The History and Modern Appeal of Rude Hat Co. Western Cowboy Hats | 2023

The History and Appeal of Rude Hat Brand Hats

Hats have been an iconic part of cowboy and western culture for over a century. Wide-brimmed hats not only provided shade from the hot sun, but helped establish the legendary image of the American cowboy. While Stetson may be one of the most recognizable cowboy hat brands, Rude Hat Co. has also become a popular choice for those looking to add some western flair to their wardrobes.

The Origins of Rude Hat Co.

Rude Hat Co. was founded in the 1990s in Fort Worth, Texas by Frank Luchese. Luchese wanted to provide high-quality, unique hats at an affordable price point. The hats combined traditional cowboy hat shapes with modern and humorous embellishments. The name "Rude Hat" was chosen as a nod to the playful designs featuring phrases or images that might be considered a bit irreverent or edgy.

The hats quickly became popular regionally in Texas and then nationally as the brand expanded. Rude Hat Co. hats are now sold online and in western wear retail stores across America. The hats appeal to ranchers, rodeo enthusiasts, country music fans, and anyone looking to add some western spirit to their regular wardrobe.

Signature Hat Styles

Rude Hat Co. offers hats in various classic cowboy hat styles. Some of their most popular designs include:

• The Rancher - This cattleman crown hat comes in several colors with a classic crease down the center.
• The Gambler - A short-brimmed fedora style made of straw or felt.
• The Maverick - A tall cowboy hat with a shaped brim and custom band.
• The Desperado - A low-profile cowboy hat with a narrow brim.
• The Sheriff - A tall top hat style with a wide brim.

While the hat shapes stick to traditional cowboy silhouettes, Rude Hat Co. sets themselves apart with their unique bands and embellishments. Hat bands often feature ironic or humorous phrases that represent the carefree Rude Hat attitude. The company logo, a grinning cowboy with shades and a hat, can also be found on many of the hat bands.

Fun Features and Designs

In addition to the hat bands, Rude Hat adds playful details to many of their hats like:

• Contrasting hat brim bindings
• Leather or fabric hat patches
• Stud accents
• Pin attachments
• Bandana tie-ons
• Feathers
• Colorful hat brims

These small styling cues allow wearers to customize their hats and show off their personality. For example, a felt Gambler style hat could be accented with a vibrant hatband reading "Cowboy Livin'" across it or a set of cheeky enamel pins attached to the side.

A Hat for Every Personality

Rude Hat Co. also appeals to different types of individual styles and personalities. From reserved to flashy, they have cowboy hats to suit all types of preferences. Some examples of their hats catering to unique tastes include:

• Classic Solid - For the traditionalist, these more subdued hats focus on premium materials and fine details over flashy embellishments.
• Patriotic - Hat styles decorated with American flags, star motifs or red, white and blue details show off patriotic pride.
• Edgy - For those with a bit of an edge, hats use skull decals, distressed details, chains, and even mohawks down the center.
• Humorous - Many hats feature cheeky sayings like "Smart Ass" or "Grumpy Old Man" on the hat bands.

Rude Hat Co. also carries popular specialty licensed hats with college teams, John Deere tractors, alcohol brands like Coors Light, and more. Fans can rep their favorite brands alongside their cowboy hats.

High Quality Materials

Rude Hat uses quality materials like felt, straw, and leather to construct their hats. Felt hats hold their shape well, while woven straw varieties are lightweight and breathable for warmer climates. The cowboy hats are reinforced with buckram and wire to keep their silhouette.

Many of the felt cowboy hats come in both silverbelly and black fur felt options. Silverbelly has a lighter grayish hue, while black is a deep, dark black. Both materials are derived from rabbit fur and processed into durable felt. They also carry specialty options like palm leaf woven hats.

Cowboy Hat Care

To keep your Rude Hat looking its best for years, follow these simple care instructions:

• Brush regularly with a soft bristle hat brush to remove dust and dirt.
• Store in a hat box or on a wide brim hat stand when not wearing.
• Spot clean stains with a small amount of mild soap and soft sponge.
• Wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove sweat stains.
• Take to a hat professional for periodic steam cleaning every year or so.

Avoid getting harsh chemicals or water on your cowboy hat. Letting your hat rest and air out periodically will help the shape stay resilient.

Where to Buy Rude Hat

Rude Hat Co. hats can be purchased directly online through their website RudeHat.com. They frequently run sales and promotions to make their hats even more affordable.

Their hats are also carried by popular western wear retailers like Boot Barn, Cavender's, and Sheplers across the United States. Check your local country music apparel shop or family-owned ranch store as well.

Rude Hat can be conveniently found at many rodeo events and county fairs too. Their vibrant hat styles are easy to spot in a crowd.

Rude Hat for Every Occasion

While Rude Hat got its start crafting hats for real cowboys and cowgirls, their hats have mass appeal. They can dress up a plain outfit with some western flair. Rude Hat Co. hats are also popular for:

• Country concerts and music festivals
• Tailgating at college football games
• Rodeos and county fairs
• Bachelor or bachelorette parties
• Halloween or theme parties
• Family vacations or trips to dude ranches

Rude Hat offers an expansive selection of styles, colors, and designs so you can find just the right cowboy hat to complement your personality and outfit. Let your inner cowboy or cowgirl shine!

FAQs

What materials are Rude Hat Co. hats made from?

Rude Hat uses materials like wool felt, straw, palm leaf, and leather for their hats. The most common is fur felt made from rabbit fur that is durable and weather resistant.

Where can I buy Rude Hat Co. hats?

Rude Hat hats can be purchased online through RudeHat.com or retailers like Boot Barn, Cavender's, Sheplers, and other western wear stores across the U.S.

How do I care for my Rude Hat Co. hat?

Caring for your Rude Hat involves occasional brushing, spot cleaning stains, wiping away sweat, and taking it to a professional hatter for periodic steam cleaning. Store in a hat box when not wearing.

What is the fit and sizing for Rude Hat cowboy hats?

Rude Hat offers hat sizes from 6 3⁄4 to 8 inches to fit most heads. The hats include inner sweatbands that can be adjusted to help achieve a comfortable fit.

Can I customize my Rude Hat Co. cowboy hat?

Yes, many styles allow you to choose colors, bands, patches, and other decorative elements to customize your Rude Hat and make it your own unique cowboy hat.