Quick answer: On a felt cowboy hat, the X rating grades the fur: more fur and finer fur earn more X's. On a straw hat, X grades the weave: finer reed and a tighter weave earn more X's. No industry standard exists, so X only compares hats from the same maker.
X Grades and Prices on Our Rack
| Grade | What it means | Our price |
|---|---|---|
| Wool felt | No fur; budget and crushable | $80–$198 |
| 4X felt | Entry grade in most fur lines | $170–$190 |
| 5X–10X felt | More fur; holds shape, sheds rain | $290–$550 |
| 30X–60X felt | Top Rodeo King fur grades | $620–$780 |
| Palm leaf straw | Work straw, no X rating | $34–$57 |
| 10X–30X straw | Finer reed, tighter weave | $142–$210 |
FAQ
Is a 100X hat better than a 10X?
Only inside one brand. Resistol says its 100X may match another maker's 1000X. Compare the fur content and the maker, not the number.
What X should my first felt hat be?
Wool works for an occasional or crushable hat. For daily wear in rain and sweat, step up to fur felt; 4X to 6X is our lowest-priced fur range.
Does X matter on a straw hat?
It tells you how fine the weave is. Palm leaf work hats carry no X rating.
Compare grades in felt cowboy hats and straw cowboy hats, check fit on our hat size chart, and pick a crease in the hat shaping guide. Try hats on at our Elk City store, 3000 W 3rd St.