Akubra Quality

I've been wearing Akubra hats for 40 years. Ever since I got my first Australian Army slouch or Diggers Hat in 1973 - I was a kid. I've owned many Akubra Stetsons too (they had the licence here). I bought about 10 hats in the 1980's, some of which I still have. I also have a recent 2008 Camp Draft. Here's the thing, the felt of my older hats appears to be heavier and denser and stiffer. The felt has a glossy or slick and finely sanded appearance. I currently have a 1985 Squatter and an even older Barwon. The recent Camp Draft felt is furry and a little lighter and far less stiff by comparison and although it's a decent hat, it sheds fluff a little, particularly where the creases are and just seems less confident than the older hats I own. All of them are lightweight felt - featherweight. Any thoughts?

One thing I have noticed today with my Squatter, that I have had a matter of months, is the leather sweatband has started to blister.

This is like I said basically a new hat, so I may be giving Akubra, a call this week to find out why it's happening.