Wool Fedora or Straw Fedora? There you are, standing in front of the mirror with two fedoras in hand. One’s a breezy straw number that screams “sunset beach walk.” The other? A sophisticated wool felt that whispers “downtown cocktails.” Both look great. Both feel right. But which one actually is right for you?
Straw Fedora
Wool Fedora
Here’s the truth: Choosing between wool vs straw fedora styles isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about matching the right material to your lifestyle, climate, and the adventures you’re planning. Since 1989, we’ve been crafting fedoras for True Characters who understand that the best hat isn’t the one that looks good in the store—it’s the one that performs when you’re actually living your life.
In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about mens fedora materials: how they perform in different seasons, which occasions call for which material, and how to style each one with that effortless California confidence. Whether you’re new to fedoras or building out your collection, you’ll walk away knowing exactly which hat belongs on your head.
Let’s dive in.
…and when you’re ready to shop:
Understanding Fedora Materials: The Basics
What Makes a Fedora a Fedora?
Before we pit wool against straw, let’s get clear on what we’re talking about. A fedora is defined by its pinched crown (that characteristic indentation running front to back), creased front, and medium-to-wide brim. It’s the silhouette that’s graced everyone from Sinatra to modern style icons—timeless, versatile, and undeniably cool.
But here’s what most people don’t realize: the material you choose transforms everything about how your fedora performs. It’s the difference between a hat that works with your day and one that fights against it.
The Two Main Fedora Families
Orange Small / Medium
Sage Large / Extra Large
Light Grey One Size Fits Most
Black One Size Fits Most
Straw & Natural Fiber Fedoras
When we talk straw, we’re talking about fedoras woven from natural plant fibers—raffia, toyo, palm leaf, and seagrass. These hats are constructed through a braiding or weaving process that creates a lightweight, breathable structure. You’ll recognize them by their textured, organic appearance and that satisfying rustle when you pick them up. Weight-wise, you’re looking at feather-light—often under 4 ounces.
Wool Felt Fedoras
Wool felt fedoras are crafted from compressed wool fibers (sometimes blended with fur felt for premium options). The felting process creates a dense, smooth material that holds shape like a dream. These hats have a refined, solid appearance with a soft hand-feel that gets better with age. Expect a medium weight—substantial enough to feel quality, but not heavy. For our complete collection of premium options, explore our wool felts collection.
Quick Comparison at a Glance:
| Feature | Straw Fedoras | Wool Felt Fedoras |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight (under 4 oz) | Medium (4-6 oz) |
| Breathability | Excellent | Moderate |
| Water Resistance | Poor | Excellent |
| Durability | Moderate (2-5 seasons) | High (10+ years) |
| Primary Season | Spring/Summer | Fall/Winter |
| Formality Range | Casual-Smart Casual | Smart Casual-Formal |
| Temperature Sweet Spot | 70°F+ | Below 65°F |
Now that you’ve got the foundation, let’s talk about when each material really shines.
The Seasonal Breakdown: When to Wear Each Material
Straw Fedoras: Your Spring & Summer Companion
Best Worn:
- April through September (adjust for your local climate)
- Temperatures consistently above 70°F
- High humidity environments where you need airflow
- Any outdoor activity where you’ll be in direct sun
Performance Benefits That Actually Matter
Straw fedoras aren’t just “summer hats”—they’re engineered ventilation systems for your head. The woven construction creates natural air channels that keep heat from building up, even when you’re standing in full California sun at noon. We’re talking superior breathability that means the difference between enjoying your day and counting down the minutes until you can take your hat off.
The natural fibers also provide built-in UV protection. While exact UPF ratings vary by weave density, you’re getting meaningful sun defense without the weight and heat retention of synthetic materials. And because straw is naturally lightweight, you can wear these fedoras for hours—think all-day music festivals, weekend hikes, or that entire afternoon you spend exploring a new coastal town—without pressure headaches or that “finally free” relief when you take it off.
