How to recognize a genuine Panama Hat?

Hat prestigious, most often handmade in Ecuador, the Panama hat is the result of real craftsmanship. Its weave is tight and precise, giving the hat a high-end appearance associated with remarkable elegance. However, even if all Panama models offer distinction and quality, there are different qualities. This is the point we will address in this new post, with some simple tips to quickly determine the quality of a Panama hat.

The rosette

To determine at a glance if the Panama hat is indeed genuine, you can examine the top of the crown, in the center, which should represent a rosette. The rosette (also called Vueltas) is the starting point of the Panama hat's weave. The number of circles varies depending on the fineness of the Panama. Indeed, the finer the Panama hat, the more work it requires, which therefore leads to a higher price. A genuine Panama hat thus necessarily has a rosette in the center of its crown (otherwise, it's simply a hat made of natural fibers)

The rosette is the part that determines the authenticity of a Panama hat

The 3 types of Panama hats

Once the authenticity of the Panama hat is certain, you can then encounter three types of Panama hats, depending on the quality and type of weave:

1. The Montecristi Panama Hat 

This is the Panama hat considered to be the highest quality. As its name suggests, it is made in the Montecristi region, in Ecuador. The straw is left in the sun to dry well, before being bleached with sulfur smoke. Montecristi models benefit from exceptional lightness and a very tight weave. To obtain such a hat, it takes at least 6 months of manufacturing time. Such fineness thus implies a higher cost, due to the great patience and quality of work behind it.

A remarkably fine weave

2. The Cuenca Panama Hat

• Cuenca Panama hats are made in the city of the same name in Ecuador. It's a type of Panama hat easily recognizable by its elegant herringbone weave. In the case of models made in Cuenca, the straw has been boiled to remove chlorophyll in order to obtain a lighter color. It takes a few weeks to make this type of hat. Generally, you find bleached models, but some can also be dyed.

Cuenca Panama hat with its herringbone weave

3. The Brisa Panama Hat

• The Brisa has a weave in the shape of small squares. This weave is less fine and the fiber is thicker than on the other two types of Panama hats. For many, the Brisa Panama hat is perceived as an entry-level option, which remains of excellent quality nonetheless. The weave actually guarantees a more breathable hat as it allows air to pass through. An ideal model for those who want to discover the Panama hat for the first time.

The weave of the brisa Panama hat

For many people, the quality and price of a Panama hat are determined by the fineness of the straw and therefore the weave. While this is an indicator, it's not the only one taken into account! Indeed, the brand plays a big role. If we take a Borsalino Panama hat for example, the price will be higher than a brand like ours (Traclet). Relying on the greatness of a brand should not be the only aspect to consider, always check the quality of the weave.

Moreover, contrary to popular belief, not all Panama hats are foldable! Indeed, many are often treated to have a shape. Subsequently, this removes the possibility of folding it. If you want a foldable Panama, make sure it's indicated on the product at the time of purchase.

Afterwards, also remember to keep it in an environment that is not too dry.  

What is the origin of the Panama hat?

Archaeological studies and research of the Valdivia culture in Ecuador demonstrate the presence of a woven straw hat as early as 4,000 BC. However, it wasn't until the colonization of the country by the Spanish in the 16th century that this local craftsmanship and know-how became more widely known.

While its origin is Ecuadorian, the name of this hat was given following the construction of the Panama Canal. Workers from all over the world who were working on this project wore this iconic straw hat to protect themselves from the sun. The beginning of a worldwide popularity that has never wavered and which still represents one of Ecuador's cultural treasures today.

How to choose a Panama hat?

To find the ideal Panama hat model to accessorize your outfits, it's important to choose it based on the morphology of your face. Indeed, the shape of your headwear should harmonize with your face to fully enhance it. A thin face will thus match better with the small brims of a Stetson Panama, while round or square faces can be seduced by wider brims on a Montecristi model for example.

Finally, it's also important to find a Panama hat that you like and that matches your style for a fashion accessory that reflects your personality.

Chapellerie Traclet: the reference for your quality hats

Our online store offers numerous models of Panama hats for men and women. Various shapes that all showcase the unique weaving of this Ecuadorian headwear. Whatever your desires, you will find an ideal and quality model with Chapellerie Traclet. Moreover, you benefit from personalized support and expert advice for the care of a Panama hat. Don't hesitate any longer and enhance all your outfits with ancestral know-how!