The Iconic Style and History of the Tall Crown Cowboy Hat

The History and Style of Tall Crown Cowboy Hats

Cowboy hats have been an iconic part of American Western culture and fashion for over 150 years. The tall crown cowboy hat, in particular, first emerged in the 1860s during the time of America's Wild West expansion and cattle drives.

What Makes a Tall Crown Cowboy Hat

Tall crown cowboy hats are distinguished by their distinctive high peaked crowns. Traditionally, these crowns could stand as high as 6 to 7 inches tall. The tall crown allowed cowboys to use the hats to store small items, keep the sun off their neck, and use the brim to shield their eyes from rain or sunlight.

Other key elements that define a tall crown cowboy hat include:

• A wide stiff brim, usually 4 to 5 inches
• A pronounced front slope on the brim called a "Carlsbad" style
• A tall tapered crown that stands erect
• A leather hat band or "sweat guard"
• Often made from materials like felt or straw

Origins on the American Frontier

Tall crowned hats grew in popularity on the American frontier because the provided better functionality under harsh weather conditions. Key events that increased demand included:

• Cattle drives of the late 1800s, where cowboys needed shade from the sun
• The Gold Rush of 1849, where miners and prospectors wanted durable waterproof hats
• Settlement of the Western territories, where homesteaders and ranchers wore them working outside

The Stetson Hat Company and companies like Miller, Boss of the Plains, and Bulls Eye helped popularize and manufacture the iconic style.

Signature Styles

There are a few specific types of tall crown cowboy hats that have become the most synonymous with Old West fashion:

• Gus Hats - Feature an extremely tall tapered crown of about 6 to 7 inches. Often seen on cowboys riding the range or rancheros of Mexico.
• Gambler Hats - Have somewhat lower domed crowns around 5 to 6 inches tall. Favored by old west outlaws, gunslingers, and traveling gamblers in the 1800s.
• Carlsbad Hats - Named after the steeply curved front brims popular in Carlsbad, New Mexico. The crown was 5 to 6 inches tall.

Key Parts of the Tall Crown Hat

Quality tall crown cowboy hats like those made by companies such as Stetson, Justin, and Resistol are assembled from specialized components to achieve their signature look and function:

• Peak - The very top of the crown that juts up and out.
• Nape - The small sloped section at the bottom rear of the crown.
• Sweatband - Usually made of leather, it protects the wearer's forehead from hat leather dye.
• Wire Brim - Thin springy wire sewn into edges of the brim to help keep their shape.
• Crease - Groove or indentations front and back to strengthen and shape crown.
• Brim Fold - Where the front brim naturally folds back and up on high quality hats.

Caring for a Tall Crown Cowboy Hat

Like any treasured item, tall crown cowboy hats should be properly maintained and stored to preserve their condition and investment value over time. Here are some useful care tips:

General Storage Advice

• Avoid direct sunlight exposure when not wearing
• Store in a hat box or specialized cabinet with ample headroom
• Allow the hat to rest flat when stored or shipped to prevent crown deformation
• For travel, use a stiff hat case that prevents the crown from collapsing

Regular Cleaning Best Practices

• Gently brush frequently with a soft brush to prevent dust buildup
• Wipe sweatbands clean after each use
• Spot clean minor stains with a small amount of soapy water
• Have the hat professionally cleaned once a year at a hat shop

Taking the time to properly care for a tall crown cowboy hat helps retain its sculpted rugged elegance for decades and makes it something to one day pass down as an heirloom.

The Lasting Popularity of Tall Crown Hats

Tall crown cowboy hats continue to be sought after by ranchers, rodeo stars, country singers, and cowboy action shooters keeping the spirit of the American West alive. Beyond their functionality, these hats also clearly project a sense of independence, toughness, and romantic frontier nostalgia.

Both vintage 1800s tall crown Stetsons and modern interpretations from quality hat makers sell for premium prices to collectors and cowboy lifestyle enthusiasts. Thanks to the rich history and unmistakable silhouette, these tall cowboy hats will always have a place representing the freedom and adventure of the Old West.

FAQs

What is the difference between a tall crown and a regular cowboy hat?

The key difference is the height of the crown. Tall crown hats have a crown measuring 5 inches or taller, sometimes up to 7 inches. Regular cowboy crown hats are shorter, usually 4 inches tall or less.

Why were tall crowns popular for old west cowboys?

The extra height provided additional sun shade and allowed cowboys to store small items inside the crown during long cattle drives. The taller crown also improved water runoff during rains.

What materials are best for a tall crown cowboy hat?

High quality fur felt or finely woven straw that is weather resistant yet breathable are ideal. Premium brands use specialized fur blends and techniques to create durable, long lasting tall crown cowboy hats.

Are tall cowboy hats still popular today?

Yes, both vintage and new production tall crown cowboy hats are sought after by ranchers, rodeo competitors, country music stars, and old west history enthusiasts. They remain a fashion symbol of the American frontier.