New Era Cap Guide
TYPE &
Silhouette GUIDE
Every New Era cap starts with a silhouette. Learn the shapes, fits, and details that define each style — then find yours.
The Core
Silhouettes
12 distinct shapes. Each built with a different crown height, brim, and fit — tap any to shop that style.
How It Fits
Fit System
Not all adjustments are equal. Each system gives a different feel on the head and a different look from behind.
Fitted
No adjuster. Precision sizing in half-inch increments. The cleanest profile and the collector's standard.
Snapback
Plastic snap closure. Iconic flat brim from the '90s, with a structured crown that holds its shape.
Stretch Fit
Elasticated inner band. S/M and L/XL sizing. Structured enough to look sharp, flexible enough for all day.
Hook & Loop
Velcro strap at the rear. Usually paired with a low-profile, unstructured crown for a relaxed look.
Strapback
Leather or woven strap with a metal buckle. Premium finish, popular on heritage and lifestyle styles.
Trucker
Foam front with mesh rear for breathability. Snapback closure, structured brim — workwear heritage.
Parts & Details
Cap Anatomy
Every component of a New Era cap has a name and a purpose. Know what you're wearing.
Crown
The main body of the cap. Structured crowns use a buckram lining to hold their shape; unstructured crowns collapse when not on the head.
Brim / Visor
The forward projection that shades the face. Flat brims are a streetwear staple; curved brims give a classic sport look.
Sweatband
The inner band that sits against the head. Usually cotton or moisture-wicking fabric — on fitted caps, this is where the size is printed.
Button
The fabric-covered button at the very top. Purely aesthetic — it marks where the six crown panels converge.
Undervisor
The underside of the brim. New Era's iconic green undervisor on authentic MLB caps reduces glare on the field.
Get It Right First Time
Size Guide
Measure around the widest part of your head, about 1 cm above the ears. Match that number to the table below.
| New Era Size | US Size | Head Circumference (cm) | Head Circumference (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6⅞ | 6 7/8 | 54.9 | 21⅝ |
| 7 | 7 | 55.8 | 22 |
| 7⅛ | 7 1/8 | 56.8 | 22⅜ |
| 7¼ ★ Most Common | 7 1/4 | 57.7 | 22¾ |
| 7⅜ | 7 3/8 | 58.7 | 23⅛ |
| 7½ | 7 1/2 | 59.6 | 23½ |
| 7⅝ | 7 5/8 | 60.6 | 23⅞ |
| 7¾ | 7 3/4 | 61.5 | 24¼ |
| 7⅞ | 7 7/8 | 62.5 | 24⅝ |
| 8 | 8 | 63.5 | 25 |
For stretch-fit styles (39THIRTY), S/M fits 55–59 cm; L/XL fits 59–63 cm. Adjustable styles (9FIFTY, 9FORTY, 9TWENTY) are one-size-fits-most.
Side by Side
Compare Silhouettes
Can't decide between two? Use this to narrow it down.
| Feature | 59FIFTY | 9FIFTY | 9FORTY | 39THIRTY | 9TWENTY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fit Type | Fitted | Snapback | Hook & Loop | Stretch | Hook & Loop |
| Crown | High / Structured | High / Structured | Low / Unstructured | Mid / Structured | Low / Unstructured |
| Brim | Flat | Flat | Curved | Curved | Curved |
| On-Field Authentic | ✔ | — | — | ✔ | — |
| Best For | Collectors · Fans | Streetwear | Everyday | Sport · Comfort | Relaxed |
| Sizing | Exact (6⅞–8) | One Size Adj. | One Size Adj. | S/M · L/XL | One Size Adj. |
Need Help?
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before choosing your New Era cap.
What are the different types of New Era caps?
New Era offers several silhouettes including 59FIFTY, 9FIFTY, 9FORTY, 9TWENTY, 39THIRTY, bucket hats and trucker styles.
What is the difference between 59FIFTY and 9FIFTY?
59FIFTY is a fitted cap with no rear adjustment, while 9FIFTY is an adjustable snapback with a structured crown and flat brim.
What is the difference between 9FORTY and 9TWENTY?
9FORTY usually has a more structured shape, while 9TWENTY has a softer, more relaxed unstructured fit.
Which New Era cap is best for beginners?
For most first-time buyers, 9FORTY or 9TWENTY is easier because they are adjustable and more flexible in sizing.
Which New Era cap is best for collectors?
59FIFTY is usually the collector standard because of its fitted sizing, structured crown, and classic New Era profile.