Many straw styles also wick moisture away from your skin, which matters more than you’d think when you’re moving between air-conditioned spaces and outdoor heat.
Ideal Occasions for Straw
This is where your straw fedora lives:
- Beach trips and coastal vacations – The natural companion to salt air and sunset
- Outdoor weddings and garden parties – Dressy enough for the occasion, breathable enough to actually enjoy it
- Music festivals and summer concerts – Style that doesn’t sacrifice comfort when you’re on your feet all day
- Golf, hiking, and outdoor sports – Sun protection that moves with you
- Tropical travel – Pack light, stay cool, look put-together
Where to Find Your Straw Fedora
Looking for that perfect warm-weather fedora? Our Resorts collection is where California vacation style meets everyday wearability. These aren’t just hats—they’re your passport to that effortlessly cool, perpetually-on-vacation vibe, even if you’re just running errands on a Saturday.
Think of straw fedoras as your summer vs winter hats answer when the temperature climbs. When everyone else is complaining about the heat, you’re the guy who looks comfortable and composed.
Wool Felt Fedoras: Your Fall & Winter Essential
Best Worn:
- October through March (longer in cooler climates)
- Temperatures below 65°F
- Rainy, damp, or unpredictable weather conditions
- Urban settings where style matters as much as function
Performance Benefits That Prove Their Worth
Here’s the thing about wool felt: it’s one of nature’s smartest materials. The natural lanolin in wool creates water resistance that actually repels light rain and morning fog. Not waterproof—let’s be clear—but resistant enough that a drizzle won’t ruin your hat or your day.
Wool felt also provides real thermal insulation. That dense fiber structure traps warm air close to your head, creating a barrier against cold wind. We’re not talking about a winter beanie level of warmth, but enough to make a noticeable difference when you’re walking city streets in November or catching an outdoor concert in early spring.
The weight of wool felt is an advantage here too. While straw can blow off in a strong breeze, felt stays put. The structure holds up against wind, maintains its shape through weather changes, and naturally resists odors (thanks again, lanolin). Your felt fedora becomes more yours over time—conforming to your head shape, developing character, earning its place in your rotation.
Ideal Occasions for Wool Felt
Your wool felt fedora owns these moments:
- Holiday parties and winter weddings – Sophisticated style that handles indoor-outdoor transitions
- Business casual and professional settings – The polish that pulls an outfit together
- City exploration and urban travel – Function meets form on sidewalks and subway platforms
- Concert halls and indoor events – Dressy without being overly formal
- Fall outdoor activities – Apple picking, vineyard tours, anywhere autumn happens
Finding Your Perfect Felt
Our wool felts collection represents decades of refinement. These are fedoras built for style and weather—hats that perform as well as they look. And if you’re a traveler? Check out our crushable and packable options that spring back to shape no matter how you’ve packed them.
When people ask when to wear felt hat styles, the answer is simple: when you need your fedora to work as hard as it looks good.
The Transition Seasons: Spring & Fall Flexibility
The 60-70°F Sweet Spot
Here’s where it gets interesting. When temperatures hover in that perfect middle zone—those gorgeous spring mornings and crisp fall afternoons—either material works. Your choice comes down to:
- Event formality – Leaning dressy? Felt gives you edge. Keeping it casual? Straw feels right.
- Weather forecast – Rain likely? Felt wins. Clear skies? Either works.
- Personal comfort preference – Some guys run hot, some run cold. You know your body.
- Outfit coordination – What are you wearing? Let your clothes guide you.
Pro Tip from 35+ Years of Hat Making: During transition seasons, keep both materials in rotation. A straw fedora pairs perfectly with that linen blazer in April; a wool felt elevates your sweater game in September. Don’t limit yourself—these are the months where your collection gets to flex.
Material Performance Deep Dive
Let’s get specific about how these materials perform when life happens.
