There is perhaps no more iconic symbol of Western culture than the classic cowboy hat. An extension of a cowboy or cowgirl's personality and a deeply revered personal item, cowboy hats as we know them today have been around since the mid-1800s.
And while they're worn as a Western fashion statement just as often as they are by proper cowboys, believe it or not, there is actually such a thing as cowboy hat etiquette. Many people consider wearing cowboy hats a rite of passage, and when worn properly, it both shows and earns respect.
So what exactly are these unwritten cowboy hat rules? Let's spell ‘em out.
Where You Can and Cannot Wear Your Hat
You can wear cowboy hats just about anywhere, for any occasion. However, there are places and situations where you should remove it, even if only for a moment.
Generally, you should take your hat off whenever you go inside. It doesn't matter if it's a casual setting like a restaurant or school or somewhere more formal, like a party — if you walk inside, your hat comes off. Depending on the place, you may be able to put it back on, but sometimes, it may need to stay off. In most cases, you can wear your hat indoors for casual situations, and you should leave it off for anything leaning formal.
There are a few exceptions, and you may find regional variations. For example, in some areas, you may not need to remove your hat when you enter a hotel lobby to check in or take the elevator to your room. Likewise, some people keep their cowboy hats on while at their bank. If you're in a new place or aren't sure, read the room, as the saying goes, to determine what's acceptable.
No matter where you are, you should also remove your hat during the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, and prayer.
Don't Forget to Tip
In addition to knowing when to take your hat off, there are also some cowboy hat rules about when you should tip it up off the forehead. Be sure to tip it as a sign of respect and acknowledgment when meeting someone new and saying goodbye, almost like a silent "pleasure to meet you." You should also tip your hat if someone thanks you, such as for opening a door for them.
There's a Correct Way to Handle Cowboy Hats
Historically, proper cowboy hat etiquette dictates that hats should be handled only by their crown. Not only does this help your hat retain shape, but tradition holds that no one other than its owner should see a hat's inner lining and band.
Handling a cowboy hat from the brim is more likely to result in it getting misshapen over time, so if you are going to hold it there, such as to adjust it on your head, be sure to use both hands on the front and back and go easy on it.
Proper Storage for Cowboy Hats
Just like there's a right way to handle a cowboy hat, there's also a right way to store it. When you take a cowboy hat off, it should never be placed right-side up, on the brim. Instead, it should be hung on a hat rack or placed on a flat surface upside-down, on its crown. This protects your hat and helps it keep its shape.
Hat Styles Are Seasonal
If you've ever wondered when to wear a felt cowboy hat versus a straw one, this particular cowboy hat rule is for you.
The term "felt hat season" refers to cooler months, from fall through early spring. Felt hats provide warmth and protection from cold elements, so it's most practical to wear them when it's cool.
Similarly, "straw hat season" refers to warmer months, generally from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Straw is significantly lighter and more breathable than felt, so it's more comfortable to wear during the summer.
Note that in areas with more extreme climates, there isn't necessarily a felt hat season and straw hat season. In warm, dry regions like the South and Southwest, it's common for people to wear straw hats year-round. Likewise, many people prefer to wear felt hats all year in cold and wet climates.
Another thing to keep in mind, regardless of season or weather, is that straw cowboy hats are more casual. Wear a felt hat for more formal events.
“A Man's Hat is His Castle”
It's just a proverbial saying, but it holds some serious weight here. One of the most important cowboy hat rules, if not the most important, is that you never touch someone else's hat — and you certainly don't put it on your own head. Ever. Some people consider this superstition, some associate it with long-standing tradition, and others probably think it's silly. In any case, it's a crucial aspect of cowboy hat etiquette.
Walk the Walk in an Authentic Cowboy Hat From Tecovas
Now that you know the rules, from proper handling to when to wear a straw cowboy hat like The Cattleman, it's time to put them to use. Treat yourself to a handmade cowboy hat, complete with an original shape and satin lining with custom Tecovas artwork.
While you're at it, be sure to browse our selection of Tecovas cowboy boots, apparel, and accessories for a tried-and-true Western look worthy of a second glance.
And ladies, cowboy hat rules don't just apply to men. Wear yours well (our hat options work great for cowgirls, too!), and complete the look with Tecovas women's boots, jeans, and other head-turning pieces today.