How to Wear a Cowboy Hat Correctly (Guys & Girls)

Cowboy hats are a great accessory for both men and women. They can add style and personality to any Western outfit. Cowboy hats can be worn in a variety of different ways. In this article, we will discuss the best tips on how to wear a cowboy hat correctly. We will cover everything from how to shape a cowboy hat to how to size it properly. Check our guide on how to wear it while riding a horse. So whether you’re just starting out with cowboy hats or you’re looking for some new styling ideas, read our article first.

What Is a Cowboy Hat Called?

A cowboy hat is a type of wide-brimmed hat. It is typically made from felt, straw, or leather. It is most commonly associated with Western tradition and the cowboy lifestyle. The term “cowboy hat” was actually coined in the mid-19th century by cattlemen. Cowboys used hats to protect themselves from the hot sun and rain.

Today, most cowboy hats are still a popular fashion accessory for both men and women. They come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. It makes them versatile enough to wear in many different styles. Open brims and uncreased design bring a customized look. Cowboy hats look top-level when matching with a pair of leather cowboy boots and blue jeans. No matter if you’re a rider or a non-rider.


father and son of a cowboy

How to Shape a Cowboy Hat?

There are a few different ways that you can shape your cowboy hat. The way you choose will depend on your personal preference. As well as the style of cowboy’s hat that you are wearing.

If you have a broad-brimmed hat, you will want to curve the brim up at the front and back. This will help to keep the rain and sun off of your face and neck. Hat shapers advise curling the sides of the brim inward for a more stylish look. There’s a small bow on the inside lining that should be at the back of the head.

If you have a cowboy hat with a narrower brim, shape it more like a traditional fedora style. Curve the brim up at the front and back. Then pinch it together in the middle. This will give your hat a more rounded appearance.


How to Wear a Cowboy Hat With Long Hair (Guys)?

One option is to wear your hair in a braid or ponytail. This will keep it out of the way, and it will still look stylish. You can also use a headband or bandanna to hold your hair back.

Another option is to style your hair into a messy bun. This is a popular style right now. It will look great with your cowboy hat. All you need is some hairspray, bobby pins, and a brush. Simply pull all of your hair up into a high bun. Then spritz it with hairspray. Pin it into place using bobby pins. Brush your hair out to create a messy look.

Many men choose not to wear cowboy hats. Because they don’t know how to style their long hair around it properly. If you have long hair, the tips above will help you keep your long hair out of your face and look good.


couple horseback riding from behind overlooking

How to Wear a Cowboy Hat with Short Hair?

If you have short hair, there are also a few styling options for you. One option is to wear your hair in a pompadour. This will add some height to your hairstyle. And it will look great with a cowboy hat. You can also style your hair into a side part or quiff. These styles are both trendy right now so it’s worth considering.

Simply use some gel or pomade to style your hair into the desired shape. Then let it dry naturally. Don’t forget to apply hairspray for extra hold!


How to Wear a Cowboy Hat with Bangs?

Style your bangs away from your forehead. You don’t want your hair to fall into your face while wearing a cowboy hat. A good way is to wear bangs straight across your forehead. Another option is to sweep them to the side. This will help keep them out of your eyes. So you can safely ride a horse or do other activities outdoors.


How Should a Cowboy Hat Fit?

When you’re shopping for a cowboy hat, it’s important to get the right fit. A hat that’s too small will be uncomfortable. And a hat that’s too big will look silly. A cowboy hat should follow the natural shape of your head.

When you’re trying on cowboy hats, always remember these three tips:

  • the front of the hat should be two fingers above your eyebrows;
  • the back of the hat should fit snugly against your neck;
  • the sides of the hat should rest one inch or so below your ears.

Cowboy hats are shaped differently than other types of hats. So it takes a little practice to get them just right. Make sure the brim is pointing down in front and up in the back. This will help keep the sun out of your eyes. And it will protect your face from the wind.

To take your hat off your head correctly, use the bottom of the crown. Otherwise, you can end up with excessive creasing if using the top of the crown. Check the cowboy etiquette below to get what special occasions require a hat off.


brown cowboy hat hanging on farm fence

How to Measure for a Cowboy Hat Properly?

There are a few ways to find the right size cowboy hat. You can measure your head with a tape measure. Or you can use a piece of string to get an approximate measurement. Then, compare the measurement to the size chart on the cowboy hat’s packaging.

If you’re having trouble finding the right size, most stores will do free adjustments for you. So don’t be afraid to ask.

To find your correct size, measure the circumference of your head just above your eyebrows. Then compare this measurement to the following chart:

Hat SizeCircumference (inches)
X-Small19 ½ – 20½
Small20 ½ – 21½
Medium21 ½ – 22½
Large22 ½ – 23½
X-Large23 ½ – 24½
Cowboy hat size chart

If you fall between two sizes, we recommend choosing the larger size. Cowboy hats are meant to be worn loose so you have room to move your head.


How to Decorate a Cowboy Hat?

The cowboy hat is the iconic clothing of the North American cowboy and is still a fashion item. Now many DIY lovers and fashion bloggers also choose to use personalized pins, PVC patches, and other goods to decorate cowboy hats. These ingenious and chic accessories make the cowboy hat unique. At GS-JJ.com, you can customize PVC patch, pins, embroidered patches, and other items online, which can meet most people’s customization needs.