Weather Resistance Comparison
Rain & Moisture
Wool felt contains natural lanolin—the same oil that keeps sheep dry in the rain. This creates genuine water resistance. Light drizzle? Your felt fedora shrugs it off. Steady rain? It’ll hold up for a while, though you’ll want to let it dry properly afterward. The key is understanding it’s resistant, not waterproof. Don’t intentionally soak it, but don’t panic if you get caught in unexpected weather either.
Straw, on the other hand, is moisture’s enemy. Water causes the natural fibers to swell, warp, and potentially mold if not dried correctly. A few drops won’t destroy your hat, but consistent moisture exposure will shorten its lifespan significantly. If your straw fedora gets wet, reshape it gently and let it air dry completely—never apply direct heat.
Sun Protection
Both materials offer UV protection, but through different mechanisms. Straw’s woven structure blocks UV rays while allowing air circulation, making it ideal for extended sun exposure. The natural fibers won’t trap heat the way solid materials do.
Wool felt blocks UV rays effectively too, but that dense construction also retains heat. In direct summer sun, a felt fedora becomes uncomfortable fast. Save it for overcast days, shaded environments, or cooler temperatures.
Brim width matters for both materials—wider brims mean more facial protection. Look for at least 2.5 inches if sun defense is a priority.
Wind Resistance
Wool felt’s weight is your friend here. The substantial construction stays put in wind that would send a straw hat sailing. Good fit is still important, but felt naturally resists displacement.
Straw’s lighter weight makes it more vulnerable. A secure fit becomes critical—consider styles with adjustable sweatbands or chin straps if you’re in consistently windy environments. The upside? When you’re not fighting wind, that lightness is pure comfort.
Durability & Longevity
Straw Fedoras: The Seasonal Rotation Player
Expect 2-5 seasons from a quality straw fedora with proper care. The wear points to watch are brim edges (where handling causes fraying) and crown stress points (where creases deepen over time). Storage matters enormously—crushed straw doesn’t always recover.
But here’s the perspective shift: straw fedoras aren’t meant to be heirlooms. They’re seasonal expressions of style. That lower price point lets you refresh your look, try new shapes, and evolve your aesthetic without guilt.
Wool Felt Fedoras: The Long-Game Investment
A quality wool felt fedora can last 10+ years, easy. We’ve seen them go longer with proper care. The material is resilient to everyday wear, recovers from minor shape issues with simple steaming, and actually looks better as it develops patina and conforms to your head.
From a cost-per-wear perspective, felt makes sense for guys building a core wardrobe. You’re not replacing it every few years—you’re investing in something that becomes more yours with time.
Comfort Factors
Weight Distribution
Straw’s sub-4-ounce weight means you genuinely forget you’re wearing it. All-day comfort without pressure points or that distinctive hat-hair groove.
Wool felt’s medium weight (4-6 ounces) is still comfortable, but you’re aware of it. That awareness isn’t necessarily bad—some guys like the presence, the reminder that they’re wearing something substantial. Just know the difference exists.
Breathability Rankings
From most to least breathable:
- Straw (open weave, maximum airflow)
- Lightweight wool blends (thinner felt with some air permeability)
- Traditional wool felt (dense construction, minimal breathability)
In hot weather, breathability isn’t negotiable—it’s the difference between comfort and misery.
Break-In Period
Straw fedoras are ready to wear from day one. Minimal adjustment needed.
Wool felt benefits from a short break-in as the material conforms to your head shape. The first few wears establish the fit; after that, it’s like the hat was made for you specifically. Some guys love this personalization process—it’s your hat becoming yours.
Black/White One Size Fits Most
Tan One Size Fits Most
Grey One Size Fits Most
Style Versatility: Dressing Up & Down
Straw Fedora Outfit Formulas
Casual Beach Vibes
This is straw’s natural habitat. Pair with:
- Lightweight linen shirts (untucked, relaxed)
- Canvas shorts or rolled chinos
- Boat shoes, espadrilles, or clean white sneakers
- Color palette: Natural tones, whites, sky blues, soft corals
You’re channeling that “I might grab my surfboard later” energy even if you’re just hitting the farmer’s market.
