We used to have a "normal size" hat until the uniform changed a couple of years ago. Up until then, the hat was an integral part of the uniform and most pilots wore one. Then we changed manufacturers and waited with anticipation for the 'new' look. Designed by one of us, it was supposed to be THE thing. The hats came in and since then, only a fraction of the pilots wear one. I wear one for all of the above reasons plus one more....it covers the bald head so I don't get sunburned
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The 'new' manufacturer was a local company that manufactured hats for the Soviet forces...they didn't see the need for reducing the diameter of the hat and now it looks like I have a very large frisbee on my head. Damn good sunshade though.
yeah I know, the gene for shame is missing