformations over the years. More recently, high crown hats have evolved to incorporate modern elements, such as innovative materials, vibrant color schemes and unique embellishments making them some of the coolest hats around.
If you’re looking to make a statement, these are the hats for you.
How Are These Funky High Crown Hats Made?
Crafting high crown hats requires meticulous attention to detail and skilled craftsmanship. They’re typically made from a combination of premium fabrics, such as cotton, polyester or a blend of materials to ensure durability and comfort.
The construction process involves shaping and reinforcing the crown using internal support structures, such as buckram or interfacing. This technique ensures the hat maintains its elevated profile and structural integrity while lounging on the beach or playing your favorite sport.
High Crown Hats You Can Wear Just About Anywhere
When it comes to headwear, one cool hat style that has remained a timeless classic is the high crown hat. Known for its distinctively tall and structured design, high crown hats have captivated fashion enthusiasts, golfers and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere.
Let’s delve into the fascinating world of high crown hats, their rich history, evolving trends, craftsmanship and the exceptional collections we have to offer hat lovers.
What Are High Crown Hats?
High crown hats, also referred to as high profile hats or caps, are characterized by their taller, more structured crown compared to traditional women’s and men’s golf hat styles. The crown refers to the portion of the hat that covers the top of the head, making it the start of the show and the perfect backdrop for a clever and unique design.
With a taller crown, these hats offer a more elevated and striking appearance, making them a popular choice for those seeking a bold and confident look.
The History of High Crown Hat Styles
The history of high crown hats can be traced back to the early 20th century when they first gained popularity in the sporting world, particularly in golf. Golfers sought hats with taller crowns to provide a touch of elegance and sophistication while protecting them from the sun's rays during long hours on the course.
Over time, high crown hats transcended their athletic origins and became a stylish accessory embraced by fashion-conscious individuals and those just seeing performance alike. That’s why you can see high crown baseball caps and other sports styles popping up.
What Trends Have Changed High Crown Hats?
High crown hats have experienced various trends and transformations over the years. More recently, high crown hats have evolved to incorporate modern elements, such as innovative materials, vibrant color schemes and unique embellishments making them some of the coolest hats around.
If you’re looking to make a statement, these are the hats for you.
How Are These Funky High Crown Hats Made?
Crafting high crown hats requires meticulous attention to detail and skilled craftsmanship. They’re typically made from a combination of premium fabrics, such as cotton, polyester or a blend of materials to ensure durability and comfort.
The construction process involves shaping and reinforcing the crown using internal support structures, such as buckram or interfacing. This technique ensures the hat maintains its elevated profile and structural integrity while lounging on the beach or playing your favorite sport.
High Crown Hats You Can Wear Just About Anywhere
As you know, Imperial offers a remarkable collection of high-crown hats that effortlessly blend style and functionality.
We've stayed on top of the latest trends and worked with the best material to ensure a sleek, stylish and long-lasting look that you won't ever want to take off.
Let's explore some notable examples from their lineup.
Show Your Patriotic Spirit With a Classic Cap
If you’re looking for a cap that makes a statement, this red, white and blue USA hat is a great option. Dress it up for a fancy 4th of July barbeque or dress it down during a baseball game.
This hat, featuring a classic high crown silhouette, showcases a timeless design. With a moisture-wicking performance sweatband, it ensures comfort even during the most intense activities. The combination of bold colors and impeccable craftsmanship makes it a standout choice that’ll definitely turn heads.
Shop the Mount Hood Mile Hit Fit Hat
Try an All-Seasons Hat for Elevated Style and Performance
Designed to elevate your style outdoors, this high crown cap boasts a contemporary look.
It’s got a rugged texture and feel to get you in the outdoorsy spirit – regardless of if you’re fly fishing or hiking. Its durability also makes it the perfect choice to wear any time of year.
Shop the In-Season Mile High Fit Cap
Pick a Cap That’s Built to Last
A hat can be your favorite accessory, so you need to make sure it can stand the test of time. The high crown style showcases a trendy look that can be worn in the rain, sun, sleet and snow.
This cool golf hat is built to withstand various weather conditions, combining versatility that promotes functionality with a sleek aesthetic. Its moisture-wicking fabric and adjustable strap ensure a comfortable fit, while the high crown design exudes confidence.
Be prepared for any adventure with this durable, daring and stylish choice.
Shop the Any Condition Mile High Fit Cap
Create Your Own High Crown Hat With Imperial
We also offer the opportunity to design your own hat – something we encourage you to take advantage of to show off your unique and fashionable personality. By utilizing our online customization platform, you can select from a wide range of colors and design elements to create a hat that reflects your style.
From customized high crown rope hats to baseball hats and more, the possibilities are endless. Just take a look at this nautical-inspired design in a serene light blue coloring.
You’ll fit right in on your next deep sea dive or tropical vacation.
Design a Custom High Crown Hat
High Crown Hats Help You Get the Job Done
High crown hats have endured the test of time, evolving from their sporting origins to become a staple in both fashion and function. With their tall crowns and eye-catching designs, they effortlessly combine with any activity, personality and style.
