What does “flange” mean?
The flange is the particular shape given to the brim. Like the crown, there are several variations of a common brim shape that are currently popular. For example, our Roper flange is generally flat, with approximately one inch of the front 1/3 of the brim edge turned up slightly and the front of the brim squared off. Our Roughstock flange is a more severe Roper flange. That is, 2 inches or more of the brim edge is turned up, and again, the front is squared off. The Roughstock flange will also typically have the front of the brim dipped down lower than a Roper flange. Similarly, there are many flanges that are referred to generally as a Rancher. Generally, a Rancher flange features a gentle roll to the brim toward the front of the hat. On a Rancher flange, the front edge of the brim is rounded, not squared off.