The Sky is No Limit!

March 24, 2017American Hat Makers Leave a comment

We hear about daring and brave people all the time. While there are a lot of true badasses out there in the world, it takes a special kind of person to deliberately plummet out of a plane from 12,000 feet. That’s something most people won’t even think about doing, let alone doing twice…or three times…or 6400+ times. Introducing Ben Lowe.

Ben is more than just a professional skydiver. Recognizable by the Mohawk haircut that he first received at age 8, Ben is a respected skydiving instructor who is dedicated to his students and growing the sport. Though his appearance suggests a rebel, he is a very approachable person who holds multiple USPA ratings, is an FAA Master Rigger, TonySuits Wingsuit Examiner and a Strong Enterprises and United Parachute Technologies Tandem Instructor Examiner. In 2012, his commitment to skydiving instruction earned him USPA’s Chesley H. Judy Safety Award. He’s even written a children’s book, “The Summer I Became a Skydiver.” Lowe is now using his years of experience to run Skydive Canyonlands in Moab, Utah, with Melissa Lowe.

Melissa BASE jumping Perrine Bridge-by Luanne Horting

Melissa and Ben over Mexico-by Javier Ortiz

Melissa Lowe is an AFF Instructor, Pro Rating, the co-creator of 4-way VFS, author of Sugar Alpha, and has 11 world records and a bunch of medals from USPA Nationals. Her world records include:

2003 –16-Way Women’s Vertical World Record
2004 – 42-Way Vertical World Record
2005 – 18-Way Women’s Vertical World Record
2005 – 151-Way JFTC Women’s RW World Record
2007 – 20-Way Women’s Vertical World Record
2007 – 69-Way Vertical World Record
2009 – 108-Way Vertical World Record
2010 – 41-Way Women’s Vertical World Record
2011 – 9-Way Women’s Wingsuit National Record (Unofficial World Record)
2012 – 138-Way Vertical World Record
2013 – 63-Way Women’s Vertical World Record

Melissa at the Women’s World Record Camp, Skydive Chicago- by Valentina Solis

Our good pal Adam Rose of Fallen Owl Tattoo has had the pleasure of calling Ben and Melissa friends over the past years. He reminisces of the time they met fondly. Adam was learning all the in’s and out’s of skydiving from Denver Broncos Skydiving team member Cody Irby. Cody mentioned that his roommates were “good” skydivers, but Adam didn’t realize to what caliber until he noticed that the person on the large skydiving poster on the wall was the same person serving him dinner! When Adam commented on it, Melissa stood up and proclaimed, “Yeah, but I have more world records!”

Ben rocks his limited edition “Hootie” designed by Adam Rose.

The Lowe’s and American Hat Makers share very similar philosophies when it comes to running not just business, but any aspect of life. The Lowe’s are dedicated to improving the world around them, and they do that through skydiving. Recently, Ben and Adam have been working together on a charity event in which sick children will be given temporary tattoos so that they too can look like badass skydivers!

Sun protection at it’s finest, SolAir Hats!

March 8, 2017American Hat Makers Leave a comment

Here at American Hat Makers we manufacture a line of hats for any occasion. Our SolAir Hats brand is our line of the finest quality sun hats available. Who doesn’t love spending time soaking up the sun? I don’t know about you, but I’m most at home with my feet in the sand and a good book to read. As important as it is to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, it’s more important to keep yourself protected from the suns harmful rays. SolAir Hats can help.

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. Over the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined. Between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have either basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma at least once. When you take these facts into account, it’s not difficult to see just how important it is to take care of your skin! Wearing a wide-brimmed hat is essential for safely enjoying the outdoors.

When you’re protecting yourself from the suns rays, not just any hat will do. You need one of the finest sun hats available. SolAir Hats have a UPF 50+ rating, guaranteeing that the suns harmful UV rays are blocked out. The crown of each SolAir Hat utilizes a durable, breathable mesh to give the hat breathability, insuring you stay cool. The waterproofed suede and top grain leather used in the brim and top of the hat repel rain, mist, and sea spray, allowing these hats to follow you anywhere!

Hannah Bertollini Watrous

January 4, 2017American Hat Makers Leave a comment

One of the first things you notice about Hannah Bertollini Watrous is the warmth of her smile. Most likely the second will be the warmth of her hug, because whether she is meeting you for the first, or fifty-first, time she will greet you like you are a long lost friend.

It’s that open joy that drives Hannah’s work as the Global Brand Marketing Manager for Watsonville-based American Hat Makers. Hannah is an integral piece of the family business (Husband Garth is the son of Founder Gary Watrous), whose mission is, “Having fun, laughing often, and honoring everyone’s unique strengths.”

