Cowboy Crowns: In Search of True West
A History of the Cowboy Hat
I have often wondered about the history of western style hats, what was the tipping point to the hats becoming such an intrinsic part of cowboy culture? Cowboys have deep historical roots, tracing back to Spain and the earliest European colonizers of the Americas in the 1800’s. Originating with Spanish settlers in modern Mexico, before becoming one in the same with the American West during the cattle drives of the 1800s. Since that time, the hat has become a true staple of the cowboy’s iconic image. It's hard to believe western hats are the most recognizable piece of western wear known to man.
John B. Stetson created the first western hat in 1865, called the “Boss of the Plains.” One might say the “Boss” in today’s world may be considered basic in design, with a round flat brim and a smooth rounded crown. John took fur from beaver and rabbit to create his hats as he knew these small animals could stand the test of mother nature and the elements. Over time, the cowboy hat has evolved to better suit the needs of its “owner” and took the shape of what we are familiar with today. As much as it is used in function, it is much more of a part of western fashion today. They say, “You don’t need to own cattle, or ride a horse, to own a western hat.” The cowboy hat is truly a traditional item of the west and can be worn by all.
When I think about some of my favorite characters back in the day, one famous gunslinger comes to mind - Billy the Kid. He is well known as the Teenage Outlaw of the Southwest and was often seen in photographs wearing a sugarloaf sombrero, but most of the time was pictured in his soft felt hat with a slanted crown. He also wore top hats as he sat around a table playing cards. You may wonder what I’m getting at with my love of Billy the Kid and his western hats. He set the stage for showing that you can wear a certain crown, based on your “style” as a western hat wearer. Choosing a crown often speaks to your personality and what message you want to convey to others. Like Billy, one of the most famous gunslingers in history, looking straight into the camera boasting a soft felt hat. If I were the most famous gunslinger, would I want a hat that appears soft and whimsical? Would you?
Styling your Cowboy Crown
Now the fun part. Let's define what I mean by cowboy hat styles: I am talking about a combination of factors: brim width and roll, crown shape, material, and even the amount of wear exhibited by the hat. What follows is the briefest overview and look into the world of cowboy hat styles.
Straw hats are for the summer months, felt for the colder months, and remember to pay attention to the crown in this article, the brim and material are an entirely separate animal. You can learn about the materials in our article about straw and palm hats.
The Cattleman Crown: This cowboy crown was once a status symbol. Originally worn by cattlemen as a way to designate ownership of cattle/ranches, this style has become the basic style of most cowboy hats today.
The Gus, or South Slope Crown: When people traveled less, crown creases developed so that they became endemic to their counties or locales, much like a dialect or language derivation. The Montana crease or Montana slope, was created on a Montana ranch and recast as "The Gus" by Gus McCrae in Lonesome Dove.
The Gambler or Telescopic Peak: This hat crown also finds a historical base in the late 80's and came to us from the Charros in Mexico. It's a lower crown that covers the head but lacks the additional space above which would normally trap hot air.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cowboy Hat Crown Shape
The crown shape of a cowboy hat should ideally compliment your God-given beauty, enhancing your features, and creating a balanced look. If you look in the mirror and all you see is a cowboy hat, reconsider the style. You should be able to look in the mirror and see yourself and how the hat compliments your features.
Round Face: Consider a hat with a pinch front crown that can help elongate your face, creating a more angular appearance. The pinch front crown adds height to the hat, making your face appear longer and slimmer.
Oval Face: Many are blessed with an oval face, which can carry off various crown shapes, from the classic cattleman to an open crown. Again, it's all about your personal preference.
Square Face: A shoo-in for an open crown. The open crown features a slight dip in the center which can help balance out a wider forehead and draw attention to the middle of the face.
Diamond-Shaped Face: Typically has a narrow forehead and chin, with wider cheekbones. A pinch front crown works wonders for this face shape by adding height and creating a more balanced appearance.
Want to learn more about how to size your hat and learn how they're shaped? Check out the video below!
https://www.forbes.com/sites/josephdeacetis/2020/05/17/one-hundred-years-in-the-making-american-hat-company/#7ad199d14e58
I see that you are looking to replace an old Atwood hat. Over the years I have had to retire and replace many hats, some of them I still wear even though they are well worn as my wife would say. So from one hat-guy to another, I would like to help you out with this.
When it comes to Atwood hats they do make a number of hats and some of their styles are available with a 5" brim, in fact the Maverick and the Nevada are a couple that come to mind. If you happen to know the style of hat you are looking for I would be happy to look into it for you.
Feel free to shoot us our Customer Service at North 40 an email and we can get that special order information over to you.
Thanks,
I owned on years ago.
Would like another.