Find HS Code and trade information for cowboy hat

Cowboy Hat

The cowboy hat is a high-crowned, wide-brimmed hat traditionally worn by cowboys. It has become a defining symbol of the American West and remains popular in rodeo, country music, and as a fashion accessory.

Material

Cowboy hats are historically crafted from felt, typically wool felt, though straw hats are also common, particularly in warmer climates.

• Felt: Provides durability, shape retention, and can be water-resistant when treated. Wool felt quality varies, influencing price and lifespan. Beaver felt is considered the highest quality, followed by other wool types.
• Straw: Lighter and more breathable than felt, ideal for hot weather. Common straw types include wheat straw and palm leaf straw.
• Leather hats exist, but are less common and generally used for specific stylistic purposes.

Purpose & Function

Originally, the cowboy hat served practical functions:

• Sun Protection: The wide brim shields the face and neck from intense sunlight.
• Rain Protection: The shape directs rain away from the face and shoulders.
• Protection from Brush & Debris: Offers some defense against low-hanging branches and flying objects.
• Signaling: In the past, hats were used for signaling and identifying individuals at a distance.

Usage Scenarios

• Rodeo: Essential equipment for rodeo participants, offering protection and a professional appearance.
• Ranching/Farming: Still worn by ranchers and farmers for sun protection and practicality.
• Country Music: A staple fashion item for country music artists and fans.
• Fashion: Widely adopted as a fashion accessory, available in various styles and colors.
• Historical Reenactment/Costumes: Used in portraying historical figures and characters.

Common Types & Styles

• Stock Hat: The most traditional style, with a tall, rounded crown and a curled brim. Often associated with rodeo.
• Homburg: A more refined style with a curled brim and a dented crown.
• Gus Hat: A flat-crowned hat with a rounded brim, often seen in Western films.
• Boss of the Road: A hat with a pinched front and a flat brim.
• Open Crown Hats: Require customization to fit the wearer's head shape and preference.
• Shaped Hats: Pre-shaped crowns and brims, ready to wear.
• Resistol Hats: A well-known brand specializing in high-quality cowboy hats.
• Stetson Hats: Another prominent brand with a long history of hat-making.

Hat Anatomy

• Crown: The top portion of the hat.
• Brim: The projecting edge around the crown.
• Band: A decorative ribbon or leather strip around the base of the crown.
• Vent: An opening at the top of the crown for ventilation.
• Sweatband: The inner band that absorbs perspiration.

Cowboy hats fall under the category of headgear. Based on the provided information, several HS codes may be relevant depending on the construction and materials used.

• 6504009045: This HS code covers hats and other headgear, plaited or made by assembling strips of any material, whether or not lined or trimmed, specifically sewed and categorized as "Other". The total tax rate is 61.8%, comprised of a 6.8% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.
• 6504009075: This HS code also covers hats and other headgear, plaited or made by assembling strips of any material, whether or not lined or trimmed, but categorized as not sewed and as "Other". The total tax rate is 61.8%, comprised of a 6.8% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.
• 6505009089: This HS code covers hats and other headgear, knitted or crocheted, or made up from lace, felt or other textile fabric, in the piece (but not in strips), whether or not lined or trimmed; hair-nets of any material, whether or not lined or trimmed, categorized as "Other: Other: Other Other: Other: Other (859)". The tax rate is 20.7¢/kg + 7.5% + 30.0%.

Chapter 65 relates to headgear and parts thereof. Chapter 42 relates to articles of leather or of composition leather. Chapter 39 relates to plastics and articles thereof.

It is important to determine the construction method (plaited/assembled strips vs. knitted/crocheted/fabric piece) and materials used to select the correct HS code. If the hat is made of leather, HS codes under Chapter 42 may also be applicable. If the hat is made of plastic, HS codes under Chapter 39 may also be applicable.