New Era has recently reintroduced NFL helmet hats, which feature the design of a football helmet with logos on each side (except for the Steelers) but in the form of a baseball cap.
This concept was first introduced in the 1980s by a company called Louisville, which launched an ad campaign showcasing NFL helmets transforming into HelmetHat™ designs.
(A copy of this print ad is being sold on eBay for $6.97, and there are also original HelmetHats available there.)
Is the revival of the helmet hat concept a travesty that should never have happened, or is it another ’80s classic making a comeback for our wallets?
One of the main questions to ponder when looking at this collection is, would you actually wear these hats?
For those who are fans of ball caps, it’s important to note that these New Era 9FIFTY designs are snapback caps with adjustable closures at the back, not fitted caps like the ones worn by MLB players on the field (59FIFTY). Even if you lean towards fitted caps (like size 7 1/2 wearers, such as myself), New Era has added a small, enticing tag/helmet combination at the back of each helmet hat.
We’ve reviewed all the available helmet hats, from the good to the bad and even the Bengals scripted ones. Many retro looks have made it to the “good” list, because when is retro ever out of style?
Our Top Picks
Houston Oilers historic: This design is as smooth as a Warren Moon spiral, but is it a Tennessee Titans hat or a Houston Texans hat?
… (content continues with descriptions of other favorite picks and those to avoid)
The Athletic maintains full editorial independence in all our coverage. When you click or make purchases through our links, we may earn a commission.
(All photos: New Era)