Smart Casual Summer
Elevate the straw fedora without losing its laid-back soul:
- Chambray or Oxford cloth button-downs
- Tailored chinos or dress shorts
- Suede loafers or leather driving moccasins
- Premium polos (think quality knits, not golf course basics)
This is weekend brunch, daytime weddings, afternoon gallery openings. Polished but never stuffy.
What NOT to Wear with Straw
Avoid these combinations—they fight against the material’s inherent character:
- Heavy fabrics like flannel, corduroy, or wool trousers (seasonal mismatch)
- Dark winter color palettes (charcoal, deep burgundy, forest green)
- Formal business suits (the material clash undermines both pieces)
- Anything that screams “winter” in general
Color Coordination for Straw
Natural/tan straw is your versatile foundation—pairs effortlessly with earth tones, pastels, and warm neutrals. It’s the equivalent of a tan leather belt: goes with everything.
Darker straw (deep browns, tobacco tones) adds sophistication and pairs beautifully with navy, olive, camel, and richer color palettes. Great for guys who want straw’s benefits with a slightly more refined aesthetic.
Wool Felt Fedora Outfit Formulas
Business Casual Excellence
This is where felt fedoras prove their worth in professional settings:
- Sport coats (unstructured linen in spring, wool in fall/winter)
- Dress trousers or dark denim with clean lines
- Oxford shoes, brogues, or Chelsea boots
- Crisp button-downs or fine-gauge knit sweaters
- Optional: Knit ties for texture, pocket squares for polish
You’re the guy who looks put-together without looking like you’re trying too hard. That’s the felt fedora effect.
Smart Casual Fall/Winter
Everyday style that works from coffee runs to dinner dates:
- Chunky knit sweaters or merino crewnecks
- Dark denim or corduroy trousers
- Chelsea boots, desert boots, or quality leather sneakers
- Overcoats and peacoats when temperatures drop
- Layered looks with flannels and denim jackets
This is the formula for guys who understand that style is about consistency, not occasions.
Formal Occasions
Felt fedoras can absolutely work with suiting—when done right:
- Match undertones: Brown felt with brown shoes/belt, gray felt with black
- Ensure proportions work: Suit’s formality should match hat’s style
- Keep it intentional: A fedora with a tux is a choice—own it or skip it
- Context matters: Outdoor weddings, jazz clubs, and creative industries offer more flexibility
What NOT to Wear with Wool Felt
These combinations undermine the material’s sophistication:
- Athletic wear or gym clothes (leave the fedora at home)
- Shorts and sandals (temperature mismatch signals confusion)
- Ultra-casual beach attire (save that for straw)
- Tech-fabric performance gear (aesthetic clash)
Color Coordination for Felt
Black felt is your versatile weapon—works with nearly everything, skews slightly formal, perfect for evening wear and urban settings. Classic, confident, occasionally dramatic.
Brown/tan felt offers warmth and approachability. Pairs beautifully with earth tones, denim, and casual textures. This is your daytime fedora, your weekend explorer, your “I didn’t try but I look great” hat.
Gray felt is the modern neutral. Works across formality levels, coordinates with both warm and cool tones, and brings contemporary sophistication to everything. If you’re building a minimal wardrobe, gray felt is your foundation.
The Color Psychology: Hat Bands & Accents
Here’s where personalization lives. Your fedora’s hat band is the detail that sets you apart.
