Types of Army Hats

The Army has different types of hats for soldiers to wear. Which hat is chosen depends on the activities the soldier will be performing, as well as the weather for that day. Each soldier knows when, where and how each hat should be worn. As with the rest of the uniform, rules are made and enforced. These rules allow the soldiers to know what is expected as far as their uniform goes.

• Beret. The beret became standard issue for the Army in 2001. While the beret had been worn by only certain groups prior, in 2001 all soldiers began wearing one. Recently, changes have been made and there is another option that is said to be more suitable. A beret is a rounded, flat hat made of cloth. The Airborne, special forces and Army rangers each have traditionally worn a beret and will continue to do so. 


• Patrol cap. A patrol cap has a stiff visor and a flat top. It is ventilated, can be put on with one hand and folded to be placed in a back pocket, if desired. This type of hat is worn in the field, during times when a helmet is not necessary. This is being worn by some in place of the beret now, as it was in the past before the beret became standard. Many soldiers preferred this type of hat due to its design.


• Boonie hat. A Boonie hat has a wide stiff brim and a chin strap to keep it in place. This hat was popular and common during the Vietnam war, due to the weather conditions. This hat is good for both hot and rainy weather. 


• Cold weather hat. This type of hat can be a cap with ear flaps to keep ears covered and warm, or it could refer to a tight-fitting cap that goes over the head. It would come over the head and cover the ears and neck. Generally, another hat would be worn over it. These hats can keep one warm in very cold temperatures.