5 Things to Look for When Buying a Fedora Hat for Men

Whether you’re just getting into hats or looking to expand your collection with a classic fedora, the array of options can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the choices and find the perfect fedora, here are five essential points to consider:

1. Material

The first thing to consider is the material. Much like clothing, hats have seasonal weights, so choosing the right material ensures you can enjoy your hat immediately.

Summer Hats: For warm weather, look for men’s summer fedora hats made from breathable materials like toquilla palm, raffia, and paper options such as toyo and shantung. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable in the sun.

Winter Hats: For cooler seasons, opt for felted materials like wool and rabbit fur, which are designed to retain warmth.

2. Crown

The crown shape is a defining feature of a fedora. Common types include:

• Crease Crowns: These have a tapered and narrow appearance, exemplified by the Belfry Stephano.
• Bubble Crease Crowns: Similar to crease crowns but with a more rounded top, like the Belfry Torres.
• Teardrop Crowns: These have a wider profile, such as the Stetson Stratoliner.

Try on different crown styles to see which one complements your look the best.

3. Brim

The brim of a fedora is another key aspect to consider:

• Classic Brims: Typically between 2 1/4″ to 3″ wide.
• Stingy Brims: These are 2″ or smaller.
• Wide Brims: A hot trend, these are usually 3″ or wider, such as the Belfry Arlo. Wide brims with added flair like pins and feathers can make a bold statement.

4. Fit

Fit is crucial and can be the trickiest part of selecting a fedora. The hat should be snug but not constricting. A well-fitting hat won’t easily blow off in the wind but should remain comfortable for extended wear. As a rule of thumb, there should be a finger-width distance between the brim and the tip of your ear.

The stiffness of the hat body also affects fit:

• Crushable Styles: Soft bodies with the most give, like the Belfry Agapito.
• Mid-Stiff Styles: Focus on shape presentation, such as the Belfry Santorini.
• Stiff Bodies: Offer minimal give, like the Stetson Roark.

For mid-stiff and firmer styles, try your usual size and one size up to see which fits best. Sometimes, a slightly larger hat can be adjusted with size reduction tape for a better fit.

5. Styling

Styling your fedora is where you can express your personality. Fedoras are traditionally associated with formal attire and make a great addition to a suit for any swanky event. A grosgrain ribbon band, either matching or contrasting, adds a touch of class without being overly flashy.

However, fedoras can also be an everyday accessory. A stingy brim like the Belfry Lecter can elevate a casual outfit, such as a t-shirt and shorts, adding a stylish touch without feeling overdone.

By considering these five points—material, crown, brim, fit, and styling—you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect fedora hat that suits your needs and enhances your look.