Beats the heck outta me Fedoralover. I've seen that for years & just assume that it is a proprietary term for their own finish. Sorry, no help here. Any one else?
I've always assumed it had something to do with the way the felt was processed. But I don't know if thats true or not and even if it is, how is that different from any other way felt is processed. You were the ONE I thought would know Art.
This was the term used by the manufacturer...and Art is correct. It is just a term used to put one's hat over the next guy. Most old ads tout the "Cravanette" process as a type of water proofing. Along the lines of "shed's water" "duck's back" "swans back" etc etc...
MY ASSUMPTION is that this is just a description of the finishing process where a waterproofer was applied which helped shed those raindrops and keep the hat's shape. Remember, most of the hats back then were like shoes today: cheap shoes sell and the expensive ones are for the select buyer. Translated, no way was all the hats made from 100% beaver or nutria.
Again, you could go into ANY (and I mean ANY) clothing store, and there would be tons of men's hats. That is non existant today. Try to find a decent hat in Macys or wherever you buy your pants and underwear.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.