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The Panama Hat Guy Advice

Where are Panama hats made?

Where are Panama hats made?

They are only made in Ecuador, specifically around Montechristi on the coast, and around Cuenca in the mountains. 

Inferior versions, often using the same straw, are woven in Columbia, Peru, Bolivia and Mexico. They may appear similar, but they are by definition not a Panama hat. In our modern age, any white hat is called a Panama, whether they are made of plastic, paper or felt.

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Can you fold or roll a Panama?

Can you fold or roll a Panama?

Don't be fooled by this old tourist scam - selling rollable Panama hats in little boxes or tubes.. The answer is yes you can roll them, but it will crack and the brim will ripple. Sure they look good in the photos, but in a very short time they will look like crap.

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How to steam a Panama

How to steam a Panama
Every once in a while your Panama will need a tune-up. Or perhaps there has been a hat tragedy, and it needs some serious care to make it right. If you take your time and be gentle, you can heal your hat and learn a new skill. Continue reading

What is a genuine Panama hat?

What is a genuine Panama hat?
Anyone can call a hat a Panama - and they do. Whether it is plastic, paper, raffia or wool - but these are not Panama hats, just cheap copies being sold on the net. Learn how to tell the difference and make an informed decision - it's easy. Continue reading

How to Travel with a Panama hat

How to Travel with a Panama hat
When it comes to travelling, hats are an essential item. If you take an ugly hat that is easy to pack, you end up with all your photos being of your ugly hat. The goal is to bring a beautiful hat and make sure it arrives in perfect condition.  Continue reading

How to fix a broken Panama hat

How to fix a broken Panama hat
It's heartbreaking, but there are a lot of things you can do to fix a broken Panama hat. Most problems come about because the hat has become dry and brittle - then it gets crushed or pinched. Sometimes they fall down the back of your cupboard in winter, your dog eats it (which seems to happen a lot), or you leave it in your car and it gets cooked in the sun. Continue reading

What are different weaves and styles of Panama hats?

What are different weaves and styles of Panama hats?

An incredible variety of weaves and styles are possible with a Panama hat - with three primary weaves that are popular in the modern world - Brisa, Liso/Cuenca and Montichristi. Each weave has certain advantages that make them perfect for different wearers. With a little practice, you will be able to differentiate and choose amongst the variety of options.

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Why are Baseball Caps useless in the sun?

Why are Baseball Caps useless in the sun?

In the hat world, a baseball cap is a novelty item. When it comes to sun protection, its like a bikini on a motorbike.

If there is one thing that irks me, it's the baseball cap. Sure they can look cute, and they are easy to wear, but they don't work as a hat and are far from flattering. Someone has to stop this madness.

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