The cowboy hat is a token of cowboys, ranchers and rodeo athletes. It represents the legacy of the agriculture industry in the U.S. To say the least, there’s more to the cowboy hat than a cap for your head. It’s a first impression and a symbol of respect.
Throughout history, the cowboy hat added footnotes in daily etiquette– a list of unspoken rules to owning the symbol of cowboys and a showcase of manners.
Gentlemen, Always Tip your Hat when Introducing Yourself to a Lady
As a sign of respect, gentlemen should always tip or remove their hats when introducing themselves to a lady.
Always Set it Down on its Crown
You’ll spill the luck out if you don’t set your hat upside down on its crown. Setting a cowboy hat on its crown preserves the shape of your hat, for longer and better lasting wear.
Never Put Your Hat on a Bed
It’s an ol’ cowboy tale that if you put your hat on a bed, you’ll curse it and welcome bad luck to it.
Never Touch Someone Else’s Hat
A cowboy hat is a prized possession, one of the most personal items in someone’s collection. It not only carries the weight of tradition but also serves as a reflection of the wearer’s identity. Never touch a cowboy hat without their permission. Back in the old days, that was an invitation for a bar or bunkhouse fight.
Never Lose Your Hat in the Arena*
It’s not a good look for anyone to lose their hat, but especially in the arena. Some rodeo and horse show organizations will fine or penalize a contestant for losing their hat.
*Exception to most roughstock riders.
Always Remove Cover During the National Anthem and Prayer
Always remove your hat by holding it over your heart during the Pledge of Allegiance, the passing of a flag and the National Anthem. The same applies to prayer.
Take Your Hat Off at the Dinner Table
As a sign of respect to the host, the chef and to those you’re dining with, take your hat off at the table or while eating.
Remove Your Hat in Certain Indoor Settings
This principle is situationally dependent. An easy rule of thumb to follow is in formal settings, remove your hat inside, and in informal settings, you can wear it.
Pay attention to Felt versus Straw Season
Straw season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Felt season is from Labor Day to Memorial Day, but understand certain events call for felt.
At the end of the day, show the same respect to your cowboy hat that it represents. And remember, when the announcers give the call, always give a “Tip of your Resistol Hat!”
