Then you give it some fancy ability. It doesn't have to be a stat bonus, it could be a convenience ability or a sidegrade item.My guess is that it has no stats, there are a few hats in the game that don't give any stat bonuses. I think they want the game to be fair so a "pay-to-win" hat is most likely not a thing.
I'm buying the game, regardless, but I'm trying to figure out why I would shell out the extra five bucks (+30% the base price) on a hat that gives no extra benefit other than looking nifty? The whole "but the devs will get more money" argument won't mean much to me since I've already persuaded two of my friends to buy this game, not even 24 hours after discovering it, as well.
The core mechanics, and aesthetics, are a great enough combo to hit that nostalgia itch on me. I honestly didn't find much fault in the game (other than the unfair lack of love for mundane ranged weapon style).