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American Hat Makers’ Felt and Straw Cowboy Hat Review

Last updated: July 24, 2023

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

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If you’re a hat enthusiast like me, you’re probably always on the hunt for high-quality, stylish headgear. In this blog post, we’re delving deep into the world of cowboy hats, specifically focusing on the extraordinary pieces from American Hat Makers – their Felt and Straw Cowboy Hats.

American Hat Makers has been satisfying hat lovers for years with its exceptional designs and meticulous craftsmanship. Their cowboy hats are a blend of timeless fashion and functionality, offering a unique twist to traditional headwear. I was lucky enough to get my hands on both their Felt and Straw cowboy hats, and let me tell you, they’re impressive.

Choosing the right cowboy hat is more than just picking out a style you like; it’s about finding the perfect fit, selecting quality material that lasts, and opting for a design that reflects your personality. With the Felt and Straw Cowboy Hats from American Hat Makers, I believe I’ve found all these traits and more. In this review, we will examine these hats closely, offering you an in-depth look at what makes them special.

Picture of the Cattleman cowboy hat.
Cattleman Cowboy Hat by American Hat Makers

A Closer Look at American Hat Makers

Founded in the heart of California, American Hat Makers has been a trailblazer in the hat industry for over 40 years. It started as a small family business and has grown into a globally recognized brand, all while maintaining its core values and commitment to craftsmanship. What truly sets them apart is their passion for hats, mirrored in every piece they create.

American Hat Makers offers a diverse range of collections to cater to different tastes and needs. From the rugged Yellowstone Collection, echoing the spirit of the Wild West, to the sophisticated offerings in the Fedora Collection, there’s a hat for everyone. Not forgetting the star of today’s post, their Cowboy Hat Collection, which showcases a delightful mix of traditional and modern designs in materials ranging from leather to felt to straw.

Emphasis on Quality and Craftsmanship

One characteristic that’s consistent across all their collections is the emphasis on quality and craftsmanship. Every hat from American Hat Makers is a testament to their dedication to detail. The materials they use are carefully sourced, ensuring durability and comfort.

Each stitch and trim is meticulously done, transforming raw materials into masterpieces that not only look great but also stand the test of time. As a hat owner, this commitment to quality is something I truly appreciate.

cattleman cowboy hat

The Cattleman Felt Cowboy Hat Review

In the world of cowboy hats, few can rival the classic allure of a well-crafted felt hat. Today, we’re putting the spotlight on one such piece that’s become a personal favorite – the Cattleman Felt Cowboy Hat from American Hat Makers. Known for its iconic design and high-quality construction, this hat has much to offer.

First Impressions and Unboxing

As I retrieved the box housing the Cattleman cowboy hat from my front porch, a wave of eager anticipation swept over me. The hat was well-protected, underscoring the thoughtfulness in the packaging. My initial impression? The deep black felt looked exceptionally luxe and promised a quality experience.

Material Quality and Craftsmanship

The hat’s quality is evident the moment you touch it. The felt is thick and velvety, without any visible imperfections. Examining the craftsmanship, the neat stitches, and the flawless joining of the brim and the crown spoke volumes about the meticulous attention to detail. The metal emblem on the hat band added a classy finish.

Comfort and Fit

One of the stand-out features of the Cattleman is its adjustable inner band, a thoughtful touch that enhances its comfort. This hat isn’t just a one-size-fits-all; you can customize the fit to your preference, ensuring it sits comfortably without being overly tight. Even during extended wear, the hat remained snug and comfy.

Picture of the band around the Cattleman cowboy hat.

Styling and Versatility

Styling the Cattleman is a breeze. Its deep black color and timeless design make it incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with an array of outfits, be it casual or formal. Whether you’re channeling your inner cowboy or seeking an accessory to elevate your everyday look, the Cattleman proves to be a stylish companion.

Among all my cowboy hats, both straw and felt, this particular one has become my wife’s favorite. She’s particularly fond of the brim’s angle and the chic design of the hat band. She believes it suits me best.

Value for Money

While the Cattleman may come at a higher price point than some other hats, its value extends beyond the price tag. The top-tier material, the comfort of the adjustable band, the superior craftsmanship, and the style it offers all contribute to its value. This hat is an investment piece that promises longevity and timeless style, making it well worth the money.

Picture of the Bozeman straw cowboy hat by American Hat Makers.
Bozeman

The Bozeman Straw Cowboy Hat Review

When it comes to embodying the spirit of summer in a cowboy hat, the Bozeman Straw Cowboy Hat by American Hat Makers does it with style and comfort. This hat combines classic design elements with a high degree of craftsmanship and usability.

In this section, we will delve deeper into my personal experience with the Bozeman, from first impressions and unboxing to discussing its material quality, comfort, versatility, and value for money. So, if you’re seeking the perfect straw hat to round off your summer style, this review is for you.

