Iconic Richardson 168 Trucker Hat - History and Style Tips

The Iconic Richardson 168 Trucker Hat

The Richardson 168 has become an iconic style in the trucker hat world. Known for its structured 6-panel front and mesh back, this hat offers both fashion and function. Richardson's 168 style hat features a 3.5" flat visor with a bucksaw tooth design that provides a sharp edge. The poly foam front panels and mesh back make it lightweight and breathable, while the plastic strap closure allows for an adjustable fit.

History of the Richardson Brand

Richardson Cap Company was founded in 1918 in Buffalo, NY. What started as a small hat shop soon became one of the most well-known brands for trucker hats. The 168 style hat gets its numerical name from Richardson's internal system for identifying products. First introduced in the 1970s, the 168 remains Richardson's most popular trucker hat offering.

Over the past 100+ years, the Richardson brand has aimed to create quality headwear with fashion-forward styles. They have supplied hats for major sports leagues like the NFL and MLB. Today, Richardson hats continue to outfit workers across many vocational fields while also meeting fashion demands.

Details of the 168 Trucker Hat

The Richardson 168 features a low profile crown along with a flat visor with a bucksawtooth edge. This rigid structure allows the hat to maintain its shape. The 168 is comprised of six panels on the front two-thirds of the crown. There are then mesh backing panels that make up the rear.

Richardson constructs most 168 hats from cotton twill material. However, many color variants and alternate fabric options exist. Some choices include cotton/poly blends, nylon, crushed cotton, acrylic wool, and more. The most iconic color for this style is the natural khaki tan colorway.

Why the 168 Remains Popular

The 168 remains one of Richardson's best selling caps for good reason. It's comfortable to wear with breathable mesh sides. The structured crown and visor allow you to shape and style it easily as desired. Whether curved, flat, or slightly bent, this cap holds its form.

In addition to workwear functionality, the 168 transitions effortlessly into casual fashionwear. Its vintage trucker style pairs well with all types of attire from graphic tees and hoodies to Americana style button-ups. The khaki color in particular goes with everything.

While trends come and go, iconic pieces like the Richardson 168 endure. This hat has graced the heads of farmers, factory workers, rappers, celebrities, and average Joes alike. The 168 will no doubt continue as a staple in Richardson’s catalog for years more.

Variations of the 168 Cap

While the original khaki tan 168 remains most popular, Richardson produces many color variations. Tonal options like black, navy, olive, and grey broaden styling possibilities beyond workwear. Bright shades of red, orange, yellow, or teal allow the 168 to stand out.

Special edition 168 caps frequently release to align with major sports teams and pop culture launches. Richardson has put out 168 collabs representing pro teams like the Yankees, Lakers, Raiders and more over the years. Various camo prints and flag designs offer even more ways to customize your look.

Caring for Your Richardson 168

With proper care, a Richardson 168 can last for years of wear. Make sure to read any included instructions based on your hat's specific fabric blend. In most cases, simply spot clean the cotton, poly cotton, or acrylic materials with mild soap and water.

Make sure not to stuff or wad up the hat, which can deform the structured crown. If needed, utilize a hat insert or shaper to retain form. Storing flat or hanging upside down helps maintain the cap's profile. Follow these tips and your Richardson 168 will stand the test of time.

Rocking the Richardson 168 Trucker Look

The Richardson 168 goes with virtually any outfit, but it looks particularly stylish as part of a workwear or Americana aesthetic. Pair it with canvas ranch jackets, flannels, denim overalls, boots, tool belts, and other nods to vintage labor themes.

Of course you can sport this cap in casual settings too. Match the 168 with graphic print tees, hoodies, bomber jackets, vintage rock band merch and more. Skater inspired outfits also complement this hat's streetwise look.

Since the khaki 168 works as a neutral, experiment mixing it into various color palettes. Contrast its light tone against dark monochromatic shades. Alternatively, match it to equally light hues like pastels for tonal harmony.

However you style your Richardson 168, do it with confidence. Let this iconic trucker cap add flair while still being low key. Its reputation speaks for itself, so focus instead on cultivating your personal flair.

FAQs

What is the Richardson 168 hat?

The Richardson 168 is a classic 6-panel trucker hat style featuring a structured front crown and mesh backing. It has a flat visor with a sawtooth edge. Richardson's most iconic color for the 168 is khaki tan.

Why is the Richardson 168 so popular?

The 168 remains one of Richardson's best selling caps because it offers functionality for workwear along with versatile casual style. Its lightweight cotton build and breathable mesh make it comfortable to wear all day. The structured crown can be shaped as desired while retaining form over time.

What colors and fabrics is the 168 available in?

While khaki tan cotton twill is the most signature 168 color, Richardson produces many fabric and color variations. Alternate shade options include black, navy, olive, grey and bright hues like red or teal. Fabrics include cotton/poly blends, nylon, acrylic wool and more.

How can I best care for my Richardson 168?

Carefully spot clean your 168 when needed using mild soap and water. Make sure not to wad up the hat, which can deform the shape. Use inserts if required to retain the structured crown form. Storing the cap flat or hanging upside down helps maintain its profile.

What outfits pair well with the 168 hat?

The versatile khaki 168 matches virtually any casual outfit, but looks particularly stylish with workwear and Americana themes. Think denim overalls, canvas jackets, flannels and boots. It also complements graphic print tees, hoodies, bomber jackets and skater inspired pieces.