Cowboy Hats and More

Style is important, but fit is critical. Ever notice how well a cowboy’s hat stays on during rodeo events?  Even bull riders rarely loose their hats.  Of course, all hats go flying sometimes, but a good snug fit is essential … and it all starts with proper measurement.  Quality hats keep their size and shape. Here are a few tips on how to make sure that you choose the right size for your your head.

* Measure around your head approximately one finger above the ear and one finger above the eyebrow.
* Measure without any free space.
* Pull measuring tape comfortably snug. Remember, your hat will fit only as tightly as you measure.
* Note the inches and determine the right size using the sizing chart of the brand you intend to buy.
* If your measurement falls between sizes, choose the next largest size.
* To get the right fit, Measure Carefully!

A loose fitting hat is annoying and may blow off easily. If only a small adjustment is needed, placing cardboard or Styrofoam behind the hat’s inner band in the front and rear can sometimes correct the sizing.

Similarly, hats that are too tight may be stretched … a small amount.  Professional hat makers/ shapers can sometime make minor adjustments of one size or less. 

The key is to get the size right the first time. Always pull the measuring tape snugly against your head. Take measurements when your hair is in its usual condition. That is, if your hair is usually thick & curly, don’t measure your hat size when it is thin and straight for a special occasion (unless of course, the hat is for that special occasion).