Beanies are one of the most popular and customizable hat styles around. From streetwear to workwear, this versatile headwear has evolved into countless styles, shapes, and fits. But with so many options on the market, which ones stand out? Here’s our definitive guide to the top 5 beanie types—and how to customize each.

What Is a Beanie?

A beanie is a snug-fitting, knitted cap often made from materials like wool, cotton, fleece, or acrylic. Also known as stocking caps, skull caps, or watch caps, beanies originated as practical cold-weather gear for workers and sailors. Today, they’re a unisex fashion staple worn by everyone from trendsetters to tradesmen.

Beanies are beloved for their comfort, warmth, and universal fit. But beyond that, they’re one of the easiest items to customize with your logo or design.

The Top 5 Beanie Styles

1. Slouch Beanie

Slouch beanies have extra fabric that drapes toward the back of the head, giving a laid-back, modern look. Typically cuffless and worn low, they’re a favorite in casual and fashion-forward circles.

Best for Branding:

• Good: Big Accessories Knit Slouchy Beanie (BA519) — Great price point, smooth knit for embroidery.
• Better: Yupoong Knit Beanie (1500) — Tight-knit and comfy; comes in 13 colors.
• Best: New Era Knit Beanie (NE900) — Fleece-lined, ribbed knit, stylish and warm.

2. Fisherman Beanie

Also known as watch caps or cuffed beanies, these are shorter and often worn above the ears. A sewn-in cuff gives structure, making it a favorite for hipster and urban streetwear looks.

Best for Branding:

• Good: Big Accessories Knit Watch Cap (BX031)
• Better: Sportsman Chunky Knit Cuffed Beanie (SP90)
• Best: Columbia Watch Beanie (146409)

3. Skull Cap

Simple, cuffless, and close-fitting, skull caps offer a minimalist look that works great under helmets or on their own. They’re also ideal for subtle logo placement.

Best for Branding:

• Good: Port & Company Beanie (CP91)
• Better: Big Accessories Knit Beanie (BX026)
• Best: Econscious Organic Beanie (EC7040)

4. High Top Beanie

High top or “peaked” beanies have extra height and rise vertically, often with a cone-like silhouette. Perfect for making a statement.

Best for Branding:

• Good: Yupoong Cuffed Knit Beanie (1501)
• Better: Port & Company Knit Beanie (CP90)
• Best: The North Face Truckstop Beanie (NF0A5FXY)

5. Pom Pom Beanie

These classic beanies feature a yarn ball (pom) on top and often have stripes or bold colors. Popular for winter sports, teams, and events.

Best for Branding:

• Good: Sportsman Pom-Pom Beanie (SP15)
• Better: Sport-Tek Stripe Pom Pom Beanie (STC28)
• Best: New Era Sideline Beanie (NE902)

Why People Love Custom Beanies

• Warm, soft, and lightweight
• One-size-fits-all convenience
• Highly customizable
• Stylish and on-trend
• Budget-friendly for bulk orders
• Great for giveaways, staff uniforms, and merch

Best Ways to Customize a Beanie

1. Embroidery

Ideal for all beanie types. Durable, professional, and bold. Great for logos, initials, or text.

2. Patches

Works on most knit styles. Choose from leather, embroidered, PVC, or woven patches. Flexible placement options.

3. Screen Printing

Less common for beanies due to texture and stretch, but still possible for simple, small designs.

Design Tips for Custom Beanies

• Choose the right style for your audience and purpose
• Keep designs simple for clean embroidery
• Use high-quality art files (vector is best)
• Limit logo size to 4″ x 4″ or smaller
• Match logo color with beanie color for subtlety and wearability
• Consider placement — front cuff, side, or back of the head

Start Designing Your Custom Beanies

With our Design Studio, creating your own beanies has never been easier. Upload your logo, add text, or browse our clipart library. Our expert team is here to help with orders, artwork, or choosing the perfect style.

Beanie FAQs

What materials are beanies made of?
Acrylic, cotton, wool, polyester blends, and fleece. Many styles combine multiple materials for warmth and softness.

Why do beanies have pompoms?
Historically decorative or practical (French sailors used them to avoid hitting heads on ship ceilings). Today, they’re just fun.

What’s the minimum order for beanies?
Minimum order is 6. Larger orders reduce per-unit cost.

How much do beanies cost?
Anywhere from $10–$40 depending on quantity, quality, and customization.

What should I charge for retail?
Most custom beanies retail for $30–$40. For small brands, aim for a 100% markup over your cost.

Ready to create your own custom beanies?
Get started now in our [Design Studio] or chat with our team for expert help!