Conner's wool hat collection features handmade Australian wool fedoras, outback hats, gamblers, and western styles designed for year-round wear. Wool naturally regulates temperature, wicks moisture, and resists water—making these hats comfortable in cold winters and surprisingly breathable in mild weather. Each hat is crafted by a family-owned business committed to quality and sustainable materials.
Start with the silhouette and intended use. Choose an outback or western style such as Indy Crushable Wool, Crossroads Crushable Wool, or Dakota Western Shapeable Wool for outdoor character; a fedora or gambler offers a more versatile brimmed look. The French Beret, newsboy caps, and women’s floppy styles create softer, more fashion-led profiles, while bowlers and the Edward Australian Wool Top Hat suit distinctive formal or vintage dressing. For travel, look for “crushable” or “packable” in the product name. Check each listing’s size details before ordering: options across the collection include Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, and One Size. For care, follow the instructions on the individual product page and remember that wool’s water resistance does not make every hat fully waterproof.
Australian wool is nature's performance fiber. It regulates temperature by trapping warm air in cold conditions while allowing heat and moisture to escape when you warm up. Research from North Carolina State University found that wool maintains thermal comfort better than cotton and polyester, particularly during the resting phase after activity when other fabrics cause "after-chill." Wool can absorb up to 35% of its own weight in moisture vapor without feeling wet, helping keep you dry and comfortable. The natural lanolin in wool provides water resistance, and wool fibers naturally resist odor-causing bacteria. Unlike synthetic materials, wool is biodegradable and renewable.
No. While wool excels in cold weather, its breathability and moisture-wicking properties make it suitable for three-season wear. Wool's crimped fiber structure creates microscopic air pockets that trap heat when cold but allow airflow when warm. When you heat up, wool pulls moisture away from your skin and allows excess heat to escape through these same pathways. Lightweight wool hats work well in temperatures from 40°F to 70°F. For summer heat above 75°F, consider straw or hemp alternatives.
Conner's wool hats are water-resistant, not waterproof. They can handle light rain, but avoid prolonged or heavy rain and don't fully soak the hat. If it gets wet, let it dry naturally away from direct heat.
Quality wool hats that are properly blocked and finished should not shrink significantly from normal rain exposure. Some moisture is applied to Conner's wool hats during blocking before finishing. If your hat gets wet, let it air dry naturally on a hat form or flat surface to maintain its shape. Avoid wringing, machine washing, or placing near direct heat, which can cause shrinkage or distortion.
Spot-clean wool hats with a damp cloth and mild soap for minor stains. For deeper cleaning, use steam from a kettle or steamer and gently brush with a soft-bristle hat brush, working in the direction of the nap. Do not fully soak the hat, and never machine wash or dry-clean it. If your hat loses its shape, steam it and reshape by hand or place it on a hat form while drying. Let it dry naturally. Store wool hats on a shelf or in a hat box away from direct sunlight.
Wool felt is made from sheep's wool, and Conner's wool hats contain Australian wool fiber. Fur felt is made from rabbit or beaver fur. Fur felt is generally more durable, holds its shape better when wet, and has a smoother finish, but it's also more expensive. Wool felt offers excellent breathability, moisture-wicking, and temperature regulation at a more accessible price point. For outdoor activities that require breathability and comfort, wool felt is often the better choice.
Many of Conner's hats made with Australian wool are designed to be crushable and packable for travel. Styles like the Jackeroo Crushable Wool Hat, Crossroads Crushable Wool Hat, and Indy Crushable Wool Hat can be rolled or folded and will bounce back to shape. After unpacking, steam the hat lightly and reshape by hand if needed. This makes Australian wool an excellent choice for travelers who need a versatile hat that packs small but performs well in varying weather conditions.
Conner Hats is family-run. Will Conner put the family name on his hats in 2014, building on the Cov-ver line he launched in 2000; his father, Bill Conner, made hats in Byron Bay for over 50 years. Each hat is handmade with attention to fit, durability, and craftsmanship. Conner uses non-mulesed Australian wool and sustainable materials whenever possible. For purchases from connerhats.com, the Limited Lifetime Guarantee (50% off if lost or stolen) provides a free replacement of the same style, size, and color for workmanship failure during the first 12 months, with shipping paid. After 12 months, a replacement is 40% off, with shipping not included. Free U.S. shipping is available on orders over $79.
Check the size selector on each product page rather than assuming all styles fit identically. This collection includes Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, XX-Large, and One Size options. If you are comparing styles, use the listed sizing information for each hat and choose the option that matches your head measurement and preferred fit.
Conner Hats are made in Australia, Sri Lanka, China, Pakistan and Mexico, and orders ship from American Fork, Utah. Bill Conner learned leatherwork in St. Augustine, Florida, in 1969, then moved to Australia and made hats in Byron Bay for over 50 years. The remaining BC Hats stock was made there before 2020.
