Let’s face it—living in Colorado is an adventure in itself. One moment, you’re basking in the warm sunshine, and the next, you’re knee-deep in snow while battling 30 mph winds. That’s why every true Coloradan knows the importance of a good hat collection. Not just any hat will do—you need Colorado hats that can keep up with the state’s unpredictable weather, high-altitude sun, and, of course, mountain man style.
Here are 10 hilarious (but totally valid) reasons why you should stock up on a diverse collection of hats. Get ready to nod in agreement, chuckle a bit, and possibly add another hat (or three) to your cart by the end of this list!
1. Because the Weather Has More Mood Swings Than You Do
Ah, Colorado—the only place where you can experience all four seasons in a single day. When you leave for work in the morning, it’s a brisk 30°F. By lunchtime, it’s a sunny 70°F, and on your drive home, you’re caught in a snowstorm.
Why You Need a Hat: From warm corduroy hats like the Moonlite Mountain Hat for chilly mornings to breathable mesh-back trucker hats like the Lost Pine Hat for those sunny afternoons, a good collection of Colorado hats ensures you’re always prepared for Mother Nature’s unpredictable whims.
2. High-Altitude Sun? Yep, That’s a Thing!
Colorado’s high-altitude sun is no joke. The higher up you go, the stronger those UV rays get. Sunburn on your scalp is real, and we’re here to save your hairline and dignity.
Why You Need a Hat: Opt for a wide-brimmed option like the Active Mountain Hat or a structured flat-bill hat like the Three Lil Pines Hat with built-in sun protection. It’s like SPF for your head, minus the sticky sunscreen residue. Your future, wrinkle-free self will thank you.
3. Wind Gusts: The Invisible Hat Thieves
Ever had your hat whipped off your head and carried halfway across a parking lot by a sudden gust of wind? That’s a rite of passage in Colorado.
Why You Need a Hat: A hat with an adjustable closure or a rope hat snapback like the Gondola Hat helps keep it securely on your noggin. For extra protection, consider one with a performance sweatband that wicks away sweat while making you look cool—even if you’re chasing it down like a Frisbee.
4. High-Alpine Adventures Need High-Quality Headgear
Whether you’re summiting a 14er or just pretending you’re on an expedition while hiking a gentle trail, you need a hat that screams “mountain man.”
Why You Need a Hat: A rugged leather patch hat like the Mountain West Hat with UPF 50+ protection shows you mean business. It’s not just about keeping your head warm—it’s about looking like you just conquered Mount Elbert, even if you only made it to the lookout point.
5. Protecting Your ‘Do from the Elements
Colorado’s dry air can turn a good hair day into a cactus-like disaster. And don’t even get us started on static electricity—it’s like you’re wearing a personal lightning storm on your head.
Why You Need a Hat: Hats are the ultimate bad hair day fixers. From low profile hats like the Fast Bike Hat that tuck away flyaways (and collapse easily into your pocket thanks to its unstructured visor) to structured, high-profile styles like the Alpine Wings Hat that hide the chaos, a good collection keeps you looking put together, even if your hair is in full rebellion mode.
6. So You Can Look Cool in Every “Hey, Let’s Go to the Mountains” Instagram Post
Because let’s be honest, what’s the point of living in Colorado if you don’t have at least one epic hat photo on social media?
Why You Need a Hat: Colorado hats are the unsung heroes of your Instagram feed. Whether it’s the Summit Seeker Hat for ski trips or a classic trucker hat like the Colorado Flag Hat for summer hikes, they add that perfect touch of mountain-man-meets-adventure-chic style.
7. To Blend In at Breweries (Or Stand Out)
It’s no secret that Colorado locals love their craft beer almost as much as they love their mountain views. But the unwritten dress code at any brewery? A great hat.
Why You Need a Hat: A good Colorado hat like the Wanderlust Hat not only gets you nods of approval from fellow beer enthusiasts but can also double as a conversation starter. “Nice hat! Where’d you get it?” Boom—you just made a new friend and potential adventure buddy.
8. Shielding Your Eyes from the Blinding White of Fresh Powder
On those bluebird days after a big snowfall, the sun reflecting off the snow is enough to blind you for life. Okay, maybe not for life, but it’s definitely not pleasant.
Why You Need a Hat: A wide-brimmed leather patch hat or a structured Colorado mesh hat like the Dark Mountain Hat can provide much-needed shade for your eyes, so you can actually see where you’re going on the slopes or trails.
9. Because People Need to Know You’re a Colorado Local (and Not a Tourist)
We all know the stereotypes: tourists in bright neon gear, snapping a million photos of the same mountain. But you? You’re a savvy, rugged Coloradan who knows the terrain.
Why You Need a Hat: A Colorado hat like the Trailblazer Hat with a custom leather patch instantly tells people you’re not here for the tourist traps—you’re here to explore the real Colorado.
10. Because Colorado is a State of Style (Yes, Really!)
Sure, we love our flannel shirts, hiking boots, and puffer vests. But don’t let anyone tell you that Coloradans don’t have style—we just have our own version of it.
Why You Need a Hat: A good mountain man hat or leather patch hat like the Desert Mountain Hat is the finishing touch to any outfit. It’s versatile, it’s functional, and it’s got that rugged charm that says, “I belong here.”
Final Thoughts: Your Hat Collection is Calling
There you have it—10 reasons why every Colorado local needs a solid hat collection. Whether you’re gearing up for the next sudden snowstorm, protecting your scalp from UV rays, or just trying to make a fashion statement, a few great Colorado hats will do the trick.
So, how’s your hat collection looking? If you need to beef it up (and let’s be honest, you do), check out the full selection at Outer Wings. From performance hats for your alpine adventures to stylish leather patch hats for après-ski vibes, we’ve got you covered—literally.