The first rodeo of the season in Yakima was a few weeks ago, and a few months ago, the National Finals Rodeos (NFR) in Vegas was held. The mega hit show that lit up the television screen, Yellowstone recently aired its series finale. Watching it got me thinking about how much I’ve noticed there’s a big Western lifestyle. Have you noticed it, too?

• We can see the Western lifestyle reflected in everything around us, from the places we live to the modes of transportation we drive and ride. 

• You can hear it in some the music you listen to and dance to.

• We can see (and wear it) in our country & Western fashions: Cowboy boots, belts, buckles, and hats.

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• It even has a niche in our major sporting leagues, including the NBA!

Wearing Cowboy Hats: The Ultimate Codes of Respect

Whether you’re about to join the crowd or become a trendsetter, do you know the proper cowboy hat etiquette? Let's tap into our inner Forrie J. Smith from Yellowstone!

Now remember, the cowboy hat is deeply rooted in tradition and culture. First of all, there is indeed a code of the West. Here is one of the most important things not to do: You do not mess with the cowboy's hat. Just like the cowboy, his hat demands respect.

Now, some people wear a cowboy hat just for the fun of it, and others are serious about that ole' cowboy hat. There is a level of reverence and character that wearing a cowboy hat brings to the party.

Here are a couple of cowboy hat wearin’ pointers:

1) When you are about to meet someone for the first time, remove your hat. It shows respect to the person.

*PLEASE NOTE: When removing your cowboy hat, do so by the crown (the part of the hat covering your head). Then, hold it with the interior facing down so no one can see the inner lining.

2) Tipping your hat can be a courteous gesture, particularly to a lady.

The most common situations to remove your hat include:

• During the national anthem or the pledge of allegiance.  Always remove your hat as a sign of respect.
• Attending church, funerals, weddings, or praying. Whether indoors or outdoors, remember a church is a house of worship.
• Remove your cowboy hat when you are about to eat at someone else's home or restaurant.