When it comes to traditional game shooting, the choice of headgear is an essential finishing touch to complete your shooting outfit. The right hat not only adds to the iconic countryside look but also offers practical benefits, such as protection from the wind and rain and a peaked cap, like a flat cap, can shield your eyes from the sun’s glare, helping you maintain focus and take a good aim. In this guide, we’ll explore the different styles of hats ideal for game shooting, including flat caps and tweed caps, that offer both style and functionality in the field.
Why the Right Hat Matters for Game Shooting
Whether you're an experienced shot or a newcomer, the game shooting season is not just about skill but also about adhering to tradition and looking the part. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the tradition of the sport, and choosing the right hat plays a key part.
A suitable shooting hat should:
• Provide protection from the weather including wind, rain, and sun.
• Enhance your vision by reducing glare.
• Complement your overall outfit, especially when adhering to traditional dress codes.
Flat Caps: A Timeless Country Classic
A flat cap is an iconic symbol of the British countryside and is a popular choice amongst game shooters. Known for its rounded shape at the back and stiff brim to the front, this style of cap dates back to the 16th century in England and has long been a staple of country style. A flat cap is versatile choice, offering a balance of style, tradition, and practicality.
Why Choose a Flat Cap for Game Shooting?
• Comfort and Fit: Flat caps are known for their snug fit, making them an ideal choice for a day in the field. The fitted design ensures that it stays in place even in windy conditions, allowing you to focus on your shooting.
• Style and Tradition: When you think of traditional British game shooting attire, the flat cap is almost always part of the look. Wearing one brings a sense of heritage and connection to the sport's rich history.
• Material: Often made from wool, tweed or waxed cotton, flat caps provide warmth during those cooler shooting days while being breathable enough to wear comfortably all day. Waxed flat caps are ideal for rainy days and the Barbour Wax Flat Cap is a great choice that offers water resistant protection.
• Versatility: Flat caps are not just for game shooting; they can easily be paired with casual wear for a countryside walk or a visit to the local pub, making them a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
Top Flat Caps for Game Shooting
• Hoggs Of Fife Waterproof Moleskin Cap: A practical and stylish choice made from soft moleskin, perfect for shooting or country strolls.
• Barbour Waterproof Beaufort Flat Cap: Fleece-lined for warmth, with fold-down ear flaps to protect against the winter chill.
• Seeland Woodcock Advanced Cap: Waterproof and made with four-way stretch fabric, offering excellent fit and comfort.
• Deerhunter Eagle Flat Cap: Features the Deerhunter Stormliner membrane for superb weather protection with breathability for comfort.
Tweed Caps: For Heritage and Style
For those who appreciate the heritage of a flat cap but want something with a bit more character and charm, the tweed cap is an excellent choice. Tweed caps bring all the benefits of a flat cap but with the added durability of tweed fabric. Many shooters opt for a tweed cap on pheasant shoots, often in matching tweed to the rest of their outfit.
Why Choose a Tweed Cap for Game Shooting?
• Durability:Tweed is a tightly woven wool fabric known for its resilience. It can withstand rough weather, making it a long-lasting option for shooting in the British countryside.
• Camouflage: Tweed caps often come in earthy, muted tones with herringbone or check patterns allowing you to blend with your environment during a shoot.
• Breathability and Warmth: Despite its durability, tweed is breathable, ensuring you stay warm without overheating. It’s the perfect fabric for long days in the field when temperatures can vary.
• Weather Protection: Tweed caps often feature a waterproof and breathable inner lining for extra protection from rain and wind.
• A Nod to Tradition: Tweed caps are steeped in the traditions of British country life. Wearing a tweed cap shows respect for the long-standing heritage of game shooting.
Top Tweed Caps for Game Shooting
• Schoffel Countryman Tweed Cap: Made from pure lambswool, this classic tweed cap features a deep nape and crown for a more comfortable fit.
• Alan Paine Combrook Balmoral Cap: A sophisticated choice from Alan Paine’s signature Combrook tweed range, offering warmth and style and perfect for matching with your tweed shooting outfit.
Alternative Styles: For Relaxed Shoots
On more informal shoots, alternative styles of headwear may be acceptable. Baseball caps and beanie hats are options to consider, especially for less formal shoots. Some baseball caps come with ear flaps for added warmth and wind protection, or feature reversible hi-vis designs for safety in the field like the Seeland Trax Cap. However, bear in mind that these alternatives might not provide the same warmth or weather protection as tweed or flat caps. Always consider the conditions and level of formality when choosing your headwear, and opt for muted colours like green, brown, or black to maintain a low profile during the shoot.
Conclusion
Most game shoots follow a traditional dress code, but the specifics can vary based on factors such as formality, location, and weather conditions. It’s always advisable to check the dress code with the host beforehand. Choosing the right hat for game shooting goes beyond just looking the part—it's essential for staying comfortable and protected in the field. Whether you choose a classic flat cap or a textured tweed cap, you’re sure to look the part while staying protected from the elements.
Posted by Abi | 26/09/24
Abi is a web content specialist and brand manager at Philip Morris & Son, where she plays a key role in shaping the success of a diverse range of core brands, including Ariat, Alan Paine, Brabantia, Blundstone, Dubarry, and Lazy Jacks. With over 10 years of experience in the clothing retail sector, Abi joined the company in 2022, and her creativity and keen attention to detail are instrumental in enhancing product pages and optimising SEO strategies to drive brand visibility and growth.
Growing up surrounded by the Herefordshire countryside, Abi's love for the outdoors informs her understanding of the products that resonate with our customers. Her enjoyment of outdoor activities including camping and hiking gives her first-hand knowledge of how the right gear can enhance outdoor experiences. This personal insight enables her to expertly curate products that meet the needs of fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Outside of work, Abi also enjoys live music, is a keen cook and yoga enthusiast, and has recently taken up running (again!).