Hats Caps and Visors
It is probably fair to say that not many tennis players wear a Fedora, Bowler or Sombrero while playing. It is unlikely that many use a Cowboy hat, or a Hard Hat during competition. There’s no rule against it. It’s just not practical. But some hats add value to racquet sports participants. The trick is to find the right hat to wear at the right time in the right place.
5 Practical Reasons to Wear a Hat
Keeps the sun out of your eyes. If you are blinded by the sun, it means you can’t see the ball.
Absorbs sweat. Many hats have a built in sweatband around the inside of the brim.
Deflects UV rays. Particularly for men who are challenged in the hair department, there is real risk of sunburn when playing outdoors in the day.
Deflects other weather elements like rain or snow.
Keeps hair under control. Especially for ladies, using a hat or visor to keep hair from flying in front of your eyes will help you keep your eyes on the ball.
3 Non-Practical Reasons to Wear a Hat
Make a statement. You like a particular manufacturer's equipment like Nike or Callaway- there’s a hat for that. You support a particular college or professional team - there’s a hat for that. Your ethnic background is something you are proud of - there’s a hat for that. Have a statement of any kind and there has got to be a hat for you.
Cover up. Perhaps you are not happy with how your head looks. For some people, the lack of hair impacts their self confidence or makes them appear older than they actually are.
Fashion. If the national trend is to wear a hat or if it merely is the style at your courts, there is no harm in wearing a hat.
Is wearing a hat ever against the rules?
Two circumstances where a rule arises:
- If you are wearing a hat and it becomes a hindrance on the court. In particular, if you intend it to become a hindrance. Example: if you throw your hat at an opponent during a point you automatically lose the point. Much more likely if your hat falls or is blown off accidentally and it distracts your opponent, a let can be called and the point replayed.
- If you are invited to sit in the royal box at Wimbledon. Hats are not allowed. Bummer.
3 Types of Baseball/Golf Style Hats
Structured: Rigid fabric all around the hat can have embroidery anywhere and maintains its shape even when damp. Awkward to fold.
Unstructured: May have the front two panels somewhat rigid with the back being pliable. Easy to fold.
Flexible or adjustable: Has some ability to adjust size in the back such as with a snap or band.
Visors vs. Hats
Individuals with a lot of hair or very curly hair may find it easier to wear a visor. In active competition, visors with a band all around the head will stay in place easier than those that are worn like sunglasses.
Whether you need a hat for tennis, golf, or any other sport, Tennisracquets.com is the place to go. With a huge selection and competitive prices, you are sure to find the right hat for you. While shopping, check out the full array of clothing for men, women and kids. You might as well look sharp while playing your best.