Whether you’re a hardened rodeo veteran or just an occasional country music listener, you probably know the cowboy hat. It’s one of the most iconic pieces of Western clothing and is widely considered to be an integral part of a country style. But it isn’t just about style. Cowboy hats have plenty of history, and their shape and styles are often determined by practicality as much as fashion. That said, there are a lot of different styles out in the wild. In this blog post, we explore 5 common cowboy hat shapes & styles with a brief look at their histories. From classic designs to modern interpretations, read on to find out more!
Cowboy Hat Shapes
There are two main types of cowboy hats shapes, the open crown and the pinch front.
The open crown is the most common shape for a cowboy hat. It is characterized by a wide brim and a high, rounded crown. The brim is typically 3 to 5 inches wide. The open crown allows the hat to be easily shaped to the wearer’s head.
The pinch front is a less common shape for a cowboy hat. It is characterized by a narrow brim and a low, pointed crown. The brim is typically 2 to 4 inches wide. The pinch front makes it easy to wear the hat with sunglasses or other eyewear.
Cowboy Hat Styles
When it comes to cowboy hats, there are three common styles: the standard cowboy hat, the felt cowboy hat, and the straw cowboy hat. Each style has its own distinct look and feel, so it’s important to know which one you want before you buy.
The standard cowboy hat is the most popular style of cowboy hat. It’s made from a soft, pliable material like leather or suede and usually has a wide brim. The standard cowboy hat is perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re working on the ranch or going out for a night on the town.
The felt cowboy hat is another popular choice. It’s made from a stiffer material like wool or cashmere and usually has a narrower brim. Felt cowboy hats are often decorated with a band of leather or fur around the base of the crown. They’re ideal for dressier occasions or when you want to make more of a statement.
The straw cowboy hat is the third style of cowboy hat. It’s made from, you guessed it, straw! Straw cowboy hats are typically worn in hotter climates since they help keep your head cool and protect your face from the sun. They also have very wide brims to provide maximum sun coverage.
Common Cowboy Hat Materials
There are several materials commonly used to make cowboy hats, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
The most common material used for cowboy hats is felt. Felt is a durable material that can be shaped into a variety of different hat styles. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers. However, felt can be difficult to clean and does not hold up well in wet weather.
Straw is another popular choice for cowboy hats. Straw hats are typically lighter and cooler than felt hats, making them a good choice for summer wear. They can also be easily rolled up or packed away, making them ideal for travel. However, straw hats are not as durable as felt and can be damaged by excessive heat or moisture.
Leather is sometimes used to make cowboy hats, especially higher-end models. Leather is very durable and has a classic look that many cowboys prefer. However, leather hats can be quite expensive and may require special care to prevent water damage.
How to Choose the Right Cowboy Hat
When it comes to choosing the right cowboy hat, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, you need to think about the shape and style of the hat. There are many different types of cowboy hats, each with their own unique look. Second, you need to think about the material of the hat. Cowboy hats are typically made from straw or felt, but there are also some made from leather. Third, you need to think about the size of the hat. Cowboy hats come in all different sizes, so you need to make sure you choose one that fits your head comfortably. Finally, you need to think about the color of the hat. Cowboy hats are available in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that matches your personal style.
How to Care for Your Cowboy Hat
A cowboy hat is a staple of the traditional Western look. Whether you’re going for a classic, rugged style or something more modern, there’s a cowboy hat to suit your taste. But how do you take care of your cowboy hat so that it lasts for years?
Here are some tips on how to care for your cowboy hat:
1. Store your cowboy hat in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing it. This will help to keep the shape of the hat and prevent any damage from moisture.
2. Use a soft brush to dust off your cowboy hat when it gets dirty. Avoid using anything harsh that could damage the felt or straw.
3. If your cowboy hat gets wet, let it air dry naturally. Do not put it near any heat source as this could cause the felt or straw to shrink.
4. If you need to clean your cowboy hat, use a mild soap and water solution. Gently scrub the dirt and sweat stains with a soft brush before rinsing with clean water. Allow the hat to air dry completely before wearing it again.
Conclusion
Cowboy hats come in a variety of shapes and styles – from the traditional cowboy style to more modern variations. All of these different hat shapes have their own histories, ranging from the wild west look to contemporary fashion trends. Whether you are an avid fan of western wear or just curious about the iconic headwear, understanding these common cowboy hat shapes and styles can help you choose the perfect one for your needs. With this knowledge, you will be able to appreciate why certain hats have become so popular over time – making them even more attractive choices!