Low Profile or High Crown? Choosing the Right Hat for Men

Let’s face it — the difference between a hat you wear every day and one that sits on a shelf usually comes down to fit. And when it comes to men’s hats, the biggest factor in fit and feel? Crown profile.

At Outer Wings, we get this question a lot:
“Should I go low profile, mid, or high crown?”

Here’s the breakdown — and the best leather patch hats we offer in each category to help you find the fit that feels right for your head, your style, and your lifestyle.

What Does “Crown Profile” Actually Mean?

• Low profile = shallow fit, hugs your head closely
• Medium (or mid) profile = balanced fit, classic hat shape
• High profile = tall crown, structured front, often flat bill

This isn’t just about style — it’s about comfort, head shape, and confidence. Let’s dig in.

Low Profile Hats – Snug, Sporty, and Understated

Low profile hats sit closer to the head and offer a more athletic or tailored feel. They're great if you like a snug fit or have a smaller head, or if you just don’t want a ton of height up top.

Featured Hat: Lost Pine – Richardson 115

• Subtle compass and pine tree design
• Hand-sewn leather patch on low-profile trucker frame
• Offered in both Small and M/L sizes
  👉 Shop the Lost Pine hat

Other Low Profile Styles to Explore:

• Mountain West – Flat bill, rope hat, UPF 50+ (Richardson 256)
• Gone Camping – Soft camper style with nylon strap (Richardson 217)
• Paddle & Chill – Lightweight performance fit (Richardson 935)
  👉 Browse more Low Profile Hats
  👉 Check out Low Profile Rope Hats

Medium Profile Hats – Versatile, Balanced, and Classic

Medium profile hats are the “just right” of crown fits. They’re the most versatile option — great for most head shapes and wearable in almost any setting. These hats offer a little structure without sitting too tall or too tight.

Featured Hat: Driftline – Richardson 112

• Modern, clean patch with river drift design
• Breathable mesh back and curved bill
• Balanced fit that works on just about everyone
  👉 Shop the Driftline Hat

Other Medium Profile Hats to Explore:

• Outer Wings 970 – Performance rope hat with modern structure
• Spread Your Wings – Twill back trucker on the Richardson 312
  👉 Browse More Trucker Hats
  👉 Check Out Some Mountain Style Hats

High Profile Hats – Bold, Structured, and Statement-Ready

High profile hats sit taller on the head, often with a flat bill and a more structured front panel. These styles are for guys who like a bolder silhouette or want a hat that makes a statement.

Featured Hat: Mountain East – Richardson 168

• 7-panel structured front with a modern mountain patch
• High crown and flat bill for clean lines and strong shape
• Cotton/nylon/poly blend with mesh back
  👉 Shop The Mountain East Trucker Hat

Other High Profile Styles to Explore:

• Moonlite Mountain – Corduroy and flat bill on the Richardson 253
• Colorful Colorado Corduroy – Rich texture and throwback shape
  👉 Browse More Flat Bill Hats
  👉 Check Out Corduroy Flat Bill Hats For Men

So… Which One’s Right for You?

Go Low Profile If You:

• Prefer a snug, sporty fit
• Have a smaller or narrower head
• Want something clean and fitted

Go Medium Profile If You:

• Want the most versatile fit
• Have an average or wider head shape
• Like balance between comfort and shape

Go High Profile If You:

• Prefer flat bill or rope hat styles
• Want a bold silhouette or taller crown
• Have a larger head or like more room

Whether You're in the Mountains or the City...

• Camping in the Smokies? Grab the Lost Pine or Paddle & Chill.
• Road-tripping through Colorado? Driftline or 970 fits right in.
• Meeting up downtown? The Mountain East turns heads in all the right ways.

Explore more styles:

• Check out Low Profile leather patch hats
• See Our Collection Of Flat Bill Hats
• Browse More Trucker Hats
• Shop Mountain Hats

Need Help Choosing? (Common Hat Questions)

How do I know my crown fit preference?
Try on a few different hats and see what feels natural. If hats often feel too tall, you’ll probably prefer low or mid profile.

Do low profile hats only come in athletic styles?
No — plenty of casual and even flat bill hats like the Richardson 256 are low profile while still offering performance and structure.

Can I wear high profile hats with a smaller head?
You can, but it may feel oversized. Consider a mid-profile hat like the 112 for a better balance if you’re unsure.

Find Your Fit, Wear It Everywhere

No matter what kind of crown you like, your hat should fit your day — and your head. At Outer Wings, every hat is built with purpose, patched with real leather, and ready for wherever you’re headed next.

👉 See Our Trucker Hat Collection
👉 Check Out Some Flat Bill Rope Hats