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What is a Stetson Hat?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A Stetson hat is a special type of cowboy hat manufactured by the Stetson Hat Company, today based in the American state of Texas. The distinctive design of the Stetson hat has become so iconic that many people use the term generically to refer to any sort of cowboy hat, although the Stetson company works hard to protect its trademark. Most hat stores, especially stores which offer Western-style hats, carry Stetsons, and they can also be ordered directly from the company.

This hat is named for John Batterson Stetson, a hat manufacturer who lived from 1830-1906. In 1869, Stetson founded a hat company in Philadelphia which started producing the distinctive high-crowned, wide-brimmed felts hats, and also revolutionized the hat making industry, becoming one of the first hat companies to mechanize.

Cornstarch, which can be used to soak up stains on Stetson hats.
Cornstarch, which can be used to soak up stains on Stetson hats.

There are a number of myths about the origins of the Stetson hat, most of which focus on the American West. In fact, the Stetson design was developed by a hat manufacturer in England, and licensed to Stetson. Christy's Hats, the original manufacturer, may have failed to capitalize on the design, but Stetson more than made up for it, developing an iconic hat which continues to be worn by cowboys and Western aficionados today.

A Stetson hat.
A Stetson hat.

Classically, the Stetson hat is made from felt which includes a high concentration of beaver fur. The felted design makes the hat waterproof, ensuring that the head and shoulders of the wearer will stay dry during inclement weather. The broad brim protects the eyes and face from the sun, and in a pinch a Stetson hat can be inverted and used as a water bowl for people or horses. The lining is often waterproofed to ensure that it will hold water securely.

the Stetson Hat Company was founded in Philadelphia.
the Stetson Hat Company was founded in Philadelphia.

Modern Stetson hats come in a range of colors and sizes, and they may be plaited from straw in addition to being felted. The company manufactures both dress and casual hats, along with made-to-order hats for organizations like the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, which has historically used Stetson hats in formal uniforms for some divisions.

When selecting a Stetson hat, it is important to try the hat on to make sure that it is a good fit. Stetsons can be cleaned with damp cloths and soft brushes, and in the event that a hat stains, talc or cornstarch can be used to absorb the stain and then gently dusted off. Stetsons should not be exposed to extreme heat or humidity, and they should be stored on their crowns so that the brim does not flatten. It is also extremely unwise and impolite to wear someone else's Stetson hat, as the hats conform to the heads of their wearers over years of wear, and an unfamiliar wearer may stretch the hat out of shape.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a BeautyAnswered researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a BeautyAnswered researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

danosteve

I have an old Stetson cowboy dress hat. What is it worth?

anon85722

I inherited my grandfather's Stetson about 15 years ago. I had it professionally cleaned and shaped. I was told it was of high quality, and worth about $600.00. How can I find out the true value of this hat?

green55forty

I have an old black derby hat. It is in very good condition and the interlining indicates that it is a stetson. Do you know of any way to find out when it was manufactured?

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    • Cornstarch, which can be used to soak up stains on Stetson hats.
      By: vadim yerofeyev
      Cornstarch, which can be used to soak up stains on Stetson hats.
    • A Stetson hat.
      By: Michael Flippo
      A Stetson hat.
    • the Stetson Hat Company was founded in Philadelphia.
      By: SeanPavonePhoto
      the Stetson Hat Company was founded in Philadelphia.
    • Many people pair a Western belt buckle with a Stetson hat.
      By: Nejron Photo
      Many people pair a Western belt buckle with a Stetson hat.