Straw Cowboy Hats: Bargain Fashion

Strange are the ways of fashion! The protective headgear of the ranch-hand and ranch owner alike more than two centuries ago is still in vogue! Back then its purpose was entirely utilitarian. Today, it’s a style and fashion statement! This is the case of the straw cowboy hat.

The cowboy hat is a fashion statement and a fashion accessory in today’s fashion-conscious world. Cowboy hats are no longer rough and tough wear, reflecting the tough life of the ranchers and cattle herders. They have become elite symbols of an elite fashion culture. Ladies regularly don fashionably made up cowboy hats with a variety of beautiful designs.

Among all types of cowboy hats, the straw cowboy hat is by far the most popular. They appear to be the all time favorite of hobby gardeners. Tourists have their pictures taken in them. Going on a picnic? Don’t forget to carry your straw cowboy hat! Anything is a good enough reason to wear a straw cowboy hat, especially in the summer.

Do you know why straw is used in cowboy hats? It keeps the weight down. Wearing straw cowboy hats for a long time is not fatiguing at all. Then the woven design helps air to circulate inside the hat, thus keeping the head cool. The wide brim helps to keep the sun’s glare from your eyes. Your head is protected from the sun’s heat. The only drawback is that it doesn’t keep the rain from your head.

The straw that’s generally used for making straw cowboy hats is called toquilla straw. Of course other varieties of straw are used too, but toquilla is considered the norm. So when you’re out shopping for a straw cowboy hat, just check that the straw is toquilla or better.

Actually toquilla straw is made from the bark of a palm tree that is found in Ecuador. Ecuador and Panama are neighbors. So, most people call the toquilla straw cowboy hat a panama hat. Panama hats are so popular with gardeners that you can pick one up in the gardening section of any large store. Their popularity is often attributed to their price, which is very, very low.

To recap, a straw cowboy hat is a great looking piece of headwear! There’s a sense of history and nostalgia and romance all wrapped up in that li’l ol’ straw cowboy hat. It has matured into a high fashion accessory. Apart from the fashionablenss, straw cowboy hats are airy and cool to wear. They are light in weight. Best of all they are so very cheap to buy. Needless to say, the straw cowboy hat is able to function as a protective gear for your head and eyes.

To find bargain prices on straw cowboy hats go to www.DiscountCowboyHats.net. You’ll learn about the different kinds of hats available, and whether you are looking for felt, straw or leather cowboy hats, you’re sure to get one that will fit your needs and your head.