Indiana Jones and Humphrey Bogart helped popularize the fedora while Clint Eastwood and John Wayne turned cowboy hats into a fashion statement. When it comes to boat hats, well, we probably don’t associate them with panache. However, they do what they were designed for really well—protect you from the elements during your trail hike, fishing or sailing trip.
Here’s a rundown of how each boat hat stacks up in terms of functionality and even in the coolness department.
1. Safari Hat—most functional boat hat
Safari hats like the Boatman Charter hat by Walrus are these macho hats that fishermen and casual boater just love. Nothing quite provides coverage against the elements including sun, rain, or wind like a rugged canvas hat. In the case of the Boatsman Charter, it comes with a jumbo trim that provides enormous shade coverage and are almost sun-proof.
2. Panama Hat—most practical boat hat
Stetson certainly makes plenty of straw fedoras and Panama hats. The company’s Aviator brand, however, takes the crown for its superior utility features including a generous wide brim that offers ample shade and woven gaps that crown really wide. The Aviator feels magnificent when you are out in the sea with the wind blasting past your hair. Panama hats in general have a Cuban style that invokes a sense of relaxation and ease making them great for casual boating.
3. Porkpie Hat—the most stylish boat hat
Dobbs is renowned globally for their stylish hats. The Dobbs Bishop is a straw porkpie hat that’s probably one of the most unique and trendiest of them all. The light straw keeps you cool; the 360-degree brim provides sufficient sun protection while little openings in the crown allow in a gentle breeze.
4. Boater Hat—most vintage boat hat
Yet another Walrus classic, the Boater Hat is another fisherman and sailor favorite whose popularity has endured across many generations. The Boater had its heyday in the early 1900s when most men turned to boating during the warm summer months. Back then, you could hardly miss boater hats at baseball games. Modern fashion hint: you can now rock a boater hat to show off your educational acumen.
The Greek Fisherman Hat is another honorable mention. Though not strictly belonging to the boater hat family, it is unique style is taking the fashion world by storm.
Final Remarks
Hopefully, the above guide will help you find one boat hat that suits your style and preferences. By going for different boat hats, you can always pull different looks irrespective of the season or occasion.
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