Failsworth Hats
Failsworth has been shaping British style for more than a century. Founded in 1903 at the historic Maypole Hat Works in the textile heartland of Manchester, the brand quickly built a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and premium materials. From classic Trilbies and Fedoras to Gatsby caps, Spitfire caps and traditional flat caps, Failsworth remains one of Europe’s most respected makers of men’s headwear.
Even in its early years, the company balanced tradition with innovation. As it grew through the early 20th century, Failsworth became a key supplier of military headgear, producing hand-crafted leather flying helmets for the Royal Air Force during the Second World War and specialist equipment for commando units. Once peacetime returned, the brand re-entered the fashion world with impact. By the 1950s, its hats were stocked by leading department stores including Harrods, Austin Reed and Selfridges, and worn by cultural icons of the era, from silver-screen stars to the legendary Busby Babes of Manchester.
A landmark moment came with Failsworth’s partnership with the American hat giant John B. Stetson Company, producing licensed Stetson styles for the UK market, an agreement that modernised production and helped the business expand into the largest hat factory in Europe.
Today, Failsworth continues to combine heritage craftsmanship with contemporary materials. Alongside classic wool and felt, the brand works with premium textiles such as authentic Harris Tweed and exquisite fabrics from Abraham Moon & Sons, as well as durable waterproof cottons and performance fibres. Still based in the Failsworth district of Manchester, just a stone’s throw from its original Claremont Street site, the company remains true to its founding principles: quality, integrity and timeless style.
At Atom Retro, you’ll find a curated selection of Failsworth hats and caps, from refined felt Fedoras to robust waxed-cotton flat caps and heritage tweed styles. Whether you’re dressing for the great outdoors, weekend wear or sharp vintage-inspired tailoring, Failsworth offers enduring craftsmanship designed to last.
