Flat Bill Hats vs. Curved Bill: Why Flat Bill Hats Are Gaining Popularity

[Updated: 01/08/26] Flat bill hats and curved bill hats both do the same job, they keep the sun out of your eyes and finish off your look. But they feel very different on your head and they read differently in a mirror.

If you landed here trying to figure out which brim style fits you best, this guide will help you decide fast. We’ll break down the real differences, who each style works best for, and then we’ll use a few Outer Wings examples so you can picture it on an actual hat, not just in theory.

Quick note: If you want to shop while you read, you can start with our flat bill hats collection.

1) Fast Answer: Which one should you choose?

• Choose a flat bill hat if you want: a structured look, a modern style, a brim that holds its shape, and a hat that feels a little more “built.” [Browse Flat Bill Styles here]
• Choose a curved bill hat if you want: a classic feel, easy everyday wear, and a brim that naturally shades your eyes from more angles. [Browse Curved Bill Styles here]
• If you’re stuck: pick based on your most common use. Daily wear and casual sun coverage usually leans curved. Style-forward looks, mountain town outfits, and that crisp trucker look usually leans flat.

2) Flat bill vs curved bill: what’s actually different?

The brim shape is obvious, but there are a few differences that matter more than people expect, especially once you wear the hat for a full day.

• Look and silhouette: Flat bill hats tend to look sharper and more structured. Curved bill hats look more traditional and relaxed.
• Sun coverage and glare: Curved brims can block sun from more angles, especially if you’re moving around a lot outdoors. Flat brims still provide coverage, it’s just a different feel.
• How the hat keeps its shape: Flat bills usually stay crisp and consistent over time. Curved bills can soften and relax, which some people love.
• Vibe: Flat bills show up a lot in streetwear, skate, and modern outdoors style. Curved bills are the “go anywhere” option that fits almost everyone right away.

3) The cleanest comparison: mesh-back trucker, curved vs flat

If you want the most apples-to-apples comparison, compare a curved bill mesh-back trucker to a flat bill mesh-back trucker. Same general category, very different look.

• Curved bill mesh-back trucker: This is the classic trucker feel. Easy to throw on, easy to wear with anything, and it tends to feel familiar if you grew up wearing baseball caps.
• A good example from our lineup is a Richardson 112 style trucker like The Passage.
• Flat bill mesh-back trucker: This is the structured, modern trucker look. It reads more bold, keeps its shape well, and pairs really well with outdoor streetwear and mountain town style.

A solid example is Mountain East on the Richardson 168.

If you’re choosing between these two styles and you care most about “fit,” here’s the simple way to think about it: curved bills tend to disappear into your outfit, flat bills tend to define it.

4) Flat bill without mesh: the “full fabric” feel

Some people love flat bills but don’t want a mesh back. That’s where full fabric styles shine. They feel a little more “solid,” they work well in cooler weather, and they lean more minimalist.

In our lineup, the Richardson 217 is a great example of a flat bill, full fabric hat that still feels outdoors-ready. If you want a clean option that’s easy to wear year-round, check out Gone Camping.

We also carry other full fabric options in the brand, including styles like the 257 and other upcoming releases. If you’re comparing full fabric flat vs full fabric curved, here’s the big difference: curved bills usually feel more classic, flat bills feel more modern and structured even when the materials are similar.

5) Quick Picks: choose your brim, then pick your style

• If you want a flat bill trucker look: start with Mountain East.
• If you want a classic curved bill trucker: check out The Passage.
• If you want flat bill with a rope detail: take a look at Mountain West.
• If you want a curved bill with a lower profile feel: our low profile options like Lost Pine are a great place to start.

If you just want to browse everything and pick the style that feels right, you can browse custom leather patch hats here.

6) Can you curve a flat bill?

Yes, a lot of people do. Some like a slight curve, some keep it perfectly flat. If you’re new to flat bills and you’re unsure, a gentle curve can be a nice middle ground. Just avoid forcing an extreme bend all at once.

7) FAQ: flat bill hats vs curved bill hats

Are flat bill hats good for outdoor activities?
Yes. Flat bill hats are popular for hiking, camping, and everyday outdoors wear because they hold shape well and pair nicely with modern outdoors style. The key is choosing the right fit and material for your activity.

Do curved bill hats block the sun better?
Often, yes. Curved brims can block sunlight from more angles, which can feel better if you’re moving in and out of shade, or dealing with glare.

Which looks better, flat bill or curved bill?
It depends on the look you want. Flat bills read more bold and structured. Curved bills read more classic and relaxed. Neither is “better,” but one might match your style quicker.

What’s the easiest brim style to wear if you’re not sure?
Curved bill is usually the safest first pick because it feels familiar to most people. If you like a sharper look and want your hat to stand out more, go flat bill.

Flat bill trucker vs full fabric flat bill, what’s the difference?
Mesh-back truckers tend to feel lighter and more breathable. Full fabric styles feel more solid, can wear a bit warmer, and often lean more minimalist.

Can I get a custom logo on a hat?
Yes. If you want to build a custom hat and upload a logo, use our custom hat builder here: https://outerwings.com/pages/custom-hat-configurator.

8) Conclusion: pick the brim that matches how you actually live

If you want a crisp, modern look that holds shape and stands out, flat bill hats are hard to beat. If you want a classic hat that feels easy and familiar right away, curved bill hats are the move. The best choice is the one you’ll actually wear day after day, whether that’s on the trail, around town, or on the road.

If you’re ready to narrow it down, start with our flat bill hats collection, then pick the material and fit that matches your routine.

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