Whether you choose one of our unique designs or create a custom golf hat of your own, you can be sure to know everyone around you will feel that confidence and spirit.
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Jun 08, 2023
Father’s Day Hats, Belts and More That are Sure to Impress
It’s that time of year again – the day where we all take the time to celebrate that special dad or father figure in our lives – Father’s Day.
That means it’s also time for Imperial to share a fun and informative gift guide to help put some pep in his step with summer just around the corner – think custom rope hats, cool patches, stickers and more.
With a range of styles, designs and accessories – like the notorious dad Imperial rope hat to our new and exciting golf belts – there’s no shortage to choose from.
Is your dad different from all the rest? No sweat. We know we can help Dad show off his favorite hobbies or personal style. Whether he’s a golf fanatic, tickles your funny bone or is the coolest guy you know, you’ll find something that fits his personal style and will make him feel truly seen.
And don’t worry – if you want something a little more personal, we have plenty of options to design your own hat or shirt that’ll make him beam from ear to ear.
But if you trust our gifting instincts (and you really should), here are our top picks for Father’s Day hats, bundles, accessories and more this year.
Father’s Day Gifts That’ll Knock His Socks Off
Father’s Day is the perfect time to show your love, play a tiny prank and show our dads we care – and these gifts will make your job a whole lot easier.
Get Sporty and Stylish With Golf Belts From Our New Collection
We offer a fantastic collection of golf belts that combine fashion and functionality. These luxury belts not only provide a polished look but also ensure a comfortable yet relaxed fit.
The U.S. Open belt by Imperial stands out, featuring the championship’s logo and adding a touch of elegance to any golf outfit. There’s no doubt these are some of the best golf belts for men that’ll knock his socks off while keeping his pants high on the golf course.
Shop U.S. Open Belts
Pair Style and Personality With a Sandlot-Themed Gift
Want something a bit more rugged and familiar? This dad rope hat – that comes with a cute cup sweater – is perfect for him.
Help dad stay cool and stylish on the golf course with another U.S. Open hat by Imperial. Designed cleverly with a textured, beige facade, this collection of goods from our collaboration with Sandlot provides items that are cool, classy and comfortable – giving off much-needed vintage vibes.
Not only that, but – remember – it comes with a matching drinking sweater. Who can say no to that?
Shop the U.S. Open Sandlot Hat
Embrace the Outdoors With Get Lost Collection Hats and Stickers
For adventurous dads who love exploring the great outdoors, the Get Lost collection of hats and stickers is an ideal gift. This collection features a stunning array of men’s golf hats, golf visors and more that let him show his love for the wilderness, especially fish.
The playful hats feature fun designs that encourage getting lost in nature, and the accompanying stickers allow him to personalize other must-have accessories. Does your dad have gear? He needs a sticker to match his style.
Shop the Get Lost Collection
Support Dad’s Love of Pickleball With Fun Attire
You know who’s going to be sporting the best pickleball hat in town? Your dad.
If your dad enjoys playing pickleball, surprise him with the "Pickle Man" Pickleball Hat and T-Shirt set. Featuring a playful design, this gift showcases his love for the sport and adds a touch of humor to his pickleball wardrobe.
Not a fan yet? That’s alright – get him into the game for a quick round on the court where he can wear his custom logo golf hat with pride.
Shop the “Pickle Man” Cap
Build Your Own Stylish PGA Tour Bundle
Does your dad have more specific tastes – a favorite PGA Tour championship, perhaps? They deserve the best and we’re here to deliver.
Surprise him or just let Dad create his own PGA Tour bundle with hats for Father’s Day from iconic tournaments that include:
WM Phoenix Open
Players Championship
Wells Fargo Championship.
This customizable gift allows him to represent his favorite events while adding versatility to his hat collection.
Shop for a PGA Tour Bundle
SlackerTide Picks That Bring Out His Inner “Cool Dad”
If your dad needs a bit more subtleness to his cool dad vibe, get him a personalized Father’s Day gift that boasts the cool vibes of our SlackerTide collection.
This collection offers a range of trendy and casual headwear options for dads who appreciate a laid-back style. From relaxed caps to golf bucket hats, these hats provide both comfort and fashion for everyday wear.
Shop the SlackerTide Collection
Dare to be Different With a Product From the Imperial Script Collection
If your dad likes a sophisticated look, or he just loves us, our imperial Script collection is a great place to start brainstorming.
The Imperial Script Collection features hats with the brand's signature logo, providing an effortlessly modern look. Choose from a range of colors and styles to find the perfect hat that matches your dad's personality and fashion preferences.
Shop the Imperial Script Collection
Don’t Let Us Hold You Back – Create a Custom Gift That Blows All Gifts Out of the Water
With our handy online customization tool, you can turn your ideas into a reality, turning a blank hat into a work of art. Whether your dad is an avid fisherman that needs a sturdy men’s bucket hat or a tennis player that needs a visor to get the sun out of his eyes, there are plenty of ways to create the design of your dreams.
