You’ve just bought a brand-new cowboy hat. It looks great, but after wearing it for a while, you notice a sharp, uncomfortable pain on the side of your head. What’s going on? Is this normal? And most importantly, how can you fix it?
Let’s talk about why this happens, how to make your hat more comfortable, and how to prevent future headaches—literally.
Why a New Cowboy Hat Might Hurt
Cowboy hats, like shoes, often need a bit of breaking in. The pain on the sides of your head typically comes down to one of three issues:
- Fit Issues
A cowboy hat that’s too tight will squeeze the sides of your head, causing discomfort. On the flip side, a loose hat might shift and press awkwardly in certain areas. - Stiff Material
Many cowboy hats are made from stiff materials like felt or straw, especially when they’re new. Until the material softens with wear, it can create pressure points. - Improper Shape
Every head is different. If the hat’s crown isn’t shaped to match your head’s contours, it can create uneven pressure, leading to pain.
How to Fix a Cowboy Hat That Hurts
The good news? You don’t have to suffer in silence! Here are some tried-and-true ways to make your cowboy hat more comfortable:
1. Check the Size
- Measure Your Head: Use a flexible tape measure to find the circumference of your head, just above your eyebrows. Compare this to the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
- Adjust the Fit: Many cowboy hats come with an internal sweatband you can adjust. If your hat feels too snug, consider stretching it slightly (more on this below).
2. Stretch the Hat
- Hat Stretchers: Invest in a good hat stretcher. These tools are designed to gently expand your hat, giving it a more comfortable fit.
- DIY Method: Place your hat on a round object (like a bowl) slightly larger than your head size. Leave it for a day or two to loosen the fit.
3. Soften the Material
- Steam It: Hold your hat over a pot of boiling water or use a clothing steamer to soften the material. Be careful not to overdo it—just a little steam will make the hat more pliable.
- Work It with Your Hands: Once steamed, gently reshape the hat with your hands to mold it to your head.
4. Add Padding
- Foam Inserts: If your hat is slightly too big but still causes discomfort, use foam strips under the sweatband to improve the fit.
- Hat Sizing Tape: This sticky tape can help create a custom fit and reduce pressure points.
5. Visit a Hat Specialist
- Many western stores or hat shops have professionals who can reshape or resize cowboy hats. If DIY fixes don’t work, consider this as an option.
Tips for Preventing Future Discomfort
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, try on cowboy hats in person. Walk around the store to ensure a comfortable fit before purchasing.
- Choose Quality Hats: Higher-quality hats often have better construction and materials that mold to your head over time.
- Break It In Slowly: Wear your new hat for short periods at first, gradually increasing the time as it conforms to your head.
- Store It Properly: Keep your hat on a flat surface or a hat stand to maintain its shape.
When to Seek Help
If you’ve adjusted your hat and it still causes significant pain, it might be time to revisit the store. Most reputable retailers offer resizing services or exchanges if the hat simply isn’t a good match for your head shape.
Final Thoughts
A cowboy hat should feel like an extension of your personality—stylish, bold, and most importantly, comfortable. If yours hurts the side of your head, don’t give up! With a few adjustments and a little patience, you can break in your hat and enjoy it pain-free.
So, grab your hat, make those tweaks, and get ready to rock that classic cowboy look in comfort. Happy trails!
