A well-fitted hat not only looks great but feels comfortable too. Whether it's a classic Akubra or another felt hat, a snug fit is essential. But what if your favourite hat feels just a little too tight? That’s where hat stretching comes in.
Why Hats Need StretchingFelt hats, especially those made from natural fibres like wool or rabbit fur, can feel stiff or slightly small when new. Over time, they can also shrink a little if they get wet and then dry out. A tight-fitting hat can cause headaches, sit too high on the head, or leave marks on your forehead. Stretching helps you achieve a more comfortable, tailored fit.
How Hat Stretching WorksAt Aitken's Saddlery, we offer professional hat stretching services. Using specialised equipment, we carefully stretch the hat back to its original size. However, it's important to note that we can only stretch the hat to the size it was made for – not larger.
Please note: In some cases, we may not be able to stretch hats due to the age or condition of the leather sweatband. If the leather is dry, cracked, or heavily worn, stretching could damage the hat rather than help.
Our Hat Stretching ServiceCost: $20
Turnaround Time: 24 to 48 hours
What We Can Do: Stretch your felt hat back to its original tagged size
Limitations: We cannot increase a hat beyond its original size, and the process works best on felt hats.
Tips to Maintain Hat Size
1. Store your hat in a cool, dry place.
2. Avoid leaving it in a hot car or in direct sunlight.
3. Don’t wear your hat in heavy rain – moisture and heat can affect sizing.
Is Your Hat Feeling Tight?
If your felt hat is just a bit too snug, don’t give up on it. Bring it into Aitken's Saddlery and let us help get it fitting just right. Whether it’s a new purchase or an old favourite, we’re here to help you wear it comfortably and with style.
