mid range

Atwood Hat Company

Traditional Texas hat making since 1920

Est. 1996📍 Frankston, Texas

At a Glance

Material Focus
Straw
Signature Crease
Cattleman
Fit Profile
Standard (Avg)
Price Range
$175 - $225

Western Authority Verdict

Atwood represents excellent value in the straw hat market, particularly for those seeking authentic Texas craftsmanship. Their straw cowboy hats—including popular models like the Lubbock, Cowtown, Cheyenne, El Paso, Dalhart, Stockyards, and Pendleton—are custom shaped by hand before shipping. The construction is solid and traditional with no gimmicks, just well-made hats from a family-owned Texas operation. Their standard fit works for most head shapes. For a quality straw hat without paying premium brand markup, Atwood deserves serious consideration.

What We Like

  • Exceptional value for quality delivered
  • Free custom hand-shaping before shipping
  • Nearly three decades of Texas hat-making heritage
  • Wide variety of popular straw models
  • True-to-size fit with minimal break-in

Room for Improvement

  • Limited felt offerings—primarily a straw brand
  • Less widely available than major national brands
  • Not as many retail locations for try-ons
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The Story

Atwood Hat Company has been crafting quality straw hats in Frankston, Texas since 1996, when Dick Atwood founded the company. For nearly three decades, the Atwood family has maintained their commitment to traditional craftsmanship while adapting to modern demands. What started as an operation serving local ranchers has grown into a respected name in Western wear, though they've never lost their family-owned character. Their longevity speaks to consistent quality—you don't survive decades in the hat business by cutting corners.

Craftsmanship

Every Atwood hat is hand-shaped before shipping, a service that many larger brands charge extra for. Their straw hats are constructed using time-tested methods, with careful attention to the brim curl and crown shape. The company takes pride in their finishing work—each hat is steamed and blocked to the customer's specifications at no additional cost. This personal touch is increasingly rare in an industry moving toward mass production.

“You don't survive 100+ years in the hat business by cutting corners.”
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Product Collections

Straw Hats

Premium Straw Collection

Various weaves

High-quality straw hats hand-shaped in Texas. Known for durability and classic Western styling.

$175 - $225

Popular Models

LubbockCowtownCheyenneEl PasoDalhartStockyardsPendleton
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Sizing & Fit Guide

Runs True to Size?

✓ YesAtwood hats run true to size for most wearers. Standard sizing from 6 7/8 to 7 5/8 available.

Break-In Period

Minimal break-in needed—hats are pre-shaped before shipping. Expect full comfort within 2-3 wears.

Head Shape Recommendation

Standard/average head shapes. Works well for most cowboys.

Long OvalRound Oval
Intermediate / Standard
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Weather & Durability

Rain Resistance

fair

Sun Protection

excellent

Durability

good

Straw hats excel in hot, sunny conditions. Not ideal for heavy rain—the weave can become misshapen if saturated. Great for summer ranch work and outdoor events.

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Care & Maintenance

  • Store on a hat rack or upside down on the crown to maintain brim shape
  • Keep away from direct heat sources—never use a hair dryer
  • Clean with a soft brush to remove dust and dirt
  • For stains, use a damp cloth and blot gently—never rub
  • Avoid getting excessively wet; if caught in rain, let air dry naturally
  • Professional cleaning recommended for deep stains
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Who Should Buy?

Best For

  • Cowboys seeking quality straw hats without premium markup
  • Summer ranch work and outdoor activities
  • Those who appreciate family-owned Texas craftsmanship
  • First-time quality hat buyers looking for value

Not Ideal For

  • Those seeking felt hats or year-round wear
  • Cowboys who prefer to try before buying (limited retail presence)
  • Those wanting ultra-premium luxury construction
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How It Compares

Compared to Stetson and Resistol straw hats at similar price points, Atwood offers comparable quality with the added benefit of free custom shaping. Where a Stetson might cost an extra $25-50 for hand-blocking, Atwood includes it standard. Against budget brands like Twister, Atwood delivers noticeably better construction and longevity, justifying the price increase for serious hat wearers.

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Where to Buy

Atwood Direct

online

Visit Website →

Order directly from the manufacturer

Local Western Wear Stores

physical

Check regional tack and saddle shops

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Customization Options

Free custom shaping before shippingVarious brim widths availableMultiple crown heights
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