Matching vs. Complementary:
- Matching creates cohesion (brown band with brown shoes—clean, intentional)
- Complementary adds interest (navy band on tan felt—unexpected, memorable)
Seasonal Color Trends:
- Spring/Summer: Lighter bands, brighter accents, tropical-inspired patterns
- Fall/Winter: Rich browns, deep burgundies, classic plaids and herringbones
Personal Style Expression:
- Leather bands signal rugged sophistication
- Grosgrain ribbon offers preppy refinement
- Patterned bands showcase personality
- Feathers and pins make bold statements
The beauty of a fedora is that you can swap bands seasonally, creating multiple looks from one foundation. That’s style efficiency.
Care & Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment
A fedora is only as good as the care you give it. Here’s how to keep both materials performing at their best.
Straw Fedora Care
Cleaning the Right Way
Start with regular dry dusting using a soft-bristle brush or clean cloth. Brush in the direction of the weave to avoid snagging fibers. For most maintenance, this is all you need.
Spot cleaning requires caution. Use a barely-damp cloth with mild soap for isolated stains, working gently to avoid saturating the straw. Blot—never rub—and let air dry completely.
What to NEVER Do:
- Submerge in water (warping is nearly guaranteed)
- Use harsh chemicals or bleach
- Apply direct heat to speed drying
- Machine wash (do we really need to say this?)
Storage That Preserves Shape
Invest in a proper hat box—it’s not optional. Store your straw fedora upside down on its crown to prevent brim warping. If a box isn’t possible, use a hat stand that supports the crown without stressing it.
During off-season storage, choose a cool, dry location. Humidity is straw’s enemy. Avoid attics (temperature extremes) and basements (moisture). A climate-controlled closet is ideal.
Basic Repairs
Loose hat bands can be reattached with fabric glue applied sparingly. For brim reshaping, gentle steam from a kettle (held at safe distance) can soften fibers for minor adjustments. Anything beyond this level should go to a professional hat service.
Wool Felt Fedora Care
Cleaning Technique
Brush your felt fedora regularly with a dedicated hat brush, always moving counter-clockwise (with the nap of the felt). This removes dust, lint, and surface debris before it embeds.
For a refresh between deep cleans, use steam. Hold your fedora over (not in) steam from boiling water or a garment steamer. The steam relaxes fibers, releases odors, and helps the hat return to its original shape. Let it air dry naturally.
Professional cleaning every 1-2 years maintains the felt’s integrity and appearance, especially for light-colored fedoras that show wear more obviously.
Stain Removal Basics:
- Grease stains: Cornstarch or talcum powder left overnight, then brushed out
- Water spots: Even steam application followed by brushing
- Stubborn marks: Professional cleaning (don’t risk DIY methods on investment pieces)
Storage Best Practices
Hat stands or boxes—same principle as straw. Never hang a felt fedora by its brim (permanent warping). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time.
For moth prevention in long-term storage, use cedar blocks or lavender sachets. Avoid mothballs directly touching the felt—the chemicals can damage fibers and leave lasting odors.
Shape Maintenance
Felt is forgiving. Minor dents and creases can be steamed out easily. Hold the affected area over steam until the felt softens, then reshape gently with your hands. Let it dry on a stand to maintain the corrected form.
If your felt fedora gets caught in rain:
- Shake off excess water immediately
- Blot (don’t wipe) with an absorbent cloth
- Reshape while damp if needed
- Air dry on a stand at room temperature
- Never use direct heat (hair dryers, radiators, etc.)
Weather Protection Upgrades
Quality water-repellent sprays formulated for felt can enhance your fedora’s natural resistance. Apply according to product instructions, usually requiring light, even coats with drying time between applications. Reapply annually or after professional cleaning.
For more guidance on keeping your collection in top shape, browse through our men’s fedoras collection where you’ll find care tips specific to each style.
General Hat Care Wisdom
Handling Fundamentals
Always pick up your fedora by the brim—specifically, by pinching the brim’s front edges. Handling by the crown causes dents and weakens the structure over time. Make this a habit from day one.
