In case no one ever showed you the ropes, we’ve got you covered with some hat customs, curses and not-so-basics from our wise western sages:
-
Don’t ever grab a hat off a man’s (or woman’s) head
Never mess with another man's (or woman’s) hat. Don't touch it, don't ask to try it on, and for God's sake — don't take it off ‘em. Purposely knocking off someone's cowboy hat is a fighting offense.
-
Don’t leave your hat on your bed, Cowboy - it’s bad luck
According to legends, setting a cowboy hat on a bed invites bad luck and evil spirits into the home. Why tempt fate? Keep cowboy hats away from beds. -
Don’t wear your hats backwards
For the uninitiated, it's easy to wear a cowboy hat backward on accident, but according to superstitions, it’s bad luck. -
When you set your hat down, put it upside down
When you leave your hat on a flat surface or put it away in a hat box, set it upside down. This lets the hat air out and keeps the brim’s shape intact. (Plus, there’s an old cowboy superstition that says all the luck will run out if you set the hat brim-side down!) - When to remove your cowboy hat
- During the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, the Passing of the Flag, in Church, during a Prayer, an indoor Wedding, a Funeral (indoors) or at the “passing” of a casket in a funeral procession.
- When you are introduced to a woman, or anyone who is your Elder or a “Man of the Cloth”. In other words, the Clergy, Pastor, Priest, etc.
- When you begin a conversation with anyone; but not needed if you’re just saying “hello” as you pass them.
- It is generally considered, to always remove your hat while in a private home, unless others are wearing their hats.
- Your hat should always be removed while dining in a restaurant. *Unless, you’re in fast food restaurant.