Make America Great Again Saffari Hat
Everything you need to know about safari hats – from their origins to what makes a great safari hat, and a list of the very best safari hats to buy in 2020.
Read on for the full lowdown on safari hats (or check out our articles on safari jackets, or more general safari clothing tips for planning your safari wardrobe):
What is a safari hat?
What became the first safari hats were introduced in Asia and the Indian subcontinent through the 1800s as a pith helmet, also known as a safari helmet, sun helmet, topee, sola topee or topi.
These lightweight hats were made out of pith (a soft tissue found inside tree trunks) of the Indian sola tree and covered with a white cloth. They were first used by the European military, though they quickly realized that white hats made them an easy target, so started dyeing the white cloth with tea, to give them a distinctive khaki colour.
In the early 1900s, many Europeans in Asia started to were these pith helmets – and variations on them – as sun hats to protect their heads from the tropical sun. (They were even worn indoors by some who believed sunlight could penetrate their roof!) Understanding of the sun's powers has evolved since then, as has fashion, and safari hats have developed to be an essential piece of kit when spending time outdoors in sunny terrain, whether on a trip taking in the desert, jungle, savanna, or, of course, safari.
And these days safari hats are being worn not just for protection from the sun, but as a fashion statement too, acceptable as an accessory of choice when going outdoors in any situation given.
What makes a great safari hat?
Whilst there's a time and a place for the traditional pith helmet (fancy dress party, perhaps?), there is much choice for great safari hats around today – the question is, 'what should I look for in a safari hat?' We believe there are several things that you need to consider when buying a good safari hat:
Coverage
The primary reason for wearing a hat on a daily basis – not just on safari – is to provide protection from the sun while you're out and about. So just how much sun-protection will the hat provide? You might want to consider buying a safari hat with a wide brim so it can cover both your face and your neck and protect you from sunburn.
Waterproof
A waterproof safari hat is a good idea for a couple of reasons. The obvious one is that if it rains whilst you're on safari and you don't have shelter your hat can protect you from the rain. The other reason is that non-waterproof safari hats tend to be made out of cotton, which can start to smell a bit after a long day of usage. Buying a waterproof safari hat will make sure you're protected from sun damage as well as from developing a bad odor.
Comfort
They say that style and comfort must meet halfway, but if you must choose one over the other you should go for comfort. Why? Simply because you look the best when you feel most comfortable! And when on safari you can sometimes find yourself wearing a hat for the best part of a whole day, so it makes sense to ensure that any safari hat you buy is as comfortable as possible.
Material
Most safari hats are made out of leather, rubber, cotton or man-made fabric. Which one you go for will depend on your personal preference, but make sure you choose a well-made safari hat that will last. My personal choice is leather because in most cases leather hats will last a lifetime (and grow character) with proper care.
Style
Style is subjective, but it all comes down to how you picture yourself wearing something. Make sure that when you buy a safari hat you really see yourself wearing it and looking at your best.
The best safari hats to buy for 2021
Tilley Endurables LTM6 Airflo Hat
Buy now on Amazon
Made from a synthetic material that dries quickly, this Tilley hat has a Panama design with a wide brim to keep you cool and dry. There's also a secret pocket inside the hat to store cash or cards.
Beelier UV sun hat
Buy now on Amazon
Beelier Columbia is a brand that produces some of the world's best outdoor equipment, including the Bora Bora. This hat has a headband inside that pulls sweat and other moisture away from your head and face.
Coolibar Crushable UPF 50+ Sun Hat
Buy now on Amazon
The crushable design of this safari hat makes it suitable for most trips, and bounces back to its original shape after being packed. It has an elastic band around the interior that keeps it from slipping off your head, though bear in mind the sizing of this hat comes up small.
Coolibar Wide Brim Sun Hat
Buy now on Amazon
Another top choice from Coolibar is their wide brim safari hat with a toggle to adjust the fit and placement of the hat. The strong crown is resistant to crushing when you pack, and it has a snazzy system to allow air to flow through the hat and around your head.
Henschel Aussie Breezer Mesh Hat
Buy now on Amazon
Top Aussie hat brand Henschel have created this safari hat for those who want to stay cool, and with 100% cotton mesh and an open side weave for enhanced airflow it manages to do just that. The chin strap has a tight fit to keep the hat from slipping and sliding, though the hat comes up slightly large, so consider that when purchasing.
Stetson Mesh Safari Hat
Buy now on Amazon
Feeling like a cowboy? Try this Stetson safari hat for protection against insects as well as the sun. If you're into the Stetson brand you'll no doubt love this safari hat! Sun protection rating is not supplied.
Dorfman Pacific Safari Hat
Buy now on Amazon
This khaki Dorfman Pacific hat will help you blend into the surrounding bush on a game drive or walking safari. With the wide brim and adjustable chin strap you can customize the fit to mazimise your sun protection. Dorfman Pacific offers detailed sizing guidelines to ensure you choose the right size.
Tilley TH9 Women's Hemp Hat
Buy now on Amazon
Perfect for wearing out on the water, the Tilly TH9 works perfectly as a safari hat too. Made from naturally breathable hemp the sloped design with brim can cover your face for protection from sun, wind and water. The hat is a sun fit, but doesn't have a chin strap.
That's our pick of the very best safari hats around. Any information we're missing, or you'd like to see added? Please let us know in the comments section below.
Source: https://safarisafricana.com/safari-hats/
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