Please reach us at info@ridgebackhats.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
To measure yourself for a hat, you will need a flexible measuring tape or a string and a ruler.
Here are the steps to follow:
1. Place the measuring tape or string around your head, just above your eyebrows and ears. Make sure it sits comfortably and does not press into your skin. Measuring too tight is a very common mistake...don't make it!
2. Take note of the measurement centimeters where the tape or string overlaps. We typically work in centimeters and typically allow 1 cm for the sweatband. A loose hat is easier to deal with than one that is too tight.
3. If you used a string, lay it flat on a table and measure the length with a ruler to get the exact measurement.
4. If you're in between centimeters, it's usually best to round up.
By following these steps, you can get an accurate measurement of your head size and choose the right hat size for you.
We are currently using Nutria (also known as Coypu) fur felt and Rabbit fur felt.
Nutria fur felt has several benefits, including its durability, warmth, and water resistance. The fur is also lightweight, making it ideal for use in hats and other garments. Nutria fur felt is a sustainable choice because nutria are an invasive species in the United States and their population needs to be controlled. Harvesting nutria for their fur provides a financial incentive for hunters and trappers to help reduce their numbers, which in turn benefits the ecosystem.
Nutria were introduced to the United States in the early 1900s for their fur, but they quickly became a problem because they reproduce rapidly and consume large amounts of vegetation, which can lead to soil erosion and other ecological problems. Nutria fur felt offers a way to make use of these animals while also reducing their negative impact on the environment.
Furthermore, nutria fur felt is an alternative to fur from other animals that may be less sustainable. For example, mink and chinchilla are often used in the fur industry, but they are typically farmed, which can have negative environmental and animal welfare implications. Using nutria fur instead of these other furs can help reduce the demand for less sustainable options.
Overall, nutria fur felt provides a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for consumers looking for a warm and durable material for hats and other garments. It also helps to control the invasive nutria population in the United States, benefitting both the environment and local communities.
If you prefer your custom hat to be made from beaver or rabbit, we can accommodate you by special request.
Nutria (Myocastor coypus) is a large semi-aquatic rodent native to South America. They are sometimes referred to as "coypu" and have brown fur, webbed hind feet, and a long, scaly tail. Nutria were introduced to various parts of the world, including the United States, in the early 20th century for their fur.
In the United States, nutria have become an invasive species, particularly in the southeastern states. They reproduce rapidly and have no natural predators in these areas, which has led to a significant increase in their population. Nutria are known to cause damage to wetland habitats and pose a threat to the native species that inhabit these ecosystems. As a result, there have been efforts to control nutria populations in these regions, including the promotion of nutria fur as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to other types of fur.
Nutria and beaver are both semi-aquatic rodents, but there are some notable differences between the two.
Physical Characteristics:
Beavers are larger than nutria, with adults weighing up to 60 pounds, while nutria typically weigh around 20-25 pounds. Beavers have a broad, flat tail that they use for swimming and communication, while nutria have a long, scaly tail that is used primarily for balance.
Ecological Impact:
Both species can have significant impacts on wetland habitats. Beavers build dams to create ponds, which can help to restore degraded wetland areas and provide habitat for a variety of species. However, in some cases, beavers can cause flooding or damage to human infrastructure. Nutria, on the other hand, consume large amounts of vegetation and can cause damage to wetland ecosystems by reducing plant cover and causing soil erosion. As an invasive species in some areas, nutria have no natural predators and can quickly reproduce, leading to a negative impact on local wildlife.
Fur:
Both beaver and nutria fur have been used in the fur trade. Beaver fur and Nutria fur are both known for its warmth and water resistance, and is highly valued for making hats and other garments.
In summary, while nutria and beaver share some similarities as semi-aquatic rodents, they have distinct physical characteristics and ecological impacts.
Each hat comes with a hat band in the style of the hat. Bands are typically made of leather or ribbon. Premium hat bands such as snake skin, horse hair, or beaded can be purchased for additional cost.
All of our hats can be custom made to the style, size, color, or budget you want. Contact us for more information.