How to Wear a Cowboy Hat Correctly (Guys & Girls) cowboy boots, cowboy hat, riding hat, western riding, western style

How to Wear a Cowboy Hat While Riding a Horse?

When you’re riding a horse, it’s important that your cowboy hat stays in place. Otherwise, it could fly off and cause some serious injuries. Here are a few tips for keeping your cowboy hat in place while riding:

  • Make sure the fit is correct. A cowboy hat that’s too small will be more likely to fly off. While a cowboy hat that’s too large will be less stable.
  • Make sure the brim is turned down. The brim of your cowboy hat should be facing downwards. So it doesn’t catch the wind and blow away.
  • Use a chin strap. If all else fails, you can use a chin strap. It will keep your cowboy hat in place.

How to Wear a Cowboy Hat While Driving?

If you’re driving a car, it’s best to keep your cowboy hat off. It could obstruct your vision and cause an accident. However, if you must wear your cowboy hat while driving, here are a few tips:

  • Make sure the brim isn’t turned up. If the brim is turned up, it could obstruct your vision while driving.
  • Tuck the cowboy hat into your shirt. This will help keep it in place and prevent it from obstructing your vision.
  • Use a chin strap. A chin strap will help keep your cowboy hat in place while you’re driving.

The 10 Rules of Cowboy Hat Etiquette

There are 10 cowboy hat etiquette basic rules that you should follow to avoid looking like a rube:

  • Don’t wear your cowboy hat indoors.
  • Remove your cowboy hat when you’re eating or drinking.
  • Don’t put your cowboy hat on the back of your head.
  • The knot of the hat band is on the left side when wearing a hat.
  • Never tip your cowboy hat backward.
  • When sitting at the counter, you may keep your hat on.
  • The hat band should be hidden out from the public view.
  • Keep your hat off at an indoor wedding.
  • At the indoor funeral procession, keep your hat in your left hand.
  • Keep your hat off your head during flag-related events like the National Anthem.

Female Barrel Racer Making the Turn

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Your Cowboy Hat Says About You

A cowboy hat is a great way to show your personality and style. Here are just a few things that your cowboy hat says about you:

  • You’re confident.
  • You’re adventurous.
  • You’re proud of your Western heritage.
  • You’re stylish.

2. Where to Buy a Cowboy Hat?

You can buy cowboy hats at most Western wear stores or online. Be sure to try on several different hats before you make your purchase. Make sure you get the right fit. The best place to start is probably Amazon. Here are some tips for buying the perfect cowboy hat:

  • Make sure the hat fits well. A poorly fitting cowboy hat won’t look or feel good.
  • Choose the right color and style for you. There are many different colors and styles of cowboy hats to choose from.
  • Consider the climate where you live. If you live in a hot climate, you’ll want a hat made from lightweight materials. For a cold climate, you’ll want a heavier hat that will keep your head and ears warm.
  • Think about the activities you’ll be doing while wearing your cowboy hat. If you plan to ride a horse, buy a riding cowboy hat.
Mexican cowboys performing a dangerous horse stun

3. How Much Is a Cowboy Hat?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $300 for a quality cowboy hat. Prices for cowboy hats vary greatly. They depend on the materials used, the size of the hat, and the company that makes it. Genuine leather hats cost more than hats made from other materials. The average price for a leather cowboy hat is around $100. While the price for straw hats is usually around $30.

You can also find cowboy hats at flea markets and online auctions. But the quality may not be as good as a hat you buy from a store.

4. How to Clean a Felt Cowboy Hat Properly?

Felt hats should be cleaned regularly with a hat brush or a vacuum cleaner. You can also use a damp cloth to clean the hat if it gets dirty. Be careful not to get the material wet. As this may cause it to shrink.

Never put your cowboy hat in the washing machine or dryer. This will ruin the shape of the hat and damage the materials used to make it.

When you’re not wearing your felt cowboy hat, store it in a cool, dry place. Keep a felt hat away from direct sunlight. A cardboard box or a cloth bag are good places to keep the riding hat safe.

Straw Cowboy Hat on Display

5. How to Shape a Straw Cowboy Hat?

Straw cowboy hats can be reshaped by using steam. Hold the hat over a pot of boiling water. Allow the steam to penetrate the straw. Be careful not to get too close as this could burn you.

After reshaping the cowboy hat, let it cool down before trying it on. You may need to adjust the size using an elastic band or hairpins. In summer, consider a straw hat instead of a black hat.

6. How to Stretch a Cowboy Hat?

If your cowboy hat is a bit too tight, you can stretch it using boiling water. Boil a pot of water and pour it over the cowboy hat. Allow the hat to soak for about 30 minutes.

Afterward, remove the hat from the hot water. Reshape it while it’s still wet. Let the hat dry before trying it on. You may need to adjust the size using an elastic band or hairpins.


suede cowboy hat and rope

Cowboy Hats Revealed

A cowboy hat is a great addition to your wardrobe. It can enhance your style and protect you from the sun. By following these tips, you can make sure that your cowboy hat fits well and looks great.

When you’re riding a horse, make sure the cowboy hat fits snugly on your head. So it won’t fly off when you go for a ride.

When choosing a cowboy hat, size is important. You want to find one that fits comfortably but isn’t too tight or too loose.

There are many different styles and brands of cowboy hats available. So take your time and find the one that’s right for you. Check the rules of the cowboy hat etiquette so you wear it properly.