Summer months can be very hot at times. Many people around the world have to work outdoors for hours under such climatic conditions. Wearing headgear to avoid or shield the strong rays of the sun has been in practice for a long time. As civilization progressed, so did men’s sense of style. Hats’ designs evolved. Straw hats were used by people to keep them cool during the hot months. Now, to cope up with the need for fashion and also to use it for its actual purpose, straw hat makers have come up with various new forms. Straw, being a lightweight and durable material makes it an ideal choice for making hats to protect your head during the summertime. These days men not only choose hats by their style, but their choice also depends on their quality and their feel. If you are looking to buy a straw hat, then you have come to the right place. Read on to know more about them and decide which style would suit you the best.
Why straw hats are still in vogue
The straw used to make the hats is either natural or synthetic that is interwoven tightly to give the required shape to shield you against the blazing sun. They have been the popular choice for hats since the Middle Ages, and still, it hasn’t lost the charm among hat users. The reasons these hats have survived the taste of time are their durable nature and lightweight. Moreover, when they are made, the maker leaves small openings. These holes allow the free passage of air which provides ventilation and keeps the wearer cool.
Are straw hats effective in protecting from the glaring sun?
The effectiveness of these hats depends on how they have been woven. If they have tight weaving and small holes, then the sun rays will not be able to infiltrate much. The tighter the weaving is, the finer the hat. Their price also depends on this factor to a large extent.
While buying straw hats for men or women, it’s advisable to hold them up against the light to check how much light they allow to get in. Usually, they come with an ultraviolet protection factor rating (UVF rating). Choose a hat that has a rating of around 50 for maximum protection against the sun.
Types of men’s straw hats
- Panama straw hat
- Fedora straw hat
- Lifeguard straw hat
- Boater style straw hat
- Panama straw hat
If you are planning for a summer vacation and you want to carry a hat along with you then go for the Panama straw hat. They are easy to carry and known for their comfort. Toquilla straw is the preferred choice for making these hats. They have a tighter weave. Thus, a lot of time and effort goes into making them, and that’s why they are so pricy. But do not think of money while buying one of these. You will be investing in something that you will have with you for a long time to come. Team it up with a linen shirt to attain the classic look.
- Fedora straw hat
If you are not a hat user, you will not be able to identify the differences between a Panama and a fedora. Panama hats are made of toquilla straw, and that’s what defines them. But the fedora is defined by its shape. Other than using straw as a material, a fedora can also be made using felt or wool. But you will never find a Panama hat made with materials other than straw.
A fedora is most likely to possess a low crown, pinched front, with a moderately wide brim. Buying a fedora would be the right thing to do for you if you are one of those who are clueless about hat styles and yet have the desire to flaunt one.
- Lifeguard straw hat
The hat had its name when lifeguards along the coast of California started using them to protect them from the sun. But now, they are not only the favored choice of the lifeguards, but the fishermen and the gardeners also use them for working outdoors. Makers use a thick straw for weaving these hats. They possess a unique high crown and usually come with adjustable chin straps.
- Boater straw hat
It was once a part of formal wear. History says men used to start wearing these hats every second Saturday of May. They used to shun their winter hats and officially mark the beginning of the summer months by wearing the boater hats. That particular day even had a name – Straw Hat Day!
They are made of stiff straw, and the stiffness marks their uniqueness. The boater straw hat has a flat crown and short brim.
Conclusion
While purchasing a straw hat, keep in mind to check whether –
- it easy to carry and is lightweight
- it will give you comfort
- it will provide you the much-needed protection against the sun
Now you are all set to hunt for the perfect straw hat!