Guys, we have received different questions related to the Mexican sombrero. It’s great you liked our article “The Mexican sombrero is an experience everybody should try!”. And it’s very nice too, that you got interested in having a Mexican sombrero! So, here you have a useful guide to choose and buy one!

Mexican sombrero
Kevin Flickr.com CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

 

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How long does it take to make a Mexican sombrero?

The time to make a Mexican sombrero varies based on the level of detail and ornaments the client orders. The most valued embroidery is handmade and it can take days to finish complex designs. But in general, consider from a couple of days to a complete week as a reference.

Hourglass
Jack Sem Flickr.com CC BY 2.0

 

How much does a Mexican sombrero cost?

Let’s make a distinction first. A true charro hat is the work of specialized artisans. It’s very different from what commonly you can get in tourist souvenir shops. If you look for a souvenir, a Mexican sombrero or charro hat can cost from 20 USD to 40 USD. While an artisan’s version can start at 250 USD.

Materials (wool, palm, leather, wheat straw, rabbit hair or suede), ornaments (amount and complexity), and time to make it will define the final cost.

Calculator
401(K) 2012 Flickr.com CC BY-SA 2.0

 

Where to buy a Mexican sombrero?

Well, you can buy a Mexican sombrero in a souvenir shop. There are many all around Mexico. But also you can get one at one of the also many specialized workshops that exist. Jalisco, Hidalgo and Michoacán workshops have good reputation. But for sure, you can find one in every state of Mexico. 

Sombrero shop
Leonora (Ellie) Enking Flickr.com CC BY-SA 2.0

 

How to know your size to buy a Mexican charro hat?

Well, you can try on the hat in the store. But especially if you want a custom-made sombrero, it’s better to measure your head and height.

Get a measuring tape and place it around the head, above the ears, at the middle of the forehead, and in the most prominent part of the back of your head. This is the level where the hat normally sits. Tighten the tape measure, but not too much. The idea is to tighten the tape to get the ideal size where the hat will hold up and not slip. Be sure you know your height. This datum is important to balance the hat brim dimension. If you are too tall, the brim will go wider than if you are short. Otherwise, the result could be cartoonish. 

If you don’t have a measuring tape or you get confused between centimeters and inches avoid mistakes. Here you have a simple tip. Take a ribbon and adjusted it to your head following the previous instructions. Make a knot or a mark on the ribbon. Then take it to the sombrero shop or artisan of your preference and with this reference, they could get your head’s measure and even your height. If you are a regular user of hats, pick the most comfortable one you have and give it to the artisan as a reference. You also can do this in case you want to buy the sombrero as a gift for someone else.

Remember, the wrong hat size can result in the hat being too tight and uncomfortable, or too loose. A hat constantly falling off your head or tilting unfavorably won’t be nice.

Measuring head with measuring tape
Jo Zimny Photos Flickr.com CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

 

Can I buy online a Mexican sombrero?

Sure! You can buy a Mexican sombrero online. There are many e-shops that offer this product. Just consider the sombrero could be made in whatever other country, not necessarily in Mexico. Another aspect to consider is that e-shops sell a lot of these sombreros as a costume. Quality and price will clearly differ, between an artisan sombrero and a costume version. If you want one just to have fun and you are not in Mexico, it could be a choice.

In any case, you will need to measure your head. E-shops usually publish a size table for clients to check and order the proper size.

Besides this, follow the regular steps to shop online. Check policies, terms, and conditions of the shop, its legitimacy, customers reviews, not to be scammed.

 

Why is the sombrero so important to Mexico?

Sombrero is important to Mexico because it has become a cultural icon, a national expression of pride, identity, and celebration for Mexicans. It represents for the whole country tradition and roots.

Sombrero atleta celebración
Noodlefish Flickr.com CC BY-NC 2.0

 

Do Mexicans still wear sombrero?

Yes, Mexicans still wear the traditional sombrero but not on a daily basis. The primary use of sombreros (weather protection) is still important for people who work in the countryside, especially with livestock. “Charrería” exhibitions and national celebrations are also occasions to wear the Mexican sombrero. But being as highly populated as Mexico is, it’s hard to imagine space enough for all Mexicans to wear one simultaneously. 

To walk in a crowded street or to access the metro wearing sombrero, especially during peak hours, could be absolutely challenging!

Mexican with sombrero
flowcomm Flickr.com CC BY 2.0

 

Do you recommend wearing a Mexican sombrero? 

Before trying a good Mexican sombrero, I thought vision and walking could be hard but actually is comfortable and designed not to be an obstacle for you. I’m not a regular hat user, so to wear this big sombrero was absolutely fun! Of course, I recommend wearing one at least to feel it and get a fun pic as a memory of your trip.

Now you know all the necessary information to get a sombrero. There is no excuse not to have a beautiful Mexican hat!

Guys, share with us your pics wearing a Mexican sombrero! It would be fun!  PackandGo.info  @packandgoinfo @packandgo.info @packandgo.info