Lightweight vs Dressweight Felt

[Mustang]

Hi, I've been intending to post here again, but kept forgetting. I went with a silverbelly lightweight, same dimensions as my oxblood dressweight (2.5" brim, 6 " crown), and it's an amazing hat! There is a startlingly HUGE difference in the thickness of the felt. The feel is much different. I wouldn't say I like one better than the other, but I can certainly see why the lightweight is so popular. It just feels like it required for effort, if that makes sense.

 

[mingoslim]

I have three ArtLite's, have worn them in all weather, and have never had a problem . . . They rank up there with every other hat I have ever had, including my vintage Borsos.

 

[Luis]

Confirmed with Art yesterday that I'm going with the lightweight one. It was a tough choice but I read lots of good things and I would also want to wear it all year round not being limited to only a panama.

 

[RJR]

Good choice,imo.

 

[Simon82]

I've got two dress-weights from Art, one unlined, and have worn both in 80+ temps and high humidity. Yes, there's some sweat, but not as much as I would've thought. That said, I'm in Art's queue for an ArtLite, and saying that I'm looking forward to it is an understatement. When I got the phone call from Art, it was like having Santa respond to your Christmas letter in person!

 

[Mustang]

I chose the light-colored, lightweight in large part because I would much rather well a felt hat than a Panama, as long as it's not too hot. In the sun on a hot day, I have no problem at all with it. It's perfect.

 

[Luis]

I'll do the panamas if it is 95-100+F, the humidity is Brutal here in Houston. I do prefer the felts but sometimes it is too hot down here.
But I am glad i'm getting a lightweight one for all year, especially the silverbelly since It can go with just about anything. I will whip out the dress VS for when it is raining and it is very cold.