Rotation Strategy
If you own multiple fedoras (and you should), rotate them regularly. Giving each hat rest time between wears allows materials to recover their shape and extends overall lifespan. Think of it like quality leather shoes—better to rotate than to wear one daily into the ground.
Travel Packing
For crushable felt: Pack it however you need. That’s literally the point.
For traditional felt and straw: Use a hard-sided hat box or travel case. If that’s not an option, stuff the crown with soft materials (t-shirts, socks) to maintain shape, then pack the hat last on top of other items to minimize pressure.
When to Replace vs. Repair
Replace when:
- Structural damage is irreparable (severe cracks, complete brim separation)
- Cost of professional repair exceeds replacement value
- The hat no longer fits due to permanent stretching or shrinking
- Staining or discoloration is beyond professional cleaning
Repair when:
- The damage is cosmetic and fixable (loose bands, minor stains)
- The hat has sentimental value beyond monetary worth
- Professional restoration costs less than replacement
- The foundation and structure remain sound
Quality fedoras deserve repair attempts before replacement. Don’t give up on a great hat without exploring your options.
Peter Grimm’s Material Philosophy
Since 1989, we’ve been making hats for True Characters—people who understand that quality isn’t just about how something looks, it’s about how it performs when you’re actually living your life.
Our Approach to Quality
We source materials the same way you should choose your fedora: based on what works, not what’s trendy. Our straw comes from sustainable natural fiber suppliers who understand weave density and durability. Our wool felt is selected for its hand-feel, water resistance, and ability to hold shape across years of wear.
Craftsmanship standards matter. Every fedora that leaves our hands has been constructed with techniques refined over three decades. We don’t cut corners to hit price points—we build hats that earn their place in your rotation.
The “True Character” we’re designing for? That’s someone who values authenticity over trends, quality over quantity, and knows that real style is about confidence, not conformity.
Material Innovation: Beyond Traditional Wool
For guys seeking the performance of felt without animal products, we’ve developed our Ultra Vegan Felts collection. These fedoras deliver water resistance, shape retention, and cold-weather functionality using plant-based and synthetic fibers engineered to match wool’s best characteristics.
This isn’t compromise—it’s evolution. You get the same sophisticated style and practical benefits while aligning with your values.
Crushable & Packable Technology
Whether you’re traveling for work or adventure, our crushable and packable fedoras solve the eternal travel dilemma: how to bring style without sacrificing luggage space.
Through specialized construction techniques and material selection, we’ve created fedoras—both straw and felt—that recover their shape after being packed, folded, or squished into overhead compartments. Unpack, shake out, and you’re ready. That’s the kind of functional design that matters when you’re moving through the world.
Making Your Decision: A Practical Framework
Let’s bring this home with a decision-making framework based on real life, not theory.
Ask Yourself These Questions
Climate Considerations:
- What’s the primary season I’ll wear this hat?
If you’re reaching for it April-September, straw is your answer. October-March? Felt makes sense. - Do I live in a humid or dry climate?
High humidity favors straw’s breathability. Dry climates give you more flexibility. - Will I encounter frequent rain?
Rain = felt. Sun = straw. If both are regular occurrences, you need one of each.
Lifestyle Factors:
- Is this for daily wear or special occasions?
Daily wear means durability matters—felt wins long-term. Special occasions let you choose based on aesthetics and season. - Do I travel frequently?
Crushable felt gives you year-round versatility. Packable straw works for warm-weather destinations. - What’s my typical dress code?
Business casual to formal? Felt is your foundation. Casual to smart-casual? Straw offers more range in warm months.
Budget & Value:
- Am I looking for seasonal rotation or long-term investment?
Seasonal rotation = straw fits the model. Long-term investment = felt delivers value. - How many hats do I plan to own?
If building a collection, start with one felt (versatile foundation) and add straw for warm months. If you’re a one-hat guy, felt’s longevity makes it the practical choice. - What’s my cost-per-wear target?
