All About Straw Cowboy Hats
Straw cowboy hats are an iconic symbol of the American West, embodying the spirit of the cowboy lifestyle. These hats are not only fashionable but also functional, providing protection from the sun and heat in the harsh outdoor conditions faced by cowboys and ranchers. Straw cowboy hats have a rich history and come in various styles, making them a popular choice for both Western enthusiasts and fashion-conscious individuals.
History of Straw Cowboy Hats
The origins of the straw cowboy hat can be traced back to the mid-19th century when cowboys and ranchers needed a lightweight, breathable hat to protect them from the sun while working outdoors. The first straw cowboy hats were made from a variety of materials, including palm leaves and even imported straw from Ecuador and Mexico.
One of the most famous early straw cowboy hat makers was John B. Stetson, who founded the Stetson Hat Company in 1865. Stetson's hats quickly gained popularity among cowboys and ranchers due to their durability and style.
Straw Cowboy Hat Materials and Construction
Straw cowboy hats are typically made from woven straw or similar lightweight, breathable materials. Some of the most common materials used include:
Shantung straw: A high-quality, durable straw made from paper rolled into yarn, resulting in a smooth and lightweight hat. Shantung straw hats can be single or two-toned in color.
Bangora/Bangkok straw: Also known as Bandera straw, Bangora hats are machine-woven from paper yarn, making them tough, long-lasting, and great for everyday wear and ranch work.
Palm leaf: A traditional material used in the construction of cowboy hats. Palm leaf hats are woven from tightly-bound palm leaves, resulting in a soft, pliable hat that can be easily reshaped when wet. They offer a laid-back, casual style.
Sisal straw: Made from the strong fibers of the Agave plant, sisal straw hats are durable and good-looking, commonly used for cowboy hat bodies.
Jute straw: Crafted from natural jute fibers, these hats are airy, lightweight, and feature small holes in the weave for excellent breathability in hot weather.
The straw is woven into a tight, dense pattern to create a sturdy yet flexible hat body. The brim and crown are then shaped using steam and pressure to achieve the desired style. The weave tightness, or "X-factor," indicates the quality of the straw hat, with higher X-factors (e.g., 15X or above) denoting a more tightly woven, higher-quality hat that better retains its shape when wet.
Straw Cowboy Hat Styles and Variations
Straw cowboy hats come in a variety of styles and variations, each with its own unique characteristics:
Cattleman
The classic cowboy hat style with a tall crown and wide, slightly curled brim.
Gus
A shorter crown and wider brim than the Cattleman, often with a more pronounced curl.
Gambler
A low, flat crown with a wide, flat brim, reminiscent of the hats worn by old-west gamblers.
Pinched Front
A style featuring a crown with a pinched front, creating a distinctive ridge.
Open Weave
Featuring a thicker, more casual texture and often an open crown for ventilation, these hats are perfect for outdoor activities like fishing or barbecues.
In addition to these styles, straw cowboy hats can also vary in terms of brim size, crown height, and decorative elements such as hat bands or embellishments.
Colors of Straw Cowboy Hats
Straw cowboy hats come in a range of colors, with natural and neutral tones being the most popular:
Natural/Neutral Tones
Bone/Ivory, Sand/Tan, Natural, Pecan, Whiskey/Light Brown. These earthy tones are versatile and help reflect heat, keeping the head cooler.
Black
A popular choice for a dressier, more formal look.
Brown Shades
Chocolate, moss green, and buckskin are rugged options that pair well with workwear.
White
A classic summer color that provides a bright, clean look.
Popular Brands
Several brands are known for their high-quality straw cowboy hats:
American Hat Company
Handcrafted, made-to-order hats using premium materials like straw, leather, and traditional western weave designs.
Resistol
Offers a wide range of styles and is known for good quality and reasonable pricing.
Stetson
An iconic brand renowned for their high-quality felt and straw hats.
Sunbody
Specializes in handwoven palm leaf cowboy hats that are durable and resilient.
Rodeo King: Recognized for their good quality straw cowboy hats.
Straw Cowboy Hat Etiquette and Care
Proper cowboy hat etiquette dictates that straw hats should be worn in warmer months, while felt hats are for cooler weather. It's considered respectful to remove your hat indoors, during the national anthem, at funerals, and when meeting someone new.
To ensure the longevity of your straw cowboy hat, proper care is essential:
Store your hat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use.
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove dust and dirt from the hat's surface.
If your hat becomes wet, let it air dry naturally away from direct heat sources.
Avoid placing your hat on its brim, as this can cause it to lose its shape over time.
Conclusion
Straw cowboy hats are more than just a fashion accessory; they are a symbol of the American West and the rugged, independent spirit of the cowboy. With their combination of style, functionality, and history, these hats continue to be a popular choice for those seeking to embrace the Western lifestyle or simply add a touch of timeless style to their wardrobe. Whether you opt for a classic Cattleman style in natural straw or a modern interpretation with a unique color and weave, a straw cowboy hat is a versatile and practical addition to any hat collection.
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.