A Guide to Cowboy Hat Etiquette

The first cowboy hat in history can be dated back to the Mongolian horsemen as far back as the 13th century. But it was John B. Stetson who, in 1865, invented the traditional cowboy hat that you see worn in North America today. And with it, the guidelines of cowboy hat etiquette began to form.

The cowboy hat is a staple item in Western style, and although it's a great-looking hat that implies hard work and grit, there is much more to the cowboy hat than simply wearing it. There are specific rules to wearing a cowboy hat. If you're wondering how to wear a cowboy hat correctly, follow this guide from Pinto Ranch. We'll walk you through some of the most important do's and don'ts that'll have you tipping your hat the proper way.

Tips for Proper Cowboy Hat Etiquette

A cowboy hat is a personal item-an important one. You need to follow cowboy etiquette and standards if you wear one.

When Eating in a Restaurant-

The following are some of the cowboy hat rules for dining in a restaurant:

• When you go inside a restaurant, or any building, your cowboy hat comes off
• You can put your cowboy hat back on your head once inside a building if it is an informal occasion, but if it is formal, it stays off
• If you are eating a casual meal at a counter, you can wear your hat, but if you are sitting at a table in the restaurant, take it off
• When eating outdoors on the range or trail, it's perfectly acceptable to leave your hat on

Showing a Sign of Respect-

There are times that cowboy hat etiquette demands you remove your hat as a sign of respect, and these include:

• During the singing of the National Anthem, passing of the flag or Pledge of Allegiance-hold you hat over your heart during those solemn moments
• During prayer or when you are in a service
• When you are meeting someone for the first time, especially an elder
• When greeting a lady, tipping your hat is expected
• While attending an indoor wedding
• When attending an indoor funeral, or when the casket passes during a funeral procession
• When having a one-on-one conversation indoors, particularly with women, clergy, or elders, it's polite to remove your hat
  
  

How to Wear a Cowboy Hat for The Right Season

Cowboy hats today are made from fur-based felt or straw, or less commonly, from leather. Felt hats used to be worn in the winter to help protect the cowboy from cold and dampness. Straw cowboy hats were made for the summertime to protect from sun and heat. The needless fashion rule is to wear straw from May to Labor Day and felt for the time between (much like the "never wear white after Labor Day" rule). The better practice is to decide whether you should wear a felt or straw cowboy hat based on the weather. The straw hat is better for warmer weather, while the felt hat is best for cooler days to protect you from the elements.

Handling Your Cowboy Hat

Some people will remove it by the brim, but cowboy hat etiquette, tradition and best practice say to remove it by the crown. If you need to adjust your hat or take it off, place it down on the crown or use a hat rack. When you remove your hat or adjust it, whatever the reason, do not show the inside to anyone. The band and the inside of the cowboy hat are not for anyone to see but you. Also, avoid excessive bending or flexing of the brim or crown-this not only looks sloppy, but it also damages the shape of the hat over time.

Never Do This with Your Hat-

• Never wear your hat backwards. It's considered disrespectful and careless. Cowboy hats are designed with function and form-wear it as intended
• Never place your hat on a bed. This is a superstition deeply rooted in cowboy culture. It's believed to bring bad luck, and even if you're not superstitious, it's safer to avoid it. Hats are delicate-they can get crushed or lose shape if left on soft surfaces
• Don't cock your hat too far forward or backward. Your hat should sit level and centered on your head for a respectful and balanced look

Use Good Technique

Cowboys are taught to always use both hands when putting on or removing a cowboy hat. It's a subtle show of care and respect for the hat-and it keeps the shape intact. Also, when traveling, store your hat properly in a hat box or carry it by the brim with care.

Wear a Cowboy Hat That Fits Properly

A cowboy hat demands respect for the person wearing it. If you are wearing a cowboy hat that is too big for you, it will make you look silly, and it will get knocked off easily. If the cowboy hat is too small, it will be uncomfortable to wear and make you look squished. You wear a cowboy hat when you are working, riding horses, plowing fields, cleaning barns and doing other laborious tasks, so you need it to fit you well. You can purchase a hat that is already shaped or unshaped. When you want a customized look, un-creased hats with open brims are the way to go. If you have no specified crease style, hat shapers recommend beginning just outside your eyes to prevent the "taco" look. Decide on the hat crease you want before purchasing and wearing a cowboy hat.

Final Thoughts: It's About Respect

Cowboy hat etiquette is about more then just manners-it's a sign of respect for tradition, yourself, and the people around you. Every tip of the brim, every removal of your hat at the right time, shows that you understand and value Western heritage.

Explore Our Collection for The Perfect Cowboy Hat

Pinto Ranch searches the world to bring you a premium collection of men's and women's felt and straw cowboy hat brands. Whether you're working the ranch or walking downtown, do it in style-and with respect. Shop for your perfect cowboy hat now.