Types of Straw Hats: From Panama to Palm

There’s nothing quite like a straw hat. Timeless, breathable, and effortlessly stylish straw hats are more than just warm-weather accessories. Whether you’re heading to the beach, walking through a summer market, or dressing up for a garden wedding, there’s a straw hat style that fits the moment.

What Makes a Hat a “Straw Hat”?

Straw hats are made from plant fibers  traditionally handwoven  into breathable, structured shapes. The most common straw materials include:

• Toquilla palm (used in Panama hats)
  
• Raffia (soft and flexible)
  
• Wheat straw (light and golden)
  
• Palm leaf (durable and rustic)
  
• Sisal, seagrass, or abaca (sustainable alternatives)

The craftsmanship, material, and weave all affect the hat’s texture, shape, and longevity. But with so many types of straw hats out there, how do you know which one is right for you?

11 Popular Types of Straw Hats

1. Panama Hat

Often mistaken as a hat from Panama (it’s actually from Ecuador), this refined hat often features a fedora-like crown and a medium brim. It's lightweight, breathable, and ideal for warm climates or semi-formal summer events.

Best for: Travelers, beach weddings, casual style

2. Boater Hat

Known for its flat top and brim with a ribbon band, the boater hat channels vintage charm. Think 1920s rowing crews or a Riviera stroll.

Best for: Garden parties, vintage fashion, formal summer wear

3. Fedora Straw Hat

This version of the classic fedora comes in breathable straw, featuring a pinched crown and slightly curved brim. It balances dressy and relaxed with ease.

Best for: Daily wear, outdoor events, timeless style

4. Wide-Brim Straw Hat

More brim, more shade. These hats prioritize sun protection while offering dramatic flair  perfect for beach days and bold style statements.

Best for: Beach, gardening, outdoor festivals

5. Cowboy Straw Hat

A Western classic made summer-friendly. Straw cowboy hats feature a wide, curved brim and tall crown ideal for both function and frontier fashion.

Best for: Ranch life, country music festivals, sun coverage

6. Gambler Hat

Rounded crown with a wide brim and minimalist design. The gambler hat radiates relaxed luxury and is often seen on golf courses or coastal resorts.

Best for: Resort wear, boating, sunny afternoons

7. Lifeguard Hat

A practical choice with a deep crown, extra-wide brim, and chin strap. Lifeguard hats are built for maximum sun coverage.

Best for: Surf instructors, lifeguards, beachgoers

8. Bucket Straw Hat

The familiar bucket hat gets a straw makeover, softer structure, downward-sloping brim, and youthful appeal.

Best for: Streetwear lovers, casual outings, festivals

9. Floppy Straw Hat

Soft, oversized, and flowy. These are often worn by women for fashion-forward sun protection.

Best for: Beach vacations, poolside glam, summer photoshoots

10. Cloche Straw Hat

Inspired by the 1920s, cloche hats hug the head with a bell-shaped design. Feminine, vintage, and elegant.

Best for: Tea parties, weddings, vintage styling

11. Pork Pie Straw Hat

Short-brimmed with a flat crown, this jazz-age classic adds quirky elegance to any summer outfit.

Best for: Urban style, music events, retro lovers

Why Our Straw Hats Are Different

At Hampui, we craft our straw hats using two primary materials: hearty Mexican Palm straw and lightweight Toquilla straw from Ecuador. The palm straw is braided and sewn to create wide-brimmed hats that are breathable, durable, and built to hold their shape. They’re designed for long days in the sun whether you’re on the land, by the water, or moving through the city.

Our Panama hats are woven from fine Toquilla straw by artisans in Ecuador and finished in our Berkeley studio. They’re soft, flexible, and ideal for warm-weather wear when breathability and comfort matter most. Both styles reflect our commitment to craft, function, and longevity made to serve their purpose and made to last.

FAQs

1. What is the best type of straw hat for hot weather?

For hot climates, Panama hats made from Toquilla straw are ideal. They're lightweight, breathable, and allow air to flow freely. Palm straw hats also perform well in the heat, offering durability and ample sun protection.

2. Are Panama hats really from Panama?

No  Panama hats originate from Ecuador. The name became popular because they were shipped globally through Panama during the 19th century. At Hampui, we work directly with Ecuadorian artisans to craft authentic Panama hats using traditional Toquilla straw.

3. Which straw hat offers the most sun protection?

Wide-brim straw hats and lifeguard hats provide the best sun coverage. Their broad brims protect your face, neck, and shoulders  making them perfect for beach days, gardening, or long outdoor walks.

4. What’s the difference between palm straw and Toquilla straw?

Toquilla straw is fine, flexible, and breathable  best for elegant styles like the Panama hat Palm straw is thicker and more rugged, making it a great option for durable, wide-brimmed hats suited for active use.