Living in a place with unpredictable weather, I've learned that having the right gear is essential. And for me, that often includes my trusty cowboy hat. I love the look and the feel, but I've always wondered about wearing it in the rain. Can a cowboy hat really stand up to a downpour? I've done some experimenting, and here's what I've learned about keeping my head dry and my hat in good shape.
I remember one particularly brutal day. I had a 10-hour shift, and it decided to snow... heavily. For about 8 hours, I was walking around outside, and my cowboy hat was my only real protection. It did a surprisingly good job of keeping me warm and dry, but it got me thinking: what makes a hat good for the rain, and how do you take care of it afterward?
I decided to do some research, and I even talked to a hatter who's been in the business for years. One of the first things I learned is that felt hats have a natural water resistance because of the felting process. The tighter the felt, the better it will repel water. And the higher the beaver fur content, the better it gets. Even wool felt hats can handle a little bit of water, but they're not ideal for extended exposure.
I discovered that the type of material really matters. Hats made of beaver fur are generally considered the best for wet conditions. Beavers, after all, spend a lot of time in the water! Rabbit fur is another option, and while it's not quite as water-resistant as beaver, it's still a decent choice. Wool felt is okay for light rain, but it's not going to hold up in a heavy downpour.
For prolonged periods in heavy rain, I've found that an oilskin hat is a great option. Oilskin is canvas that's been treated with oil, making it highly water-resistant. Some people also swear by leather hats, but they need to be treated with special chemicals to make them waterproof. I haven't tried leather myself, but I've heard good things about them.
I also came across a handy tip: a hat poncho! It's basically a little raincoat for your hat. I keep one in my car's glove compartment, just in case. Another idea is to have a dedicated rain hat – one that you don't mind getting wet. You can even apply a coat of Camp Dry to it for extra protection.
Speaking of staying warm, I recently came across a really cute hat that I think would be perfect for those chilly days when you want to stay cozy and stylish. I saw this Japanese Little Devil Handmade Striped Knitted Pullover Hat. It's not exactly a cowboy hat, but it's so adorable I had to mention it! It’s a great option for everyday wear, especially if you want to add a touch of fun to your outfit.
I love that it's handmade and has those cute cat ears. It’s perfect for keeping warm in the winter, and the lace-up design adds a unique touch. Wholecustomdesign has some really unique items, and I appreciate the quality of their handmade products. While it's not a replacement for my cowboy hat in a downpour, it's definitely a fun and practical addition to my winter wardrobe.
So, you've worn your cowboy hat in the rain. Now what? Here's what I've learned about taking care of it: