The crushable wool outback is a versatile hat, and the reason is simple: wool does many things at once. It sheds light rain, stays warm when damp, packs into a bag without ruining itself, and holds a shaped brim you can set down at the front and up at the back.
Conner's wool outback hat collection combines Australian-inspired design with sustainable craftsmanship. Each hat is handmade from premium wool felt that offers natural water resistance, crushable packability, and year-round versatility. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts who value authentic quality over mass production.
Natural Weather Protection Wool felt provides inherent water resistance—the dense fiber structure repels light rain and moisture while maintaining shape. When properly finished, wool felt hats offer reliable performance in changing weather conditions without the weight of leather or the fragility of straw.
Crushable & Travel-Ready
Most styles in this collection feature crushable construction with spring wire reinforcement in the brim. Pack flat in luggage, then watch the hat spring back to its original shape. Customers tell us their wool outback hats have kept their structure for decades, including one hat that has lasted 30+ years with continuous outdoor wear.
Sun Protection
Sun protection depends on the individual hat and its construction. The wide brims (typically 3-4 inches) provide essential coverage for face, neck, and ears—areas most vulnerable to sun damage during hiking, ranching, gardening, and travel.
Sustainable & Responsibly sourced
Conner uses non-mulesed Australian wool. Wool is biodegradable and renewable; the outer band is not. The material naturally wicks moisture, regulates temperature, and develops character with age rather than deteriorating.
Wool felt outback hats excel in three-season wear (spring, fall, winter) and moderate summer conditions. The material provides natural insulation in cold weather while remaining breathable enough for warm days. Wool provides some shade and maintains water resistance in light rain showers. For heavy downpours, wool absorbs heavy rain and needs to air-dry.
Every hat reflects handmade construction, sustainable materials, and limited lifetime guarantee coverage against manufacturing defects. The guarantee also includes a 50% off code to replace the same hat if yours is ever lost or stolen. Most styles qualify for free shipping on orders over $79.
Australian wool felt hats are naturally water-resistant and can handle light rain. If your hat gets wet, shake off excess water and let it air-dry slowly indoors, avoiding direct heat sources which can cause the felt to shrink or warp. For regular cleaning, use a lint roller to remove dust and debris. For stubborn marks, gently wipe with a damp sponge. Store your hat away from direct sunlight, either hanging on a hook or placed flat where nothing will crush it. With proper care, wool outback hats develop character and can last 30+ years.
Wool felt is naturally water-resistant, not fully waterproof. The dense fiber structure repels light rain and moisture effectively. Most Conner wool hats can handle drizzle and brief showers without issue. However, in heavy sustained rain, wool may absorb moisture and require air-drying to restore its original shape. For frequent exposure to heavy rain, leather outback hats offer superior water resistance. Wool performs best in three-season conditions with occasional wet weather.
For a crushable wool outback hat, “crushable” means it can be compressed flat for packing in luggage or a backpack, then regain its shape when removed. This makes a crushable style convenient for travel while keeping the structured look and shade of a traditional outback hat. The design is made for compression, though care and use can affect how a hat holds its shape over time.
Australian wool outback hats are lighter, more breathable, and typically more affordable than leather styles. Wool is water-resistant and suitable for light rain. Leather styles are known for rugged durability and can develop a unique patina over time. Both materials can provide shade. Choose wool for its light weight and breathability; choose leather for rugged durability.
Measure your head circumference just above your eyebrows and ears using a flexible tape measure. Match your measurement to the size chart:
Two free size inserts ship with every order and can help fine-tune the fit. A 22-inch head corresponds to Medium. If you are between sizes, order the larger size and use the inserts to adjust the fit.
Many of our hats are UPF rated; check each product page for its rating. The wide brims in Conner's wool outback collection (typically 3-4 inches) provide shade for your face, neck, and ears. They can be useful for outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, fishing, and ranch work.
A gentle stretch or steam can help restore a wool hat’s shape. Some wool hats are stiff on purpose, so avoid forcing a different shape. Don’t fully soak the hat, and let it dry naturally.
Wool outback hats are covered by Conner Hats’ Limited Lifetime Guarantee (50% off if lost or stolen) for purchases from connerhats.com. For a workmanship failure during the first 12 months, Conner will provide a free replacement of the same style, size, and color, with shipping paid. After 12 months, a replacement is 40% off, with shipping not included. Material degradation from use qualifies for a 30% off replacement code. The guarantee does not cover damage from accidents or improper care. For help with an issue, email customerservice@connerhats.com with photos and your order number; we’ll help you fix it yourself.
