Founded in 2013 by co-founders Brian McDonell and Corey Roth, Melin set out with a clear mission: to redefine the headwear experience by fusing luxury design with top-tier functionality. Headquartered in Southern California, the brand quickly earned a reputation for delivering high-end, performance-driven hats designed for adventurers, athletes, and style-conscious consumers alike. Over the years, Melin has carved a niche in the hat market by offering premium materials, detailed craftsmanship, and limited-edition drops — all backed by a promise to withstand active lifestyles.
At Six Star Review, we put Melin to the test using our trusted six-point rating system: Quality, Value, Price, Customer Support, Ease of Use, and Durability. Here’s how they stacked up:
Quality: 6/6 Stars
Melin hats truly shine when it comes to quality. The attention to detail is among the best we’ve seen in the headwear market. Using top-tier materials such as moisture-wicking liners, hydrophobic exteriors, and triple quilted sweatbands, the construction is rock solid. You can feel the difference the moment you put one on. There’s no denying the “perceived value” based on how well-built these hats are. From stitching to structure, Melin sets the standard for premium headwear.
Value: 4/6 Stars
While Melin delivers exceptional quality, the value proposition is up for debate. With an average price ranging between $69 to $89, Melin is positioned well above most of the competition. For context:
New Era caps (MLB/NFL licensed) average around $35-$45
Patagonia hats range from $35 to $45
Outdoor brands like Columbia or The North Face typically fall within the $25 to $40 range
Is the added cost justifiable? For some, yes — especially those who want luxury meets function. But for the average buyer, the value isn’t quite strong enough to match the price tag.
Price: 3/6 Stars
Let’s be blunt: Melin hats are expensive. In fact, they’re among the highest-priced hats in the market. While the price reflects the quality, it doesn’t make it easier to swallow — especially when excellent alternatives exist for half the cost. Options are plentiful across their ranges (Trenches, Hydro, A-Game, Odyssey, and more), but all come at a premium. If Melin wants to broaden its appeal, a more accessible price point could help.
Customer Support: 5/6 Stars
So far, we’ve had a good experience with Melin’s customer support. Ordering was smooth, email confirmations were timely, and shipping information was communicated clearly. While we haven’t had to return anything (yet), the brand’s transparency and professionalism through the purchase process earns them high marks. Nothing extraordinary — but definitely better than most.
Ease of Use: 6/6 Stars
From the website to the ordering process to product functionality, everything about Melin is user-friendly. Sizes are easy to understand, the online fit guide is helpful, and navigating their site is simple and intuitive. When you receive the product, there’s no “breaking in” needed. You just throw it on and go.
Durability: 5/6 Stars (Ongoing Test)
Initial impressions are strong. The hats feel built to last and are designed for active, outdoor lifestyles. We plan to put our Melin hats through their paces this summer — think pool, beach, hiking, and day-to-day wear. So far, there’s no reason to believe they won’t hold up, but we’ll be monitoring wear and tear closely.
Final Verdict: 4.5 out of 6 Stars
Melin delivers premium quality with premium pricing. The hats are incredibly well made, stylish, and functional — but the steep cost is hard to overlook. If the price came down by even 15-20%, we’d be looking at a much higher score. For now, Melin earns a solid 4.5 out of 6 stars from Six Star Review. It’s an elite product — but not yet an everyday essential for every budget.