When I first met Hannah it was not long after American Hat Makers had moved into their large warehouse near the Watsonville airport. What began as a one-man operation in her father-in-law’s garage over 40 years ago has since grown to employ 50 positive and fun loving people who work together to produce the finest, most striking, handmade leather hats in the world.

As Global Brand Marketing Manager, Hannah is tasked with promoting several unique brands under the American Hat Makers umbrella. This is no small task, as each line has its own distinct personality. Her work takes her all over the country, from the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota, to high-end trade shows in Las Vegas and New York.

Regardless of how many miles she is logging, Hannah’s priority is family first and foremost. “I love that my beautiful daughters (Gianna, 23 and Leilani, 16) have the courage to follow their dreams, take risks, and fall short. They both love deeply, are knowledgeable, athletic, nurturing, humorous, and part of the next generation of entrepreneurs who will make a difference in our community,” she said.

As far as her marriage is concerned, Hannah clearly loves working with her husband Garth as much as she loves him. “We really complement each other. I’m proud of the fact that we work so hard on our relationship so that our girls are able to see what a healthy relationship looks like – to be respected, loved, and enjoy life to the fullest!”

Clean and sober for over 18 years, Hannah is now addicted to living life fully present and finding love and laughter in every day. Her dedication to enjoying life is evident in every aspect of her being. With her guidance, American Hat Makers dedicates as much to the fulfillment of their employees as they do to making amazing hats. She and Garth mentor employees, provide monthly themed breakfasts and lunches and Keep it Weird days (where everyone dresses up and laughter and smiles abound!) They work to encourage each and every employee to become their highest selves and fulfill their dreams.

One of the things Hannah feels most strongly about is helping the community. “I know we are fortunate to live a charmed life and it feels exceptionally good for my family to be able to give to those in need.”

Whether it is through American Hat Makers’ annual Hat Day in the Sun event, where they give away hundreds of hats and educate the community about protecting their faces from the sun, or by gifting beanies and socks to the homeless each winter through their Headwear for the Homeless campaign, Hannah knows it is through giving that we receive much more.

“I used to really worry about what others thought of me,” she said. “Now I feel incredible knowing I work hard at keeping my side of the street clean and discovering how I can be the best me, and finding ways to impact our world in a positive way. There’s not a doubt in my mind that I can make a difference. I have an abundance of Faith in the outcome.”

Voodoo Hatter!

November 24, 2016American Hat Makers Leave a comment

Voodoo Hatter goes to lengths unseen to deliver the ultimate in handmade leather top hats. 19th Century style infused with fierce sensibility and a touch of dark energy make our Voodoo Top Hats essential to your subversive lifestyle.

The Caliber in red, black, cigar, and rattlesnake.

From hard-kicking rocker to brazen biker or neo-noir grifter, you will make a definitive statement wherever you go. We designed these bad asses to be the kinds of hats you can become known for wearing. Formed out of black or brown full-grain smooth leather, our toppers are built to last. The new additions feature remarkable airbrushed, laser engraved designs and eye catching rattlesnake skin overlay.

The Skull N Roses (design by Adam Rose)

Adam Rose of Fallen Owl Tattoo is an amazing tattoo artist who sends us his designs to be used in the production of our hats!

The Silver Skull (design by Adam Rose)

These styles utilize state-of-the-art laser engraving and airbrushing techniques to perfectly recreate Adam’s absolutely stunning works of art.

The Cocktailer (design by Adam Rose)

Shipwrecked (design by Adam Rose)

Balance (design by Adam Rose)

Voodoo Hatter lives for biker rallies! Whether it’s the Lone Star rally in Galveston, Texas or the world famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally we love absolutely tearing it up with our fans and having a great time.This year’s rallies were especially great. As we attend more and more rallies, Voodoo Hatter becomes more and more recognizable among the community and being able to experience that first hand is incredible!

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Downtown Sturgis 2016

Enjoying Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Voodoo Hatter is even respected among celebrities! We’re absolutely delighted to see such a wide range of stars enjoying our hats!

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Steven Tyler of Aerosmith looking absolutely characteristic in an El Dorado

Elvis Nolasco of American Crime rocking an El Dorado

Anastasia Baranova of Z Nation wearing an El Dorado.

It really isn’t hard to see why Voodoo Hatter is so well loved! When you put on a topper by Voodoo Hatter it invokes an adventurous spirit that’s sure to take you to new places! When it comes to Voodoo Hatter, the meek need not apply!

What Happened at Lone Star Rally 2016!

November 9, 2016American Hat Makers Leave a comment

The 2016 Lone Star Motorcycle Rally was a huge success for American Hat Makers! We always have a blast bringing you the absolute highest quality handmade hats available! Here is what we saw and who we connected with.

