Types of Cowboy Hats
Cowboy hats are an iconic symbol of the American West, embodying a rich history and practical function. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each with unique characteristics and purposes. This guide will explore the different types of cowboy hats, their history, popular brands, and what makes each style distinct.
History of Cowboy Hats
The cowboy hat's history dates back to the 1860s, with John B. Stetson being credited for creating the first widely recognized version. The "Boss of the Plains," Stetson's original hat, was designed to be durable, waterproof, and suitable for the harsh conditions of the American frontier. Over time, cowboy hats evolved, reflecting the diverse needs and styles of cowboys and ranchers.
Common Types of Cowboy Hats
1. Cattleman
Description: The Cattleman is the most traditional and recognizable style of cowboy hat. It features a tall, rounded crown with a slight curve and three creases at the top, along with a wide, flat brim.
Features:
Crown: High, with three distinct creases.
Brim: Wide and flat, typically turned up slightly on the sides.
Usage: Popular among ranchers and cattlemen due to its practical design for outdoor work.
2. Gus
Description: The Gus style cowboy hat has a unique, sloped crown that starts high in the back and gradually tapers down to the front.
Features:
Crown: Sloped, with a high back and low front.
Brim: Wide and often rolled or turned up slightly.
Usage: Often chosen for its distinctive look and association with classic Western films.
3. Tom Mix
Description: Named after the famous silent film cowboy, the Tom Mix hat features an exaggeratedly high crown and a wide, dramatic brim.
Features:
Crown: Extremely high, sometimes up to 6 inches.
Brim: Very wide and often curved.
Usage: More of a fashion statement, often seen in parades and Western-themed events.
4. Open Crown
Description: The Open Crown hat, also known as the "Boss of the Plains," resembles the original design by Stetson, featuring a round, uncreased crown.
Features:
Crown: Round and uncreased.
Brim: Flat and wide.
Usage: Versatile, can be customized to various styles by adding creases and shaping the brim.
5. Pinch Front
Description: The Pinch Front hat, also known as the Fedora style, has a crown that is pinched at the front, creating a V-shape.
Features:
Crown: Pinched in the front, creating a distinctive V-shape.
Brim: Narrower than traditional cowboy hats, often with a slight curl.
Usage: Popular for its stylish look, often worn in more casual or fashion-forward contexts.
6. Montana Peak
Description: Also known as the "Campaign Hat," the Montana Peak features a distinctive peaked crown with four symmetrical creases.
Features:
Crown: High, with a peaked shape and four creases.
Brim: Wide and flat, typically stiff.
Usage: Often used by law enforcement and military, particularly in ceremonial roles.
7. Gambler
Description: The Gambler hat, also known as the "Riverboat" or "Planter's Hat," has a flat crown and a wide, flat brim, giving it a sleek, stylish appearance.
Features:
Crown: Flat, often referred to as a telescope or boater crown.
Brim: Wide and flat.
Usage: Popular among gamblers and riverboat entertainers, hence the name. The gambler style has become increasingly trendy in recent years, offering superior sun protection and a fashionable touch to both men's and women's outfits.
8. Brick
Description: The brick cowboy hat has a modified cattleman shape with a squarer, rectangular crease across the crown, giving it a distinctive flat-topped appearance.
Features:
Crown: Flat top with a rectangular crease.
Brim: Slightly curved, similar to the cattleman.
Usage: Emerged as a variation on the classic cattleman style.
Materials Used in Cowboy Hats
Felt: Made from animal fur (usually rabbit, beaver, or a blend), felt hats are durable, water-resistant, and provide excellent insulation. High-quality felt hats are rated with an "X" system, with more X's denoting a higher percentage of fur and better quality.
Straw: Lightweight and breathable, straw hats are ideal for hot weather and come in various weaves and styles.
Leather: Rugged and durable, leather cowboy hats are suitable for rough conditions but tend to be heavier and more rigid.
Wool: A more affordable alternative to fur felt, wool hats offer decent durability and insulation but are less water-resistant.
Popular Cowboy Hat Brands
Some of the top brands known for making high-quality cowboy hats include:
American Hat Makers
Stetson
Eddy Bros
Charlie 1 Horse
Bailey
Conner Hats
Jaxon
Peter Grimm
Levine Hat Co.
These brands offer a diverse range of styles, materials, and quality levels to suit various preferences and budgets.
Choosing the Right Cowboy Hat
When selecting a cowboy hat, consider the following factors:
Purpose: Determine whether the hat is for work, fashion, or special occasions.
Climate: Choose a material suitable for the weather conditions you'll be in.
Fit: Ensure the hat fits comfortably and securely on your head.
Style: Pick a style that complements your face shape and personal aesthetic.
Conclusion
Cowboy hats are more than just a piece of Western attire; they are a functional and stylish accessory with a rich history. From the traditional Cattleman to the fashionable Gambler, each type of cowboy hat offers unique features suited to different needs and preferences. Whether you're a rancher, a fashion enthusiast, or a Western film aficionado, there's a cowboy hat out there that's perfect for you. By understanding the various styles, materials, and brands available, you can make an informed decision when choosing your ideal cowboy hat.
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.