FAQ
Q: How to buy a sun protective hat?
A: To be sure you are purchasing the right hat to protect against the sun, The Headwear Association recommends the following tips to consumers:
Size - A hat with a minimum 2 1/2" brim can provide adequate sun protection for the neck, face and ears.
Shape - Hat shapes that protect better against ultraviolet radiation (UVR) are ones that curve down to follow the contours of the head and neck.
Material - The material of a hat should be lightweight and breathable. Fabric should be a closed weave straw, raffia, cloth, or felt.
Q: How do I know what style looks good on me?
A: Generally speaking, the dimensions of the hat should fit the person. Looking in the mirror with the hat on - using the brim as a dividing line - there should be as much hat above the brim as there is face below it. The width of the brim should be narrower than your shoulder width.
Q: Where do I wear the hat on my head?
A: The angle of the hat on your head is as personal as your handwriting. If you've never worn a hat before & I handed you three different styles to try, you would unerringly place each hat in the same position on your head. We call this your "hat signature".
Q: How do I tell the front of the hat from the back?
A: Inside most hats there is a small white bow. The bow always goes in the back when the hat is on your head.
Q: How should my hat fit?
A: It should be comfortable; never headache tight. Hats always shrink over time. They do not stretch. Always start out a bit big, not small.
Q: How do I set my hat down when not wearing it?
A: The correct way to set your hat is upside-down. The curve of the sides and the dip in the brim will be preserved.
Q: How do I handle my hat?
A: Pick your hat up by the brim. Put one hand on the front of the brim & the other on the back. Gently, place in position on your head. Reach in to the "Break" (the right angle where the crown & brim meet) to adjust and "settle" the hat. Remove your hat the same way.
Q: Why do some hats look the same as others but cost so much more?
A: The quality of the material makes the difference. Quality is directly related to toughness & weatherability. A good hat can be worn out in the rain in place of an umbrella. You won't get wet and the hat won't lose shape. Let a wet hat dry normally. Quality hats can withstand much wear & tear.
Q: How long will my hat last?
A: Straw hats, cloth hats, leather & wool hats are meant to be replaced annually or every few years if worn on a daily basis. High quality felt hats properly cared for can last for many many years.
Q: How often should I have my hat cleaned?
A: Only some hats can be cleaned. Structured cloth hats, straw & leather cannot be successfully cleaned. They are meant to be replaced periodically. Better felt hats should be cleaned "as needed".