Western Style 2025: The Seasonal Cowboy Hat Swap

From Felt to Straw: The Great Cowboy Hat Switch-Up

By Matthew Dillon Drikas

Every cowboy and cowgirl knows—when the sun starts hanging around longer, it’s time to make the switch. Felt hats get a break, and the straws take center stage.

This seasonal swap isn’t just about style—it’s about function, tradition, and living that cowboy life through all kinds of weather. And while the average person might treat hats like fashion accessories, a working cowboy knows they’re as essential as boots, spurs, or a saddle.

Felt Ain’t Just for Fashion

Yeah, felt hats are warm and cozy—and they’re great for those crisp fall mornings and long winter rides. But they’re built for more than just warmth.

A good felt hat keeps the rain off your face, the snow off your neck, and the wind from biting your ears. Whether you’re in the middle of a snow flurry or getting hit with sideways sleet, that brim has your back.

Working cowboys wear their hats like armor, and most won’t skimp on quality. You’ll see them riding in 40X or higher—hats made to last. Why? Because when you’re in the elements all day riding fences, doctoring calves, or loading up in the dark, you don’t want to mess with cheap gear.

Whether it’s your hat, your sunglasses, or your saddle, it better be durable and built for the job.

When It’s Time for Straw

Come spring and summer, though, things heat up—fast. That’s when it’s time to swap your felt for something lighter.

Straw hats are built to breathe. They’re lighter, cooler, and let that breeze flow while still blocking the sun. Most folks make the change around Easter and wear straw through Labor Day, but in hotter states, we all know it comes even sooner.

And let’s be real—nothing says cowboy cool like a well-shaped straw hat, dusty from the ranch or polished for a Saturday night out.

What’s Coming in 2025?

This year’s straw styles are looking sharp. Here’s a peek at what the top brands are rolling out:

• American Hat Company – Double-pressed and double-lacquered, their straw hats are tough and clean. Look out for bold vent patterns and tall crowns.

• Resistol – Blending classic rodeo style with fresh updates. Clean lines and crisp shapes.

• Stetson – Always a legend. 2025 features new bangora and shantung weaves with low-crown options for a sleeker look.

• Serratelli – Classic shapes with some of the finest finishes. Their quality is unmatched for the price.

• Rodeo King – Bringing big ranch energy with tall crowns and extra wide brims.

• Pro Hats – The newcomer that’s turning heads. Modern feel with old-school grit. Keep your eye on their limited drops and edgy shaping.

Final Word

Switching from felt to straw isn’t just about weather—it’s a rhythm of the Western way of life. For the working cowboy, it’s about function. For the fashion-forward, it’s about style. For all of us, it’s tradition.

So whether you’re out fixing fence or heading to a rodeo, wear it proud. And don’t be afraid to invest in the good stuff—it’ll pay you back every dusty mile.

What’s your go-to hat for summer 2025?

Tag us @TCRRanchWear—we want to see your crown shape, your band game, and how you stay punchy through the seasons.

Keep it Cowboy. Wear TCR. Stay Punchy!

— Matthew Dillon Drikas

TCR Ranch Wear