Buying your first hat? Here’s how to avoid mistakes with our best tips 2025.
When you first visit a hat store you are overwhelmed with choices. Here we give our best tips for buying your first hat.
Content:
TIP 1) ASK YOURSELF, WHAT SEASON DO I NEED IT FOR?
First, ask the question what do I want to wear a cap or hat for? For some, it is for adding extra flair to their style, but people also forget that hats and caps are very practical.
Hats and caps are made specifically for certain warm or cold seasons, and that is no accident.
Hats and caps made for warmer periods are usually made of lightweight and breathable fabrics.
A stark contrast from the hats and caps worn during the colder periods. These are water and dirt repellent, but retain heat well.
So if you start with this question then you are already a lot further along.
TIP 2) TRY AS MANY MODELS AS POSSIBLE.
If you take the time to go to a hat store, take the chance to try on all the models available there at once. No matter how unusual the model, you will be surprised to find that you stand better with certain models than you initially thought.
You can find many guides about certain face shapes, the “do’s & don’t,” but I would consider them more as guidelines and not hard rules (don’t really like rules myself).
TIP 3) THE BEST OPTION, FOR ANY BUDGET.
Some marvel at how high prices can be, there is are several reasons why that may be. What is not always clear is why.
We list below some points what can determine the price:
- Rarity of material: cotton, for example, is cheaper than suede because it is easy to obtain and process.
- Labor intensive or complex to make: Something not always obvious or often overlooked is all the details and finishes that can add to the price.
- Brand: With some you determine a little extra for the name, but brands give the assurance of quality. So the price may be higher overall, but you can have more peace of mind that you are not buying a cat in the bag.
- Design: some designs are more difficult to produce, which increases the cost of production.
Now I want to emphasize that the highest price is not always the best option. This depends purely on what you are looking for or need.
For example:
Do you like having a hat that lasts a long time and is not shrink-sensitive? Then choose one in hair felt (generally more expensive than wool).
Want a sturdy hat that can take a beating? Then hats in wool are also an excellent choice and you will also save you money at once.
Now I also do recommend not just choosing the cheapest if you really really need a particular model.
Picture this: Your dermatologist recommends a hat because your hair is thinning and you can ‘t effectively rub the scalp in that spot because of the hair.
You have two options to choose from:
- Option A (More expensive, €50 more): Provides additional UV protection and is breathable.
- Option B (Cheaper): Provides less protection and is warmer.
Which one would you choose?
For me, the choice is clear: I would choose the hat that actually and optimally protects me, even if it is more expensive.
Of course, in a different context, the cheaper option may be the best choice, but always choose what is best for your particular situation.
TIP 4) ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS.
The person standing in a hat store cannot guess exactly what you are looking for or need. The best thing to do is to ask questions and you will see that it will be gladly answered.
Examples of questions to ask:
- I would like a cap but wear glasses, which model will keep it pretty much dry when raining?
- Often I sweat, but need a hat against the sun. Is a hat or a cap best?
- I like to see a hat, but I don’t want to appear too po-faced or sir-like. Which models are casual or for everyday?
TIP 5) THE RIGHT SIZE.
This is something I notice time and again with people who step into my hat store for the first time. They try on a model and think that a hat or cap must stretch to fit properly. (Don’t worry, I used to think this too!)
This is actually the worst advice you can give yourself. Imagine buying shoes that clip or pinch. Are you going to enjoy wearing them? Or will you get annoyed after a while and stop putting them on because of the pain and discomfort?
You run that exact same risk with a hat or cap that you buy too small. Some people even get a headache from it, and of course you get that (indeed: silly) stripe on your forehead.
My tip? Take a size wider. Then the hat falls nicely over your head instead of sitting on it. Not only does that look better, it wears much more comfortably.
“But what if it’s windy when the hat is a little loose?” I can hear you thinking now. (Yes, I can read minds 😉 ).
Well, I think it’s a little unnecessary to worry about that. After all, it doesn’t blow 24/7. And I always say: when the wind really wants it, everything blows away.
Here in Antwerp, we’ve even seen scaffolding flying off construction sites, so of course a hat can blow away (even if it’s tight). That’s why I think it’s more important for a hat to be comfortable. Otherwise we wouldn’t wear it, right? Comfort first!
CONCLUSION: The best hat for you is the one you like to wear.
If you do decide to go to a hat store, these Finding the ideal hat or cap requires some consideration. Keep these essential tips in mind during your search:
- Be Open-Minded and Experimental: Be open to trying different styles that you might not initially choose. Sometimes the biggest surprise is the best match!
- Ask Plenty of Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the salesperson anything about materials, fit and maintenance. Knowledge is crucial to making the right choice.
- Determine the Occasion and Style: Think about where and how you want to wear the hat or cap. Is it for everyday use, a formal event, or purely as a fashion statement?
- Consider the Season: Choose materials that are appropriate for the weather. Consider light fabrics such as straw or cotton for summer, and wool or felt for the colder months.
- Try on and Compare Different Models: Try on various models and sizes. The fit determines comfort and appearance. Decide only after a thorough fitting.
Hopefully these tips have helped you get started in selecting your first hat or cap. However, remember the most important thing: the perfect hat or cap is the one you like best and wear with pleasure and confidence!
Share this advice with anyone who could use some help finding the perfect headgear!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us by mail or phone and who knows, we might see each other in person.