Straw vs Felt Hats

Western hats are iconic for a reason and a well-chosen hat does more than protect you from the weather. They offer sun protection, structure, and unmistakable country style. But with different crown shapes, brim widths, and materials available, knowing which one to choose can make all the difference. 

This guide breaks down the differences between straw cowboy hats and felt cowboy hats, helping you make the right decision. Ultimately, the answer depends on season, climate, and intended use, and we'll discuss what you need to know so you can choose the right hat for you. 

Straw Hats

Straw hats are woven from natural plant fibres, usually shantung, bangora or toquilla (Panama) straw.

Straw cowboy hats are highly breathable, making them the best choice for hot and humid climates. The open weave allows airflow, keeping your head cooler than other materials and they are much lighter than felt hats, which enhances comfort during long wear. 

Straw hats are Australia's go-to choice during the warmer months. The combination of lightweight and air circulation creates unmatched comfort during peak heat.

Felt Hats

Felt is the matting of fur or wool with water and chemicals to make a pliable format that can be moulded and shaped into various shapes. That's why felt hats hold their shape well and provide excellent protection.

Beaver fur has always been the gold standard for excellence and durability in hat materials, with its burred, long fibres and natural oils giving it a clean, tight mesh and resilience to weather and wear. Rabbit fur is also popular due to its great cost-to-value ratio. Wool felt offers the most accessible price point without compromising quality.

Felt blocks wind and rain and holds the heat generated by the head, keeping you warm and dry. That's why felt western hats are ideal for cooler weather. The material also maintains its shape better than straw, resisting crushing and retaining its form during handling and storage.

The refined appearance and versatility make felt hats suitable for both work and dress occasions. They are often seen at formal western events, rodeos, and weddings and with proper care, felt cowboy hats can last for decades.

Direct Comparison: Felt Hats vs. Straw Hats

Felt and straw hats are both timeless and practical. Each style has its distinct advantages, and to help you make the choice, we've created a comparison table:

The Best Hat for Australian Conditions

The Aussie climate creates specific hat requirements. With the intense summer sun, straw western cowboy hats are the clear choice. Straw allows your head to breathe in the relentless heat, and its lightweight construction keeps you comfortable during long days outdoors.

Straw hat buying guide:

• Choose quality straw for the best performance. 
• Tighter weaves offer better sun protection while maintaining breathability. 
• Wide brims provide maximum face and neck coverage against harsh UV rays.

For cooler months, Aussie felt hats perform better. Felt is built to block the chill and carry you through long autumn evenings, frosty mornings, and winter workdays. Australian winters may be mild compared to those in northern climates, but they still require some insulation – especially in the country. With felt's warmth and weather resistance, you can cope with the cold.

Felt remains the safer choice for formal events. Regardless of season, felt cowboy hat options are more appropriate for weddings, evenings out, and social gatherings. 

Choosing Your Western Hat

Straw hats for summer and felt hats for winter and formal occasions – that's the basic rule. However, your personal choice may depend on other factors:

• Work requirements: Outdoor workers in summer need breathable straw hats. Station hands wear felt year-round, responding to the changing climate, with cold country mornings and searing hot days. If your work involves variable conditions, felt provides more versatility.
• Formal wear: A black felt cowboy hat is a safe bet for any occasion. If you’re going to western events or professional gatherings, you need at least one quality felt hat.
• Budget considerations: Straw hats are more affordable, making them accessible entry points, but felt hats are more versatile. There are many options for every budget, so you can find the perfect one without breaking the bank.
• Personal comfort: Some people prefer felt's substantial feel, and others find straw's lightness more comfortable. Try both types to find your preference.
• Storage and care: Both types need proper care. Straw demands more careful storage and handling, and felt requires gentle cleaning and protection from direct heat and moisture.

Get Your Western Hat at Titley's: Felt or Straw

Both straw and felt hats are classic western staples. Straw western cowboy hats excel in hot weather thanks to their breathability and lighter weight. Felt cowboy hats provide warmth, weather protection, and versatility for cooler months and special occasions.

At W. Titley & Co, we stock quality hats from the best western brands. You can choose from a wide variety of shapes and colours, explore various hat accessories, and buy complete hat care solutions, including hat carriers, brushes, cleaners, stretchers, and more.

Browse our hat collection to find straw and felt hat options that work for every season and occasion.