Manssentials #5: Taking Your Hat Off

Men used to wear hats for practical purposes: protecting your head from the elements, shading sun from your eyes and face, and to look just a bit more dapper. Tipping your cap was a way of saying hello. Today, hats are a fashion accessory--unless you're a farmer, rancher, etc., or are required to wear a top hat for a black tie party. Of course, men also used to remove their hats any time that they went inside at all. Now, it's rare that a hat will come off the man's head until he is ready to shower. While taking your hat off any time you are indoors may be way out of date, there are still some times that you should show some manners in regard to taking off your hat.

1. When Eating
Growing up, I used to hate that my mom would make me take my hat off at dinner, and out at restaurants. Now, I'm glad she did, and I understand why. I'm not saying that a place like McDonald's or Burger King requires this, but if you'll be eating a meal and being served, take off your hat. Also, any time you are eating in another person's home, or are having guests over at your home, take it off. If you're worried about having hat hair, odds are you will know that you're about to eat at a nice place, so why even wear a hat out? Plus, no one will think less of you for having hat hair at dinner. There are, however, some people out there who will think less of you for wearing a hat at dinner.

2. During Prayer
Even if you aren't religious yourself, it is the proper custom to remove your hat for prayer. A true gentleman would never want to intentionally offend anyone so follow the customs and take it off. Also note that some churches require you taking off your hat upon entering, even if you're just visiting. When in doubt, take it off. Sorry, I can't think of a clever rhyme there.

3. National Anthem/Pledge of Allegiance
Most likely, you will hear those most often at a sporting event. And, most fans do wear hats to the games to support their team. However, even when the P.A. announcer says, "please rise and remove your caps," not everyone does. Show some respect for your country, you do live in the best one in the world after all, and take off your hat.

4. When Everyone Else Does
I'm not really a fan of doing just because everyone else is doing, but there are certain times that it is necessary. There may be a custom that you're not familiar with, but it's important to try to follow them as best you can. If you notice that other gentlemen are taking off their hats, too, it's probably a good idea to follow their lead and takes yours off as well.