First Impressions and Unboxing

As I unboxed the Bozeman Straw Cowboy Hat, I was greeted by its natural, rustic appeal. The straw’s texture and the intricate weave pattern lent it a robust and authentic cowboy hat look. One minor issue was a slight crinkle in the brim. However, a swift interaction with American Hat Makers’ customer service resolved the issue, and a perfect replacement was promptly provided.

Material Quality and Craftsmanship

Despite the minor initial hiccup, the Bozeman’s quality and craftsmanship were undeniable. The straw felt robust and sturdy, displaying a tight and consistent weave throughout. The craftsmanship was evident in the attention to detail – from the precise brim cut to the way the crown was formed.

Picture of the flexible headband in the Bozeman cowboy hat.
Flexible headband.

Comfort and Fit

The Bozeman proved to be as comfortable as it was stylish. The flexible inner band adjusted perfectly to my head, allowing a snug yet comfortable fit. This adaptability means the hat can fit a variety of head sizes without causing discomfort, a feature that enhances its appeal.

Styling and Versatility

The Bozeman’s charm lies in its classic yet adaptable design. The upturned brim, a design element my wife particularly adores, adds a unique style element. The natural straw color pairs well with various outfits, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities and summer events.

Value for Money

Given this cowboy hat’s quality, comfort, and style versatility, the Bozeman offers excellent value for money. The responsive customer service, as witnessed in my interaction, is an added bonus. It’s not merely a purchase but an investment in a long-lasting, stylish hat backed by a company that values its customers.

While my wife may favor the Cattleman on me, I personally have a soft spot for the Bozeman. Its year-round versatility, eye appeal, and exceptional comfort make it my top choice. In fact, I’m so taken with it that I plan to buy a few more as Christmas gifts for family members.

Picture of the dent in the brim of my cowboy hat.
Picture of the dent in the first hat.

Comparing the Felt and Straw Cowboy Hats

As we venture further into the world of cowboy hats, let’s focus on two popular variants that never seem to go out of style – felt and straw cowboy hats. Known for their unique characteristics and distinct aesthetics, these hats offer more than just sun protection.

Key Similarities

Despite being made of different materials, felt and straw cowboy hats share a few commonalities. Firstly, both types maintain the iconic high-crowned, wide-brimmed design that’s characteristic of cowboy hats, providing ample sun protection. Additionally, both styles offer the versatility to complement a wide range of outfits, from casual to formal, making them adaptable for various occasions.

Key Differences

The most apparent difference between felt and straw cowboy hats lies in their material, which significantly influences their aesthetics and utility. Felt hats, typically made from wool or fur, have a denser, smoother texture and a refined look, making them suitable for colder weather and formal occasions.

On the other hand, straw cowboy hats, crafted from woven plant fibers, exude a lighter, breezier appeal. They are perfect for warm weather and outdoor events, thanks to their breathability and sun-blocking ability. The texture and color of straw hats also lend a more relaxed, summery vibe.

Picture of riders on a trail ride wearing cowboy hats.

Choosing the Right Hat for You

Choosing between a felt and a straw cowboy hat largely depends on your personal style, needs, and the climate in which you’ll be wearing the hat. If you’re looking for a year-round hat that offers warmth and a bit of formality, a felt hat may be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you need a hat for summer outings or a laid-back style, a straw cowboy hat could be a perfect fit.

Remember, the best cowboy hat for you is the one that feels comfortable, suits your style, and makes you feel confident when you wear it. So, take your time to explore various options and find the perfect cowboy hat for you.

Conclusion

The Cattleman and Bozeman cowboy hats from American Hat Makers truly exemplify the company’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, superior material quality, comfort, and style versatility. While there was a minor hiccup with the initial delivery of the Bozeman, the company’s swift and efficient customer service ensured a positive outcome, underscoring their dedication to customer satisfaction.

Both the Cattleman and the Bozeman have their unique charm and usefulness. The Cattleman, with its luxe, felt, and adjustable inner band, is a hat for all seasons, whereas the Bozeman shines in the summer sun, offering style and comfort. In my personal experience, both these hats live up to the reputation of American Hat Makers, delivering value for money and adding a touch of timeless style to any ensemble.

Call to Action

I’d love to hear about your experiences with cowboy hats! Whether you’re a seasoned hat enthusiast or someone who’s just starting their hat journey, your insights are valuable. Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, and any favorite hat styles in the comments section below.

Miles Henry

About the Author: Miles Henry

Miles Henry is a lifelong horseman with over 25 years of experience owning and training Thoroughbred racehorses. He shares expert insights from his personal experiences growing up with horses, including Quarter Horses and Appaloosas, and currently owns seven Thoroughbreds in training.

Learn more about Miles Henry