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Hi-hat Cymbals

What is a hi-hat cymbal?

The hi-hat is a pair of cymbals mounted clamshell-style to a pedal-operated stand and played as a single instrument. It’s the rhythmic and dynamic backbone of the drum set, used to keep time and shape the feel of a song.

How do hi-hats work?

The hi-hat uses a stand-based pull rod and footpedal to lower the top cymbal onto a fixed bottom cymbal. Pressing the pedal snaps the cymbals together, and releasing it lifts the top cymbal to create a gap.

What's the difference between open and closed hi-hats?

Open and closed hi-hats differ in tone and note length. Closed hi-hats produce a defined “chick” with the foot and a tight “tsst” with sticks. Half-open hats sizzle, and fully open hats ring out in a sustained wash.

How do you play hi-hats?

Hi-hats can be played with drumsticks or the footpedal. Common techniques include:

  • Sticking 8ths and 16ths to hold the groove
  • Pumping time to anchor the band
  • Chicking the foot while swinging the ride
  • Syncopating hat lifts for disco beats
  • Barking the hats for color
  • Foot-splashing the hats for emphasis

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What are the most popular brands for Hi-hat Cymbals on Sweetwater.com?


What are the most popular Hi-hat Cymbals on Sweetwater.com?


  1. Zildjian A Zildjian New Beat Hi-hats - 14 inches

    11 reviews

    $519.95

  2. Zildjian 15 inch K Zildjian Sweet Hi-hat Cymbals

    10 reviews

    $719.95

  3. Dream 15-inch Bliss Hi-hat Cymbals

    4 reviews

    $414.99

  4. Zildjian 14 inch A Custom Mastersound Hi-hat Cymbals

    11 reviews

    $579.95

  5. Zildjian K Custom Dark Hi-hat Cymbals - 14 inch

    1 review

    $679.95

Why shop Hi-hat Cymbals at Sweetwater.com?


With a massive selection of Hi-hat Cymbals, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Hi-hat Cymbals, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.