My Take on Ebbets Field Flannels Caps

When I first was introduced to Ebbets Field Flannels, I was totally in awe. They created the kind of throwback merchandise that I like. Since EFF always claimed to create “authentic” throwback caps and jerseys, I’d like to give my take on the authenticity of the stuff they create.

A few years ago, I was mulling on buying a cap of Ebbets Field Flannels. But since every cap brand has its issues with sizing, I sent an email with the question how their caps are fitting. In that email I referred to New Era, which always has sizing issues. When you buy a cap in size 7 3/8, it can fit like a glove but it can also be way too small or too big. In the mail that I got in return, some lady showed some agitation: “Our caps always fit the way they should” and “we do not like to be compared with New Era.” The email made me decide not to buy a cap yet.

Eventually, I bought my first EFF cap through eBay, totally relying on the expertise of Ebbets Field Flannels. Eventually I got the 1942 Kansas City Monarchs cap. When you check the lettering on the cap with photos of those days, you see a considerable difference. Just see the photo of my cap and the one that Satchel Paige is wearing:

 

Besides the lettering, the size wasn’t what it should be. I have size 7 3/8 but the cap I bought was 7 1/4. Since I have a hat stretcher, that wasn’t the problem. But much to my surprise, the cap fitted like a glove. 

My second EFF cap I bought through eBay was the cap of the Portland Mavericks. Since a few years, EFF doesn’t have that one in its collection. Also this cap has some size issues. The label says 7 3/8 but it fits like a 7 1/4. Also the M on the front of the cap isn’t an exact copy of the original cap. Check out both photos and judge yourself. 
             
As you can see on the photo on the right, the M is a tad thicker/wider. Also, there is some red visible between the swoosh and the left leg of the M, somthing that is missing on the EFF cap on the left. 

My third EFF cap I bought was a 1940 version of the Oakland Oaks. The cap comes in size 7 1/2 but it fits like a glove. But once again the cap logo is quite off. When you compare the photo of the cap itself and the one underneath, you see that the O is quite off center. Also the leaf isn’t the same as you can see. On the photo of the cap itself, the right top of the leaf is somewhat rounded, but the leaf on the photo underneath is more pointy.

Don’t get me wrong. I like the fabric of this cap and despite the flaws, it is one of my favorite caps in my collection.

With this blog post, I do not intend to keep you from buying EFF caps. It is still up to you. Fortunately, the company is making some good looking caps as well.
I dislike New Era and Hat Club for the way they manage to butcher throwback caps, but a company like Ebbets Field Flannels, that has the arrogance of claiming to create authentic throwbacks, should do a lot better, also when it comes to the sizing. Especially for the price you have to pay. I can only blame myself for not checking out things properly. I clearly fell for the PR of EFF.