A Fun Video we made one Friday Afternoon….

Why Felt Hats Still Matter

Long before technical outerwear or performance fabrics defined personal style, hats served a simple purpose: protection from the elements.

Growing up in Australia, the felt hat was everywhere. My first real introduction came through the iconic Akubra, a brand deeply connected to life in the Australian countryside and Outback. Whether on farms, at race meetings, or simply worn day-to-day, hats weren't fashion statements - they were tools that eventually became symbols of identity.

I remember when my Dad bought me my first Felt Hat. I would have been about eight years old and it was right before we went to the Country Music Festival in Tamworth, Australia and to my first concert – none other than the iconic Australian, John Williamson.

Over time, that appreciation stayed with me.

Today, whether traveling internationally, working outdoors, or simply looking for something timeless, a well-fitted felt hat remains one of the most versatile pieces someone can own.

Getting Comfortable on Camera

This video was originally created just for fun - stepping briefly away from strategy decks and Zoom calls to share something a little more personal.

Like many executives, I'm far more comfortable behind the scenes than in front of a camera. But personal interests often tell stories professional bios cannot. Hats, craftsmanship, and heritage brands represent something consistent across my career: an appreciation for products built with purpose and longevity.

So consider this less of a tutorial and more of a conversation.

Fit Comes First

The most important rule with felt hats is simple:

Fit determines everything.

A properly sized hat should:

• Sit comfortably without pressure points
• Stay secure without needing adjustment
• Rest naturally above the ears
• Feel balanced rather than tight

Many people abandon hats because their first experience involved poor sizing. Small adjustments using steam, shaping, or internal sizing bands can completely transform comfort.

Shaping: Making the Hat Your Own

Unlike mass-produced accessories, felt hats are meant to evolve.

Brim shape, crown style, and curvature often reflect personal preference rather than strict rules. Over time, subtle reshaping allows a hat to become uniquely yours.

That individuality is part of the appeal.

A well-worn hat tells a story - travel, weather, work, and experience all leave their mark.

Brands That Continue the Tradition

Several brands continue producing exceptional felt hats rooted in craftsmanship and heritage:

• Akubra - Australian durability and Outback heritage
• Stetson - American icon with generations of history
• American Hat Makers - Modern craftsmanship with classic influence
• David Morgan - Longstanding importer of Australian Brands into the US Market

Each represents a slightly different interpretation of the same idea: functional design elevated through tradition.

Why Timeless Products Endure

In an era dominated by fast fashion and rapid trend cycles, products that improve with age stand apart.

Felt hats fall squarely into that category.

They reward care, develop character, and remain relevant regardless of season or geography. Whether worn practically or stylistically, they connect craftsmanship with personal expression.

Final Thoughts

This post - and the accompanying video - isn't about becoming a hat expert.

It's simply about appreciating well-made things, understanding their history, and occasionally sharing the interests that sit outside professional life.

Sometimes leadership, travel, and personal identity intersect in unexpected ways.

For me, a felt hat has always been one of them.