Why Straw Cowboy Hats Are Best for You

If you are into Western stuff and fashion, then straw cowboy hats should always be included in your wardrobe. You can not be a cowboy without the hat. It is one of the most essential accessories that will make you look hip, rugged, and stylish.

These hats have a long and rich tradition. Their history can be traced back as early as 1800s during the heydays of the Texan and Mexican rancher ‘Sombreros’. But in 1860, the fabled John Batterson Stetson started popularizing the much smaller but extremely stylish straw hats and felt ‘sombreros’ for the rugged cowboys.

The famous cowboy hats therefore were born and adopted not just by cowboys but the cavalry units of the United States. Today, these hats are not only used for their extreme functionality. They are also one of the most stylish headpieces suitable for men and women.

Top 3 Benefits of Cowboy Straw Hats

Hats made for cowboys are made from different types of materials. There are felt hats, suede, and genuine leather. But hats made from straw offer innumerable benefits for the wearer.

First of all, straw is a cheap material. So you can expect that your hat would be much cheaper too. A cap or a hat made from straw will look stylish and bold and you do not have to spend too much to get a good piece.

Second, straw cowboy hats are very comfortable because they are breathable. Remember, these hats are made by weaving multiple straw strands. The final product therefore will have plenty of air vents that will keep your head cool.

And lastly, a straw hat for cowboys provides excellent protection against the punishing heat of the sun. They can block sunlight to protect your head and eyes. Straw strands may look thin and flimsy; but if woven into a hat, the material becomes rigid and tough. Your hat will help prevent heatstroke and will give you a more comfortable time under the sun.

Choosing the Best Types of Cowboy Straw Hats

Like most outdoor hats in the market, a cowboy headpiece comes in different varieties. First you have the Raffia hat. This version is made from Raffia straw which can be found in Africa and Madagascar. This straw variety is somewhat rare nowadays. Raffia made hats therefore can be a bit more expensive. The good news is that Raffia straw is highly flexible, sturdy, and does not crack when dry.

One of the most popular varieties of hats for the modern cowboy is the Panama hat. Contrary to popular belief, this hat did not originate from Panama. It was created first by Ecuadorian hat makers. The people of Ecuador shipped the special hats to North America via Panama.

A Panama hat is well built and extremely stylish. It is suitable for both men and women and can last for many years of rugged use. It is one of the most durable types of hats and can offer excellent protection against the sun.

Finally, you have the Shantung straw hat. Almost 60 percent of all cowboy hats today belong to this category. The Shantung variety is much cheaper but offers greater durability and strength.


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