OUR STORY

The Best Hat Store was founded with one goal in mind: to provide Fort Worth and surrounding areas with the best selection, quality, and service in western hats. Keith and Susan Maddox, both veterans of the western wear industry, opened the store in 1996 with a modest stock of hats. Today, it has grown into one of the country’s premier specialty hat stores, exclusively offering American Hat Company cowboy hats.

But The Best Hat Store isn’t just a place to buy a cowboy hat—it’s a symbol of Western tradition, craftsmanship, and a way of life. Every hat sold represents more than just style; it carries a legacy of quality, identity, and pride.

Keith Maddox believed in living by the ➕✖️ “Positive Times” philosophy—a mindset rooted in optimism and resilience. Originally his cattle brand that was established in the 1980s, the ➕✖️ became a reflection of his positive spirit and an emblem of the values that continue to define The Best Hat Store today. Keith knew that a well-made hat wasn’t just an accessory—it was a part of a cowboy’s identity, a statement of who they are and what they stand for.

His passion for quality hats led him and Susan to acquire American Hat Company in 2003, relocating it to Bowie, Texas. A lifelong cowboy, Keith understood the importance of a well-crafted hat, drawing from his background in professional rodeo and ranching. Despite setbacks, Keith’s dedication never wavered. He rebuilt the company stronger than before, ensuring American Hat remained a leader in quality and craftsmanship.

Keith Maddox, known as “The Hat King,” left an indelible mark on the western industry before his passing in 2019. Today, Susan Maddox carries forward his legacy, leading both American Hat Company and The Best Hat Store with the same passion and dedication. “For Keith, every hat was a symbol of identity and pride,” Susan shares. “The ➕✖️ reminds us to live with optimism and to put that energy into everything we do, especially in the craftsmanship of our hats.”

At The Best Hat Store, Susan and Keith built more than just a place to buy a cowboy hat — they built a destination where tradition, quality, and legacy live on. As the heart and soul of the store, Susan continues to elevate what she and Keith Maddox started, offering a curated experience rooted in authenticity and the Western way of life. Every hat on the shelf reflects her commitment to excellence, from the legendary craftsmanship of American Hat Company to the personal service that makes this store stand apart. Whether you’re a seasoned cowboy or new to the lifestyle, The Best Hat Store is where the right hat — and the right people — make all the difference.

The Heart of the Stockyards

Located in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards, The Best Hat Store offers an unmatched selection of American Hat Company styles, from classic felt cowboy hats to durable, high-quality straw hats. With expert hat shapers on hand, every customer receives a personalized experience, ensuring the perfect fit and shape.

Whether you’re preparing for a rodeo, a night out, or simply want a hat that embodies the spirit of the American West, The Best Hat Store is the ultimate destination. Step inside, find your perfect hat, and become part of a legacy that stands for quality, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the cowboy.