The Best Straw Hats For Men
When temperatures rise and you're faced with an afternoon in the glaring sun, it helps to have a trusty hat to shade your eyes and skin from harmful UV radiation. Straw hats are a timeless classic, and having one is sure to come in handy when you're relaxing by the pool or getting down to work outdoors. Whether you're looking for a wide-brimmed option to shield you from the most ferocious rays or a compact travel companion to accompany you on holiday escapades, we've rounded up some of the best options to make your search easier.
What to Look For
Choosing the right hat is an art, not a science, but there are a few things you should bear in mind while you shop. A good starting point is the size of the hat’s brim, since wider options offer greater shade at the cost of maneuverability and vice versa. Other features can also help inform your purchase. For example, if you’re going to be on the move, you might want a hat that’s equipped with a chin strap so that you don’t lose it to the wind. With all this in mind, our favorite overall straw hat was the Lifeguard hat from Quiksilver. The detailed raffia straw weaving on this hat is an impressive sight to behold, and the wide brim is sure to keep your head and shoulders shaded throughout the day. If you’re looking for a compact option, check out the fedora design from Wallaroo. Its synthetic fiber construction is more durable than its natural counterparts, meaning it can be folded for storage. Read on below, and we’re sure you’ll find an option to your liking.
Quiksilver Pierside Lifeguard Straw Hat
Coast guard style
Believe it or not, coast guards have been trendsetters for decades when it comes to beach style, so if you’re looking to keep it cool in scorching coastal climes, you could do with taking a leaf out of their book. This suave seaside hat is made from 100% raffia straw fiber, with a firm weaving pattern that will hold strong whether you’re lounging in the midday sun or setting off on an adventure. The adjustable chin strap makes it easy to find the perfect fit, so you won’t have to worry about losing it to the wind.
Pros:
- The wide brim on this hat will shade your shoulders to keep you fully protected when you’re out in the sun.
- The lined headband makes this hat supremely comfortable, even when worn all day long.
- If you struggle to fit into average-sized hats, you’ll be pleased to find several extra-large options available.
Cons:
- Though this hat draws on classic beach style, like most straw hats, it’s no match for the water.
Brooklyn Athletics Classic Straw Beach Hat
Life in the shade
This option from Brooklyn Athletics opts for a narrower brim to keep things compact. With a 4.5-inch diameter, it’s still enough to keep the sun out of your eyes and shoulders during a sizzling afternoon. The delicately braided raffia straw is sturdy enough to withstand accidental squashing, so it can keep its shape for years to come. The classic creased crown on top makes for a truly classic look that will signal you’re ready to relax.
Pros:
- The toggle clamp on the drawcord lets you adjust your fit on the go with ease.
- Some may favor the plain design of this straw hat over other options that are embossed with logos.
- The fabric that lines the brim makes for a comfortable fit without compromising breathability.
Cons:
- With only one large size available, this option might not suit those with smaller heads.
Wallaroo Hat Company Outback Fedora
Ready to pack
Get your hands on an outback classic with this durable straw Fedora from Wallaroo. Though many straw hats are known for their fragility, this packable design takes full advantage of the pliable quality of synthetic paper-blend straw. The result is a compact fedora that can be safely folded down for storage, so you won’t have to worry about irreversible warping or tears when you pack it away during the colder months.
Pros:
- This three-inch flat brim offers impressive sun protection equivalent to UPF 50+ sunblock.
- The minimal leather collar gives this fedora a timeless aesthetic and helps it fit your head snugly.
- This synthetic straw isn’t waterproof, but it’s more resistant to the occasional splash than natural straw.
Cons:
- You’ll pay a premium for design expertise here, making this option a little pricier than its competitors.
Voyager Tools Double-Weaved Straw Shade Hat
Smaller hats can be practical when you’re on the move, but if you’re looking for ultimate protection from the sun, it’s a good idea to go for a hat with a big brim. This large shade hat from Voyager Tools offers unparalleled coverage from the sun for your face, neck, and shoulders. It’s a design that harks back to the headpieces worn by farmers in years gone by and is sure to stave off glare and sunburn, whether you’re working or lounging on a sweltering afternoon.
Pros:
- This curved brim offers extra protection against glare in the low afternoon sun.
- The adjustable chin strap will hold the hat secure, whether it’s calm or windy outside.
- The elastic brim inside helps ensure a sturdy and secure fit no matter how you wear your hair underneath.
Cons:
- Though this hat offers extra shade for your eyes, it could also obscure your vision from low-hanging objects.
Stetson Raffia Straw Hat
Home ranger
Pair the straw aesthetic with one of the most famous headpiece designs known to man and you have a winner. This straw cowboy hat will have you ready to rodeo in no time — as long as you can keep your steed from taking a munch when you’re not looking. Jokes aside, the extra ventilation holes at the top of the hat will keep your head feeling light and airy as you go about your day in the sun.
Pros:
- The adjustable chinstrap can be stashed away on the top of the hat when not in use.
- Sizes range from extra small to extra large, so there’s an option for all ages and head sizes.
- The added ventilation in the hat means that gusts of wind will pass through without lifting the hat off your head.
Cons:
- The folded brim of the cowboy hat design won’t shade your shoulders as much as wide-brimmed options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reshape a warped straw hat?
Though straw is a supremely breathable and lightweight material, it’s not exactly known for its durability. If you have accidentally sat on your favorite straw hat, or if it’s been squashed in a bag or closet, you don’t have to abandon it to the dumpster right away. Instead, try delicately steaming the misshapen straw and molding it back into shape.
Can I machine-wash my straw hat?
Straw and water don’t mix well, and if you get your straw hat soaking wet it probably won’t survive. As a result, washing machines are off-limits. If your prized hat suffers a spill or stain, try delicately wiping the affected area with soapy water and leaving the hat to air dry.
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