This year, American Hat Makers sponsored the Perewitz Paint Show. Jody Perewitz is the first woman to break 200 miles per hour on an American – made motorcycle, so naturally we at American Hat Makers jumped at the opportunity to get involved with such a genuine badass! We were so happy to have the chance to partner up with Jody and her amazing team. They spent the entire rally promoting us and giving us shout outs on social media. They also put up banners at the Galvez Hotel! Jody was an absolute pleasure to work with, and we’re so glad she’s enjoying her hats and custom key-chains! It was a pleasure working with such great people. Thank you to the Perewitz team!

Jody fell in love with this style, the Skull N’ Roses! Designed by Adam Rose of Fallen Owl Tattoo, its laser engraved and airbrushed crown were right up her alley, and definitely set her apart from the crowd!

This hat is available on our website: http://www.headnhome.com/skull-n-roses.html

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Jody wearing the Boheme hat with Feather band. $167

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Jody wore her Player for the entire rally! It must’ve been her favorite!

This hat can be purchased on our website: http://www.headnhome.com/player.html

Jody & Hannah the Marketing Duo promoting each other throughout the whole Rally!

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Dave & Dave hanging up sponsorship banners at the Galvez Hotel.

Chad, the winner of the Best Graphics Award and proud owner of a badass top hat from Voodoo Hatter! The trophy was designed by Fast Life Garage!

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Dave Silva & Garth Watrous

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Dave wearing the Skull N Roses top hat, which is a rare occasion he doesn’t normally wear hats.

Chopper Master and King of Flames, custom bike genius Dave Perewitz describes the long years, hard work, and unflagging passion that transformed him from a kid with his first motorcycle, a Harley-Davidson Sportster, into a star riding his creations across the television screens of America on Discovery Channel’s Biker Build-Off. Being able to work with a man who has been a major influence in the custom motorcycle industry for over 30 years offered us a rare look at how a self-taught designer, mechanic, painter, and fabricator managed to build the American dream his own way!

We met and connected with Karl and Jacquie from Progressive Motorcycle had a blast seeing them enjoy the rally with their new hats from American Hat Makers.

Where we sold a ton of hats and connected with our customers. One of our biggest highlights was being well-known in the Motorcycle Industry. Everyone knew who Voodoo Hatter was. “We had so much traction from Social Media to our booth it was a rewarding feeling” says Hannah Watrous Director of Marketing and Branding. We threw out T- shirts giveaways at shows, Voodoo Hatter was everywhere!

The streets were absolutely lined with top hats! Everybody was lookin’ so stylish!

Everyone that walked into our booth was amazed by all the different hats and the handmade craftsmanship. We are a luxury brand, our hats are a true investment that comes with a lifetime guarantee.

If you want a look that sets you apart from the average person and is handmade in America, We’ve got you covered. Stay tuned for the 2017 new hat styles we are working on.

That’s a wrap for the 2016 Lone Star Motorcycle Rally! See you guys next year!

Don’t forget to follow us on

Lone Star Rally 2016!

October 28, 2016American Hat Makers Leave a comment

November 3 – November 6

Nov 3 at 9 AM to Nov 6 at 10 PM

With bike, truck, jeep & classic car shows and free concerts on two stages, this year’s Lone Star Rally will be jam packed with entertainment for all ages, day and night, all weekend long, November 3-6, 2016. Known as the largest weekend rally in the country, this Texas size party is truly for those who live life wide open and ride hard. Bands will perform throughout the weekend at Saengerfest Park and at Beach Central Park. Rally goers can also shop ’til they drop at hundreds of vendors offering everything from motorcycle accessories and state-of-the-art after market parts to custom crafted jewelry and hand-tooled leather hats and other accessories throughout downtown Galveston and along the Seawall. Plus, they can check out the coolest new rides on two wheels and four, with legendary bike builders from across the nation showcasing their best in custom paint and design.

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“We come down here every year, I don’t think I’ve missed a year yet,” biker Larry Fuller says. This year he is showing off his favorite Harley Davidson. “It’s my second wife,” he laughs.

Hundreds of thousands of riders will cross the causeway to Galveston Island for four days of non-stop entertainment. A large part of what makes the Lone Star Rally so unique is its setting. Rally goers take in some of them most spectacular waterfront riding available along the Gulf, coupled with the picturesque architecture and bike-only accessibility of Historic Downtown Galveston. The Island’s many delicious restaurants and unique boutiques also help to place the Lone Star Rally among the best-loved destination rallies in the country.

