The scrub cap is a historic and versatile headgear, worn by many people over the centuries. Even today, it continues to be used in a variety of contexts, such as military uniform, religious dress or simply for aesthetic reasons. In this comprehensive guide, we'll tell you everything there is to know about this timeless accessory, from its history to its different variants, as well as advice on choice and care.
The history of scrub cap
The scrub cap is a headgear that originated in the Middle Ages. It was worn by clergy, soldiers and peasants. Over the centuries, the scrub cap has evolved to become an essential part of many military uniforms, notably those of the French, American and British armies.
scrub cap in the army
From the 18th century onwards, scrub cap became widely used by European armies. It was particularly appreciated for its lightness, simplicity and comfort, enabling soldiers to protect themselves effectively from the sun while retaining great freedom of movement. The scrub cap also had a strong symbolic aspect, as it showed that a soldier belonged to a specific regiment or unit.
scrub cap in religion
The scrub cap was also used in a religious context, notably by members of the Christian clergy. It took several forms, such as the barrette (a flat scrub cap worn by priests) or the solideo (a small circular scrub cap worn by bishops and cardinals).
The different variants of scrub cap
Over the centuries, scrub cap has undergone numerous evolutions, giving rise to a wide variety of styles and forms. The main variants of scrub cap include :
- The beret: originally from the Basque country, today it is associated with the French and British armies, as well as with Basque and French culture.
- The gavroche cap: with its domed shape and short peak, it was particularly popular with the French working classes in the early 20th century.
- The Phrygian bonnet: a symbol of freedom, it was worn during the French Revolution and is characterized by its conical shape and its end drooping to the side.
- The kepi: the emblem of the French National Gendarmerie, it has a rigid, cylindrical shape with a flat visor at the front.
How to choose your scrub cap ?
To choose the right scrub cap, there are several criteria to consider:
- Size: it's important to select a scrub cap that's adapted to the circumference of your head, to guarantee a good fit and optimum comfort. To find out your size, measure the circumference of your head with a tape measure, passing slightly above your ears and eyebrows.
- The material: scrub caps can be made from a variety of materials, such as cotton, wool or leather. Each material offers different properties in terms of comfort, resistance and care. It's up to you to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
- Style: as mentioned above, there is a wide variety of styles and shapes at scrub caps. Choose the one that best suits your personality and intended use (military, religious, aesthetic...).
- The manufacturer: some manufacturers specialize in the production of high-quality scrub caps , with meticulous finishes and durable materials. Don't hesitate to ask about reputable brands and consult customer reviews to make the best possible choice.
Maintenance tips for scrub cap
To preserve the quality of your scrub cap and prolong its life, it's important to take care of it and clean it regularly. Here are a few maintenance tips:
- Washing: depending on the material of your scrub cap, opt for hand-washing or machine-washing at low temperature. Use a mild detergent and avoid bleach or other aggressive products.
- Drying: dry naturally in the open air, away from direct sources of heat (radiators, sun...). Avoid tumble-drying, which can damage fibers and distort the shape of scrub cap.
- Ironing: if necessary, iron your scrub cap with a moderate-temperature iron, taking care not to mark creases. For scrub caps in leather or synthetic materials, use a pattemouille (a damp cloth inserted between the iron and the fabric) to avoid burning the material.
- Storage: to preserve the shape of your scrub cap, avoid crushing it under other objects or clothes. Instead, hang it on a hook or lay it flat on a shelf.
By following these tips, you'll be able to make the most of your scrub cap and all the advantages it has to offer. Whether you're a history buff, a uniform collector or simply looking for an original and elegant headgear, scrub cap will meet all your expectations.
