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Men and women want to stay in style and up to date with the latest fashion trends. However, nothing can beat the charm of vintage classics like straw hats. Introduced in the 1800s, these hats have shown over time proven why they should be a top-ranking item in the world of fashion. Whether you want protection from harmful sun rays at the beach or you simply want to look for stylish headwear for an upcoming dinner date, straw hats are a top choice. We have shortlisted and keenly reviewed the top straw hats in 2024 that check all boxes from fashion to instant protection.
To ensure that your straw hats fit your intended purpose, getting your hands on a superior one is imperative. A high-quality straw hat will keep your skin protected from sunburn while making sure you look stylish and up to date.
Reviewing the Leading Straw Hats of 2024 in Detail
Quiksilver Hat — Best Overall
Key Features
- Made from 100% Rafia Straw Fiber
- Has an adjustable closure with a drawcord chin strap
- Available in small, medium, large, XL and XXL sizes
- Comes in dark brown, natural/red, and natural/black colors
This imported straw hat is a lifeguards' dream because of its extra-wide brim. It is a pierside hat featuring classic styling, so you can wear it on the beach or around town with style. Highlighting a comfortable fit, it stays on your head without making you feel uncomfortable.
Moreover, it comes in 5 different sizes and 3 stunning colors, so you can find something to match your inner cowboy.
Joywant Straw Hat — Runner Up
Key Features
- Wide brim offers up to 50+ UPF protection
- The hat is lightweight and foldable and can be kept in a suitcase
- Versatile straw hat can be worn with most outfits
- Has a classic fedora look which is very fashionable
We've all heard that the sun is your skin's worst enemy, so you need this amazing straw hat to shield your face while you're at the beach. This chic hat is available in multiple colors like black and beige so that you can match it with all your favorite summer outfits. These sun hats are made of durable polyester and paper straw which is tightly braided so that it doesn't come apart even if you wear them a lot. This straw hat is also very comfortable to wear and breathable so that your hair doesn't get damp when you're out in the sun.
The wide brim on this sun hat looks stylish and protects your skin from the harsh UV rays. You can wear it to the park or even while out on a morning walk.
AnyCosy Hat — Honorable Mention
Key Features
- It measures 22.5 inches
- It has an elastic closure for best fitting
- It has a string anti-UV function with UPF 50+
- Can be stored easily
- Available in beige, brown, black, yellow, deep brown, and white colors
A fashionable item for all ladies, this is a perfect gift for anyone. It comes in adjustable sizes so that you can fit it on your head without any discomfort, too. Featuring a wide brim, it protects you against the harmful rays of the sun.
Moreover, this straw hat comes in many different colors, allowing you to find the right match for your outfit. It is ideal for all outdoor activities and will ensure you look prominent and stylish among everyone else.
Lanzom Hat — Most Reliable
Key Features
- It is a hand-washable hat
- Can be folded and stored
- Available in 29 different styles
- It provides UPF 50+ sun protection
Lanzom straw hats are a perfect item for people looking for total comfort. It features a breathable design that promotes great ventilation, so you are not suffocated or uncomfortable when wearing it. It also comes with a wide brim that protects you from sunshine, so there are no sunburns or unwanted facial tans.
Furthermore, you can wear this trendy straw hat to all kinds of summer outdoor activities like pool parties, hiking, camping, and more. It is
Simplicity Hat — Contender
Key Features
- Has a hook and loop closure
- Head circumference is around 22 to 23.2 inches
- Foldable wide brim straw hat
- Available in 13 classic colors
Visors are a great choice if you hang out on the beach a lot. Simplicity Store has the perfect straw hat visor that helps you protect your skin from harmful sun rays. It has an adjustable head circumference allowing you to wear the hat with different hairstyles (or even for multiple people to wear it!). Featuring trendy and stylish designs, it is a perfect item for all kinds of outdoor activities, so you can look great no matter what you’re doing.
In addition to style, it is easy to fold and can be stored anywhere. Simplicity Store offers a simple closure as well, ensuring an easy way to adjust the hat.
DRESHOW Hat — Most Convenient
Key Features
- It has a UPF30+ sun protection
- Brim width is 2.9 inches
- The height of the crown is 4.3 inches
- The circumference is 22.5 inches
- It can be washed and steam ironed
- Available in 25 unique designs
Straw hats by DRESHOW are a machine-washable product that ensures easy maintenance throughout its life. This hat instills luxury yet minimalistic styles to all your exotic getaways, so you look great. An ideal hat for outdoor activities, from pool parties to camping and even shopping trips, it allows maximum comfort and ventilation.
Furthermore, it has adjustable sizes to fit different head sizes, guaranteeing comfort for anyone who wears it. Unlike other hats, you can fold and pack it with ease so that there are no last moment hassles before you head out on vacation.
Finding a Great Straw Hat: A Buying Guide
A mix of style and protection, straw hats should be a part of every active person’s wardrobe. We have compiled a buying guide below to help you get your hands on a worthwhile straw hat, so keep reading for all the need-to-know information!
