Properly Wear a Cowboy Hat, How to: Etiquette, Sizing & Seasonal Tips

Iconic and stylish, cowboy hats are. But wear them correctly, one must, to look sharp and respectful. In this guide, learn you will about choosing the right size, following cowboy hat etiquette, and picking hats for different seasons. Read on, you should, to master the way of the cowboy hat.

Many years have I worn cowboy hats, through sun and rain, wind and snow. A loyal companion, a well-worn cowboy hat is. Speak of one’s character and style, it does. Share my experience with you, I will, so wear cowboy hats with confidence, you can.

Getting the Right Size and Fit for Your Cowboy Hat

First and foremost, get the right size, you must. Fit your head properly, the hat should. Try the hat on before buying, you must. Sit comfortably and snugly, it should, without squeezing your head or sliding around.

When putting on your hat, use both hands, you should. Grab the brim on each side, then slide the hat on from front to back. Adjust it so that fits your head properly, it does, with a snug fit that feels secure but not tight.

Too big or too small, if the hat is, right for you it is not. Keep trying different sizes until the perfect fit you find. With the right size, confidently wear your cowboy hat, you can.

Cowboy Hat Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts

Take your hat off indoors, you should, especially in restaurants, homes, and buildings. Removing your hat shows respect and good manners, it does.

To remove your hat, use the crown, not the brim. Pinch the crown at the top, then lift the hat straight up off your head. Place it carefully crown-side down on a hat rack or clean, flat surface.

Do not wear your hat backwards, as disrespectful and improper, it is. Also, do not adjust or play with your hat during conversation, as rude and distracting, it can be. Practice good cowboy hat etiquette, you must, to make a positive impression.

Wearing Your Cowboy Hat for the Right Occasion

Cowboy hats, versatile they are, but suit some occasions better than others, they do. Wear your hat outside, especially when working on the ranch, riding horses, or attending outdoor events. With boots and jeans or other Western wear, pair your hat, for a complete cowboy look.

During the day, appropriate cowboy hats are, when the sun is out. Shield your face and neck from the sun’s rays, they do, while adding a touch of style to your outfit. In the evening or indoors, less necessary they become.

“The occasion and the weather, consider you must, when wearing a cowboy hat,” says Jebediah “Buckaroo” Hatfield, a renowned cowboy hat aficionado. “With the right hat at the right time, make a statement and stay comfortable, you can.”

Seasonal Cowboy Hat Choices: Felt vs Straw

Cowboy hats, not one-style-fits-all they are. Different materials for different seasons, choose you should. In colder months, felt hats are best, as insulating and water-resistant they are. In winter, opt for a sturdy, thick felt hat to keep your head warm and dry.

When temperatures rise, switch to a straw hat you should. Lightweight and breathable, straw hats are, perfect for summer heat. Cool and comfortable you will stay, while still looking stylish.

SeasonRecommended Hat Material
WinterFelt
SummerStraw

Positioning Your Cowboy Hat Correctly

Wearing your cowboy hat at the proper angle, important it is. Too far back or too far forward, do not wear it. Instead, position the hat so that the front sits about two fingers above your eyebrows. This placement, a clear line of sight it allows, while still shading your face.

At the back, fit snugly against your neck the hat should, without gapping or slipping. On the sides, aim for the brim to rest about one inch below your ears. Symmetrical and balanced, the hat should look, not tilted or askew.

If needed, small adjustments make, until comfortable and properly positioned the hat feels. With practice, effortlessly don your cowboy hat you will, like a true Western hero.

Choosing a Cowboy Hat Style to Suit Your Personality

Many cowboy hat styles there are, each with its own unique flair. From classic cattleman crease to pinched front, from wide brim to slim, options abound. Choose a style that reflects your personality and complements your facial features, you should.

The crown and brim, shape to your liking you can. Steaming and stretching techniques, use to mold the hat to your preferred look. Careful and patient, be, as shaping takes time and practice to master.

Remember, an extension of yourself your cowboy hat is. Your personality, it should express, while making you feel confident and authentic. With the right style and shaping, turn heads and make a statement, you will.

Wear cowboy hats, an art form it is. Time and care, it requires, to find the perfect hat and wear it well. But worth the effort, it is, for stylish and respected you will look. Embrace the way of the cowboy hat, and unforgettable impressions you shall make.

Photo of author

Henry Abari