Felt’s durability means lower cost-per-wear over years. Straw’s lower upfront cost justifies seasonal replacement.
The “Start With” Recommendation
If You’re New to Fedoras:
Starting in summer? Begin with straw. The lower commitment (both price and formality) lets you learn your style preferences, get comfortable wearing fedoras, and figure out what works for your face shape and lifestyle. You’re not locked into a long-term relationship yet.
Starting in winter? Begin with felt. The versatility across formality levels gives you more opportunities to wear it, the durability justifies the investment, and you’re building toward a year-round wardrobe.
Building a Collection:
The core duo every guy should own:
- One neutral straw fedora (natural or tan) for warm weather
- One versatile felt fedora (gray or brown) for cool weather
This covers 90% of situations. Everything else is refinement—adding colors, experimenting with shapes, building depth.
Expand based on lifestyle needs:
- Formal events often? Add a black felt.
- Beach life? Multiple straw styles in rotation.
- Urban professional? Invest in premium felt varieties.
Special Considerations
For Travelers:
Crushable wool felt offers genuine year-round versatility. Pack it for business trips to any climate, knowing it’ll perform whether you’re in air conditioning or unexpected weather.
Straw provides unbeatable summer packability. If you’re heading somewhere warm and weight matters, a quality straw fedora delivers style without baggage fees.
For Formal Dressers:
Wool felt is your foundation. It’s the material that elevates tailoring, complements suiting, and signals sophistication without effort. Build your felt collection first, add straw for summer weddings and garden parties.
For Outdoor Enthusiasts:
Straw wins for sun protection and breathability during active pursuits. Hiking, golfing, fishing—anywhere you’re moving in heat, straw’s lightweight construction and ventilation make the difference.
Water-resistant felt works for unpredictable conditions. Fall hikes, spring explorations, times when weather could turn—felt handles it without complaint.
Your Fedora Journey Starts Here
Here’s what we’ve established: The wool vs straw fedora decision isn’t about which material is “better”—it’s about matching function to your life.
Straw delivers unmatched breathability, lightweight comfort, and laid-back style for warm weather. It’s your spring and summer companion, your vacation essential, your answer when temperatures climb and you still want to look put-together.
Wool felt provides durability, water resistance, and sophisticated versatility for cool weather. It’s your fall and winter foundation, your professional setting staple, your long-term investment that improves with age.
For most guys, the real answer isn’t choosing one over the other—it’s building a rotation that covers your bases. Start with whichever season you’re in right now. Get comfortable wearing fedoras. Learn what works for your style.
Then expand.
Because quality matters in both materials. A cheap straw fedora will fall apart in one season; a well-made one gives you years. A low-quality felt fedora loses shape and looks sad; a properly constructed one becomes an heirloom.
That’s why we’ve spent 35+ years refining our approach to both materials. We’re not interested in making disposable hats. We’re interested in making fedoras that earn their place in your life.
Ready to find your perfect fedora?
Explore our complete men’s fedoras collection to see both materials side-by-side and discover which style speaks to you.
Looking for cool-weather sophistication? Browse our wool felts collection for fedoras built to handle weather and style in equal measure.
Planning warm-weather adventures? Check out our Resorts collection for straw fedoras that bring vacation vibes to everyday life.
And if you’re still figuring it out? That’s exactly why we created this guide. Bookmark it, come back to it, share it with friends who are asking the same questions.
Now get out there and wear your fedora with confidence. You’ve got the knowledge—time to put it to use.
What’s your go-to fedora material? Drop a comment below and let us know if you’re Team Straw or Team Felt—or if you’re smart enough to be both.
Since 1989, Peter Grimm has been crafting hats for True Characters who know that quality, style, and authenticity never go out of fashion. Explore our collections and find the fedora that fits your life.
Light Grey One Size Fits Most
Black One Size Fits Most
Brown Large / Extra Large
Tan One Size Fits Most