What Are Features To Keep in Mind When Buying Straw Hats?
Keeping style and trends aside, you’ll need to consider many factors when picking the right straw hat. Here is a list of numerous features that you must keep in mind.
Weight
Hats are supposed to be lightweight, and when it comes to straw hats, you need to pick something that does not put unwanted pressure on your head. Straw hats should be light and only weigh a couple of ounces.
Comfort
You should prioritize your comfort when picking a straw hat. Since they are made of straw, some hats can be uncomfortable and challenging. Always check the material and finishing of the particular hat before making a final decision. You don’t want to spend your holidays worrying about how uncomfortable a specific hat is. We recommend always checking the weaving and finishing, along with the type of straw.
Size
While most hats are one-size-fits-all, some versions come with particular measurements. The standard hat size for males is 7 ⅜; for women, it’s 7 ¼. It is a great idea to measure your head circumference with tape to get a more accurate fit.
Sun protection
The main reason people prefer a straw hat is its ability to protect your skin against the sun's harmful rays. To ensure that a straw hat fits this purpose, buy one with an SPF factor over 50. In addition, the width of the brim also determines the hat’s ability to block harmful rays from the sun. Opt for a wider brim if you’re going to be outdoors and under the sun often.
What Are the Different Types of Straw Hats?
Currently, you can choose between 4 main types of straw hats. The type you pick depends on your intended use and convenience.
Boater
A historical piece, Boater straw hats have been around since people were introduced to the concept of straw hats. They were a prominent part of the culture, seeing as “Straw Hat Day” was dedicated to them. These hats are made of stiff straws, a flat brim, and a notable crown. Popular as a timeless classic, they are a great item to wear on small shopping sprees during the summer or to wear at an outdoor lunch on a patio. However, the small brim might not be as supportive if you decide to wear a Boater straw hat under heavy sunlight.
Panama
Otherwise known as a vacation hat, this breathable hat is available for men and women who want to spend their vacations in a sunny region. These hats are made from a light-colored Toquilla straw (which goes perfectly with light silk suits, might we say). Since they have tighter weaves, it is much harder to dismantle or damage them. Panama straw hats provide excellent protection against sunlight, and they immediately give you a classy, confident look.
Fedora
Another popular variant, the Fedora straw hat is quite similar to panama hats. The only difference between them is that Fedoras are available in different materials instead of just Toquilla straw. These hats have a pitched front, low crown, and a wider bream, making them incredibly effective against harmful sun rays. What’s more, a Fedora straw hat is relatively lightweight, making it ideal for tourists.
Lifeguard
Just like its name suggests, a Lifeguard straw hat is quite popular among lifeguards. They are loosely woven with an adjustable chin strap and a unique high crown made of thick straw hats. Despite providing a sufficient amount of shade, these hats are not the best in terms of quality. You might want to (or even need to) change your lifeguard straw hat every once in a while.
Are Straw Hats Even Worth It?
Every product we purchase has to have a set of undeniable perks. When it comes to straw hats, there are definitely some obvious benefits.
Lightweight
The best thing about these hats is they are lightweight. This allows you to wear them with ease and to avoid unwanted distractions from a hat that is too heavy. Most people get frustrated with headwear because they tend to be heavy and block their view. However, you get the best of both worlds, incredible shade and maximum comfort, with straw hats.
Breathable
Another fantastic perk, straw hats give your head enough ventilation to pass air through, so you don't feel suffocated or frustrated while wearing them. The weaves have sufficient space to let air particles pass through and prevent you from getting sweaty. The breathability of any hat is essential, as it prevents you from getting a stroke or similar harsh reaction.
Classic
Whether it's 2022 or the 1970s, we think straw hats will always be on-trend. Over the years, we have seen some great Hollywood icons wearing a timeless straw hat, which speaks volumes about its trendiness.
Versatility
Are you going out in a bikini, or is the theme of tonight’s event formal? Either way, adding a classic straw hat on top of your attire is enough to draw anyone’s attention towards you. While women’s hats oftentimes come with embellishments like a ribbon, men can completely rock the look with a plain hat.
How To Clean a Straw Hat
Straw hats can last for a long time as an indispensable part of your wardrobe, but only if you maintain their quality. Most people destroy the quality of straw hats because of improper cleaning; therefore, it is necessary to follow a good cleaning regimen. Start by making a solution of dishwashing soap with lukewarm water. Test a small patch of the hat by putting a few drops of solution on the hat. If there are no adverse side effects, put a little more on the hat and rinse by making small circular motions with a soft cloth.
Final Thoughts
Straw hats are undoubtedly a timeless classic. Worn at all kinds of events, they indeed take your attire up a notch. To find the perfect straw hats in 2022, you must check factors such as style, SPF, size, comfort, and breathability. We have shortlisted and reviewed the top straw hats in 2022, so you can add a layer of protection against the sun's harmful rays with style.