Classic natural Panama hat made of toquilla straw
Natural straw hat made 100% by hand by artisans in Ecuador.
*The color tone and brim measurements are approximate, since each hat is handmade and has small details from the manual finishing, making each one a unique piece.
Color: Natural
Tape color: black
Wing Length: 5.5 - 6.5cm.
Sizes: S (55) M (58) L (60) XL (62)
Classic Panama hat made of natural toquilla straw To speak of the Montecristi toquilla straw hat, or Panama hat, is to enter a magical world where natural fiber, skill, and the creativity of our people merge to create authentic works of art. Diverse spaces intertwine around this craft, a symbol of Ecuador, as its creation requires various skills to obtain a unique product. This product is also recognized by UNESCO as an "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity."
Classic Panama hat made of natural toquilla straw
At the end of the last century, under a blazing tropical sun, they worked on the construction of the Panama Canal. These strong men were dividing the continent in two. They also wore Ecuadorian straw hats for protection. Inadvertently, they "christened" these hats "Panama hats." Over time, during the first part of the 20th century, this created confusion regarding their origin, since their production is unique to Ecuador.
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Why is it called Panama Hat?
The construction of the Panama Canal led to a surge in demand for the toquilla straw hat, as its qualities made it ideal for sun protection. The hat became internationally popular and people began calling it the " Panama Hat ," even though its place of origin is Ecuador.
Panama Hat Care
1. Hydrate your Panama hat
When you notice your hat becoming dry and stiff, apply steam from an iron at a distance. This will make your hat more flexible and less brittle.
2. STAINS
Since straw is a fiber very similar to paper, using an eraser (like the classic Milan eraser) will remove most stains. However, some require a bit more skill. In these cases, try removing them with a soft sponge dampened with water and coconut soap. If this doesn't work, it's best to take it to a professional hatmaker for an assessment and possible repair.
3. WHEN PUTTING ON AND TAKING OFF YOUR HAT
Don't pinch the crown with your fingers. If you pinch the crown every time you take your Panama hat on and off, it may eventually crack and become frosted, as this is the most delicate part of the hat. Therefore, the best way to put it on and take it off is by holding it by the brim or by gently, subtly, and softly handling the crown.
4. ALWAYS KEEP THE TAPE AND LEATHER PAD CLEAN
To fix this, gently rub the fabric with a cotton cloth dampened with water and coconut soap, leaving the unwanted sweat stains. Once you've done this, use the steam function of an iron to make it look perfect again.
5. THE HEAT AND PANAMA
If you expose it to high temperatures (like inside a car), the heat will dry out a fabric like toquilla straw. The solution? Avoid leaving or storing your hat in places that reach excessive temperatures.
6. WATER AND PANAMA
Panama hats are designed for times when the sun can be uncomfortable. Therefore, they are not waterproof. If your Panama hat gets wet, simply wipe it with a clean cloth and then let it air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. To prevent warping, never use direct heat sources such as hair dryers, radiators, or heaters. Also, never leave your damp Panama hat in direct sunlight, or it will overheat!
7. HOW TO STORE THEM TO KEEP A PANAMA HAT INTACT
Use a hatbox of the appropriate size to store and protect it. This will prevent the hat from being bumped, deformed, or broken by the pressure of other objects.
