PanamaHatters

THE LEGENDARY PANAMA HAT

The Panama Hat, also known as jipijapa, is a type of hat hand-woven with fibers of Carludovica palmata, a dwarf palm.

Théodore Roosevelt cappello Panamaroduced in Ecuador, the secrets of its manufacture are passed on from generation to generation. Panama hats are currently made mainly by the artisans of Cuenca and Montecristi.

Since the Panama hat is a completely handmade product, each piece is unique and requires special care.

It is named after the city of Panama only because the latter has been for centuries its main commercial venue. Moreover, according to legend, this hat was linked forever with the name Panama when US President Theodore Roosevelt wore it at the inauguration of the Panama Canal in the early ’900. The picture of the event were seen around the world, greatly increasing the reputation of the Panama hat.

AN ENTIRELY HANDMADE HAT

The production of “Panama Hats” means heritage and tradition: taught from father to son, learning day after day how piles of straw can become valuable hats. The cycle repeats from generation to generation in Cuenca, Montecristi and nearby towns.
Our craftsmen always pay special attention to the basic factors that make a quality Panama hat.

The quality of the straw (toquilla),which depends on the diversity of raw materials and careful treatment and processing.

The weaving skill and ability of each craftsman (working invariably by hand).The final finishing, which differs according to the Panama hat model.

CULTURAL HERITAGE OF HUMANITY

Panama Hat are an internationally known product recently declared “Cultural Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO.

“A passion for work, love of beauty, the pursuit of perfection in the details, the history of a country and their tradition: this is the world of Panama Hatters “ .