The Avenel Billabong Straw Western Hat is a great pick if you want classic Western style without the weight. It’s crafted from palm straw for breathability and comes with a wide brim for sun protection - perfect when you’re out in the yard, on the station or heading to a country event. The bleach finish keeps it neutral and versatile, so you can pair it with jeans and boots for a true-blue country look, or wear it with shorts and a shirt for a laid-back summer vibe.
Whether you’re working under the sun, watching a ute muster, or just enjoying a long summer’s day - this hat offers comfort, practicality and that iconic Western feel.
✔ Palm straw construction for breathability and lightweight wear
✔ Wide 11.5cm brim for sun protection
✔ Crown height 9.5 cm, offering traditional Western hat shape
✔ Classic Western hat silhouette with a neutral bleach tone for versatility
✔ Lightweight and airy - good for hot weather and outdoor work
✔ Made by Avenel - a heritage Australian hat maker known for country-ready hats built for outback and town wear
✔ See all the Billabong Straw Hat options here
Everyday country-casual
Try denim jeans, a plain or check country shirt, and leather boots. Add a belt if you like. The straw hat brings the look together for errands, farm work or a day at the saleyards.
Summer-ready outdoor vibe
Go for denim shorts or lightweight chinos, a cotton tee or linen shirt, and low-profile boots or casual slip-ons. Great for outdoor barbies, markets or a casual afternoon in the paddock.
Country concert or ute muster look
Rock the hat with bootcut jeans or a denim skirt or country dress, a Western print shirt or dress, and a leather belt with a statement buckle. Add a light vest or denim jacket if it’s cooler. The wide brim hat adds western flair while keeping the outfit sun-smart and country themed.
To establish your size as per your head measurement, measure the circumference around your head - approximately 12mm (1/2") above your ears. Keep the dressmaker tape level and firm, and keep it across your temple and above your eyebrow ridges. For in-between measurements, select the next size up. For example, if your head measurement is 58.2cm, you would choose a size 59 hat. You want a close fit, but not so firm that the band leaves a mark on your forehead when you have worn your hat for a period of time. If you're trying your hat on instore, and you have a choice of a size that is a bit too firm, but the next size is a bit too loose, we recommend selecting the larger size, and popping some hat fillers behind the inner band to create the perfect fit.
If you order your hat online and you find it is too firm fitting, do not expect it to 'loosen up'. It will not. Contact our friendly mailroom staff for assistance.
Straw hats are best for warm weather or sunny conditions. They’re breathable and cool - ideal for spring and summer. For winter we would recommend a felt hat - and it just so happens that Avenel make the Billabong in Australian wool felt as well!
Use a soft hat brush or lightly damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid soaking it - straw can warp or shrink when wet. When not in use, store in a cool dry place, ideally on a hat rack or crown-down so it keeps its shape.
Yes. With a brim around 11.5 cm wide, the hat offers solid shade for face and neck - useful in Australian sun whether you’re on the farm or at a summer event.
Yes. The neutral bleach colour and classic Western style make it versatile and gender-neutral. It pairs well with jeans, shorts or dresses, so it works for anyone wanting that country-Western vibe. Its practicality and comfort suit both genders.
Built for the Rugged Life
Made to last through work, weather, and adventure.
Authentic Western Heritage
Classic country style with modern craftsmanship.
Comfort Meets Durability
Tough gear that feels good all day long.
Weatherproof Confidence
Stay dry, warm, and ready for anything.
