Failsworth has a long place in British hat-making, and its history helps explain why traditional hats and caps still hold their appeal today. This piece looks at the brand’s background, its role in British manufacturing, and the broader craft of well-made headwear. Readers looking for current options can browse our live hats and caps collection and shooting hats and caps collection.
Though it began life as the Maypole Hat Works in 1881, it was in the early years of the following century that the better-known New Failsworth Hat Manufacturing Company name arrived. The name came from the location of the factory on Claremont Street in Failsworth, Manchester, before the slightly punchier title of Failsworth Hats Limited was adopted in 1940. During the war, normal hat production was paused and the company turned its hand to making leather helmets for commando frogmen and RAF pilots, as well as other components for aircraft.
Once the war was over, the company gathered pace by signing a major contract with the John B Stetson company in the United States to manufacture hats under the well-known Stetson name. On the back of this success, Failsworth continued to push forward with its own brand and by the 1950s was making 5,000 dozen hats a week, several of which could be spotted on a range of famous heads, including local legends the Busby Babes.
By the 1980s, Failsworth was an early leader in fabric development, using microfibre-based materials and fleece to create warm, lightweight and waterproof styles. This was a world away from its early use of fur felt, though traditional hat and cap designs also enjoyed a strong revival during the same period. Harris Tweed, cashmere and lambswool all helped bring older shapes back into favour, and that mix of practicality and tradition still shapes the best country headwear now.
Having celebrated its centenary in 2003, the brand built its reputation on balancing innovation with traditional values of quality, detail and craftsmanship. That wider story still matters, even as readers today may be comparing a broader mix of brands and styles. For readers exploring practical country accessories, our live accessories collection is also worth viewing alongside the main hat categories.
Failsworth’s story remains a good reminder that hats and caps were never only about appearance. The best ones are shaped by purpose, comfort and materials that suit regular wear, whether for shooting, travel, town or time outdoors. You can view the current range of men’s hats and caps at The Sporting Lodge.
By Neil Summers.
