Is It Disrespectful to Wear an American Ballcap Backwards?

Adam Kunes, February 19, 2019

Ballcaps have been a staple of modern fashion for decades. Whether you’re actually going to a baseball game or you’re out for a job in your neighborhood, a cap is a great way to accessorize. More than that, a cap is also a great way to keep the sun out of your face or protect your neck of it’s on backwards.

Speaking of a backwards baseball cap, you might be wondering if it’s disrespectful to wear an American flag ballcap backwards. While your mother might not be too fond of you rocking a backwards cap, there’s nothing wrong with flipping it around to point the brim backward.

Here’s a quick explanation of how to deck yourself out in an American flag baseball cap and still maintain your respect for the flag—even while wearing it backwards.

Anyone Can Rock a Baseball Cap

A baseball hat is an all-American style staple for people of all ages. Perfect for a casual appeal while keeping the sun out of your face, your favorite ballcap might be your go-to accessory for almost every occasion.

When you want to combine your love of ballcaps with your patriotic side, an American flag hat is the obvious answer. Yet, many people wonder is it disrespectful to wear an American ballcap backwards? Let’s take a closer look at this topic to make sure you aren't inadvertently disrespecting the flag.

Is it Acceptable to Wear the American Flag on a Hat?

There is a lot of confusion about wearing the flag on clothing in general. While the U.S. flag code clearly states that the American flag itself should never be worn as clothing, wearing an article with a flag depiction is not breaking the code, nor is it disrespectful. Instead, it is a perfectly acceptable way to share your patriotism with those around you. So go ahead: rock that American flag ballcap with pride!

Is it Disrespectful to Wear an American Ballcap Backwards?

There are rules about how to fly the American flag, and this can confuse people when it comes to the flag on clothing. Since the flag should never be flown backwards or upside down—because that would be a grave disrespect to the flag—people assume it means the same thing when the flag is used on clothing or a hat.

The fact is, there are no hard and fast rules one way or the other regarding wearing an American ballcap backwards. This is because it isn't a real flag, but rather a replica or emblem of the flag. It’s not subject to the same rules as the flag code, which are much more strict on what you can or can’t do with an American flag.

The other reason most people don't make a big fuss about it because a ballcap is a casual wear item. So long as you aren't wearing your American flag cap backwards at an important event such as a Memorial Day event, it doesn't matter all that much. If, for some reason, you do wear a ballcap to a formal event, make sure it’s turned the right way, as a symbolic gesture of respect.

It is also generally frowned upon to wear a hat, even one with the American flag, in certain scenarios such as dinner, church and funerals. And, of course, make sure you’re taking off your hat any time the National Anthem is played—even if it’s an American flag ballcap.

Everyone Has Their Own Opinion

It should be noted that some people will think it's disrespectful to wear any sort of ballcap backwards. These individuals might be doubly affronted by a backwards cap that has an American flag on it. While they’re entitled to this opinion, know that there’s nothing wrong with wearing it in this style. Some people may ask you to flip your cap around, and it’s up to you if you comply or politely tell them that you’d prefer to wear it backward.

Show Your Patriotic Spirit

Wearing an American flag baseball hat is a great way to show your patriotic spirit and support for the flag. So long as you keep it off the ground and on your head, and take care to make sure you’re not disrespecting the flag itself, you’re find to wear it however you’d like. While people might not always agree with your choice of style, it’s your American right to dress in whatever way you want. Just remember to always do right by the flag on your ballcap.

Visit The Flag Shirt and explore our large selection of patriotic clothing. From American flag polo shirts and button down shirts and other accessories, you’ll find any type of American-themed clothing and accessories you’re looking for! Come browse styles for men, women and kids, and show your patriotic spirit in the most stylish way possible.