OTA Dispatch Issue 1, 2019

33 www.ortrucking.org Issue 1 | 2019 The Trucker Hat ORIGIN The trucker hat was originally used as a promotional giveaway by farming and feed supply companies to promote their brand. The first known use of the term was in 1975, and the first groups of people to wear the hats were truckers and farmhands. CHARACTERISTICS They’ve got a mesh back, a foam front, a stiff, slightly curved bill, usually an adjustable strap with a snap closure, a button top, and of course a company logo! They sit taller than other caps and are designed to be breathable. TREND Although most popular in the 70’s and even 80’s, then again in the early 2000’s, trucker hats are making another comeback in recent years. From skateboarders and surfers to hip-hop and rock musicians, the trend has now expanded to other celebrity figures and more recently the rock climbing community.