What are the differences in Felts?

Here’s the skinny. There are a variety of different felts on the market that are available to the consumer. So we wanna break it down for you so you can make an educated decision upon purchase.

WOOL

Let’s start with the wool hat. This will be your cheapest option. And while the price point is way kinder to the wallet, the durability unfortunately matches the low price point. Wool will break down over time, lose it’s shape, and can’t hold up to the elements or sweat. This material is also not easily reshape able. However, if you’re looking to try before you make a big investment on a higher tiered hat, a wool hat is not a bad idea.

RABBIT/HARE

Your next level up will be the rabbit fur felt hat. Some label this with a fancier term such as “European Hare”. Don’t be fooled, it’s not all that fancy. Rabbit fur will also break down and lose its shape over time. Think, rabbits aren’t semiaquatic animals so their fur is not made to withstand the elements. Sweat can also break down this material. However it is a little easier to reshape than wool and has the appearance of a higher tiered hat without the higher price point. This is a great entry level option if you don’t plan to work in your hat or beat it to hell and is one step up from wool. Often times, some hatters might label their hats as “fur felts” without specifying which type of fur it contains. Most of the time, it’s just rabbit fur. Be sure to ask what material your hat consists of before you buy!

BEAVER

Next we have “‘ol reliable”- the beaver felt hat. Beavers are semiaquatic animals meaning their fur naturally repels water. This then translates to the water resistant nature of the beaver felt hat. Having this trait allows for this material to hold up exceptionally well against the elements, everyday wear and tear, and sweat. Beaver fur felt is also easily cleaned of dirt and grime. These felt hats can be reshaped and reworked many times as well. The longevity and durability of beaver felt allows for it to live on through many generations. While it’s an investment, it sure does hold up to its credibility.

At Cofer Hat Co, after experimenting with many different felts, we chose to offer only beaver felt hats. We felt that nothing compared to the durability and quality of the trusty beaver felt material. Our goal is to create a unique and long-lasting piece of art that you can both be proud of and cherish for lifetimes.

With all that being said, at the end of the day what matters most is that you feel confident in your hat and feel confident in what you’re paying for your hat. No matter what it’s made from.

What is the “X” System all about?

The X System typically refers to the amount of beaver in each hat. Usually the higher the number, the more beaver. All hatters have different X systems so it’s best to ask how their x system correlates to beaver content before you buy! At Cofer Hat Co., the “X” represents the percentage of beaver in our felts. We offer 100X (100% Beaver) and 50X (50% Beaver).

How Long Will it take to RECEIVE my custom hat?

Turnaround time all depends on if we have the felt you chose readily available in inventory and the amount of orders that we currently have in queue. A good estimate is that if the color and material you chose is in stock, it could take between 3-6 months. If the felt is not in stock, it could take up to 6+ months.

Can I visit the shop?

We love visitors! Come on up to the shop to get measured, check out our ready-to-wear hats, learn about the custom hat process, or just to kick back, hang out, and have a beer with your pals at Cofer Hat. Co.! We operate by appointment only but are always eager to fit in our new friends most any day or time. Same day appointments welcome too!