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This year won’t be American Hat Maker’s first time visiting Lone Star Rally. Last year we had a blast bringing you the absolute best quality, handmade hats and this year we aim to stun our customers with some interesting and unique new styles! This year our booth is going to be located on the corner of 21st & Strand St! We’re super excited to announce that this year we are sponsoring the amazing Jody Perewitz and are even more excited to get her some of our hats!

Jody Perewitz has been around motorcycles all her life and has become very well-known throughout the motorcycle community for her knowledge of bikes and record-setting driving skills. Manager of Marketing for the nationally renowned Perewitz Cycle Fabrication of Halifax, MA, makers of award-winning customs, she’s also the fastest woman on an American V-Twin: She currently holds 8 Land Speed Records, one of which is a World Record.

Jody shocked the land speed record community with her record smashing performance in her rookie season at the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2011 where she set a new land speed record. She literally propelled herself into the record books by being the fastest woman to ever ride an American V-Twin powered motorcyle over 200 mph!

Her machine, 264, is powered by a 100ci V-Twin boasting a super strong Jim’s bottom end, helping the supercharged power plant produce over 230 hp’s!

Don’t miss out on the Perewitz Paint show while you’re visiting the rally! This is an amazing display of custom paint from around the world where bikes will be judged in 3 classes including airbrush, artwork and best use of color with Best of Show receiving a one-of-a-kind Perewitz custom painted trophy.

Don’t miss out on any of these awesome events or any of our new hat styles at this year’s Lone Star Rally! Galveston is the place to party, November 3-6, 2016. Visit LoneStarRally.com for the latest news and event happenings, and check out American Hat Maker’s social media accounts for updates regarding the rally! Don’t forget that we’re going to be located on the corner of 21st and Strand street!

Our Website: http://www.headnhome.com/

Facebook: American Hat Makers/ Voodoo Hatter

Twitter @americanhatter/@voodoohatter

Instagram: @americanhatmakers/@voodoohatter

concho

The Hats for Adventurers! “American Outback Hats”

October 3, 2016American Hat Makers Leave a comment

Step up and stride out into the American Outback. Inspired by the Aussie icon, these hats are tough, good-looking, everyday work and recreation gear. These durable beauties are in their element when you’re riding the range, hiking to Machu Picchu or sitting around the campfire. The crushable styles pack easily and gain more character every time you put them on. Look your best grilling at a BBQ, exploring the county fair or shopping the farmer’s market. Everywhere you work and play in the USA, you’re in the American Outback.

@enrikegrageda on Instagram (Happy Customer)

Durable and practical, American Outback hats offer great-looking protection – rain or shine. Soft, durable, surprisingly lightweight 50+ UPF rated leather blocks 100% of the sun’s rays and holds up in the rain as well. From oiled leather, to smooth finish full-grain leather and suede, this is the hat to have when the weather could turn from sunny to stormy and back again.

@enrikegrageda on Instagram (Happy Customer)

Rosemary & Don Nelson (Happy Customers)

“We just returned from a month plus trip to France and then we did the Coast to Coast in England where we walked over 200 miles across the country in 18 days. Not bad for a couple of seniors! Last year we hiked in Patagonia and then New Zealand and your hats go every where with us. They are a couple of years old now, but we still love them.”

– Rosemary & Don Nelson
Parksville, B.C. Canada

Satisfied customer, Don Nelson

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Nizar Ibrahim a vertebrate paleontologist and comparative anatomist featured on the National Geographic Channel

@m.a.t.t.h.e.w.h.e.n.r.y on Instagram (Happy Customer)

@mae_noel_ on Instagram (Happy Clothing Brand)

Anthony Anderson wearing an American Hat Makers Hat (3)

Anthony Anderson wearing a Crusher

Gilles Marini wearing American Hat Makers Hat (7)

Gilles Marini wearing a Crusher

Morgan Heritage American Hat Makers grammy winners

Morgan Heritage wearing a Crusher

Noah Sierota Echosmith American Hat Makers 1800NiceHAt

Noah Sierota from Echosmith wearing a Crusher

Renee Olstead American Hat Makers Crusher (6)

Renee Olstead wearing a Crusher

A hard-working hat with Outback style. The durable Bravo is soft and flexible enough to handle crushing and abuse while maintaining its custom shape. The full grain, smooth finished distressed cowhide is complemented by an edge braided band and brim trim for a great looking finish. A hat you can wear all day, everyday. (3 colors available)

The Crusher does what a hat is supposed to do and looks good doing it. Outback style, super lightweight, oiled leather survives packing like no hat we have ever made. Fold it up, beat it up, stuff it in a pocket, head into a storm. This hat bounces back and looks great no matter the abuse. The more you do it, the more character you give it. Don’t Worry, Just Wear It. (4 colors available)

American Hat Makers

We are THE #1 hat manufacturers in North America who produce quality leather hats to fit any personality.

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