First Impressions of Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap isn’t some high-speed, low-drag piece of kit destined for combat, but sometimes the best gear is simple, reliable, and gets the job done without drawing unnecessary attention. From Calcutta, a company known for its fishing and outdoor lifestyle products, this cap promises a classic look with a touch of ruggedness, thanks to its leather patch. It’s the kind of cap you can wear fishing, hiking, or just running errands.
I needed a new everyday cap that wasn’t emblazoned with tactical logos or overly flashy. My old faithful had finally succumbed to years of sun, sweat, and general abuse, leaving me searching for something comfortable, durable, and understated. The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap seemed to fit the bill.
Unboxing (or rather, unbagging) the cap, I was immediately struck by the simplicity of the design. The khaki twill felt soft yet substantial, and the leather patch added a touch of class without being pretentious. The overall build quality seemed solid, with no obvious loose threads or misaligned seams.
Compared to a similar khaki cap from Duluth Trading Company and a tactical operator cap from 5.11 Tactical, the Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap stood out for its versatility. The Duluth Trading cap was a bit too stiff, while the 5.11 Tactical cap was too overtly tactical for everyday wear. The Calcutta cap offered a nice balance of style and functionality.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It looked good, felt good, but the real test would be how it held up to real-world use. I was eager to see if it could become my new go-to cap.
Real-World Testing: Putting Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap was a weekend fishing trip on the local lake. I spent hours under the sun, casting lines and battling (mostly unsuccessfully) with the local bass population. The cap provided excellent sun protection and kept the sweat out of my eyes.
The conditions were fairly mild – sunny with a light breeze – but the cap proved its worth. It stayed comfortably in place, even during a few enthusiastic hooksets. I noticed no immediate issues or discomfort after hours of wear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of near-daily use, the Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap has proven to be a reliable and comfortable companion. It’s been through hikes, backyard barbecues, and countless trips to the hardware store. There are no significant signs of wear and tear.
The color has faded slightly from the relentless sun exposure, but this only adds to its character, giving it a nicely worn-in look. I’ve spot-cleaned it a few times with a damp cloth, and the twill fabric seems to repel dirt and grime fairly well. Compared to my previous caps, this one seems to be holding up exceptionally well.
Breaking Down the Features of Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap
Specifications
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap is a simple, straightforward piece of headwear. It features a classic six-panel design constructed from khaki twill fabric. The cap includes an adjustable back strap for a customized fit and a leather patch on the front.
The weight is listed at 0.22 lb, making it lightweight and comfortable for extended wear. The dimensions are 9 ft in length, 3.5 in in height and 8 in in width. These dimensions seem incorrect, and must be referring to shipping dimensions – the cap is a standard adult size. These specifications matter because they dictate comfort, fit, and overall durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap performs its primary function admirably: keeping the sun out of your eyes and providing a bit of shade. The adjustable back strap allows for a snug and secure fit. Its simple design also makes it suitable for a variety of activities, from outdoor adventures to casual everyday wear.
The cap’s main strength is its comfort and versatility. Its weakness lies in its simplicity – it lacks any advanced features like moisture-wicking linings or specialized ventilation. It meets expectations for a basic, well-made cap but doesn’t exceed them in any significant way.
Design & Ergonomics
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap boasts a classic, no-nonsense design. The khaki twill fabric feels soft and durable, while the leather patch adds a touch of style. The adjustable back strap ensures a comfortable and secure fit for a wide range of head sizes.
The cap is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special adjustments or break-in period. Its lightweight construction and comfortable fit make it suitable for all-day wear. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap appears to be built to last. The twill fabric is resistant to tearing and abrasion, and the stitching is solid and secure. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple: spot clean with a damp cloth as needed. More stubborn stains can be treated with a mild detergent. It’s easy to maintain and requires very little effort to keep in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap doesn’t come with any accessories. Customization options are limited to adding patches or embroidery. Its simple design makes it a blank canvas for personal expression.
It’s compatible with standard patch sizes and styles, allowing for easy customization with morale patches, name tapes, or other personalized embellishments. The cap’s versatility makes it a great platform for adding your own unique touch.
Pros and Cons of Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap
Pros
- Classic, versatile design suitable for a variety of activities.
- Comfortable twill fabric and adjustable back strap for a customized fit.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Understated style with a touch of class from the leather patch.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features like moisture-wicking or specialized ventilation.
- Limited customization options beyond patches or embroidery.
Who Should Buy Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap?
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap is perfect for anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a simple, well-made cap. It’s ideal for casual wear, hiking, fishing, or any activity where sun protection and comfort are desired. It’s a great everyday cap for anyone seeking understated style and reliable performance.
Anyone looking for a high-performance cap with advanced features like moisture-wicking or specialized ventilation should skip this product. Those who prefer more overtly tactical or flashy designs may also want to look elsewhere. A must-have accessory is a good patch to personalize it.
Conclusion on Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap
The Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap is a solid, reliable, and versatile cap that offers excellent value for the price. It’s not the flashiest or most technologically advanced cap on the market, but it gets the job done without any fuss. Its comfortable fit, durable construction, and classic design make it a great choice for anyone seeking a dependable everyday cap.
At $17.99, the price is definitely justified. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a simple, well-made cap that can handle a variety of activities. If you’re in the market for a new go-to cap, give the Calcutta BR217617.2 Khaki Twil Cap a try. You might just find your new favorite piece of headwear.