As I drove along Prairie Avenue in Staples, MN, keeping an eye out for Barmah Hats, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. What I discovered far exceeded my expectations—beautiful, handcrafted hats, remarkable attention to detail, and a small-town business with a global reach. Barmah Hats is more than a hat manufacturer; it’s a place where customers receive a customized, personal experience built on craftsmanship and care.
A Warm Welcome and a World of Craftsmanship
The moment you walk through the doors of Barmah Hats, you’re greeted by three friendly pups who set the tone for the welcoming atmosphere inside. The space is alive with activity. Stacks of finished hats await shipment, rolls of leather line the walls, and the sound of skilled hands shaping and sewing echoes through the building.
It’s nearly impossible to take it all in at once. The range of materials used—cattle hide, deer, boar, mountain goat, kangaroo, and American bison—speak to the brand’s commitment to durability and uniqueness. Each hat is meticulously made by talented craftswomen who remain focused and precise in their work, producing pieces that are as rugged as they are refined.
How Did Barmah Hats End Up in Staples?
Barmah Hats has earned a strong international reputation over the past 30 years, originally founded and manufactured in Melbourne, Australia. But the story of how its U.S. branch landed in Staples is uniquely Minnesotan.
In 2009, Andreas and Michelle Vogel—then living in California—purchased the American branch of Barmah Hats from its original owner. Just three years later, drawn by family connections and the quality of life in Central Minnesota, the Vogels relocated to Staples and brought the company with them. Since then, all U.S. manufacturing and distribution has taken place right here in town.
What Sets Barmah Hats Apart?
Barmah Hats are built to last and designed for the outdoors. Each hat is crafted from the highest quality materials, with options for customization to suit individual needs. Whether you’re hiking, hunting, fishing, or horseback riding, these hats offer protection, comfort, and style.
They’re not just functional—they’re also eye-catching. With a wide range of designs and materials, there’s a Barmah Hat to fit nearly every personality and outdoor pursuit.
Barmah Hats stands as a proud example of what makes Staples special: small-town hospitality, global quality, and a deep commitment to craftsmanship. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area, a stop at Barmah Hats is more than worth your time. It’s an experience—and a story—you’ll take with you, right alongside your new favorite hat.
