In the world of Western wear, the cowboy hat is more than just a fashion statement—it's a piece steeped in tradition, function, and even a bit of superstition. Whether you're a seasoned hat wearer or considering your first purchase, understanding the unwritten rules of hat etiquette can help you wear your cowboy hat with confidence and respect.
Wearing Your Hat Correctly
One of the most fundamental aspects of wearing a cowboy hat is ensuring you have it on correctly. It may seem obvious, but many people inadvertently wear their hats backward. Here's how to tell:
- The buckle, tie, or ribbon should be on the left side when looking down from the crown
- When you flip the hat over, you'll typically find a bow or seam at the back of the sweatband.
- If adding decorative elements like feathers, traditionally, these go on the left side (though some Canadians place them on the right).
For beginners who want a balanced and timeless look, we recommend the Justin Series with it's low cattleman crease hat that’s easy to wear and fits nearly any style.
Seasonal Hat Selection
The traditional rule is straightforward:
Memorial Day to Labor Day: Wear straw or palm leaf hats for hot weather
Labor Day to Memorial Day: Switch to felt hats for cooler months
While this isn't a rigid rule, it makes practical sense. Straw hats provide better ventilation during hot summer months, while felt hats offer more warmth when temperatures drop. If function matters to you, let the weather guide your choice.
For summer, check out the Backroads— lightweight, vented, and rodeo-ready.
Formal occasions (weddings, funerals, church services): A clean felt hat is most appropriate. Try the Yellowstone Felt for a dignified, classic look.
Casual gatherings: Straw hats work well, especially for outdoor events. Palm leaf is even better in extreme heat because it wicks heat and sweat away from your head and dissipates it through the crown, so it keeps you cooler than other straws. Check out the Palm Collection.
Hat Etiquette: When to Remove Your Hat
For men, there are several situations where removing your hat is considered proper etiquette:
- In church, during the national anthem, and during prayer
- At the dinner table
- When meeting someone new, particularly ladies or elders (though this practice varies regionally
Interestingly, most of these rules don't apply to women wearing cowboy hats, as women's hats are traditionally considered more of a fashion accessory than a functional piece.
Want a versatile felt that transitions from rodeo to Sunday service? The Big Sky is a top choice.
Proper Hat Handling and Storage
How you handle and store your hat speaks volumes about your respect for Western traditions
- Store your hat on its crown, not the brim
- When temporarily setting your hat down, try to find a clean, safe surface
- If someone asks you to hold their hat, handle it with minimal contact—place a few fingers inside the crown without gripping tightly
- Never touch someone else's hat without permission (this is considered highly disrespectful in Western culture)
- NEVER store your hat on the dash of your vehicle or on the back seat. Heat and humidity can warp the material very quickly
Cowboy Hat Superstitions
Like many aspects of Western culture, cowboy hats come with their fair share of superstitions, so here are several that we feel are important "rules."
- Never place your hat on a bed: This supposedly brings bad luck. Some say this tradition began due to practical concerns about lice or other parasites
- Don't store your hat brim-down because supposedly this "pours out your luck". Superstition aside, It also flattens the brim and can mess with the nice curve you’ve chosen for the brim shape
- Keep decorative elements on the left side of your hat, a tradition with military origins
Finding What Works for You
While these traditions provide a solid foundation for wearing and respecting the cowboy hat, regional variations and evolving cultural norms mean you can adapt these guidelines to suit your personal style and circumstances. The most important aspect is showing respect for the hat itself and the cultural heritage it represents.
Finding the perfect cowboy hat isn't just about style—it's about understanding the rich traditions that make this iconic headwear so special. Whether you choose straw or felt, knowing how to wear, handle, and respect your hat will ensure you look and feel authentic in your Western wear.
Not sure where to start? Explore our full Gone Country Collection and use our 'Find Your Fit' Guide to ensure your hat feels as good as it looks.