Back in 1973, HatCountry was just a small family-run cowboy hat stand in historic Englishtown, New Jersey. But even then, there was something special about it. Rooted in the spirit of the American West and a strong sense of community, HatCountry always had a clear purpose: to serve customers with authenticity, quality, and a tip of the hat to tradition. 

Fast forward to today, and HatCountry has become a global name in Western fashion, evolving with the times while never losing sight of its roots.

In the shifting winds of the Western wear world, HatCountry stands tall. Like a seasoned rancher reading the weather, the company has weathered its fair share of changes, challenges, and growth spurts. Their secret? Balancing the grit of the past with the savvy of modern-day commerce.

Weathering the Storms: How HatCountry Adapted When the Cowboy Hat Industry Shifted

As technology advanced and consumer habits shifted online, HatCountry had to navigate a whole new frontier. In 2002, they made their first online sale. That moment, a Stetson shipped to California marked more than a transaction. It marked the beginning of a digital era that would shape the next phase of their journey.

Competing against direct-to-consumer manufacturers and bigger companies with deeper pockets was no easy ride. During the late 2000s recession, HatCountry faced one of its most challenging trials. Rather than fold, the team tightened their boots, cut non-essentials, and leaned into customer service. One small, high-demand product promotion turned a struggling month into a surprising success, proving that scrappiness and heart go a long way.

Staying Cool Under the Summer Sun: HatCountry’s Collection of Straw Cowboy Hats

hat 2

One area where HatCountry truly shines is in its straw cowboy hat collection. Whether you’re wrangling cattle, dancing at a summer festival, or just beating the heat on your porch, their western straw hats offer both function and flair.

Looking for something light and breathable? The Deadwood Trading Sonoma Raffia is perfect for staying shaded at the county fair or out on the trail. 

Need something tougher for long, hot days? The Resistol Quarter Horse 7X Bangora has you covered. From men’s straw cowboy hat styles built to last, to women’s straw cowgirl hat picks that bring bold Western charm, there’s something for every rider.

Their offerings don’t just reflect fashion; they speak to purpose. These summer cowboy hats are built to beat the heat, whether you’re headed to a rodeo or the beach. And in a market that still prizes style, check out this roundup of the best black cowboy hats to see how Western wear continues to shape personal fashion.

Cowboy Hats and Boots: HatCountry’s Global Reach and Future Dreams

HatCountry’s reach now spans the globe. One standout memory? Shipping their first order to Australia. It was a powerful reminder of how far they’d come. What started as a local stand has evolved into a Western wear destination with a global impact.

Looking ahead, the goal is to reach over $5 million in revenue and launch a branded line of cowboy hats, boots and apparel. Along the way, they prioritize automation and process improvements while keeping customers at the forefront. For HatCountry, growth isn’t just about numbers. It’s about continuing to serve with heart, grit, and a nod to their roots.

Why HatCountry Still Tips Its Cowboy Hat to Every Customer

Despite its digital transformation and expanding footprint, HatCountry has not forgotten the values on which it was built. They still treat every shopper like family, welcome feedback with open arms, and stay true to the quality they’ve promised since day one.

So whether you’re kicking up dust at a rodeo or chasing the sunset on a weekend ride, HatCountry’s got a hat that’ll ride with you every step of the way.

Written in partnership with Tom White