Best Cowboy Hats
Cowboy hats are a quintessential part of Western fashion and culture. They not only serve a practical purpose by providing shade and protection from the elements but also make a bold fashion statement. With so many options available in the market, choosing the best cowboy hat can be overwhelming. This article will guide you through the essential factors to consider when selecting a cowboy hat and introduce you to some of the best options available.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cowboy Hat
Material
Cowboy hats are typically made from felt, straw, or leather. Felt hats are the most traditional and are perfect for colder weather, while straw hats are ideal for summer. Leather hats offer durability and a unique look.
The best cowboy hats are usually handcrafted from premium materials like top-quality beaver felt or tightly woven straw. Beaver fur is considered the finest material for felt hats as it felts tightly, resulting in a dense yet lightweight hat that holds its shape well and resists rain penetration better than lower quality furs.
X Factor Rating
The X factor rating for cowboy hats was originally intended to indicate the percentage of beaver fur used in the felt material, with higher X values representing a greater beaver fur content and higher quality. However, there is no standardized industry system for the X factor rating anymore, and it has become largely subjective and used more for marketing purposes by different hat makers.
1X to 5X: Hats in this range contained little to no beaver fur, mostly wool and other lower quality fur like hare.
10X: A 10X hat was made of 100% beaver fur, which is considered the highest quality and most durable felt material.
Above 10X (e.g. 20X, 50X, 100X, etc.): These higher X ratings have no consistent meaning today. Some makers use them to denote premium beaver fur from specific regions or beaver belly fur, while others use inflated X values as arbitrary pricing tiers rather than indicating fur content.
The most reliable way to assess a cowboy hat's quality is to ask the maker about the specific fur blend and construction details, feel the material density and tightness of the weave, and consider the maker's reputation for craftsmanship.
Brim Size
The brim size of a cowboy hat can vary from 2.5 inches to 5 inches or more. A wider brim offers more sun protection, while a shorter brim provides a more contemporary look.
Crown Style
Cowboy hats come in various crown styles, such as the cattleman, brick, and pinch front. The crown style affects the hat's overall appearance and can be chosen based on personal preference.
Fit
A well-fitting cowboy hat is crucial for comfort and style. Measure your head circumference and consult the manufacturer's sizing chart to find the perfect fit.
Best Cowboy Hats
Brands
American Hat Makers - A family-run business based in Santa Cruz, California that has been handcrafting cowboy hats in the USA for nearly 50 years, using only the finest materials like top-grain cowhide leather, seagrass, golden wheat straw, and toquilla palm.
Stetson - A historic and renowned brand, producing high-end felt and straw cowboy hats like the Diamante 1000X, El Presidente 100X, and El Jefe 5000X straw hat. Their premium beaver felt hats can be quite expensive, with some models costing over $1,000.
Resistol - Another well-known brand offering tough and sturdy cowboy hats suitable for ranchers and rodeos. Their Pure Beaver Felt Cowboy Hat is a high-quality option made from genuine beaver fur felt.
Ariat - While relatively new to western wear, Ariat has quickly gained popularity for their quality and affordable cowboy hats made of straw and felt materials. Their name is inspired by the legendary racehorse Secretariat.
Custom Hatmakers - For truly exceptional, one-of-a-kind cowboy hats, many recommend custom makers like Greeley Hat Works, O'Farrell, Catalena, Nathan Funmaker, and Mike Marsh Milliner. These artisans create custom-fitted hats from premium materials like rabbit fur or rabbit/beaver blends, with prices ranging from $250 to $400 for their top offerings.
Styles
There are several popular styles of cowboy hats, each with its own unique look and features. The best style for you ultimately depends on your personal preference, face shape, and intended use. Here are some of the most common and highly regarded cowboy hat styles:
Cattleman - This is the most traditional and iconic cowboy hat style, featuring a tall crown with three creases and a slightly curled brim. It's a versatile style that suits most face shapes and is a popular choice for ranchers and cowboys.
Brick - Similar to the Cattleman, the Brick style has a rectangular crown with a flat top and a slightly curled brim. It's a classic style that offers a more relaxed and casual look.
Gus - Named after the character Gus McCrae from the TV series "Lonesome Dove," this style features a high crown with three creases and a wide, flat brim. It provides excellent sun protection and is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pinch Front - Also known as the "Carlsbad Crease," this style has a crown with a pinched front and a slightly curled brim. It offers a distinctive and stylish look that suits those with longer or oval-shaped faces.
Gambler - This style features a low, round crown with a flat top and a wide, flat brim. It's a fashionable choice that provides good sun protection and is often associated with a more laid-back, adventurous look.
Tom Mix - Named after the famous Hollywood cowboy, this style has a tall, round crown with a flat top and a slightly curled brim. It's a classic style that exudes confidence and is suitable for most face shapes.
When choosing the best cowboy hat style for you, consider your face shape, the hat's intended purpose (e.g., ranch work, fashion, or sun protection), and your personal style preferences. Trying on different styles can help you find the one that feels most comfortable and flattering.
Caring for Your Cowboy Hat
To ensure your cowboy hat lasts for years, follow these care tips:
Brush your hat regularly with a soft-bristled brush to remove dust and dirt.
Store your hat on a hat rack or in a hat box when not in use.
Avoid exposing your hat to extreme temperatures or moisture.
If your hat gets wet, let it air dry naturally.
For felt hats, use a steam cleaner or a damp cloth to remove stubborn stains.
Styling Your Cowboy Hat
Cowboy hats can be styled in various ways to suit your personal taste and the occasion. For a traditional look, pair your hat with a Western shirt, jeans, and boots. For a more modern approach, combine your hat with a casual outfit like a t-shirt and shorts. Remember, confidence is key when wearing a cowboy hat.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality cowboy hat is a decision you won't regret. By considering the factors outlined in this article, such as material quality, X factor rating, brand reputation, and craftsmanship, and exploring the top brands, you'll be sure to find the perfect hat for your needs and style. With proper care, your cowboy hat will be a trusty companion for years to come.
Richard Sutherland
RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.orgRichard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.