New Era Just Made Its Lightest Cap Ever

New Era's Lightest Cap Just Dropped — And It's a Game Changer

I picked up the 9FORTY APEX for the first time and honestly thought they handed me an empty box. It's that light.

New Era calls it "the lightest cap we've ever made" . And for a brand that's been making caps since 1920, that's not a small claim.

What Makes It So Light

The 9FORTY APEX completely rethinks what goes into a baseball cap. Instead of the stiff buckram material that's been propping up front panels for decades, New Era swapped in a lightweight spacer mesh backing . The result is a cap that holds its shape without the heavy, rigid feel.

The visor uses an EVA foam insert instead of heavier materials . The rear panels are breathable mesh. The whole thing is designed to feel like it's barely there .

But it's not just about weight. The APEX has a pinched front with a shorter pre-curved lightweight visor . The A-Frame front panel is lightly structured—enough to hold shape, but flexible enough to move with you.

Inside, there's a new stretch sweatband with built-in air-mesh ventilation, moisture-wicking, and antimicrobial tech . It's a cap built for actual movement, not just standing still.

The 39THIRTY INFINITY: The Seamless Alternative

Alongside the APEX, New Era dropped the 39THIRTY INFINITY — their first seamless crown cap . Instead of the traditional five or six panels stitched together, the INFINITY uses a one-piece construction with no panels or visible stitching on the crown .

Inside, it has a terry stretch sweatband with the same moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties as the APEX . It's designed to be one of the most comfortable caps in New Era's lineup .

9FORTY APEX vs. Classic 9FORTY

Why It Matters

Traditionally, New Era's on-field caps were designed for players. The 9FORTY APEX and 39THIRTY INFINITY are no exception—they're the official caps for MLB's 2026 Batting Practice Collection . But the APEX isn't just for batting practice. It's a performance cap that just happens to look great on the street.

> "Made for peak performance and sport style, the new lightweight 9FORTY APEX is ready for anywhere the day takes you" .

The lightweight construction and modern profile make it a versatile staple for any rotation. Style it with an oversized tee and relaxed denim for an effortless everyday look, or layer it with a bomber jacket for a sharper edge .

One Final Thing

The 9FORTY APEX isn't just a new hat—it's a new way of thinking about what a cap should be. It's lighter, more flexible, and better built for actual wear. The 39THIRTY INFINITY offers a slightly different option: seamless, stretchable, and built for all-day comfort .

Both are worth a closer look.

Which one would you choose: the lightest cap ever or the seamless comfort fit?