Go with a fun and funky canine theme from our Canine Collection or give off vacation vibes from our Refreshments Collection. Does your dad love his college sports teams? The Tailgate Collection is another playful catalog of designs to choose from – the opportunities are endless.
No, really. You can even upload your own design and give him a 100% unique hat!
Create a Custom Hat Design
E-Gift Cards (Because Who Can Say No to Free Money?)
Can’t decide? Buying gifts for Dad can definitely be a challenge, but we have a solution!
If you're unsure about what to choose for your dad, an e-gift card allows him to select his favorite item from our wide range of golf rope hats, pickleball hats, golf belts and other offerings. Now, he can pick the perfect hat or accessory to match his style and needs, and you still get the credit.
Shop Imperial E-Gift Cards
Explore Our New Arrivals for Golf Gifts That Wow
If you’re still looking for something perfect, we offer a range of cool, clever and captivating hats for dad – but we don’t just stop there. Our designs can be seen across t-shirts, stickers and more. If you want to start broad and get more specific with your gift search, the best place to start would be our New Arrivals section.
The variety of designs available ensures you’ll be able to find the perfect match for your dad's personal style and preferences.
Whether he prefers classic and sophisticated looks or bold and vibrant patterns, we offer a wide range of options to suit every taste. The attention to detail in each design is exceptional, with intricate embroidery, clean lines and premium materials that enhance both the aesthetic appeal and durability of our products.
In addition to our stylish appearance, our men’s golf visors, performance hats and more are designed to enhance performance on the course. These functional features ensure your dad can focus on his game without any distractions, making his golfing experience even more enjoyable.
Shop New Arrivals
Imperial Is an Expert in Golf Gifts for Dad
Give the guy who taught you everything you know a golf hat that’s just as great as he is. And if you take the time to make a custom hat especially for him – starting from scratch with a blank rope hat, visor, bucket hat or more – we know he’ll love the personal touch and appreciate having a hat that’s just as original as he is.
Whether he’s serious and focused, goofy and bold or just likes to wear cool hats, Imperial has the gift for him.
So, this Father's Day, celebrate your dad's love for golf with a gift that combines style, functionality and quality. Explore the collections of Imperial designs and find the perfect piece that will make your dad's next round or match even more enjoyable and stylish.
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Jun 07, 2023
Imperial Named “The Official Licensed Headwear of Major League Pickleball"
Today Imperial, the #1 headwear brand in golf, becomes #1 in pickleball headwear as well. It was announced that MLP, the highest-tier competitive league in professional pickleball, named Imperial “The Official Licensed Headwear of Major League Pickleball.” MLP x Imperial is the first-ever official licensed headwear for the league.
As a trusted partner of MLP, we’re honored to be named their ‘Official Licensed Headwear’ and create this innovative, first-of-its kind product offering for fans of pickleball everywhere. We’re in total support of the huge growth this sport has seen in recent years. The Imperial brand is for everybody, and we look forward to integrating the Imperial brand into the fabric of pickleball.
Todd Johnson, CEO of Imperial
Fans can now find officially licensed MLP products online in the new Major League Pickleball Collection offered on Imperialsports.com. This online collection features MLP logoed products, as well as smaller capsule collections for all 24 teams in the league.
Imperial products will also be made available to fans on site at select MLP events like the upcoming MLP San Clemente, June 15th – 19th in partnership with Fromuth, and through select retailers.
About Imperial
Founded in 1916, Imperial Headwear is the leading manufacturer of premium quality headwear, apparel, and accessories for the golf market. Imperial’s products can be found at 99 of the Top 100 and over 75% of the Top 400 golf courses in the United States, and they have been voted the #1 headwear brand for private and resort golf facilities for six 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 committed to style, functionality, and perfection in fit and comfort. It is this commitment that has allowed the creation of a wide variety of headwear and apparel with quality that is second to none.
Renowned for its superior customer service and art customization capabilities, Imperial offers its products using the most innovative fabrics and designs, as well as logo decoration and embellishment technologies. For further information please visit Imperialsports.com. Follow Imperial on Instagram at @ImperialHats
About Major League Pickleball (MLP by Margaritaville)
Major League Pickleball (MLP by Margaritaville) is the premier team-based professional pickleball league and the standard-bearer for the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Founded by Steve Kuhn in 2021, MLP has since expanded from eight to 24 teams and is committed to growing the sport's role in society and impacting every facet of pickleball’s business.
MLP features nearly 100 of the best athletes in the sport spread across 24 teams - 12 in the Premier Level, home to the top 48 players drafted and 12 in the Challenger Level, featuring 48 draftees looking to make their ascension to the top of the league - a unique coed format, iconic team owners, the introduction of promotion and relegation to American pro sports, an innovative draft format, easy to understand scoring, and the largest payouts in prize money across all of pro pickleball.
In December 2022, MLP named its first-ever title sponsor, Margaritaville, branding the league MLP by Margaritaville. A global lifestyle brand inspired by Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville, has served more than 20 million travelers and consumers every year to change their latitude and attitude with Margaritaville. For more information, visit www.margaritaville.com. For more information on Major League Pickleball, visit the official website and follow MLP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
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