Horse Riding Hat Your horse riding hat or western hat is the crowning piece to your ensemble when you enter the show ring. They come in a variety of sizes and colors so choosing one can be a little difficult. Below we will take a look at the western hat, the different types of western hat, how to best color match to your show outfit, and how to care for your hat. If you have any questions about this process, this article can help to answer some of them.
The Western Hat The western horse riding hat is the type of hat you picture when you think of a cowboy or cowgirl aboard a horse. A true symbol of the west and western style. It is also a piece of western show clothing that is required for showing in classes such as western pleasure and horsemanship. The western hat is built with a higher crown and wider brim. According to the history of the western hat, the broader brim served to provide some shade from the sun. The high crown provided insulation to a rider on horseback.
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Different Types Modern western horse riding hats are made of a fur-based felt, straw, and sometimes leather. You will definitely notice that felt hats are the most commonly used at horse shows. You might see straw hats being used, but when showing in more competitive shows felt hats are the norm for western pleasure, horsemanship, trail, and western riding. You will see more straw hats being used in some halter and games classes such as barrel racing and pole bending, but not always. The felt hats are easier to shape for showing and come in a wider variety of colors. They also add a classy and clean look to your overall appearance in the show ring.
Color Matching You can find western horse riding hats in almost any color under the sun. However, just because you can find it doesn't mean you should buy it and wear it in the show ring. If you have a red colored outfit or rail shirt, you don't want to top it off with a red western hat. Your best bet is to stick with neutral colors. There are a variety of beiges, tans, and creams to choose from. You also can find the ever popular black hat and even shades of white. The lighter color hats require a little more care so as not to get it dirty when putting it on and taking it off. Keep in mind the shade of your skin tone and make sure to choose as shade that compliments you as well as your outfit.
Care & Shape Your horse riding hat will need care to maintain its condition and shape. How well you care for your hat will has a direct influence in how long it lasts you. You may want to invest in a hat box or carrier which will serve to protect your hat and help it keep clean and shaped. You also want your horse riding hat cleaned on regular intervals especially during show season. Having your hat shaped regularly is also very important. Shaping is where steam is used to place creases in the brim of the hat to give it a crisper look for showing. Some felt hats will also hold their shape better than others.
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