Straw vs Felt Cowboy Hats: What’s the Difference?

If you’re shopping for a cowboy hat, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to choose straw or felt. While both styles share classic western roots, they’re designed for very different conditions, seasons, and uses.

Understanding the difference between straw and felt hats can help you choose the right option for comfort, durability, and style.

Straw Cowboy Hats

Straw hats are most commonly worn in warm weather. They’re designed to be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable in heat.

• Better airflow and ventilation
• Lighter weight
• Comfortable for spring and summer wear

The quality of a straw hat is determined by the type of straw used and the tightness of the weave. Tighter, finer weaves generally indicate higher quality and better durability.

Straw hats are ideal for hot climates, outdoor events, and everyday summer wear. While they offer excellent ventilation, they are typically less water-resistant and less structured than felt hats.

Felt Cowboy Hats

Felt hats are traditionally worn in cooler weather and offer more structure and durability than straw hats. They are made from either wool felt or fur felt, with fur felt generally considered higher quality.

• Holds shape better over time
• More durable and structured
• Better protection from wind and light rain

Felt hats are well suited for fall and winter wear, formal occasions, and all-weather use. Compared to straw hats, felt hats are warmer and heavier, making them less comfortable in high heat but more versatile across changing conditions.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice depends on when and how you plan to wear your hat.

• Choose a straw hat for breathability and warm-weather comfort
• Choose a felt hat for structure, durability, and cooler temperatures

Many customers find that having both options allows them to rotate hats throughout the year while maintaining comfort and style.

The Bottom Line

Straw and felt cowboy hats serve different purposes, and neither is better than the other — they’re simply designed for different environments.

When choosing between the two, consider the season, climate, and how you plan to wear your hat. A well-made hat, regardless of material, should feel comfortable, look balanced, and suit your lifestyle.

Explore Our Straw Hat Collections

Ready to shop? Check out our different straw hat styles perfect for warm weather and everyday wear:

• Palm Leaf Straw Hats
• Bangora Straw Hats
• Shantung Straw Hats