I've always loved the look and feel of a good cowboy hat. It’s more than just an accessory; it's a statement. But living in a place where the weather can change in an instant, I've often wondered how to keep my favorite hats protected from the elements, especially rain and snow. I've learned a lot through trial and error, and I want to share my experiences with you.
I remember one particularly brutal day. I was working an outdoor event, and a snowstorm rolled in. My trusty cowboy hat did its best, and it kept me warm and relatively dry during my 10-hour shift. I was walking around most of the time. It made me think, though: was I doing enough to protect it? Was there a better way to keep my hat in good shape, even in harsh weather? I started researching different materials and treatments, determined to find the best way to keep my hats looking great.
I discovered that the material of your cowboy hat makes a huge difference in how it handles the rain. I spoke with a hatter, and he explained that felt hats are naturally water-resistant because of the felting process. The higher the beaver fur content, the better it is at repelling water. Even wool felt hats can handle light rain. This was great news, as I have a few wool felt hats that I wear frequently.
However, I also learned that even the best felt hat can only withstand so much. Prolonged exposure to heavy rain can still damage the hat's shape and structure. That's when I started looking into other options for serious weather protection.
Here are a few solutions I've found that work well for me:
This is probably the simplest and most effective solution. I keep a hat poncho in my car's glove box, just in case. It's basically a waterproof cover that fits over your hat, protecting it from the rain. It's not the most stylish option, but it gets the job done. I found it to be a lifesaver during unexpected downpours. It's a simple and affordable way to ensure your hat stays dry.
I also have a dedicated rain hat that I don't mind getting wet. I treated it with a waterproofing spray to give it extra protection. There are many different waterproofing sprays available, but I've had good luck with products like Camp Dry. It's easy to apply and really helps to repel water. Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully and apply it in a well-ventilated area.
For prolonged periods in heavy rain, I've found that oilskin hats are the best option. Oilskin is canvas that has been treated with oil, making it waterproof. These hats are durable and can withstand a lot of abuse. They might not have the classic cowboy hat look, but they're incredibly practical. I’ve seen some people swear by leather hats, but those need to be treated with chemicals to make them water-resistant.
I also learned more about the difference between beaver and rabbit felt. Generally, the more beaver fur in the felt, the better it will do in the rain. Pure rabbit felt will do okay, but beaver is definitely the superior choice for water resistance. However, beaver felt hats can be quite expensive.
I came across one opinion that said if you need a hat condom to keep your hat from being destroyed in the rain, then you don't own a real cowboy hat. While I understand the sentiment, I think it's important to protect your investment, especially if you have a high-quality hat. It's all about finding the right balance between style and practicality.