No, I’m not a Clint Eastwood worshipper. Though he does look damn good in a cowboy hat. I am a HUGE fan of these things, and it’s obvious by how often I’m spotted with one on my head. It simplifies that important the task of keeping your lovely face out of the sun, because it looks good no matter where you are, may it be the garden, the beach, the store, or even while bending around the hood.

I favor the Scala hats, in particular. It’s in the medium-price range ($50-$100), but you do get good quality for the price. It’s shapeable (very, very important so you can create your own ‘look’), and it’s made of lightweight toyo (very, very important so your over-heated head gets air). The Scala unisex shapeable toyo runway (shown) is one of my favorites because it is nice and simple. I really do not need bells and whistles on my cowboy hat. I’ll pass on the mariachi look, thanks.

Many of my friends wear cowboy hats too. To see photos, go to http://grenadefishing.com/main/the-cowboy-hat.html

When I lived in Texas, I never got into the cowboy look. Now I kind of like the occasional kicker accessory.

Everyone at Burning Man wears cowboy hats, and in this case, it's quite okay. The "me-too" factor does not apply here because it's simply a necessity. I never understood why cowboys wore these, but now I get it. It provides lots of shade, and it ventilates... whereas caps do not. They're comfy too. Scala has a ton of options. I own them in many colors, but I like my tan one the best. (Tip: Use old jewelry or belt to create a new band for your hat. Then you will not look like everyone else.) (via Kristine)